Author: refinish69

Hypocrites, Toe Tapping Senators, and Knee Pad Presidents

Enjoy! — refinish69

My Latest Podcast

Cross posted @ Daily Kos, Doing My Part For The Left, and Texas Kaos
REPUBLICAN POSTER BOY ACKNOWLEDGES PATRONIZING THE “D.C. MADAM” – U.S. SENATOR REVEALS, “SERIOUS SIN!”

  Louisiana’s Junior Senator, Republican David Vittner was a model of propriety.

He’s a married man with four children. A lector at St. Francis Xavier’s Church. A “mainstream” conservative who was “outed” yesterday as a customer of the infamous Deborah Jeane Palfrey – the “DC Madam”.

One gossip blog, tips@bigheaddc.com, cites Mrs Vittner as being critical of Hillary Clinton during the Lewinsky scandal in a news story of the time. She’s quoted as saying, “I’m a lot more like Lorena Bobbit than Hillary – I’m walking away with one thing, and it’s not alimony”.

Politics makes strange bedfellows?

Vittner was one of the anchors of the strategy to take back Congress in 2010. Whoops.

But maybe it will be all right. Vittner claimed to have been pardoned by God in the confessional and by his wife in counseling.

Craig insists ‘I am not gay,’ police say he sought information for lawyer

Sen. Larry Craig insisted today “I am not gay” and lashed out at the Idaho Statesman for a “witchhunt” that led him to plead guilty to a disorderly conduct charge – a plea he hoped would make the charge go away.

Meanwhile, newly released police records of the bathroom incident that led to Craig’s arrest show that Craig revisited the Minneapolis airport 11 days later to complain about how he had been treated by police. He said he wanted information so his lawyer could speak to someone, according to a police report.

Craig said Monday that he did not seek legal counsel before deciding to plead guilty to disorderly conduct. Today, Craig said he has hired a lawyer to advise him what to do next.

Craig was arrested June 11 by an undercover police officer who said Craig made a sexual advance toward him in an airport men’s room near Minneapolis.

He held a nationally televised news conference today in Boise, but did not talk specifically about what happened in the men’s room and did not take questions.

“I overreacted and made a poor decision,” Craig said.

Republicans Suck

Grand Old Perverts Bumper Sticker

  Republican Senator Resigns Why Hasn’t The President of The Texas Stonewall Caucus Done the Same

Sen. Larry Craig announced he would resign his seat in the Senate after pleading guilty in what he now calls a police sting when he was arrested for soliciting sex in a public bathroom at an airport. He is resigning under pressure to keep from embarrassing his party, other elected officials or candidates and we head into the elections cycle. I have to ask why Shannon Bailey president of the Texas Stonewall Democratic Caucus has not done the same.

Shannon was arrested after being seen by two vice cops for giving a blow job in a public park. He is in no position(excuse the pun) to be a spokesperson for the GLBT Democratic Community and has basically abdicated his position as he hides out and awaits his day in court. I agree with many others that the laws covering public lewdness are not enforced equally for the GLBT and Straight world but if you think with the head in your pants instead of the head on your shoulders, I do not have a lot of sympathy. A person in a position of public authority has to live by a higher standard and must think of the image they project and how it affects not only themselves but the Community at large.

Here is Shannon’s latest email to the executive committee of the Stonewall Caucus:

I will call any meetings from now on. There WILL NOT be any meetings of any kind until after October 5, 2007, my daughters wedding. Not one of you communicated to me or inquired about my schedule for September 30 (which happens to be rehearsal day). I AM THE PRESIDENT. You had your meeting even though it was not appropriately called and you could not muster the votes to remove me, that was your one chance. All you are currently doing is creating bad press. I will appoint the bylaws review committee shortly, I am getting commitments from the individuals. At that time I will call a meeting of the Executive Committee. I have a location for the next meeting confirmed. If any of you have question, contact me.

In solidarity (I hope),

Shannon

Sounds a lot like George Bush’s claims to power to me.

Sen. Larry Craig announced he would resign his seat in the Senate after pleading guilty in what he now calls a police sting when he was arrested for soliciting sex in a public bathroom at an airport.  He is resigning under pressure to keep from embarrassing his party, other elected officials or candidates as we head into the elections cycle.  I have to ask why Shannon Bailey president of the Texas Stonewall Democratic Caucus has not done the same.
Shannon was arrested after being seen by two vice cops for giving a blow job in a public park.  He is in no position(excuse the pun) to be a spokesperson for the GLBT Democratic Community and has basically abdicated his position as he hides out and awaits his day in court.  I agree with many others that the laws covering public lewdness are not enforced equally for the GLBT and Straight world but if you think with the head in your pants instead of the head on your shoulders, I do not have a lot of sympathy.  A person in a position of public authority has to live by a higher standard and must think of the image they project and how it affects not only themselves but the Community at large.

