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Food for thought: A P8TT community project
September 22, 2010
(Check out the following guest post by Vienna Hagen — AKA “AnonyGrl” in the comments — in which she talks about how the Prop 8 Trial Tracker community has self-organized a creative campaign to promote LGBT equality through the spirit of giving and community outreach. It’s yet another reason why I love the Trial Tracker family! — Eden)
By Vienna Hagen AKA AnonyGrl
A few days ago the National Organization for Marriage — in conjunction with a number of others including our old friend Lou Engle’s TheCall and Bishop Harry Jackson — announced a 40-day fast against marriage equality (and other signs of the apocalypse) that will run through October 30, just a few days before the November election.
As is usually the case, we here at P8TT gave the whole business the once over, dissected it thoroughly and exposed it for the #completeFAIL that it promises to be. But in the course of that discussion, interesting as they all are around here, an idea was tossed out by our own “elliom”:
He suggested that perhaps if they fast, we should feed; that is we should organize 40 days of feeding the hungry instead.
A number of people climbed right on board with that idea, and we started tossing around ideas of different ways we might proceed, what to call the group, how to organize and so on. The discussion (as some of ours do around here) looked like it might start to hijack the thread, but more importantly, it looked as though it might take on a life of its own, and so I suggested we move it off-site, so to speak, and get interested folks together to talk more and see what happened.
On Saturday, five of us got together on Skype for a conference call from all over the place, and tossed around ideas for almost two hours. Present were elliom, Richard A. Walter (soon to be Walter-Jernigan), Rhie, bJason and yours truly, AnonyGrl.
I have to say, we had a great time, both just chattering and cracking jokes, as well as getting some good ideas percolating for making this idea into a do-able reality. We tossed around some thoughts for names, and came up with one we liked. Currently bJason is on the hunt to see if it is one we can actually GET, researching both the possibility of snagging it as a domain name and finding out what will be necessary to registering it as a trademark, should we decide to go that route. Richard is on the hunt for information about free website hosting, and getting us an established presence that way. Rhie has volunteered to be our social networking resource, looking into setting up a Facebook and Twitter account for use in getting the word out when the time comes, elliom has the task of writing up a mission statement which he will mold and shape as we go along and I get to do some general research, create a logo (once we’ve settled on a name), and to write this post, to tell all of you folks about it.
But that is just the business end of things. Here is what we are looking to actually do.
We want to gather food and get it to food banks.
As we head into what seems to be the season of feasts, Ramadan having just passed, the fall being a time of harvest, Halloween, Hannukah, Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up, the irony is that donations tend to fall off. Food banks are constantly seeking donations so that they may provide assistance to families in need, but more so during these times of plenty, when people who might normally donate start to tighten their belts a little because of all the expenses the season provides them. There are many organizations which seek to help, and we would like to join them, and we think with the advantage of knowing so many people from all around the country and the world, we might be uniquely situated to do some good.
Our idea is that volunteers (and here we turn a hopeful eye to you wonderful people) will help in a variety of ways, both in spreading the word, helping us locate and target food pantries, and in organizing local food drives, which can be as simple as putting a box with some info out at your office and taking the results down to your local food bank, to as full an experience as you might wish to make it, organizing donations of food and volunteers, or whatever your area might need. We hope to be something of a clearing house for coordinating efforts and getting information out to people (as well as serving as local volunteer organizers ourselves) but also to let people in other places know that this is not a difficult project to achieve, and the rewards can be measureless.
It was noted during our Skype conference that we have one pretty strong thing going for us. We are all the sort of people who are not just dedicated, but are willing to listen to the ideas of others and work to incorporate them in where we can. Each of us tossed out great suggestions (if I may pat us on the back for a minute) and we think we have the basis for making this really work. We talked about what we would need to do to make it a short term, 40 day, event, and also discussed the possibility of creating a more permanent sort of organization, if we discover that the idea really takes off. We threw in other suggestions of projects that relate to our main goals that could be added in further down the line. We discussed, a bit, and will continue to do, why we want to do this, and what we want to say while we do it. We have the opportunity to turn this into a way to reach out to communities that might not understand the cause of Equality and to show them who we are, and that we just want to be their neighbors and lend a helping hand where we can. And by doing so, we stand the chance of reaching some hearts, and maybe changing some minds too.
So here is what we are looking for right now. First of all, we would love to know what you think of the idea, so feel free to toss out thoughts and suggestions in this thread. We’ll certainly read all of them, file some away for future reference, and act on any that seem feasible. We also would love to have the assistance of anyone who is interested in getting involved. A second Skype call is scheduled for this coming Thursday at 6pm Eastern time (I am on the east coast, and I am organizing the call, so you guys get to figure out when that is for you, or check with Richard, who is the official keeper of times, since he can remember all the time zones when I can’t). If you are interested and available and would like to join in, drop me a note in my email at anonygrl@aol.com and include both your real name (or something we can call you, if you like, and if your P8TT name is complicated) and your Skype ID. Skype is easy to set up, free to download and use, and all you need is either a headset or a computer with speakers and a mic. Actually, if you just have speakers, you can still listen in and contribute in the chat panel that also comes up. Just so you know, there is a maximum of 25 people on a Skype call, but we will certainly be doing more posting like this (either here or somewhere else) with updates if you can’t make it.
Some of you have already indicated interest, which is great, and we would love to know what anyone would be interested in doing to help even if you can’t make the Skype call, so feel free to discuss that here too. If you have interest in being a local volunteer, or to organize local volunteers, or are a website administrator, or know something of the legal aspects of this sort of project, or are an accountant with a yen to help set up the bookkeeping… any talent you might want to share, I am certain we can find a way to use, so please do let us know! At the moment, we are working under a committee structure, and will formalize things as we go on, but since we are in the ‘fact finding’ and organizing stage right now, we would be glad of any assistance anyone would like to provide.
And eventually, even if you don’t have the time to volunteer, we hope you all will end up as donors in whatever way you can to your own local food banks so that we can bring a little joy and some full bellies to those who really, really need it.
Filed under: Community/Meta,NOM Exposed
Having technical problems? E-mail prop8trial AT couragecampaign DOT org for assistance!
301 Comments Leave a Comment
1.
AndrewPDX | September 22, 2010 at 9:01 am
WOOOOOT
I love it when a plan comes together.
Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
Andrew
2.
Ann S. | September 22, 2010 at 9:03 am
P8TTers FTW!
3.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 9:05 am
I love the idea!
4.
Richard A. Walter (s | September 22, 2010 at 9:05 am
Way to go, AnonyGrl! And I just know that this will be one more thing for the P8TT family to mobilize around and empower the growth of.
5.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 9:07 am
I'll read up on this at home. Gotta finish up work so I can actually get home!
6.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:10 am
It's certainly more constructive than some of "their" tactics. :>
7.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 9:11 am
Ann, is this something the girls can help out with, or only "GSA" sanctioned stuff?
8.
Mark M. (Seattle) | September 22, 2010 at 9:14 am
Is this something you have considered opening up and piggy backing off of other organizations? The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence come to mind at least in our area here….I am certain I can get some of the girlz to help.
I am SO proud of all of you!!!
9.
fiona64 | September 22, 2010 at 9:15 am
I have a PRLog.org account, and I *think* I can set up one more "press room" on it (I have two — one for my own stuff and one for MCC San Jose). If I can set up another one (I will look into it), I can help by writing and sending press releases as appropriate.
Love,
Fiona
10.
Ronnie | September 22, 2010 at 9:16 am
I already donate food & my time….but still…I love it…The anti-gays go on a fast for the selfish reasons of "I don't want the Gays to be free at all unless they bow to us….I mean "God"…" & give their money to NOM & other selfish anti-gay Fascist groups who do not use the money for charity what-so-ever (yeah that's very Christian)….while we do the decent thing & care about those who are in need..we lead by example…the anti-gays lead by control…which is not so much leading as it is "STFU & follow me…I mean "God"…."
Good jobs guys/gals….& great idea…..<3…Ronnie
11.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:16 am
One of the many things we are discussing is hooking up with other groups to accomplish this.
12.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:18 am
WONDERFUL! Talk to elliom about that, he is working on our mission statement!
13.
Kathleen | September 22, 2010 at 9:20 am
Fantastic idea and WELL DONE to all the people who are putting this together!
14.
Rhie | September 22, 2010 at 9:20 am
I agree! I am SO excited!
15.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:22 am
Gotcha. Awesone Fiona!
Come on y'all. This is the spirit we need!
Give, GIVE, G-I-V-E!!!!
Oops, sorry, was channeling Brown-suit there….*shiver* :>
16.
Rich | September 22, 2010 at 9:22 am
Here's what I can attempt to do to support the food drive. I am a high school teacher and advisor to the GSA in our school. We have a pretty tight network in Maine and I will spread the word. I'd love to see the kids get involved in this as they are the future/present youth vote and they want to do something. I really think we need to engage this segment of our society because it is this very group and their aspirations which get slammed every time the religious and other right wing organizations speak of the evils of all things gay. There are millions of young adults out there looking for this very type of social activism on behalf justice and fair-play for gay people.
17.
Ann S. | September 22, 2010 at 9:22 am
Collecting food for food banks is completely OK as a Girl Scout activity.
With my girls being in High School, and particularly with my girl feeling the stress of Junior year, it's hard to get them to do much of anything GS-related lately, but I'll see what I can do.
18.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:23 am
Thx Kathleen, but no pats-on-the-back yet…still lots of work to do!
