And they spend less too.
I'm not surprised, given how corrupt the US healthcare system is (and how I am unable to get insured at all).
MSN Health
31 May 2006
A history of civilian massacres
Currently, the US Marines are in hot water over a massacre of a few dozen unarmed civilians in al-Haditha, Iraq, in retaliation for the killing of a Marine by the terrorists there. While this is a disgusting development, well covered in the blogosphere, this is far from the first time American forces, "in the name of defending freedom," were ordered to kill unarmed civilians. The My Lai massacre in Vietnam was a larger-scale example of such atrocity.
Another example was the No Gun Ri massacre in Korea. It was covered up by the US government and the South Korean fascists until 1999, when a new, leftist South Korean regime declassified it, and a subsequent Pentagon study concluded that it was a "horrible accident." But new reports say that it was a policy from the highest ranks of the US military to indeed shoot refugees, for fear of a few North Korean infiltrators. It was no accident. Hundreds, maybe thousands, died in cold blood.
This completely debunks the Korean-Americans' (and South Korean right-wingers') claim that the US went to war in Korea as South Korea's benevolent ally, determined to save their country from the commie menace at all costs (and therefore South Korea forever owes its very existence to the US). The US had only one objective, honestly; to maintain South Korea as a buffer zone for Japan, and nothing more. But just as the former South Vietnamese government officials, now exiled in Orange County, continue to cover up or minimize such atrocities as My Lai, the Korean-Americans and Korean right-wingers will continue to minimize the significance of No Gun Ri and other Korean War massacres.
Thanks to two of my favorite blogs, Angry Asian Man and Philobiblon, for alerting me to this report. Philobiblon does remind that the American record is nowhere as horrible as its enemies', but nevertheless, it is the worst among the democratic nations, and is hardly anything to be proud of.
Yahoo! news
Another example was the No Gun Ri massacre in Korea. It was covered up by the US government and the South Korean fascists until 1999, when a new, leftist South Korean regime declassified it, and a subsequent Pentagon study concluded that it was a "horrible accident." But new reports say that it was a policy from the highest ranks of the US military to indeed shoot refugees, for fear of a few North Korean infiltrators. It was no accident. Hundreds, maybe thousands, died in cold blood.
This completely debunks the Korean-Americans' (and South Korean right-wingers') claim that the US went to war in Korea as South Korea's benevolent ally, determined to save their country from the commie menace at all costs (and therefore South Korea forever owes its very existence to the US). The US had only one objective, honestly; to maintain South Korea as a buffer zone for Japan, and nothing more. But just as the former South Vietnamese government officials, now exiled in Orange County, continue to cover up or minimize such atrocities as My Lai, the Korean-Americans and Korean right-wingers will continue to minimize the significance of No Gun Ri and other Korean War massacres.
Thanks to two of my favorite blogs, Angry Asian Man and Philobiblon, for alerting me to this report. Philobiblon does remind that the American record is nowhere as horrible as its enemies', but nevertheless, it is the worst among the democratic nations, and is hardly anything to be proud of.
Yahoo! news
30 May 2006
The Christian foot soldier
The setting is modern-day New York.
You are a foot soldier prepared to give your life for God.
Your objective: convert or kill as many non-Christians (including Catholics), feminists, gays, and secular humanists as possible, or die trying.
This is a sick idea for a video game, prepared by Reverend Rick Warren, that will be sold this holiday season at suburban megachurches. It will be marketed heavily to Christian teens (or rather, their parents), so that they can be brainwashed into fighting what would be the Christian equivalent of the Muslim jihad.
Daily Kos reports that you may either play as a modern-day Crusader, or you may play as a member of the Global Peacekeeping Force of the United Nations, reporting to the Antichrist and mowing down all Christians in sight.
This is absolutely disgusting. For this kind of filth to be even allowed shows just how uncivilized portions of the American society are, and how much of a death cult the Christian belief system has become. This is, in other words, WAR.
Daily Kos
You are a foot soldier prepared to give your life for God.
Your objective: convert or kill as many non-Christians (including Catholics), feminists, gays, and secular humanists as possible, or die trying.
This is a sick idea for a video game, prepared by Reverend Rick Warren, that will be sold this holiday season at suburban megachurches. It will be marketed heavily to Christian teens (or rather, their parents), so that they can be brainwashed into fighting what would be the Christian equivalent of the Muslim jihad.