The board of the Texas Stonewall Caucus has asked for Shannon’s resignation but as of today no answer has been received.  This is typical of how he has handled this deplorable situation from the beginning.  Shannon has refused to communicate with the board as a whole except to try and pull a Tom Craddick maneuver to stop a legally called meeting to discuss the situation.

It seems pathetic that a Republican realizes 90% of politics is perception and Shannon still thinks it is all about him.

 from www.nytimes.com

    Senator to Quit Over Sex Sting, Officials Say

    WASHINGTON, Aug. 31 – Senator Larry E. Craig, Republican of Idaho, under intense pressure from party leaders to step down  in the aftermath of an undercover sex sting, plans to resign his seat on Saturday,  Republican Party officials said Friday.

    Through intermediaries and unusually harsh public statements and actions, party officials made it clear they wanted Mr. Craig to quit before Congress returned from its summer recess next week, hoping quickly to conclude an embarrassing episode that threatened to complicate an already  difficult election cycle for Senate Republicans.

    Republican Party officials said Friday evening that they had been notified of Mr. Craig’s intention to give up his seat as of Sept. 30 and that Gov. C. L. Otter, a Republican, would name a replacement.

Promoted by Steven D.

Rick Noriega has answered the Call to Duty once again He has answered this call several times in the past and has made Texas Proud.  He has served in the Texas Army National Guard and has risen to the rank of Lt. Colonel.  He has served 5 terms in the Texas Legislature as a Representative from the Houston area.  During his time in the Texas legislature, Rick has received a 100% rating from NARAL in his votes for women=s issues.  Children at Risk gave Rep. Noriega an A for his efforts in regard to key children=s issues for the 80th legislative session that ended in June. He has distinguished himself in leading bipartisan efforts for teacher pay raises, border security, and opening doors for Texas students to attend college.  This is the type of Leader needed in the US Senate not only by Texas but all of America.
The Texas Netroots first formed a Draft Rick movement and now we are actively working to get Rick Noriega elected as our Next Senator.  A senator from Texas who believes in Equal Rights, better health care for all, ending the war in Iraq, and doing what is right for all Americans.  Join The Noriega Express and help send a True Texas Leader to Washington.

When the Federal government’s meager response to Hurricane Katrina failed to help families in need, Rick Noriega joined Mayor Bill White of Houston in opening their arms to their neighbors from Louisiana.  Recently back from Afghanistan, Rick pulled many 20 hour shifts commanding the shelter operation at the George R. Brown Convention Center that housed thousands of Texas= guest from New Orleans.  Rep. Noriega has proven he is willing to go the extra mile for people and now is the time for the people to go the extra mile and help get him elected.  

Rick attended Yealy Kos where he wowed the crowd and became a Rock Star.  He has also done live blogging at both Daily Kos and Firedoglake. I could Go on and on about why I am supporting Rick Noriega as the next Senator from Texas but I think hearing Rep. Noriega’s answers to important questions will tell you much more.

My question regards the 57 Democrats (16 in the Senate) who voted with Republicans on the recent FISA revisions. These Democrats sided with the President that the threat to this country is so great that we must relinquish some of our freedoms in order to remain safe. Many of these Democrats feared political retribution for appearing “soft on terrorism.” Would you explain to us your feelings on whether amending FISA was appropriate; on exchanging freedoms for security; and on the political triangulation of Democrats afraid to stand for their beliefs in the face of withering Republican counterattacks?

Rick  Moriega “FISA is about Repubs again using fear as a political motivator. It’s unfortunate that we relinquish liberty to folks like our administration and the Attorney General. We need people in DC that have walked the walk and can speak with credibility on these issues without being afraid.”

I’m an old lady who grew up in the Rio Grande Valley and Corpus Christi. The Borderlands are a special place to me and the idea of an ugly fence cutting off the centuries old interchange just grates. Perhaps Tom Tancredo really thinks that all those place names in Texas were put on the map by some pilgrim with a Spanish/English dictionary.

Rick Noriega “The current leadership believes that you lead by dividing people. I believe we need new leadership that calls out to people to work together.”

Welcome Rick! In the wake of last weekend’s FISA vote we want it to be a priority to support and elect people with backbone. Are you willing to go on the record saying you’ll promote the repeal the changes if they become permanent in six months? Also would you promote (or support) changes to the Military Commissions Act?

Rick Noriega “If you look at my voting record over the past 5 sessions you’ll see a history of me tanding up. I do believe that the Congress avoided a bullet with the 6-month deal.

Let’s see what they do. Ironically, when the Democrats take control of the White House, it will be the Repubs pushing for the repeal….what’s good for the goose….”