19.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:23 am
I LOVE it. Are you available for a Skype call tomorrow night at 6pm Eastern? It would be great if you (and all others who are interested) could come. Send me an email (as mentioned above) if you can.
20.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 9:23 am
I absolutely would be a willing volunteer. I tried to set up my Skype account months ago…and had issues. I will attempt to set it up again and try to join you all during tomorrow's call.
I think it's a wonderful idea. I am with Mark M. on the piggy-backing off of other charity groups. I belong to one here and we have many wonderful volunteers (it is a gay/lesbian/gay friendly group). Of course, I know I could enlist them if other charity groups are not considered.
21.
Rhie | September 22, 2010 at 9:24 am
Great! Would you be willing to let me C&P those onto the Facebook and Twitter accounts? With a link back to the original, of course. Just to get the word out more, once we are at that point.
22.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:25 am
On a side note: Can anyone think of any potential legal issues with this?
23.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:26 am
Any colleage students/employees out there? Can you motivate your GSAs?
24.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 9:26 am
Anonygrl, have you set up a facebook account yet?
25.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:27 am
GSA!!! I LOVE IT!
26.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:28 am
Rhie is in charge of that…i believe it's FeedEquality
27.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 9:29 am
Thanks, it's Feed Equality – I have joined ; )
28.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:30 am
*SIGH*
I guess this means I have to get one now too….I've been avoiding it.
29.
fiona64 | September 22, 2010 at 9:31 am
PRLog is set up so that you can link directly to each release; if it turns out that I can have another press room, I can just post the links here and then anyone who wants to can share the info.
In the event that I cannot add another press room, PRLog is a free service, so it's still a "do-able" thing if someone else wants to take on the press releases (be sure you know AP style or your releases will get canned …).
Love,
Fiona
30.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:31 am
Awww… you can be our hold out elliom… and we will just report back to you as to the fun we are having there.
31.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 9:32 am
Me too also!!
32.
Kathleen | September 22, 2010 at 9:33 am
At the moment, all I can think of is the issue of trademark with possible name choices. Have you searched the trademark database for possible current registrations?
33.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:34 am
Well bless your heart…..bitch.
(all in fun)
34.
Kathleen | September 22, 2010 at 9:34 am
Getting the GSA's involved – in high schools and college campuses seems a good avenue.
35.
Ann S. | September 22, 2010 at 9:34 am
Heh, I always have to stop and think about which is meant when I see any reference to "GSA". I'm more used to the Girl Scout reference, myself.
36.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:34 am
bJason should be on that. Thx!
37.
Straight Ally #3008 | September 22, 2010 at 9:36 am
This is a great idea! And I have to say, not surprisingly, it's far more Christian than anything The Call and NOM are doing.
One nice aspect is that the charitable infrastructure is already in place; there are many worthy organizations that we can support. Just to name one, I have supported Project Bread for some time, but there are plenty. Well done!
38.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:37 am
He insulted me…
He LIKES me! He really likes me!
Smooches, bastard.
39.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 9:37 am
HUGE Way-to-go to Elliom for having the idea!!
40.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:37 am
:>
41.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 9:38 am
Who on a Macintosh has Skype working?
42.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:39 am
Gee….*blush*
43.
fiona64 | September 22, 2010 at 9:40 am
Okay, it looks like I am able to add one more profile/press room. When the time comes, let me know. I'm not on Skype (we have dial-up internet at our house), but Richard W. knows my e-mail. If the particulars are sent to me, I can turn it into a press release, I guarantee it.
Love,
Fiona
44.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:40 am
I do.
45.
Kalbo | September 22, 2010 at 9:41 am
I lease my own server and could offer pro bono web hosting. It has everything you'd need (cPanel for easy administration with eMail/FTP/PHP/MySQL/Stats/etc). My schedule is quite full so I couldn't commit to building a full site at this time, but I can get it started (eg install a CMS, such as Drupal/Joomla/WordPress) and others can contribute to the config/content/design.
46.
Ronnie | September 22, 2010 at 9:42 am
From our straight ally, Sarah Silverman…."Sell the Vatican, Feed The World"……<3…Ronnie:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bObItmxAGc
47.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 9:42 am
Yay Friends and especially AnonyGrl girl
! The company I work for, Intermountain Healthcare has very active food bank, clothing, service projects, educational volunteer programs. I sometimes half-heartedly participate but I want to say that your post MOTIVATED me to take a more active role. I loved hearing the details of how this project evolved and how we can put some of our amazing talents and energy toward good causes. Way to go! WOOT! WOOT!
OFF TOPIC ANNOUNCEMENT: after a 3-year campaign (starting with local HR, worked my way steadily up the corporate chain until I was corresponding with the president) to get equal benefits for my partner I was invited to meet with HR VP today 9/22 give me an update. It is not official so I would appreciate not discussing this beyond the PP8TT community. Intermountain Healthcare, born out of the Mormon Church, in one of the most conservative States in the country, will be offering Healthcare benefits for Same-gender partners beginning January 1, 2011! I sat in his office and just cried. I was able to express my thanks to him and associates making this possible despite some very serious opposition from a few board members.
Words cannot express what this means to my dear dear partner and me. I am amazed at the lovely feeling of more equality as a walked down the hall, holding my head high, no longer a second class employee (at least with healthcare). It caused me to think how WONDERFUL it will be when prop8 is struck down and we finally have equality on a Federal level. We can, we WILL overcome! Hugs to all!!
48.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:43 am
Wow!!! Great!!! Please talk to Richard A. Walter (soon to be… ok, I am not typing it every time, Richard, much as I love you….) about that. He is researching web hosting for us, and bJason knows about how to do set up, I believe…
49.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 9:44 am
@ Elliom:
Channeling "procreative energies" (I got shivers just typing that – but they "they" can commandeer our (I wanted to type NOMenclature, but thought better of it) phraseology) turn-abouts fair play! NEVER channeling the "Brown-suit", though.
50.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 9:45 am
Seriously!
51.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:46 am
I can do some of that too…will just have to dig out some textbooks, and do some research.
52.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:47 am
LOL Thanks Ronnie!!!
53.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 9:47 am
Fiona rocks!
54.
Ann S. | September 22, 2010 at 9:48 am
Gregory, that is GREAT NEWS!!!
::happy dancing!::
55.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 9:48 am
Hi Kalbo and P8TTs – I also have several servers (and am a web developer/designer).
56.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:50 am
Hey guys and gals:
Gotta head out for a bit. Company coming, and have to go shopping. Will try to get back later this eve.
Thanks for all the help with this….this is great!
57.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:50 am
Not just me, Gregory… everyone involved. I only wrote the article, everybody is doing the work, and it is great working with them! There are lots of exciting ideas flying, and everybody is off an RUNNING on getting things accomplished, I am amazed at how much this idea is growing in such a short time! And glad to be a part of it.
And I am SO pleased for you and your partner, and all the others who will benefit from this! Good for you for pursuing it, and your announcement just made me all warm and tingly!
58.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 9:51 am
I think I got it…at least I heard my own voice during the call back this time ; )
59.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:52 am
That's right… elliom too! And if LLB wants to pitch in, we will end up with the fabulousest website ever.
60.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 9:53 am
I am on that! The biggest questions I see are:
1. the (maybe) need for a corporate entity for filing;
2. the (maybe) need for an attorney to do so; and
3. the state from which to file (as this relates to jurisdictional matters, should there be any legal issues). Obviously, we want laws most favorable to us.
IANAL – help!
61.
Ronnie | September 22, 2010 at 9:53 am
you're welcome… ; ) ….Ronnie
62.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 9:53 am
Send me an email with your Skype name and we can test it out right now. Anonygrl@aol.com. Then turn on your Skype and I will call you.
63.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 9:55 am
LOL Ronnie! The Vatican is chocked (choked!) full of priceless treasures….I appreciate the message behind the humor. We can all contribute more…no one should go hungry.
64.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 9:57 am
Rich, that would be great!
gods know, the youth have much more energy than I.
65.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 9:57 am
Simply LOVE it! Thanks. I was thinking I could post this on facebook – but the pictures in the end might not go over well with my families children.
66.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 9:58 am
Looking forward to reading all the ideas to make this world a better place. I LOVE the idea of putting our energies into positive outcomes!
67.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 9:59 am
tx
just amazing!
68.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 9:59 am
I was a Skype "virgin" until Saturday. It didn't hurt a bit. PLEASE join us, LLB.
69.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 10:00 am
I sent an email
70.
Lee | September 22, 2010 at 10:00 am
This is great! It reminds me of when NOM came to Charleston, WV, and instead of protesting the LGBT community held a family picnic. =)
71.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 10:03 am
Don't worry, elliom, you can join and then ignore it as much as I do.
72.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 10:05 am
I do, you know, the "virgin". It was crazy-easy.
73.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 10:07 am
WOW, Kalbo, that is fantastic!!
74.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 10:08 am
You MUST join our call tomorrow.
75.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 10:11 am
I wasn't aware of that Lee! Thats lovely
In Salt Lake City, after prop 8 was passed. some got together for a massive service project in lieu of protest.
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705293424/Gay-…
I think there is a place for these "peaceful protests" AND for the more lively ones (it was really cathartic to march around Salt Lake Temple square with thousands of others to demonstrate we were not happy with church involvement of prop8.
76.
Joel | September 22, 2010 at 10:14 am
You might want to contact the Sin City Sisters here in Vegas, too, although their charity efforts are typically (and nobly) directed at those living with HIV/AIDS.
77.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 10:14 am
Beautiful, Gregory. Thanks for sharing that with us!!