Daily Kos reports that you may either play as a modern-day Crusader, or you may play as a member of the Global Peacekeeping Force of the United Nations, reporting to the Antichrist and mowing down all Christians in sight.
This is absolutely disgusting. For this kind of filth to be even allowed shows just how uncivilized portions of the American society are, and how much of a death cult the Christian belief system has become. This is, in other words, WAR.
Daily Kos
29 May 2006
Back home
I have wrapped up my Bay Area stay and returned home.
As today was spent visiting the settings for my novel, all pictures have been uploaded to my novel blog.
I'm too tired to write much else, except that this trip was very enjoyable. The high point, of course, was meeting Fe in Berkeley and plotting political strategies as well as discussing my future. Discovering a new look for myself was also another good thing coming out of the trip.
I hope to face the new week, rejuvenated, and get another jolt of fresh air when I visit Las Vegas in 3 weeks.
As today was spent visiting the settings for my novel, all pictures have been uploaded to my novel blog.
I'm too tired to write much else, except that this trip was very enjoyable. The high point, of course, was meeting Fe in Berkeley and plotting political strategies as well as discussing my future. Discovering a new look for myself was also another good thing coming out of the trip.
I hope to face the new week, rejuvenated, and get another jolt of fresh air when I visit Las Vegas in 3 weeks.
28 May 2006
In the Bay Area
I spent the past two days doing some crazy exploration of the area, partly to support my novel, and partly for my own good.
I started off by meeting with a member of Democracy Cell Project, Fe Bongolan, for lunch. As a small business consultant, she had one advice for me: relocate, or expand, into the Bay Area. Especially given my current personal and professional life situation, expanding into the Bay Area over the next few years would make a lot of sense. It would also wash away the bittersweet feelings I had from the dot-com bust of 2000. On a more personal level, she was surprised to find that I was trangender (I had assumed that everyone at DCP knew). We also did some plotting for the future of the country.
Fe also led me to go to San Francisco's annual Carnaval and its grand parade today. I had a good time, soaking in the cultures of various Latin American nationalities represented in the Mission District, and even getting a glimpse of Congresswoman Barbara Lee, whose principled lone opposition to the Afghan war was at first considered treasonous but now seen as patriotic.
Aside from these two biggies, I also visited San Francisco's Union Street (where I bought a bubble bath at Lush), Haight-Ashbury, and Castro yesterday, and spent today at Santa Rosa's Charles Schulz Museum as well as my former home in Concord. It was so nice to drive the familiar streets of Contra Costa County once again - but this time, in a BMW.
Here are the pictures that show my whereabouts.
UC Berkeley's infamous "naked guy" from the 1990s recently died in jail. This flyer near the campus advertises a memorial for him, taking place in a few hours.
The corner of Haight and Ashbury, San Francisco's most famous intersection, and the center of the counterculture movement. Today though, there is a Gap store right under these signs. But the nonconformist spirit lives on; I could see it in supermarket cashiers with multiple body piercings (try finding that on a Safeway cashier!).
This pair of mannequins, apparently in a lesbian intercourse, grace the entrance to a vintage clothing store in Haight-Ashbury.
The AIDS epidemic in the gay men's community was first reported in June 1981. This memorial in the Castro district, San Francisco's "the" gay neighborhood, marks the 25th anniversary of a disease that has hit that community, and many others, very hard. Of course, having Pat Buchanan say AIDS was "God's retribution for homosexuality," and having Ronald Reagan cut AIDS research funding based on that, did not help.
One of the many dance troupes from all over Latin America (and a few places elsewhere) participating today in the Carnaval, taking place late this morning in the Mission District.
Here's Congresswoman Barbara Lee (at the top) at the Carnaval.
A model of Snoopy, Woodstock, and Snoopy's home at the Charles Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa. In the guestbook, I wrote down my memories of my very first stuffed animal - a Snoopy given by my kindergarten.
I lived in this Concord apartment from 1999 to early 2001. The feeling of hitting its entranceway, but this time in something other than my junk Ford that used to be garaged here, was very refreshing.
Tomorrow, before going home, I expect to hit Redwood City and Pacifica for novel-related sights. Hope this goes well. Most importantly, being away from the madness back in Southern California, and my family, has been very good to my spirits. (And so is being able to prance around the Bay Area in a minidress and trendy footless tights.)