Hi Rick! Howie’s told me great things about you.

    My question is about running as a progressive in a state whose economy is based on extractive industries and industries tied to the war (aerospace, etc). How do you do it? In a lot of ways, you’re asking voters to vote against their economic self-interest. Of course, you could expand the voting pool, or maybe there are dynamics in Texas I don’t understand.

    Still, there’s a reason the state is super-red, and I’m curious how to deal with that. One model could be Montana last cycle, but that’s a Western state and Texas is regionally speaking mostly a Southern state with different dynamics.

Rick’s answer: “First I would say that Texas isn’t as red as some folks would like you to believe; this election will prove that.

Second, you are right. Our state depends a lot on the energy industry to drive our economy. As long as we have to burn things to produce things in Texas, we’ve got to push clean burning natural gas. We’ve got to push new technologies and innovations. Texas has to lead the way in this arena or else we will become the next rust belt.”

Rick, welcome to Firedoglake. I’m sure everywhere here is as eager as I am to know how a real PROGRESSIVE Democrat is going to win in one of the redder states in the country. Tell us how you can make our contributions work for bringing about a better America via Texas.

Rick’s answer: “We’ve got to get back to the basics of “We the People.” We all must answer the call to service for our state and nation for the common good.”

Hi Rick,
    Best Wishes to You.
    A fence (a massive concrete wall, really, like Isr*el’s fences) cannot keep desperate people from risking their lives to come to the US.

    Isn’t the fence really just a boondoggle?

Rick’s answer: “I have been very vocal against the fence. The leadership from El Paso to Brownsville have voiced the same concern. Chief Aguilar, US Border Patrol has said it will not work.

From military doctrine, there are two types of obstacles in Principles of the Defense; man-made and natural. In both cases you have to have eyes on the obstacle because any and all can be negotiated.

We in Texas are fortunate that God gave us a river obstacle.

We need eyes on the river, new technology and boots on the ground to apprehend.

Simple answers to problems is what Repubs like to quote like “a Wall.” The answer to a 12 foot fence would be a 13 foot ladder.

This is why we need serious representation in DC to address this issue. Mr. Cornyn has been an obstructionist.”

Hi Rick and Melissa! Good to see you both here.

    Rick – there issues that you and your primary opponent totally disagree on, but one trumps them all for me. He actually describes himself as pro-life, which I prefer to call pro-forced-pregnancy. Can you comment on your stand on women’s reproductive rights?

Rick’s answer: “100% voting record with TARAL/NARAL. I’ve witnessed in Afghanistan when a government tells women what they can and cannot do, what they can and cannot wear.

This is not the role of government. Women’s rights are continuously under siege.

It is another deliberate distracter, or wedge issue by the far right.”

In the past few years we have seen the Republican Party discriminate and refuse to pass legislation to end discrimination for the GLBT Community. If you are elected, will you work to pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and “Hate Crimes” Bill?

Rick’s answer: “I’ve voted for all hate crime leg. in the TX hse. I was one of 13? votes against HJR 6 in TX.

I hate bullies. Folks that gratuitously “other” people like the Repubs often do violate my vision of We the People.”

These are just a few of the great answers Rick gave on Firedoglake.  You can read the comment sections at both Daily Kos and Firedoglake to see what a great Leader he will be for America and Texas!!!  Please join The Noriega Express as we work to elect a True Texas Hero and Leader as our Next US Senator!!!

Noriega Express

Noriega For Senate

Today I am ashamed to call myself a Gay Democrat in Texas. I should be ecstatic after the Human Rights Campaign and Logo debate on August 9th but unfortunately that is not the case.  Oh, I am thrilled about the debate but disgusted at the lack of leadership in the GLBT Community in Texas!

cross posted at Texas Kaos, Booman Tribune, Doing My Part For The Left, Daily Kos, Burnt Orange Report

linkThe president of the Texas Stonewall Democrats has been accused of public lewdness after police said he was seen engaged in a sexual act near White Rock Lake.

John Shannon Bailey, 49, of Dallas was spotted by vice officers June 14 in the 800 block of East Lawther Drive.

“He was engaged in a sexual act with a person at that location, outside in a public place,” Dallas police Senior Cpl. Janice Crowther said.

linkJohn Shannon Bailey has stepped down from the board of Stonewall Democrats of Dallas after police ticketed him for allegedly engaging in oral sex with another man in a park near White Rock Lake.

Bailey, 49, is president of Texas Stonewall Democrats, the state’s largest gay political organization. He also is a member of the Texas State Democratic Executive Committee. It was unclear Thursday, June 28, whether the situation would affect his involvement with the latter two organizations.