78.
bJason | September 22, 2010 at 10:15 am
you rock!
79.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 10:15 am
It wasn't so long ago I would have been "offended" by some of that video…..thankfully I've moved beyond that. Church and morality sure mess with our minds!
80.
Bob | September 22, 2010 at 10:18 am
Awesome Gregory, glad to hear that news
81.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 10:19 am
AMEN Straight Ally! The work the Nombies do is so OPPOSITE of what Christ…or Buddah or Mohammad or G-d would advocate. I would like to study anthropology more to see why religion has evolved into such a bizarre spectacle.
82.
Aaron | September 22, 2010 at 10:27 am
this is a great idea. make it very public. …instead of trying to hurt LGBT people, we are trying to help anyone who is in need.
it's a good way for people who may not know LGBT people to meet some and find how just how scary we are!
83.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 10:33 am
tx BJasoon!
84.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 10:36 am
I have some tools for design if you want some fliers or work for the web. I'm not the best at creating something from absolutely nothing, so input from the group would be welcomed.
85.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 10:36 am
tx Bob! Yesterday was a big downer…today…with Anoygrl call to help others, Florida adoption, work news and many other things…shows how much difference a day can make!
86.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 10:41 am
As soon as we have a little more information, I will contact the SSA (Secular Student Alliance) that has been growing quickly in the last couple of years in colleges around the country. We might be able to get quite a few more supporters in different areas around the country if we can give the groups the tools they need.
87.
Tracy | September 22, 2010 at 10:46 am
It's a lovely idea – I wish I had the time to truly participate; I don't, but will happily donate for the cause.
88.
Ann S. | September 22, 2010 at 10:46 am
If you're thinking we should incorporate, bJason, I'm not really sure that's necessary — unless this thing gets a whole lot bigger and starts taking in money, as opposed to "channeling" people's charitable impulses toward this cause.
89.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 10:48 am
I am good with the idea of collecting FOR them, if they need donations for a soup kitchen or such… do they take food donations?
90.
Mark M | September 22, 2010 at 10:48 am
I've contacted some of my friends involved with the Sisters.
I'll also be contacting some of the bar owners (also friends of mine) and see if I can host an event to raise funds for food, food, and raise awareness.
As soon as I hear back I'll let you all know……
91.
AndrewPDX | September 22, 2010 at 10:49 am
What about contacting the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence? Just thinking out loud here.
Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
Andrew
92.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 10:49 am
The best way is to support local food banks, but take in all of the information possible through a central location. We don't want to start shipping food around the country, and if any money is collected, it should go towards buying food locally for the banks or being donated right to the banks.
93.
AndrewPDX | September 22, 2010 at 10:50 am
@Gregory… prolly showing my age here, but:
[youtube
94.
Ann S. | September 22, 2010 at 10:53 am
The Family Research Council has filed an amicus brief. I have a bad feeling about what this is going to say (not that it will probably sway anyone one way or another):
http://www.scribd.com/CA9Doc-31/d/37968007
95.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 10:54 am
That is PRECISELY the message we want to pass on. Encouraging people to get to know us, and understand we are just their neighbors, and we want to help them.
96.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 10:54 am
That is a good thing too!! Thanks!
97.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 11:03 am
HI Jason, I will be there. Anonygrl helped make sure my Skype was working. Thank you Anonygrl!
Very exciting.
98.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 11:07 am
I need to go get some dinner myself, and do some work before tomorrow's call… so I will talk to you all later!
Thanks for all your encouragement and support, and this is going to be GREAT!
99.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 11:07 am
What a sweet song. LOVED IT!!!! Thanks Andrew
100.
Ronnie | September 22, 2010 at 11:12 am
This is what Equality stands for…totally the opposite of what NOM stands for…
They beg for money to control other peoples lives with their so called "moral" superiority….they beg people to fast so they can give their money to them so they can push their Fascist agenda….wasting millions of dollars on a cause that is purely selfish & disrespecting those who do not fit into their cozy little mold of conformity….
We are seeking ways to good for others like Spencer Day…openly Gay Mormon Jazz/Blues musician….This is "Better Way" by Spencer Day…..In the video his cause has this to say along with the powerful song that I have shared w/you guys/gals before….
"The number of Americans struggling w/hunger is growing at an alarming rate…..
49,1000,000 Americans…17,000,000 children…1 in 6 Americans…nearly 1 in 4 Kids….
They are parents…they are students…they are workers…they are our neighbors….
How can you make a difference?
Food gives people the fuel to survive and even thrive….the chance to grow, to learn, to achieve….The chance for a better tomorrow…There is enough food for everyone….The challenge is getting the food to the people who need it most….
You can make a difference…"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39KQToAbbek
101.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 11:14 am
A BIG THANK YOU Alan E. for ALL your contributions to the PP8TT community! I appreciate your comments, insights and contributions and I always look forward to reading your posts
p.s. – Great work on the Florida Adoption news!
102.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 11:21 am
Thanks for comments Aaron
Ditto Anonygrl! In my negotiations at Intermountain HC the disapproval at first was palpable. But as time went on some started to view me as "that nice man"(and variations of this) and pretty soon a non-issue. It is SO Tempting to just tell ignorant, clueless, RUDE people to F-OFF but seems the quiet, one person at a time approach really is the only way to change hearts, over come centuries old prejudices.
103.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 11:22 am
Look forward to hearing of your progress on this Mark
104.
Kathleen | September 22, 2010 at 11:25 am
UPDATE: Amicus brief submitted by Family Research Council in support of Proponents (Appellants). http://www.scribd.com/doc/37969120/CA9Doc-31
105.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 11:28 am
Was afraid to even look at it…the first thing I see is:
Believing that God is the author of life, liberty and the family, FRC promotes the Judeo-Christian worldview as the basis for a just, free and stable society.
I didn't think that any group was able to force their religion upon us!
106.
Bob | September 22, 2010 at 11:31 am
Ronnie, you always come through with the right song for the occasion, Love it, wonder if it could be a theme song for food 4 equality"
107.
Ronnie | September 22, 2010 at 11:33 am
Yeah I was just reading that part….I'm sorry Family Restriction Council but where exactly does it say that ALL Americans must be forced to bow down to you…I mean your "God"…..seriously…class action lawsuit nationwide for violating our 1st amendment rights to freedom of & from religion & the free exercise thereof…..these people are nothing but Fascist whor…I mean who the frak do they think they are?…… >I …Ronnie
108.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 11:33 am
Thank you Ronnie for reposting…I have never seen it before! Looks like one other way we can feed the hungry
(nice song and music too!)
109.
Kate | September 22, 2010 at 11:34 am
What a team you all are! I am so proud of you, so honored to be on the same discussion board with you. What can I do to help? I'm afraid that my extremely rural location prevents me from making they type of meaningful contacts we need. I may be reduced to donating money to this cause, but at least I'll do that, if nothing else.
110.
Kate | September 22, 2010 at 11:36 am
Oh, Gregory! What a HUGE step you have made for equality by seeing this through. That is an incredible contribution. I think Ann should issue you your very own badge for this accomplishment. I love you!
111.
Kate | September 22, 2010 at 11:37 am
Damn, this went in the wrong place. It was mean to follow Gregory's health care coverage success story….. sorry.
112.
Ronnie | September 22, 2010 at 11:40 am
InGlucksberg, the Court characterized the asserted liberty interest as “a right to commit suicide which itself includes a right to assistance in doing so,” not whether there is “a liberty interest in determining the time and manner of one’s death,” “a right to die,” “a liberty to choose how to die,” “[a] right to choose a humane, dignified death” or “[a] liberty to shape death.”Id. at 722-23 (citations and internal quotation marks omitted).
Really?….assisted suicide?….really?…..REALLY???!!…. : / …Ronnie
113.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 11:41 am
Ronnie, I was thinking the exact same thing. Religion is being forced on me left and right. What about my religion? Doesn't my own religion count? Why must I continuously follow a religion I don't believe in.
FRC, NOM, and even the new GOPs "Pledge of Allegiance" they produced today…
“We pledge to honor families, traditional marriage, life, and the private and faith-based organizations that form the core of our American values.”
http://thenewcivilrightsmovement.com/breaking-gop…
Class Action suit.
114.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 11:42 am
Thanks Kate! Woo Hoo! I'm post-in-the-correct-spot-challenged too LOL!
115.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 11:45 am
Kathleen…can anyone post these briefs? Weren't they already supposed to be in within the same time frame as the others? Seriously, I am wondering how many folks I can get to put briefs in on our side…Can we inundate the courts?
116.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 11:45 am
I think I'll pass on reading this Kathleen, et al as I'm feeling happy today! Though I appreciate Ya'lls overiew so I can be spared the full content… **shudder**
117.
Tomato | September 22, 2010 at 11:45 am
I can make some noise within the Unitarian churches near me, might be able to get some food drives going for a designated Sunday or two at my own church.
Will anyone be designing a pdf-file-thingy that we can each use to print "Food for Thought" or "Feed Equality" stickers (with rainbow colors?) to affix to the containers of food? At the office supplies store near me there are these boxes and boxes of blank printable stickers…
118.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 11:47 am
Hey they admitted one thing in the end…
Admittedly, Proposition 8 has a greater impact on homosexuals than on heterosexuals.
119.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 11:49 am
Yeah, stay away from it Gregory!
BTW – Congrats! Good news. You took a risk and it paid off, but the risk is worth a big standing O!
120.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 11:54 am
Thanks LLB
(for congrats AND advice to stay away…)
121.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 11:56 am
LOLROTF!