I started off by meeting with a member of Democracy Cell Project, Fe Bongolan, for lunch. As a small business consultant, she had one advice for me: relocate, or expand, into the Bay Area. Especially given my current personal and professional life situation, expanding into the Bay Area over the next few years would make a lot of sense. It would also wash away the bittersweet feelings I had from the dot-com bust of 2000. On a more personal level, she was surprised to find that I was trangender (I had assumed that everyone at DCP knew). We also did some plotting for the future of the country.
Fe also led me to go to San Francisco's annual Carnaval and its grand parade today. I had a good time, soaking in the cultures of various Latin American nationalities represented in the Mission District, and even getting a glimpse of Congresswoman Barbara Lee, whose principled lone opposition to the Afghan war was at first considered treasonous but now seen as patriotic.
Aside from these two biggies, I also visited San Francisco's Union Street (where I bought a bubble bath at Lush), Haight-Ashbury, and Castro yesterday, and spent today at Santa Rosa's Charles Schulz Museum as well as my former home in Concord. It was so nice to drive the familiar streets of Contra Costa County once again - but this time, in a BMW.
Here are the pictures that show my whereabouts.
UC Berkeley's infamous "naked guy" from the 1990s recently died in jail. This flyer near the campus advertises a memorial for him, taking place in a few hours.
The corner of Haight and Ashbury, San Francisco's most famous intersection, and the center of the counterculture movement. Today though, there is a Gap store right under these signs. But the nonconformist spirit lives on; I could see it in supermarket cashiers with multiple body piercings (try finding that on a Safeway cashier!).
This pair of mannequins, apparently in a lesbian intercourse, grace the entrance to a vintage clothing store in Haight-Ashbury.
The AIDS epidemic in the gay men's community was first reported in June 1981. This memorial in the Castro district, San Francisco's "the" gay neighborhood, marks the 25th anniversary of a disease that has hit that community, and many others, very hard. Of course, having Pat Buchanan say AIDS was "God's retribution for homosexuality," and having Ronald Reagan cut AIDS research funding based on that, did not help.
One of the many dance troupes from all over Latin America (and a few places elsewhere) participating today in the Carnaval, taking place late this morning in the Mission District.
Here's Congresswoman Barbara Lee (at the top) at the Carnaval.
A model of Snoopy, Woodstock, and Snoopy's home at the Charles Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa. In the guestbook, I wrote down my memories of my very first stuffed animal - a Snoopy given by my kindergarten.
I lived in this Concord apartment from 1999 to early 2001. The feeling of hitting its entranceway, but this time in something other than my junk Ford that used to be garaged here, was very refreshing.
Tomorrow, before going home, I expect to hit Redwood City and Pacifica for novel-related sights. Hope this goes well. Most importantly, being away from the madness back in Southern California, and my family, has been very good to my spirits. (And so is being able to prance around the Bay Area in a minidress and trendy footless tights.)
27 May 2006
Asian-American collegiate conversion to Christianity
I'm sleepless in San Francisco right now.
I've spent the past hour or so doing a scan of my favorite blogs, and Angry Asian Man - a very good blog I've relied on for months now - has another article worth reading.
It explains the explosion of evangelical Christianity among Asian-American college students, and how their Confucian subservient culture translates right into Christian service (and by extension, reactionary political positions). The Confucian culture does get in the way though, when the students want to devote themselves fulltime to the ministry and the parents won't let them.
I've seen this happen during my college years. The Koreans were the first to go (Korean Christians have always painted themselves as fighters against the Japanese colonial rule of 1910-1945, when in fact they were/still are simply looking for a more Christian colonial ruler, such as a Republican United States), and they dragged the Chinese with them. Korean popular culture has often been used as a tool to make headways into Chinese and other non-Korean ethnicities, and soften their resistance to Christian conversion; as a result, I take a very dim view of the current proliferation of Korean pop culture among various Asian communities.
A fallout from this is that while most immigrants start out liberal and turn conservative with passing generations, and some (like the Cubans and the Vietnamese) start out conservative and turn liberal, the Koreans start out conservative and turn MORE conservative.
This will be the first and last time I'll quote a reactionary Christian publication on this blog, I think.
Christianity Today
I've spent the past hour or so doing a scan of my favorite blogs, and Angry Asian Man - a very good blog I've relied on for months now - has another article worth reading.