Contacted Monday, June 25, after his mug shot appeared on a Dallas Police Department Web site in connection with the alleged crime, Bailey declined comment. On Thursday, he did not return a voice message.

The incident occurred at about 11:15 p.m. on June 14 at 800 E. Lawther Drive in Dallas, according to police reports. Sgt. Edward Harvey said the area is well known for cruising by gay men.

Shannon has refused to make any kind of statement to the Stonewall Caucus or to step down.  He removed from the board of the Dallas Stonewall Chapter.

Shannon has done great work in the past for Stonewall.  I appreciate all he has done but with this cloud hanging over his head he can no longer be an effective speaker for the GLBT Community, our elected officials, or our candidates.  He needs to resign but since he will not, he needs to be removed from office.  

The Board of the Texas Stonewall Caucus is comprised of the elected officers and the Presidents of the various Stonewall chapters in Texas.  While some members of the board have called for action many of the so-called “leaders” have decided that the Texas Stonewall Caucus is a fan club for Shannon.  They refuse to take any action to protect the image of the group or its effectiveness in the coming election cycle.  The hard work we have put in as Leaders in the Community cannot be thrown away to protect one person from his own stupidity.  After 10 members called a meeting, we still have board members trying to stop any discussion of these events.  This is ludicrous and makes the Texas Stonewall Caucus look like anything but Community Leaders.  

If you are a member of Stonewall in Texas, please contact the “leader” of your chapter and ask them why nothing is being done.  Maybe if they hear from enough concerned constituents, they will become the leaders the community elected them to be.  I would love to hear the responses.  You can post them here or email me at refinish69 at gmail dot com.

Civil Rights Movements each have their moments in History and the GLBT Rights Movement has many.  Everyone has heard or can look up the information about the Stonewall Riots but I want to share my personal journey and the moments that stand out in my mind and heart.

cross posted at Texas Kaos, Booman Tribune, Doing My Part For The Left, Daily Kos, Progressive Historians

As a young Gay male in North Carolina, I was active in politics and had been for a long time.  I attended my first Gay Pride March in Raleigh, North Carolina at the age of 25.  It was a march and not a parade.  There were no floats, no corporate sponsors, or famous stars or politicians in the march.  It was a bunch of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people walking in groups or just with friends.  PFLAG was there of course but you did not see corporate groups marching as you do today in many Gay Pride Parades.  We were Out, Loud and Proud and wanted everyone to know.  We were also dealing with the onslaught of the AIDS Epidemic and the lack of understanding or care from the Reagan Administration.  This was the time period when it was still legal to fire someone fro being Gay in every state.  Raleigh, North Carolina was the first city to add a non-discrimination clause to their city charter that include sexual preference.  This was the first Gay Pride March but was not my last. I have now marched in Gay Pride Marches and Parades in North Carolina, Oregon, California, Arizona and Texas.  I will keep marching until I have to ride a scooter or a wheel chair but I will still be there.

I attended the first World AIDS Day planning event in Raleigh and have been involved in those every since. While many would not consider this a civil rights event, I do as we educated the world about HIV and AIDS.  The stigma of the “GAY” disease had to be removed and the world needed to be educated.  I worked with people who would never have attended a Gay Pride March but who were driven by the need to help the Community overcome and bring awareness to the public.  

Once I moved to San Francisco, I immediately became involved in politics, civil rights and AIDS/HIV Awareness.  I also attended a memorial march to commemorate the night Harvey Milk and  George Moscone were murdered. The sight of thousands of men, women and children marching down Market Street with candles will stay with me forever.  The sadness and anger that still burned in the hearts of those gathered was a powerful force.  It was a force that said we will not be taken for granted and we will not be forgotten or shunted aside.  The same went for the Candle Light Vigil for World AIDS Day in San Francisco.  There is a power in numbers which is hard to relate unless you have been there and felt the love, pain, fear, anger, and hope burning in each person as they walk holding that small flame out against the darkness of hatred and despair.  

In Arizona, I watched Ellen come out on prime time TV at the Gay and Lesbian Community Center where I started volunteering 2 months after moving there.  I was even shown kissing my lover and then interviewed by one of the TV stations in Arizona. I spoke about the history of the moment and how maybe it would help people understand that we were just people.  

I remember when very few politicians- even our allies- would speak out for the community. Justice Jan Patterson was not afraid to march with the Stonewall Democrats of Austin in the Gay Pride Parade in 2004 when she was up for re-election.  Senfronia Thompson was not afraid when she gave one of the best Civil Rights speeches I have ever heard at the Texas Legislature in 2005 as she opposed the Marriage Amendment bill.  Mark Strama was not afraid when he attended the Gay Pride Festival in Austin that June and came to vote in the HRC straw poll about the amendment and speak with the community as we geared up to fight to defeat the marriage amendment.  