122.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 11:56 am
I wish we had another post already to critique this brief, but I'll start here I guess:
Page 2 says:
Now I looked at that section, and the restrictions mentioned were restrictions on gender roles and race, and there are no restrictions today on the gender roles as a requisite for marriage.
123.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 11:59 am
Wrong. The finding of fact shows that gender roles were the parts historically restricted, therefore the FRC is trying to promote gender roles in marriage when there is no legal base for them.
124.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 12:02 pm
Hi Tomato, I am going to offer my design services during tomorrow's call. I am sure others will be offering too – so I am sure there will be downloadable files to print.
125.
Kathleen | September 22, 2010 at 12:02 pm
Amicus briefs aren't on the same deadline as the those of the parties. I think the fed rules of appellate procedure outline the deadlines, but don't have time to look right now. Will try to in the next couple of days.
126.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:03 pm
Note on page 3:
Wrong again. What was found in Lawrence was that it held that intimate consensual sexual conduct was part of the liberty protected by substantive due process under the Fourteenth Amendment. There was no need for strict scrutiny.
127.
Kathleen | September 22, 2010 at 12:03 pm
Yes, Gregory, don't poison your mind with this garbage. And CONGRATULATIONS on the health insurance victory!!! I'm so happy for your family.
128.
Ronnie | September 22, 2010 at 12:05 pm
OMG…they turned in the …"They are not being discriminating against because they can still marry someone of the opposite sex"…bullshite….why don't these benighted schlock's not get the illogical & irrational stupidity coming from that….Hello…your whole marriage is about procreation (do a shot) blah blah blah blah blah f@#king blah….how is that exactly going to work?….no offense ladies….I WILL NEVER HAVE SEX WITH A WOMAN!!!…not even if the Fascist anti-gays held a gun to my head….so then what would be the point…seriously Family Restriction Council are you going to force us to marry the opposite sex & have sex against our will?…..bleck bleck,…ipecac …..I need ipecac…Listen you heterosexist Nazis….my who who dilly is going nowhere near anybody females cha cha…& I ain't walking down no aisle with said cha cha either…you got that?….This ain't Dancing With Stars…its our lives…I want a Paso Doble not a Cha Cha…..Oooooo KAAAAAAAYYYYY!!!!!…..<3…Ronnie
129.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:06 pm
Page 4:
Walker explained this carefully. That is the question> at stake, not the answer.
130.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 12:07 pm
Thx Kathleen
What a roller coaster we ride!
131.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 12:09 pm
…now crying and laughing…Oh Ronnie! I can't breathe!
132.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 12:10 pm
I got a cha cha? Whoot!
133.
Kate | September 22, 2010 at 12:10 pm
elliom:
I only got one so I could pitch in with P8TT stuff. That's all I have it for; in fact, it's even under one of my dogs' names instead of mine so I don't have to deal with people finding me who aren't from here. You can crank the privacy settings all the way up like I did, too.
134.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:10 pm
(note for above quote)
There were many other "definitional components" of marriage that had been "removed," but the institution of marriage remained strong. There are many "deep roots" that we consider abominations today and were rightly adjusted. It's still straight people in (and out) of marriages that are "weakening" it, seeing that straight people have had a stronghold on it for so long.
135.
Kate | September 22, 2010 at 12:12 pm
Yeah…. I just get too excited and post before looking adequately.
136.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 12:14 pm
Alan, that's a question I have pondered. Didn't the states start adding 'man and woman' in the 2000s? When Hawaii was trying to get same-sex marriage initiated and the fundies got scared?
137.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:15 pm
Another rebuttal is that Walker found (and facts and evidence support it) that gay couples are nearly indistinguishable when compared to straight couples. When it comes down to it, the only thing that makes a gay couple completely different from every straight couple in the world is that they are of the same sex. There are straight couples who can't procreate, gay couples can adopt, children turn out just as fine as those from straight couples, there are straight couples who perform many of the same sex acts as gay couples (but that doesn't matter since Lawrence showed that intimate consensual sexual conduct was part of the liberty protected by substantive due process under the Fourteenth Amendment.), and so on.
If you looked for a straight couple with the exact same qualities as a gay couple, you could only find that the sex of the couple would be different, nothing else, and that is why Walker argued that Prop 8 discriminates based on the sex of the person.
138.
Sagesse | September 22, 2010 at 12:16 pm
Just a reminder that the courts are in no way bound to take amicus submissions into account, and there was no indication that Judge Walker paid any attention to the ones filed by the religious nutjobs in the Perry trial. I trust the 9th Circuit to be as discerning.
139.
Kate | September 22, 2010 at 12:17 pm
Yeah, I'm passing on this one, too. Today I decided to take a page from Fiona and feel grateful for daily lovelies. All the other things today that happened for us here are MUCH more lovely than I know this brief would be. (As is having new glasses made for my trip to Africa so I can actually see things there AND this amazing flock of Lewis's woodpeckers that has been hanging out in one of my apple trees the last several days. yes….. they are also fruit-eaters, not just eaters of stereotypical woodpecker stuff.)
140.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 12:17 pm
Thanks, that's comforting!
141.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:20 pm
Page 5-6:
This is never explicitly mentioned, and the fact that the rulings concerned opposite-sex couples is a fair point, but it holds no precedence for any cases. If that were the case, one could argue that a string of cases only included people of X, therefore, only people of X can be afforded those rights. All of the cases were answering different questions not related to the "opposite sex vs same sex" of the parties.
142.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:22 pm
@LLB, that was started in the 90's after the Hawaii State Supreme Court case, Baehr v. Lewin.
143.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:23 pm
@LLB, that was started in the 90's after the Hawaii State Supreme Court case, Baehr v. Lewin.
Also, FRC is citing pages of the Decision based on the PDF page, not the page written on the bottom. Very lazy.
144.
Kate | September 22, 2010 at 12:23 pm
ooooh, cha-chas unite!
145.
Mark M | September 22, 2010 at 12:24 pm
Thanks for asking that Tomato…I was just thinking about that very thing
146.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Congrats on being able to see the world through new glasses! I just had my annual visit to the eye doctor last week and found out I have macular degeneration – but I am not worried – just to get that out in the open, all is okay!
I did learn about occupational lenses. Which I ordered (although a little extra since it's not on my insurance plan). For those on computers all day who need to wear different glasses for the computer, for reading and for distance, and multifocal lenses don't work properly, this is something wonderful.
Occupational bifocals and trifocals are special multifocal lenses that are designed for specific jobs or hobbies, but typically are not for everyday wear. They are special because of the unusual placement of the near, intermediate and far vision zones in the lenses, to make certain tasks easier.
When you develop presbyopia at around age 40, you lose the ability to focus properly at multiple distances. This means you may have special needs for eyewear that can help you see better if your job or hobby requires you to look overhead or read fine print all day.
147.
Tomato | September 22, 2010 at 12:27 pm
Excellent! Thank you, everyone who knows how to make pdf-file-thingies! (obviously, I don't!)
148.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:28 pm
Procreation doesn't start until page 6. here is their note that doesn't have any kind of support:
They cite Maynard v. Hill to somehow "prove" that procreation is a part of marriage, but look at the wording:
They ignore the other findings of fact that show that gay couples can indeed do just that as well as a straight couple. The only difference is that they can't accidentally have a kid, and perhaps their sex acts can't produce a child. However, that would require that every sex act be for procreation only for it to have any legal standing.
149.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:30 pm
DUH! That's why there is this whole case with facts and evidence and credible testimony and awesome lawyers and good people that just want to get married. FRC just loves restating questions as evidence for their case.
150.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:36 pm
Get ready for a long quote from page 7 (I know only page 7!):
There have been many changes to the institution of marriage–and many other aspects in life and politics–that there was not much "emerging awareness," but that hasn't held much weight in cases like Turner v. Safely or any other case where "common sense" was trying to outweigh credible evidence, say like in Perry v. Schwarzenegger. (As a side note, Firefox was able to spellcheck correctly "Schwarzenegger") There also wasn't much "emerging awareness" when the right for corporations to donate to politics without limit.
151.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 12:37 pm
lol Alan…they seem to magically forget why Perry had to file this case!
152.
Kate | September 22, 2010 at 12:37 pm
LLB — I have macular degeneration, too, but it seems to be holding itself mostly at bay. My plan is for it to outlive me so that I won't have to ever really deal with it. That's very interesting about the occupational lenses — I wish I had known about them while having my exam done. Since I don't have insurance anyway, I guess it wouldn't have mattered, though. They sound VERY expensive. But my eyes do suffer a whole lot of wear and tear — I'm a voracious reader, and then there are all those hours in front of a computer monitor.
153.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 12:40 pm
Kate, they are relatively new…but I would look into them. They sure do make reading the monitor, then looking at papers on my desk, then looking at who is on the phone (three different distances in quick concession) easier.
154.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:40 pm
Note on page 8:
Actually, Prop 8 was a punishment by the state through the legislative process simply because we were gay couples. There was a right recognized within the state, and that right was taken away. if that is not punishment, then Pavlov faked all of his experiments.
155.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 12:44 pm
That makes me wonder if the FRC is planning on getting involved in Montana seeking to criminalize homosexuality?
156.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:46 pm
Page 11 (after some attempts at justifying this passage):
EXCEPT, which was proven in this case here with facts, evidence, credible testimony, etc., if you are treating those people differently because of an immutable characteristic that has historically been a minority without the political power to correct the will of the majority. (that's a paraphrase and not legalese by any standard, but I hope you get the point)
157.