I have watched so many little things change over the years that in total are great BIG changes that I sometimes forget how far we have come or how much the people in the trenches do to make a difference.  I am one of those in the trenches.  I speak out, march, vote, protest, write letters, blog, podcast, design, rant and try and educate every chance I get.  Many candidates can tell you how blunt I am about asking question about GLBT issues and how fierce I can be in fighting for a candidate who supports our issues and how equally fierce I will fight to defeat anyone who is not willing to stand up for the community.  

Tonight I saw something which I would never have dreamed of when I was 15 years old and coming out in a small town in North Carolina.  I saw several of the Democratic Presidential Candidates take part in a forum on GLBT issues on a GLBT network and ask for the GLBT vote.  Many presidential candidates have asked for our votes in the past and many have attended Stonewall Democrat or Gay Pride events but to spend 15 minutes being asked questions by Gay and Lesbian about Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender issue?  No, that has never happened.  The pride I feel as a Gay Political Activist tonight is one I am sure many in the community feel.  For the first time, n ot only are we being courted by politicians but they have been recorded answering OUR question and talking about OUR concerns.  This was available to anyone who has LOGO in their area or has access to the internet.  

This happened because people have spoken out, marched, voted, protested, written letters, blogged, designed, ranted, raged and worked to educate the public, candidates and elected officials.  Every GLBT person who has done any of these things helped make tonight possible.  We have moved GLBT Rights one step closer to the day when Equal Rights For All People is a reality.  While the answers were not anything we have not heard before, the fact is they are now on record as being our allies not only in little sound bites but at a GLBT Forum.  Does this mean the struggle is over?  NO!  It does mean we have come a damn long way and everyone should be thrilled at how much we have accomplished and ready to continue the struggle to move towards day when the struggle is over and Equal Right For All really does exist.  

The work is far from over but tonight I am bursting with Pride for all of those who have struggled and fought so courageously for what is right and just.  I honor those who are the well known figures but I also honor those people like me who have been in the trenches their entire lives but keep fighting.  The fight is not about self glory but about self fulfillment and the satisfaction that comes with knowing you have done your best to make this a better world for everyone.  The warriors in this battle are to many to name but their efforts have done so much and will be appreciated forever.  One day when a young man or woman can turn to the person they love and ask them to marry them without fear of hatred, intolerance or prejudice no matter who their loved one is, then we will have done our duty not only to the GLBT Community but to the World.  Tonight is a night of Celebration.  Tomorrow the battle continues.

The Texas GOP is just as crazy as we have always known they were.

linkFormer state Rep. Talmadge Heflin, a Houston Republican who served two decades before losing a re-election bid three years ago, was hired Monday as executive director of the Texas GOP.

“Talmadge Heflin has over 25 years of conservative leadership and experience as both a leader in the Texas Legislature and a businessman,” Republican Party Chairman Tina Benkiser said.

Heflin succeeds Jeff Fisher, a former Van Zandt County judge who will continue as an adviser to the party, Benkiser said.

Heflin was a state lawmaker from 1983 to 2004, including a stint as the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.

In November 2004, he lost by 16 votes to political newcomer Hubert Vo, a Democrat who became the first Vietnamese to serve in the Texas House. An election recount showed Vo’s victory margin over Heflin was 33 votes and Heflin challenged the results before the House. While Heflin gained 17 votes in the investigation, he withdrew his challenge in February 2005 to avoid the possibility of a bitter partisan fight.

cross posted at Booman Tribune, refinish69,Daily Kos, Texas Kaos

He then lost once again to Rep. Vo in 2006 but not before applying for a job to head the Texas Lottery even though he had taken lots of money from gambling interest to help pay for his failed 2004 campaign.

linkThe possible future executive director of the scandal-plagued Texas Lottery Commission would come to the job with disturbing ties to the gambling industry. Lobbyist Ralph Reed targeted then-Rep. Talmadge Heflin in 2001, when Reed and now-indicted federal lobbyist Jack Abramoff were helping to orchestrate a crackdown on Texas Indian casinos on behalf of a competing tribe in Louisiana. Heflin also took $29,392 from donors with an interest in legalizing slot machines for his failed 2004 reelection campaign.

Correspondence recently released by the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs reveals that Reed wrote Abramoff in April 2001 that he was targeting Heflin in their efforts to defeat legislation that sought to legalize legally questionable Indian casinos in Texas (HB 514). Reed’s email informs Abramoff that he is “Visiting with the staff of Rep. Talmadge Heflin to see where Rep. Heflin is on the HB 514.” Reed also writes that he would, “See who out of Reps. Talton, Corte Heflin and Wohlgemuth is close to Rep Walker to see if they are willing to call Rep. Walker to get the bill held up in Calendars Committee.” While the House passed HB 514, it died in the Senate Business and Commerce Committee.

And less anyone forget, Rep. Talmadge Heflin hired an illegal immigrant to work for him in near slave conditions and then tried to steal her child from her.

It should have been an immigrant’s dream.

Mariam Katamba, born in Uganda, found herself taken under the wing of one of the most powerful men in Texas. True, her accommodations in state Representative Talmadge Heflin’s storage room were not air-conditioned and were sometimes wet underfoot from a leaky roof. But her infant son lived like a little king: The Heflins eventually installed his crib in their bedroom, where they said he would be more comfortable.

Katamba, who lacks a green card, was allegedly hired as a live-in worker in the home of the veteran Republican legislator to take care of Gram, his mother-in-law. Beginning in July 2003, she says, she was paid $100 a week in cash for feeding and cleaning up after the house-bound octogenarian. The under-the-table salary gave the single mother a chance to care for her baby, Fidel Odimara Jr., while she worked.

But Katamba, who is in her forties, eventually realized she was less popular with the Heflins than her son was. Gram didn’t like her because she was black.

Katamba found another off-the-books job paying $250 for an 85-hour week caring for patients in a home for the mentally disabled. She saw her son Wednesday and Friday mornings, and also planned to see him on weekends.

After her first week, however, she returned to the house to find the Heflins had taken Fidel Jr. to Austin. They did the same the next week. She told them to drop her son off at her job before they left, or allow his father, Fidel Odimara, to pick him up. But every weekend, she came home and her son was gone. “They would always have an excuse for why they took him,” she says.

The Heflins quickly became possessive of Fidel Jr. In addition to keeping him in their bedroom, they offered to buy him milk, arguing that the milk Katamba received through WIC wasn’t good enough, she says. And Hall attended many of Fidel’s hospital visits, telling the doctor the boy’s name was Jude.

On a Wednesday in mid-July, Katamba asked the Heflins to bring her son to her workplace. She says they arrived without him, and instead dropped off two documents for her to sign. They told her the documents were “not legal” and would simply allow them to make medical decisions for her son in the event of an emergency, she says.

The papers looked far from informal, however. One waived Katamba’s right to testify before a child custody court; the other appointed the Heflins “co-sole managing conservators” of her child. Katamba later showed them to her boss. “He told me, ‘This paper means they are taking away your son from you.’ “

The next day, Katamba told the Heflins she would not sign the papers. She finished work on Friday, emerged from her room Saturday and asked for her son so she could take him to Chuck E. Cheese’s. The Heflins told her they would have to go with Fidel Jr. on all outings. Katamba said, “I don’t think you can tell me what to do with my son.”

A confrontation ensued. Heflin’s wife, Janice, now demanded that Katamba sign the papers. When she refused, she says Janice Heflin told her, “Okay, let’s meet in court with your green card.”

“I told her, ‘I don’t have a green card,’ ” Katamba says, ” ‘but I have rights to my son.’ “

Katamba left and stayed with a Ugandan friend, Grace, whose last name she withholds. “I couldn’t even talk,” she recalls. “I was just crying. I cried, like, 30 minutes, and then I tried to explain to her” what had happened.

Luckily, with a good lawyer and a judge who saw through the political shenanigans Heflin and his wife were pulling Katamba was reunited with her child. 

This is the type of man Perry and the rest of the Texas GOP thinks is a good leader for their party.  The man has ties to Abermoff, hires illegal immigrants and tries to steal their children, and obviously has no moral fiber at all.  I think the Texas GOP is running scared and this is our year to put them in their place.

We have a great candidate running for US Senator from Texas, Rick Noriega, who is honest and believes in making things better for all Americans.  Dan Grant running for US Congress in  TX-10, Brad Vincent running in TX-11, Michael Englehart for District Court 151 in Houston and many others running for State Rep and judicial seats.  2006 is our year to bring honesty and leadership back to Texas!!!!  Let the GOP keep honoring their criminals and we will honor and elect Leaders!!!

Natomi Austin, Deputy Finance Director of the Texas Democratic Party singing the National Anthem at the YDA convention in Dallas.

MTV Logo and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation are about to make history.

On August 9, we’ll be co-hosting the first ever televised presidential forum dedicated solely to questions about GLBT issues – and I’m thrilled to announce that I will join singer Melissa Etheridge and esteemed journalist Jonathan Capehart as panelists!

I’ll be there representing you so I need your help.

I received this email and thought it needed to be shared.

cross posted at Booman Tribune, refinish69,Daily Kos, Texas Kaos, GLBT Democrats For Edwards

Click here to tell me what you want to hear by submitting your questions for the candidates!