Gregory in SLC | September 22, 2010 at 12:49 pm
observing vision conversation with great interest as I'm due for new glasses and over age 40…(ps. looking 4ward to hearing about Africa trip Kate!)
158.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:50 pm
From page 12:
Actually, it treats one member of the couple equally, but it does not treat the partner of that person's choosing equally. That person's partner must be of the opposite sex. The fact that the reverse is true for the other partner is moot because it then treats the other partner's partner unequally. (if you catch my drift)
159.
Ronnie | September 22, 2010 at 12:51 pm
@LLB….they got involved w/spending 25 thou to try & stop the Fed.Gov from signing the resolution that denounced Uganda's Genocide bill…so I wouldn't be surprised if they are involved w/the Montana Gestapo Oppressing People (GOP)… : / …Ronnie
160.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:53 pm
Again page 12:
Except when you are comparing one immutable quality to another immutable quality (race and orientation).
161.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:55 pm
Ronnie, that's why there was so much emphasis on sexual orientation being an immutable quality during the trial. To precisely counter this argument.
162.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 12:58 pm
Page 14:
Those marriage laws were created to keep gay couples separate in the eyes of the law. Members of the opposite sex who are attracted to the opposite sex will naturally come together without those laws. None of those laws actually do anything to forward that notion!
163.
Bill | September 22, 2010 at 1:00 pm
At the risk of being flippant, a 40 day fast is just what Maggie Gallagher needs.
164.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:03 pm
Page 15 (quoting another state level case):
and then the note that goes with it:
That's because no other case has looked to define sexual orientation as an immutable characteristic (which surprisingly hasn't shown up at this point in their brief) with as much evidence as this case.
165.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 1:05 pm
Actually, a 40 day fast for Maggie would not be good. I understand what you are saying, but health-wise, without proper medical supervision, no one should attempt to fast for 40 days. It's about as stupid – and dangerous – as the new-age sweat lodge in Arizona that killed several people.
Maggie and NOM were very irresponsible bringing this to public light and I hope no one attempts it.
166.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:06 pm
Page 17
But there is plenty of evidence showing that the campaign was, and that the campaign had similar–or in some cases exactly the same–tones of vitriol, animosity, and animus against gays and lesbians. There is a documented history of similar campaigns and feelings from the general public that one can easily see the connections between past and present.
167.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:09 pm
Of course I love the very next line (page 17) becuase it is the exact opposite of the truth:
But the fact that gays and lesbians were given the right to marry, and then suddenly there was this proposition that just happened to take that right away (but not explicitly), must be a figment of my imagination.
168.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:22 pm
Page 18
Except it affects 100% of homosexual couples and 0% of heterosexual couples.
169.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:24 pm
More page 19:
Well luckily for us, there is evidence showing both of these cases. See the entire fucking trial and history of gay people, just as one example.
170.
Felyx | September 22, 2010 at 1:29 pm
Is it really discrimination to treat things that are .0003% different 100% differently?
I am glad judges are not politicians… someone around here has to stay smart.
171.
Rhie | September 22, 2010 at 1:29 pm
Thanks! Yes I know AP style – had a very…enthusiastic grammar teacher in high school.
Cool. The more places we get info out the better, I believe.
172.
Ann S. | September 22, 2010 at 1:33 pm
@Gregory, I am pleased and proud to issue you your badges recognizing merit in Perseverance and Working the System.
Wear them with Pride!
173.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:34 pm
Page 19:
Even assuming, for purposes of disparate impact
analysis, that sexual orientation is to be treated in the same manner as race or
gender and subject to heightened scrutiny, which is contrary to controlling Ninth
Circuit authority, 20 (High Tech Gays v. Defense Industrial Services Clearance Office)
I'll let Ted Olsen from the closing arguments take that one (page 3111):
174.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:40 pm
page 23:
But the only state interest ever purported was procreation, and that was disproved. In fact, that is the only supposed interest FRC has purported was procreation. So much for "multiple," and "legitimate" was thrown out the window a long time ago.
175.
Felyx | September 22, 2010 at 1:45 pm
I dispute that LLB,
A 40 day Catholic fast would do Maggie a world of good!!!
Observe the following:
"Fasting The law of fasting requires a Catholic from the 18th Birthday [Canon 97] to the 59th Birthday [i.e. the beginning of the 60th year, a year which will be completed on the 60th birthday] to reduce the amount of food eaten from normal. The Church defines this as one meal a day, and two smaller meals which if added together would not exceed the main meal in quantity. Such fasting is obligatory on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. The fast is broken by eating between meals and by drinks which could be considered food (milk shakes, but not milk). Alcoholic beverages do not break the fast; however, they seem contrary to the spirit of doing penance."
Maggie would not be able to excuse herself from a required fast as she is neither pregnant nor performing manual labor… the latter of which would also do her some good.
Health reasons aside, there is a slight chance she might could gain some spiritual insight.
http://www.ewtn.com/faith/lent/fast.htm
176.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:46 pm
Oh how convenient. They actually quoted Romer in the notes below that.
Well very interesting. All of the proffered rationales for the law were clearly and manifestly implausible, so the reviewing court did infer that animus was the only explicable bias.
177.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:51 pm
OK I'm done with the brief. Time to relax and read all of the other comments you folks were posting. I feel pretty good that I am able to effectively argue many (if not all) of the arguments that FRC purported. I'm still looking for those "multiple state interests" they kept talking about. There was a whole lot of stupid and ignorance of the rest of the trial that went into that brief.
178.
draNgNon | September 22, 2010 at 1:52 pm
(I am too busy today with work – yes I'm still working – to read the commentary thread)
hi Vienna. you have a great name. and this is a great idea. I assume you want secular foodbanks. local to the SF Bay Area there's one called "Second Harvest".
I don't have time to volunteer; work and personal events have already eaten all my time between now and Thanksgiving. I suppose there are worse problems to have. Regardless, I wanted to mention two ideas.
1 – setting up Ventrilo is usually pretty easy, and while it's not free, a lot of website hosting services will let you have Ventrilo hosting too for not much more. the limits are usually higher than 25 people for simultaneous link up.
2 – this sort of thing can sometimes pick up corporate sponsors/help/in-kind donations etc. so if people know their employer would be so inclined, once there's more cohesion bring it up to your work!
179.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 1:53 pm
I can offer my design services too. We will have to work to get a lot of variation to be able to send stuff out, so it might be more than one person working on it.
180.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 2:02 pm
Kate, you can come help us organize. Can you Skype? The download is free, and using it is free, and all you need is a computer with speakers so you can hear. Even if you have no microphone and can't talk, you can type in the chat window that comes up at the same time.
I also bet that even out in your neck of the woods there is a food pantry. You could donate some food, ask your neighbors to do so too, volunteer to work there for a few hours, things like that. You can do a lot Kate… we will certainly find things for you to do!
181.
Ann S. | September 22, 2010 at 2:03 pm
Alan, bravo! Did you go to law school when we weren't looking? I haven't had a chance to read this, but you have analyzed it beautifully and thoroughly.
182.
Cat | September 22, 2010 at 2:04 pm
The action has moved on to this topic, but I just finished reading the Florida case ruling. Beautiful! I sincerely hope the Prop.8 ruling by Walker gets an equally thorough, clear and leaving-no-doubt analysis. The ruling really shreds the brief filed by the defense, but of course, as courts do, respectfully…
It restores my confidence that the briefs filed by the Prop.8 proponents and their icky friends can be respectfully shredded as well. Alan is giving them a head start. Thanks for that!
183.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 2:08 pm
We want any food bank, secular or not. We don't discriminate against anyone, if they need it and we have it, we will give it to them.
That being said, I have heard about Second Harvest, and will put them on the list, thanks!!
184.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 2:09 pm
I really should just compile it all into one post and see if P8TT will just put it up as a new article. I would need to update some of my responses to read a little better, though. I've learned enough this year to hold my own, but there is no way I could do it off the cuff in a live debate and still be able to cite sources. I would need a lot of resources at hand like any lawyer to be able to find the right quotes from other documents that I might need. I'm also super-familiar with all of the court documents that I don't even have to think too hard about a response, though.
185.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 2:13 pm
Yes, Alan, I think that would be very beneficial! Thank you so much. You put so much perspective into their words.
186.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 2:28 pm
Profound. Religious conservatives who don't want to repeal DADT essentially want people to lie.
I just read this article…and then reread it. The art of lying. It's sad.
Gays and Honor: Some Truths About Lying
Excerpt: Once upon a time, I was a terrible liar. It’s not that I tried and failed, because it’s actually pretty easy to successfully lie, ’cause people are too busy, generally, to take anything past face value. It’s that I couldn’t even try to lie.
Lying requires a detachment that I never mastered until getting into a line of work that thrust me, with unexpected force and surprising ease, into what could easily be described as “living a lie.” Consequently, I learned to lie.
Does a life “in the closet”–lying, perhaps of necessity, about ourselves to bosses, landlords, clients, colleagues, family, because the law and public opinion are founded on a lie–does this, can it, spread into private life, so that lying (described as discretion) becomes an easy way to avoid conflict or complication? Can it become a strategy so ingrained that it is used even with close friends and lovers?
Was lying easier than I’d expected? Yes. The art of lying was not hard to master, and I found myself suddenly capable of lying to anyone about anything, “friends and lovers” included. I suppose it happens to everyone in America or really any adult at all, sooner or later.
But the act of living with said lie, day in and day out, was exactly as challenging as I’d expected. It’s a sniper in the corner, a fortress that protects you from invaders but also blocks you from seeing anything, stops you from stepping forward, traps you.
In lying to others we end up lying to ourselves. We deny the importance of an event, or a person, and thus deprive ourselves of a part of our lives. Or we use one piece of the past or present to screen out another. Thus we lose faith even with our own lives.
I couldn’t really stand the lying, so I avoided people I had to lie to and eventually just started telling the truth with relative abandon. When I came across Adrienne Rich’s “Women and Honor: Some Notes on Lying,” it resonated and reinforced my decision that it would be fundamentally unethical for me to choose between truth and lying. The choice was to change my life into something I could be honest about, or stop lying. Eventually I chose the former.
Rich was talking about women’s relationships with other women, but the ideas are strong regardless of context — and because homophobia is rooted in gender discrimination, its context is relevant to DADT.
Full Article: http://www.autostraddle.com/on-countrymen-and-hon…
187.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 2:32 pm
ugh!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5e1NKWfmhPQ
188.
Getrude | September 22, 2010 at 2:56 pm
I just sent Maggie Gallagher a nice little letter telling her that we are going to vote to make FAT people marrying illegal. As a FAT woman she is promoting and condoning an unhealthy lifestyle to our children.If we allow FAT people to get married then people will want to marry a goat.Our innocent children will be FORCED to hear about fat people in school, and they might think it is acceptable, and may want to even try being FAT themselves.This will destroy this country. her CHOSEN lifestyle directly affects me , because it is MY gay tax dollars that go to help pay for her healthcare associated with diabetes, and obesity. And since the whole purpose of marriage according to her lawyers is for procreation, and SHE had her own bastard baby our of wedlock…then clearly her getting married would violate MY rights, and her own definition of marriage.
Fat people should not be allowed to FLAUNT their lifestyles in public…all that taco bell running down their faces onto their dirty sweat shirts. Unacceptable. Say NO to FAT marriage. Think of the children!!
189.
Kathleen | September 22, 2010 at 3:00 pm
I'm sure there will be briefs for our side as well. I really wouldn't worry too much about these. All the usual suspects filed these in district court, too, in support of Proponents, to no avail.
190.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 3:04 pm
Actually Gertrude, many of us here are past the fat comments because there are some of our community who are similar size. It's just not funny at this point, and discredits the support that we get from people of all shapes, sizes, colors, races, nationalities, and orientations.
191.
Getrude | September 22, 2010 at 3:09 pm
It was a joke so chill.
192.
Getrude | September 22, 2010 at 3:11 pm
If you don't get that message fine. Oh well get over it.
193.
Kathleen | September 22, 2010 at 3:31 pm
As to High Tech Gays, see also Boutrous's letter to Judge Walker following the Christian Legal Society v. Martinez decision: http://www.scribd.com/doc/33712851/Doc-695
194.
Alan E. | September 22, 2010 at 3:33 pm
Yes but some jokes still hurt. I know it is intended for Maggie, but I'm sure others will still feel a sting from it. I get the point you are trying to make, but in this community, that argument is done and over with for the most part.
A point of this drive is to counter the religious groups decision to fast, but the primary goal is to feed those that really are hungry. It's better to have a positive outlook for this effort than to drive it with vitriol.
195.
Rhie | September 22, 2010 at 3:42 pm
Gregory, EXACTLY. sometimes I believe that there is a place for loud protests, but there is also a need for movements like this one and one-on-one conversations.
196.
Kathleen | September 22, 2010 at 3:52 pm
Ann and I double posted this. So use this link for FRC brief: http://www.scribd.com/doc/37969120/CA9Doc-31
197.
Rhie | September 22, 2010 at 4:18 pm
Alan E
One of their arguments is seriously that there has never been a court case on this issue so there shouldn't be? There was never a court case on whether women should own rather than be property in a marriage…or whether interracial couples could marry…or whether interreligious couples could marry…until there was a court case that ruled in favor of civil rights.
198.
pgbach | September 22, 2010 at 6:40 pm
Count me in on this project… let me know what need to do, who to contact, etc.
199.
Peter | September 22, 2010 at 7:18 pm
Hello all,
Count me in from Lil Rhody. We have the local Rhode Island Community Food Bank which does fantastic work on its own, but could always use a helping hand, of course.
I've been wanting to organize a Bear-lesque for the Food Bank for some time, so this gives me a kick in the pants to get it moving.
Best,
Peter
200.
Ķĭŗîļĺę& | September 22, 2010 at 8:23 pm
The Rachel Maddow Show (September 22)
What is the family in the C Street house?
Rachel Maddow explains the story of the C Street fellowship, a secretive religious organization of Washington insiders conspiring to impose their religious principles on the world through their government positions.
– ♂K♥F♂
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eib6XT8ZJDw
201.
Ķĭŗîļĺę& | September 22, 2010 at 8:25 pm
The Rachel Maddow Show (September 22)
C Street beyond the sex scandals
Jeff Sharlet, author of the newly released "C Street: The Fundamentalist Threat to American Democracy," talks with Rachel Maddow about the real purpose of the C Street fellowship, beyond helping each other through their various sexual scandals.
– ♂K♥F♂
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=267pcL6b0lk
202.
Ķĭŗîļĺę& | September 22, 2010 at 8:33 pm
The Rachel Maddow Show (September 22)
DADT: No repeal? No appeal!
Kerry Eleveld, Washington correspondent for The Advocate magazine, talks with Rachel Maddow about the options for repealing "Don't ask, don't tell" in the wake of Tuesday's failed Senate vote, including a federal court injunction against applying the law.
– ♂K♥F♂
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZExBOMfndA
203.
Richard A. Walter (s | September 22, 2010 at 8:59 pm
That is GREAT news, Gregory! Please keep us posted on this! Do I smell the lovely fragrance of Equality in the air, or is that just the Double Chocolate Chocolate Chip cookies with chocolate MILK?
204.
Michele | September 22, 2010 at 9:03 pm
Good morning…7am EST here. I don't have time to read all of the comments because I actually have to do that work thing today..boo.. but my partner and I live in Philly and would love to be able to participate any way we can! Anyone else out there from Philly?
205.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:21 pm
Yea, I've been putting it off because the last thing I need is another time-waster…
Besides, time on FB would take time away from P8TT, and who can live with that? :>
206.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:23 pm
fabulousest? :>
207.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:33 pm
Tracy:
That's one of the reasons we want to leave the "service" part open. To twist Mag's words (I love doing this…): "Give as [insert name of personal moral authority] directs." If you can give food, money, or time, great. If all you can give is support and encouragement, we're glad to have it. Even if it's only positive thoughts warm fuzzies. Every little bit helps.
208.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:35 pm
Mark:
Awesome! Are you in the Bay Area? There're a couple of bars here in Hayward that would probably help.
209.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:43 pm
Consistent with its mission statement, FRC is committed to strengthening traditional families in America.
The left out the rest of the sentence:
…and destroying all others.
210.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 9:59 pm
Puttling labels on the donated food was discussed during the first con-call, and was much supported. Will probably be brought up again today.
FYI: The new Office 07 can save files to PDF, and I belive there are some free tools that can convert .doc and .txt files to .pdf.
211.
Chris B | September 22, 2010 at 10:09 pm
I am so puzzled at all the money the 'christian' groups throw after stuff like anti-gay marriage, etc. Things that don't affect them directly, and things that will eventually come to pass over time. How many religious-right individuals are quick to write a check to NOM or the other political organizations, but don't do anything to help the poor, hungry, etc.
How much money was wasted on the "Summer of Marriage" tour? Basically preaching to the choir?
212.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 10:09 pm
Send an email to: anonygrl@aol.com and she can put you on the contact list. Also, we're on FB @ "Feed Equality"
213.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 10:11 pm
Bear-lesque…the thought makes me all tingly! :>
214.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 10:14 pm
I agree. I think if they could physically knock a cane out of some homeless individual's hand while giving them a dollar, then they would donate.
215.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 10:15 pm
Glad to have the support!
This reminded me of something I've been curious about. Where is everybody? Where do you live? I've noticed this community contains not just CAians (as I'd expect), but ppl from all over the country, and all over the world.
Share as much (or as little) as your comfortable with. I'd just like to know how big our little community really is!
216.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 10:17 pm
Hi P8TTers, I am in Tucson, Arizona (McCain-Land)
217.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 10:21 pm
I'll start. Put this in new post, just to make it more organized.
I live in San Lorenzo, CA, just south of Oakland, in what's known locally as the East Bay. Spent my late teens and 20s in Missouri between Jeff City, Columbia, and KC. As a kid in a Navy house, we moved a lot. Some other place I've lived: Oxnard, CA (outside LA); Keflavic, Iceland; Ewa Beach, HI (opposite Honolulu on Pearl Harbor); VA Beach, VA; and Denver, CO.
218.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 10:22 pm
LLB:
Darn, you beat me! :>
219.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 10:23 pm
Craaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaap.
I'm apparently com-mentally challenged too. :j
220.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 22, 2010 at 10:23 pm
Those feather boas don't hurt too much : )
221.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 10:28 pm
Ooooh…it tickles! :>
222.
Michele | September 22, 2010 at 10:30 pm
question—isn' t the deadline for the doj appeal today for the log house republican case? Anyone hear anything? I can't really find anything online other than today is the date. I'm suprised there isn't any more hype about it…
must do work must do work must do work
223.
Gregory in Salt Lake | September 22, 2010 at 10:36 pm
Yay! thanks Ann
I will! (Salute!)