This forum is really exciting for me because you and I will have the opportunity to ask the leading Democratic presidential candidates their stance on issues most important to our community.

Want to know what Senator Clinton really thinks of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell?” Want to hear Senator Obama’s thoughts on Hate Crimes legislation, or what Senator Edwards would do to address GLBT workplace discrimination? This is your chance.

We’ll have their undivided attention for two hours, so submit your questions today!

This historic two-hour forum, moderated by Margaret Carlson, will be broadcast live on the Logo network and online at the Logo website on Thursday, Aug. 9, starting at 9 p.m. EST.

Confirmed candidates now include:

    * Hillary Clinton,
    * Christopher Dodd,
    * John Edwards,
    * Mike Gravel,
    * Dennis Kucinich,
    * Barack Obama, and
    * Bill Richardson.

This is our best chance to hear where these candidates stand on GLBT issues.  The deadline for submissions is August 1st, so speak up today!

This forum is a testament to the hard work we’ve done together to keep GLBT issues at the forefront of American politics. Be sure to tune in on August 9. I look forward to your questions and to hearing the candidates’ responses.

To find out how to get Logo, click here or watch the forum live on Logo’s website.

Thank you for all you do.

Warmly,
Joe Solmonese

President

This is a historic event in GLBT History.  I do not think we will get any surprise answers but I am thrilled that for once they are not just asking for the GLBT Community’s money and vote and showing no respect at all.

10% Can Make or Break a Politician

I’m Lesbian and I Vote

I’m Gay and I Vote

Monday, July 16th, Rep. Rick Noriega held a press conference in front of the Alamo Memorial at the Texas State Capital.  He announced the formation of the Noriega U. S. Senate Exploratory Committee.  Rick began by talking about his drive into town and thinking of Lady Bird Johnson and all she had done for the beautification of America when she answered her call to service to America as First Lady.   Then Rep. Noriega spoke of his own call to service.

cross posted at Booman Tribune, refinish69,Daily Kos, Texas Kaos
“Growing up in Houston, my family taught me the importance of serving my community.  I’ve been privileged to serve this country as a soldier, my state as an elected representative, and Houston as a community leader focused on education.  The call to service has been a big part of my life, and I am taking the next step in answering that call.

“Standing in the shadows of this monument, I’m reminded of our state’s great tradition of service and our duty to speak out when things have gone off the rails.  Today, our nation is headed in the wrong direction, led by those whose choice is to divide American to maintain power.  They ignore the will of the people about the war in Iraq.  They ignore the needs of the people for health care, college education, and a better standard of living.  They ignore the lessons of history: that America’s strength lies in our unity and diversity.

John Cornyn represents the worst of these trends. And it is time for him to go.”

The words are powerful but you had to be there to hear Rep. Lt. Col. Rick Noriega speak in his calm baritone voice to hear the passion and intensity he feels as he speaks of helping lead Texas and America in a new direction.  Rick Noriega is a True Texas Hero and the Right Leader at the Right Time.  Texans need to unite together to make sure Rick receives the Democratic nomination in the primary this March and win the general election in November 2008.

Among the people attending the press conference were Rep. Noriega’s parents, Retired Major Marc Millis- who served with Rick in Afghanistan, Rep. Valinda Bolton, and many other prominent Democrats, Elected officials and staffs from Texas Senate or Legislative offices.  I wish I had gotten more names and pictures but was to caught up in listening to the next U.S. Senator from Texas speak.

Rep. Noriega’s Parents

Retired Major Marc Millis

Texas State Rep. Valinda Bolton

I was a Noriega supporter before attending the announcement but after hearing Rep. Noriega speak with such passion and fire about the changes needed and what he sees as the countries problems and how he wants to be a part of the solution, I more than a supporter.  I am now a believer and will do everything in my power to help get this great man elected to the U. S. Senate.  

Texas needs Rick’s voice in Washington.  He will speak for All Americans and not just be a mouth piece for party politics.  Rep. Noriega has the wisdom and conscience to look at all sides of an issue and make the right decision.  His hard work in the military as a Lieutenant Colonel and as a Texas State Representative have prepared him for the difficult job ahead.  America needs more leaders like Rick Noriega to step forward and answer the call to service.

Please join me and the net roots Noriega Team as we work to climb aboard the Noriega Express.  The time has come for Texas to have a True leader in the Senate.  Rick Noriega is that Texas hero and we need him and he needs us.  Be one fo the First 800 People to Join Team Noriega and climb aboard the Noriega Express.  It is up to us to help Rick Take Texas and America in a new direction.  Click on the Clipboard to make a donation.