224.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 10:36 pm
Today's the day DOJ must submit their rebuttal to the proposed injunction from LCR. Judges order doesn't specify a time.
225.
Michele | September 22, 2010 at 10:38 pm
So what happens if they do/or do not submit the rebuttal?
226.
elliom | September 22, 2010 at 10:48 pm
Caveat: IANAL…blah…blah
I'm willing to hazard a guess, though; either the judge will issue the proposed LCR injunction, or issue it in a modified form. I also believe the judge could write their own injunction, if they chose.
227.
Gregory in Salt Lake | September 22, 2010 at 10:48 pm
Thank you Richard! I will keep updated! Perhaps put a post together at some point with specific steps I took that may help others. I'll wait for official word though (when I see the company notify the whole corporation) before proceeding. It will be interesting to see what provisions they make, how they handle tax issue (since Gay marriage not recognized at Federal level, we are not eligible for tax break associated with health care for "traditional" couples). I'm also keen to find out if they extend ALL HR benefits: retirement specifically.
Not completely equal, but BIG step forward. It actually gives me CHILLS (good ones!) because Intermountain Health Care is one of the largest employers in the region. I feel this precedence will help guide other corporations to do the same to be competitive.
Hoping all of this will be a moot issue very soon as full equality is granted at the Federal level. I can just TASTE good things coming! Yay! WOOT! Love to you Richard!
228.
Gregory in Salt Lake | September 22, 2010 at 11:20 pm
Is this a clip from Saturday Night Live? Stunning how he can say all that with a "straight" face!
229.
anonygrl | September 22, 2010 at 11:27 pm
I think the judge will write her own injunction, but will probably use some or most of the LCR version.
The chances are, however, that the DOJ will submit something… so we are at "wait and see" again.
230.
Gregory in Salt Lake | September 22, 2010 at 11:46 pm
Hi Getrude (Gertrude?)
I don't recognize your name as one who posts here generally. Welcome!
You will find people here speak there mind, often with passion! I would like to address a couple of things you mentioned.
First, I see you responding to comments about your "joke" by saying "chill" and "get over it". I have heard that repeatedly about being gay. "chill…its just a joke…" "get over it….I didn't mean anything by it" IIt is my choice how to respond or feel about something. What precisely do you mean by "Chill" and "get over it"?
Second, sometimes we offend w/out meaning to…this is how I see your comments. When someone brings to my attention that I have said something offensive (to them) its time for me to recognize, learn, and apologize. Dr. Laura learned this lesson in a very public way recently telling her caller to "get over it" (being sensitive to the "N" word….and other things)
I appreciate your taking action by contacting NOM, however sarcasm can be mis-understood, potentially offensive and ineffective unless you already have a personal relationship with the recipient.
Finally, I would like to DECLARE to EVERYONE at P8TT FAT JOKES are "OUT"…as several here have mentioned it is hurtful to them.
Please continue to post….or read…this site is a wonderful resource for information, compassion, debate…and feedback!
p.s. Alan – thanks for your articulated responses on this issue.
231.
Mark M | September 22, 2010 at 11:52 pm
We're in Seattle, WA
232.
Gregory in Salt Lake | September 23, 2010 at 12:02 am
and we make typos too! DOH!
233.
AndrewPDX | September 23, 2010 at 12:06 am
Totally off-topic, but Happy BIsexuality Day!
Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
Andrew
234.
Alan E. | September 23, 2010 at 12:24 am
And you should keep tally of any and all food, money, or time so we can compile it into a country-wide total.
235.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 23, 2010 at 12:25 am
Catholic League: Real Catholics for DADT
More: http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2010/09/2…
236.
Alan E. | September 23, 2010 at 12:25 am
I have Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, so I can do a lot more than Word if you want something a little more intricate.
237.
Alan E. | September 23, 2010 at 12:27 am
Albany, CA (town next to Berkeley to the north). I work in San Francisco, though.
238.
Alan E. | September 23, 2010 at 12:39 am
The entire "Catholic League" is really just Bill Donahue. Unfortunately, a lot of people listen to him, where no one identifies themselves as a member.
239.
elliom | September 23, 2010 at 12:39 am
Jon Stewart on the DADT Debacle:” A We Run By A**holes?”
http://www.boxturtlebulletin.com/2010/09/23/26545
240.
Joel | September 23, 2010 at 12:53 am
Born and raised in SoCal here, moved to Japan and stayed there for 17 years, until I got tired of people telling me how well I used chopsticks (really, a four year old can manage them!). Moved back to SoCal, then to Minneapolis and Michigan, then here to Las Vegas, although Mark and I are hoping to move back to California sometime next year, to be closer to my elderly and ailing parents (and when they no longer need our care, I'm REALLY cosifering emigrating to Canada; defending and explaining our relationship has become exhausting). Mark and I were legally wed in CA on August 28, during that short window, we're one of the 18,000, but our real wedding was on Aug 6, 2000, in my parents' backyard. DPeck and his family were there!
241.
Kate | September 23, 2010 at 12:58 am
The FB page is Feed Equality, correct? I can't find it….
242.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 23, 2010 at 12:59 am
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=10991023573…
243.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 23, 2010 at 1:01 am
And, this was supposed to reply to Kate… : )_
244.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 23, 2010 at 1:07 am
I've been reading up on the DADT deadline today. If President Obama does not appeal, it is my understanding that Congress can intervene. Is that correct?
I have also read that if President Obama had already chosen to not appeal, he would have given Congress advance notice. I haven't heard a peep from Congress about this, so I am thinking Obama is planning on appealing. I think I would rather have Obama appeal than Congress (or the Senate Republicans.)
But, with that in mind…can the Senate Republicans intervene even if Obama appeals? Can they attempt to step-in?
245.
Kate | September 23, 2010 at 1:10 am
Thank you, LLB. I wonder why a FB page search doesn't bring it up?
246.
Kathleen | September 23, 2010 at 1:20 am
Today isn't the deadline for the feds to file an appeal – it's just a deadline for submitting their response to the proposed injunction. The appeals deadline is well into the future. The judge hasn't entered final judgment yet and when she does, the feds will have 60 days from that date in which to file a notice of appeal.
247.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 23, 2010 at 1:27 am
Thank you Kathleen.
248.
fiona64 | September 23, 2010 at 1:29 am
Don't tell people to "chill" when you've done something deliberately offensive, Getrude. You were *wrong.* Period.
249.
fiona64 | September 23, 2010 at 1:30 am
Silicon Valley, CA.
Love,
Fiona
250.
fiona64 | September 23, 2010 at 1:31 am
Kate, it was set up as a group and not a page. Groups are not searchable.
Love,
Fiona
251.
Michele | September 23, 2010 at 1:32 am
so what happens if they fail to file the response to the injunction? I'm having a really hard time finding any information out there…
252.
Kate | September 23, 2010 at 1:33 am
Thank you, Fiona. You can see that I am not much of a FBer…
253.
Franck | September 23, 2010 at 1:44 am
Anosizato, Antananarivo, Madagascar.
That's as far as you can get from California, you know…
– Franck P. Rabeson
Days spent apart from my fiancé because of DOMA: 1189 days, as of today.
254.
Kathleen | September 23, 2010 at 1:45 am
The judge will enter her final judgment at some point. It will almost certainly be in the form of an injunction against DADT. We don't know yet just how broad the injunction will be.
The judge has asked for input from the parties as to what the injunction should be, and set a deadline for that input. She may or may not use any part of their recommendations in determining her final judgment. If the feds choose not to provide input by the deadline set out, then the judge will still enter her final judgment; she'll just do it without having heard recommendations from the feds.
But it seems likely the feds will respond to the request. I can't see any advantage to them not giving their opinion as to what the judgment should be.
255.
Mark M. (Seattle) | September 23, 2010 at 2:00 am
Seattle actually….have three bars that have said yes, but want more info. I will be going by this weekend with my proposals/ideas.
Now I just need to hear back from 'The Sisters' regarding using their 501-C3 status to make it all legal for the bars
(and to allow for monies to be collected in lew of food donations)
256.
fern | September 23, 2010 at 2:01 am
Thought of the day.
If Caligula could come back, he would put the senators' wives to work in a brothel and get Claudius to work as a doorman and cashier to the paying guests. Can you imagine the line up at Plato's retreat?
257.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 23, 2010 at 2:11 am
An aside note: if you join the group and request friend with other members, please be sure to tell them who you are in the P8TT.
258.
Michele | September 23, 2010 at 2:41 am
@Kathleen..
ahhhh…I understand now. Thank you! This is just in response to the injunction, not necessarily at all indicative if they will appeal. Gotchya. Thanks!! So glad you are here
259.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 2:49 am
Their version of "traditional", which is really a nightmare created during anti-communist McCarthyism.
260.
Layla | September 23, 2010 at 2:52 am
This is great. My first impulse is to go door to door in my neighborhood passing out the mission statement and collecting donations on the spot. Most people have stuff in their home that they can donate. We could get a list of needed items from the respective organizations we are all working with to make sure we aren't collecting things they don't need or want.
261.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 4:46 am
IIRC OpenOffice supports all Windows formats.
262.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 4:49 am
And a very small choir at that. With 1 in 4 children in abject poverty, 1 in 10 on food stamps and 1 in 5 out of work it's unconscionable to spend money on such tours.
263.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 4:51 am
Washington state here
264.