Noriega Express

This picture I will let the readers label. LOL

Texas Needs a true leader as our next Senator in Washington.  Rep. Lt. Col. Rick Noriega’s work in the Texas Legislature has been a proving ground which has prepared him for the difficult job ahead.  Texas needs a Leader not a follower.
I am proud to be a member of Team Noriega and I hope you will join me in supporting Rick Noriega for U. S. Senate.  Rick’s speech on the 4th of July says quite a bit about his thinking and the great qualities that make him the perfect choice as Texas’ next Senator.

   On July 4th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed by delegates to the Second Continental Congress. The Declaration states that all people are creatures equal under God, with rights and liberties that cannot be violated. This signing was an act of treason under British law, carrying the threat of execution and utter ruin for entire families. We recognize this day as a celebration of patriotism and of the courage it takes to stand up to the sitting government when it is wrong.

    This day I share with you my intent. My intent that, in the days to come, our family forms an exploratory committee and joins with me in my choice to run for the United States Senate. Why?

    Why, on the first Independence Day I have spent at home in four years, would I risk a safe legislative seat, take a leave of absence from my job, sell property to lend money to a campaign. Why would I ask my family to allow me to be gone again?

    Why? Because as Americans, it is our duty to stand up and speak when things have gone off the rails. It is in our very fabric, our soul; it is God’s requirement of us as heirs to the legacy of this country, to exercise the right to speak out as our forefathers taught us.

    Our nation is headed in the wrong direction. It is lead by those whose choice is to divide Americans to maintain power. It is the vision of the powerful that are either unwilling or unable to unite people, to foster common ground for the common good.

    We as a nation have been the envy of the world when we have maintained our moral compass. I believe we have begun to let that slip away.

    Our mismanagement of the war on terror, the acrimony of the national debate on immigration issues, the squandering of the environment, the inability to provide reasonable health care, the decay of our respect for human rights, the refusal to improve education, the willingness to sacrifice the many for the few….we are losing our global moral leadership.

    This day reminds us of our legacy as Americans to stand up when things have gone wrong. This call to duty runs in our veins lives in our very bones, as both Texans and Americans. The thing that has always pushed my button is bullies. I have always been compelled to step in when wrongs are being perpetrated, when a group is headed in the wrong direction.

    The draft effort asking me to run for the United States Senate has been an astounding honor. I and my entire family are humbled by it. We have prayed about this call. We have asked God every day that if we undertake this immense and necessary task, that it is for the right reasons. That I meet this challenge for God, for Texas and for the country we share and love, not for myself.

    This is a daunting endeavor in a multitude of ways. When someone exhibits leadership, they invite attention. No one is perfect, certainly not any of us. We are a regular family that has grown into leadership and responsibility through a commitment to public service. I see it like being a soldier. My wife sees it as a calling, like the ministry.

    We are a regular family. We aren’t perfect and we don’t want to hold ourselves up as perfect. It remains to be seen if a regular family can offer themselves up for service to their country without being overwhelmed by money or criticism.

    In Texas, we tell our children that if they work hard and play by the rules, they can do anything. We are about to find out if that is true. We are regular Texans like you, answering a call to service, and hopefully, we have prepared as a family for the inevitable onslaught. As Americans the greater good is more important.

    Today is the right time for all of us to stand up and say that there has got to be a better way. When our forefathers created this country, they risked their lives, their families, their property and their futures. This is going to take all of us, all of you–our time, our treasure, our patience, our faith. I am answering your call, and that of my Maker, and I am asking you to come with me.

    As we jump in, it is because we know that we have the support and prayers of all of you. God bless each of you this July 4th, bless the United States of America, and God bless Texas.

The Netroots Noriega Team has a goal of 800 donors to herald the formation of the Noriega Exploratory Committee.  Any donation amount is appreciated.  This will be a costly campaign but every dime counts.  Please click on the following image to be one of the first 800 Netroots supporters.

Join Team Noriega and help send the Right Leader at the Right Time to Washington.

Team Noriega

Visit Rick Noriega for more information about the campaign or to sign up as a volunteer.

Former first lady Lady Bird Johnson dies at 94

Lady Bird Johnson, a former first lady, a Texas legend, a woman who used the humble wildflower to teach an entire nation to treasure and preserve the environment, died Wednesday. She was 94.
In recent years, the widow of Lyndon Baines Johnson was virtually silenced by a stroke. She was nearly blinded by macular degeneration. Still, she lived her life with enthusiasm, dividing her time between the family ranch in Stonewall and an Austin home near the presidential library dedicated to her late husband. She thrived on visits with friends and family and inhaled mystery books on tape.

Texas and America have lost another Great Lady!!!   Enjoy Your Wild Flowers and Your Rest you have earned them and taught us all by your presence and grace.  You will be missed but your memory will live on when any of us see a wild flower bloom.