Gregory in Salt Lake | September 23, 2010 at 4:57 am
MINOR UPDATE:
This is in regards to Healthcare News. I would like to make one correction. I posted there was so "serious opposition from a few board members" I have learned that this is NOT true. There was some opposition, but not from the board. It seems they were in favorable, sensitive and compassionate dealing with this issue. My apologies to any board member who I mistakenly slighted.
I would like to emphasize this news is not official yet so please do not share. I was just so darn excited I had to tell someone! Love to all! Gregory
265.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 4:59 am
Mark M —
*waves from central sound, Bainbridge Island to be exact* I CAN see Seattle from my house, lol. Well, if there weren't a bunch of trees, I probably could.
266.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 5:02 am
Oh thanks! I didn't know that was a thing – cool!
267.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 5:10 am
Huh, it came up when I searched it the other day. I even logged out to be sure. Seems the search was down today…weird.
268.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 5:28 am
Excellent idea to find out what places need! I will do that when I call around my area.
Helpline House is the major charity in my area, so I will start with them.
269.
anonygrl | September 23, 2010 at 7:34 am
That is very important. If you load your local food bank down with things they don't need or can't accept, they will not be pleased at having to deal with it.
That will be part of the local organizer's job… talk to your local food bank, find what they need and work on collecting that for them.
270.
Layla | September 23, 2010 at 7:41 am
People are often surprised when they ask their local food bank what they need and the food bank replies "paper towels." There are so many other supplies besides just food when you are trying to feed the hungry.
271. VIDEO: Family Research Co&hellip | September 23, 2010 at 8:16 am
[...] comprehensive takedown by Alan E. that first appeared in the comments of last night’s “Food for thought: A P8TT community project” thread. Meanwhile, please read Karen Ocamb’s piece below on FRC, cross-posted from [...]
272.
Sheryl, Mormon Mothe | September 23, 2010 at 10:06 am
That is really terrific news. Way to go with your perseverance.
273.
Sheryl, Mormon Mothe | September 23, 2010 at 10:11 am
elliom, you live in the Bay Area (or at least work in the Bay Area)? Are you going to be able to join us for P8TT gathering at BATS (Ft. Mason Center in SF) on Oct. 15. I hope so. Let me know and do bring your partner and/or a friend or two. Let me know. My email is sheryl.beckett@gmail.com
Sheryl, Mormon Mother
274.
Lee | September 23, 2010 at 10:34 am
Very nice!!!
275.
Dave P. | September 23, 2010 at 10:43 am
I think there really should be TWO days for this. : )
276.
Mark M | September 23, 2010 at 10:58 am
I use to do bear-lesque…of sorts LOL
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1cQljeFrtc
277.
Mark M | September 23, 2010 at 11:00 am
Hiya Rhie!!
278.
StraightForEquality | September 23, 2010 at 12:00 pm
I'm always late reading and replying, but here goes anyway. I am in New Hampshire (where marriage equality is the law!). I lived in CA for the first 48 years of my life (in L.A.) but now I am in a beautiful rural town of about 5,000 near Manchester.
279.
anonygrl | September 23, 2010 at 1:24 pm
Darn it all, Ronnie. Here I was hoping to seduce you and change your evil and misbegotten ways.
Well, there goes THAT plan out the window.
The good news is that I love you anyway.
280.
anonygrl | September 23, 2010 at 1:34 pm
Albany NY, at the moment, by way of all over New York and New Jersey, growing up, and a year in London, then 20 years in New York City (which is still "home" to me).
281.
Ronnie | September 23, 2010 at 1:35 pm
LOL….maybe in our next life….but I'm pretty sure I'm going to come back as a build-a-bear…..I don't know why….just a weird feeling…..anywho….luv you too …..big hugs…..<3…Ronnie
282.
anonygrl | September 23, 2010 at 1:36 pm
LOL!
283.
Alan E | September 23, 2010 at 2:35 pm
@Anonygrl My gay uncles live 10 minutes south of Rhinebeck. One is the director of the Hudson Opera House and the hoer is the VP of Development at the Olana House. I love that area so much! I was last there last October.
284.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 2:48 pm
LOL I am allll for that.
285.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 3:03 pm
Ronnie —
Perhaps you could could back as SuperTed!
286.
Alan E. | September 23, 2010 at 3:30 pm
Just let me know what to do!
287.
Sheryl, Mormon Mothe | September 23, 2010 at 4:46 pm
Do you live in the SF-Bay Area, draNgNon?
Sheryl, Mormon Mother
288.
Sheryl, Mormon Mothe | September 23, 2010 at 4:51 pm
What I found so interesting is that the State of Florida found it just fine to license homosexuals to be foster parents and they could be appointed guardians but not adopt. Where is the sense in all of that? And, yet, people with criminal records, people who had been abusive, etc. (as long as they were heterosexuals) could adopt. Logic defies me.
Mormon Mother
289.
Sheryl, Mormon Mothe | September 23, 2010 at 5:00 pm
concord, CA here, a little north of elliom and almost directly east of Alan on the other side of the Berkeley hills.
And, I'll take this opportunity for anyone who has not seen this before or hasn't contacted me to promote the P8TT gathering on Oct. 15 at BATS in the Fort Mason Center in SF for an improv show and the opportunity to meet that wonderful son of mine who is also looking forward to meeting everyone who comes. And, hey, even if you don't live in the Bay Area but will be here, please join us. My e-mail is sheryl.beckett@gmail.com. When the date draws closer, my son will see if we can get discount tickets, so a headcount would be necessary. And, do bring spouses/partners and/or friends. The more the merrier. Am hoping that we will be able to go out after the show.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother
290.
Sheryl, Mormon Mothe | September 23, 2010 at 5:04 pm
Also willing to do what I can. I know a lot of places require a tax exempt # to do fundraisers. Will find those that do not require such and see if they can participate.
Sheryl, Mormon mother
291.
anonygrl | September 23, 2010 at 8:39 pm
OK! Some information. We have officially got a name now, which is this:
Food for Thought: FeedEquality.org.
We will have a webpage very soon, followed quickly by information kits for people who want to sign up to organize a local food drive (or other activity, I see bars and other things mentioned here) in their own area.
We are underway folks!!! Thanks to everyone who is posting good ideas, and getting in the swing and volunteering to help. You people are all TERRIFiC!
292.
anonygrl | September 23, 2010 at 8:44 pm
If you come back as a build a bear, I promise to come back as a grubby six year old who will drag you EVERYWHERE she goes, until the fur completely wears off one side of your head, one of your eyes falls out and mom replaces it with a mismatched button off my sweater that I insist on donating, you are all sticky from repeated dribbles of strawberry jelly from my PBJ sandwiches, and you have a couple of holes where the stuffing is leaking. We will be best friends, and climb trees together, and have adventures and they will make a movie about us…
293.
Ronnie | September 23, 2010 at 8:46 pm
My mom said she would ask her co-workers to contribute…oooo would that piss Maggie off…..Catholic hospital employees donating to an Equality cause….They donating some money this pass week to sponsor us in Garden State Equality’s march for Equality here in Jersey this Sunday….Me, my Mom, Woody (my dog) & one of her co-workers (who is Gay) is bringing his 2 kids….its a march & a picnic…should be fun….<3…Ronnie
294.
Ronnie | September 23, 2010 at 8:50 pm
PB&J….mmmmmmmm…..NOM NOM NOM NOM NOM…. lol….the sign of a truly loved teddy-bear is a well worn out teddy-bear….that’s what my Nana always says…. ; ) …Ronnie
295.
Rhie | September 23, 2010 at 9:55 pm
OMG SQUEE
Ahem. Yes, I think this going to work. I am really excited and kind of nervous. I have never been involved in anything this large scale. But, ya’ll are the most awesome people ever and the thought of working with ya’ll just makes me excited again.
296.
elliom | September 24, 2010 at 3:26 am
Alan E: It's in the works.
297.
elliom | September 24, 2010 at 3:32 am
Hi Sheryl:
Thanks for the invite! I'd love to attend, but will be about 10 days post-surgical on 10/15, so not sure how I'll be feeling. But, please, get me the info., and I'll see how I'm feeling then.
Call this a tentative RSVP.
PS: I also sent you an email for more details.
298.
Cassandra | September 24, 2010 at 9:55 am
I'm late to the party, I know. I've been traveling these past two weeks for work, and am just getting caught up.
I would like to help in any way possible. I am an organizer, community volunteer, graphic designer, and problem solver. Professionally, I'm a problem solver and motivator (aka instructor). Is there a hole you need filled?
I hope I'm not too late to help in a big way.
299.
Mark M. (Seattle) | September 28, 2010 at 6:50 am
I got confirmation yesterday that the Seattle chapter of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence is willing to help me man the donation sites when I get the dates set with the various locations (bars).
Moving forward!
300.
Anonygrl | September 28, 2010 at 6:57 am
Excellent! We are rounding up the info now, and should have the packet ready to download very shortly, so you can grab it and be off and running!
One of the things we are looking to do is a DECORATE YOUR DONATION BOX contest… and I am SURE the Sisters would have fun with that! Plus we would LOVE to have pics of you, them, donors, locations, boxes… everything! to put on our site… and there will be model release forms in the packet for everyone to sign. We have a meeting on Thursday, and hopefully will have enough to get you going after that!
I'd say we've come a LONG way in just two weeks!!!
301. Trial Trackers coming out&hellip | October 11, 2010 at 9:29 am
[...] few weeks ago, Vienna Hagen (AKA “AnonyGrl” in the comments) wrote about a project that the Prop 8 Trial Tracker community was starting to self-organize — a creative campaign [...]
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