It explains the explosion of evangelical Christianity among Asian-American college students, and how their Confucian subservient culture translates right into Christian service (and by extension, reactionary political positions). The Confucian culture does get in the way though, when the students want to devote themselves fulltime to the ministry and the parents won't let them.
I've seen this happen during my college years. The Koreans were the first to go (Korean Christians have always painted themselves as fighters against the Japanese colonial rule of 1910-1945, when in fact they were/still are simply looking for a more Christian colonial ruler, such as a Republican United States), and they dragged the Chinese with them. Korean popular culture has often been used as a tool to make headways into Chinese and other non-Korean ethnicities, and soften their resistance to Christian conversion; as a result, I take a very dim view of the current proliferation of Korean pop culture among various Asian communities.
A fallout from this is that while most immigrants start out liberal and turn conservative with passing generations, and some (like the Cubans and the Vietnamese) start out conservative and turn liberal, the Koreans start out conservative and turn MORE conservative.
This will be the first and last time I'll quote a reactionary Christian publication on this blog, I think.
Christianity Today
26 May 2006
Swallowing my pride
I previously posted that I would rather drive through the crazy mess of traffic in San Francisco and Berkeley, than to ride BART, the next time I visit the Bay Area, over BART's display of anti-choice ads.
Well, it looks like I'll have to swallow my pride and ride BART. I have just arrived in South San Francisco, and will be heading for Berkeley and Oakland (not to mention the City) tomorrow. The change of mind comes from the obscene gas prices ($3.25 per gallon regular, $3.45 per gallon premium for my BMW, these are Costco prices, retail is higher), and the even more obscene profits the likes of Exxon-Mobil are making.
In Berkeley, I am scheduled to meet with an acquaintance from the Democracy Cell Project. I hope this will be a productive meeting, as productive as my DC trip last September. I'll make sure to wear the "infamous" pink outfit that I wore in DC (and like to wear to Code Pink meetings). And more importantly, I hope to come away with some fresh ideas that will be of use in my more conservative section of California.
The rest of the Memorial Day weekend will be spent all over the Bay Area, primarily as I explore the sights and sounds of the settings that are featured in my novel. I'll have photos up in my novel blog.
Well, it looks like I'll have to swallow my pride and ride BART. I have just arrived in South San Francisco, and will be heading for Berkeley and Oakland (not to mention the City) tomorrow. The change of mind comes from the obscene gas prices ($3.25 per gallon regular, $3.45 per gallon premium for my BMW, these are Costco prices, retail is higher), and the even more obscene profits the likes of Exxon-Mobil are making.
In Berkeley, I am scheduled to meet with an acquaintance from the Democracy Cell Project. I hope this will be a productive meeting, as productive as my DC trip last September. I'll make sure to wear the "infamous" pink outfit that I wore in DC (and like to wear to Code Pink meetings). And more importantly, I hope to come away with some fresh ideas that will be of use in my more conservative section of California.
The rest of the Memorial Day weekend will be spent all over the Bay Area, primarily as I explore the sights and sounds of the settings that are featured in my novel. I'll have photos up in my novel blog.
24 May 2006
Minimum Wage and Living Wage
Just found this article on MSN MoneyCentral, where it discusses the stagnant $5.15/hr federal minimum wage (unchanged since the Clinton era), and the state and local jurisdictions' rebellion against it by implementing their own minimum and/or living wage ordinances.
It also debunks the business community's argument that raising the minimum wage decreases working class jobs, by showing statistics that prove otherwise. As a business manager myself, I know that good employees deserve good wages, which are well above both the federal minimum wage and the California minimum wage ($6.75/hr); in fact, I often pay the prevailing Davis-Bacon wage for construction workers, which are theoretically based on the pay level for Americans and legal immigrants in a collective labor agreement, and are often over $20/hr (including fringe benefits paid in cash) for a basic laborer. (When working with government funds, these pay levels become mandatory.) Paying these good wages when others pay "illegal immigrant" slave wages has helped out with the retention of valuable employees.
MSN MoneyCentral
It also debunks the business community's argument that raising the minimum wage decreases working class jobs, by showing statistics that prove otherwise. As a business manager myself, I know that good employees deserve good wages, which are well above both the federal minimum wage and the California minimum wage ($6.75/hr); in fact, I often pay the prevailing Davis-Bacon wage for construction workers, which are theoretically based on the pay level for Americans and legal immigrants in a collective labor agreement, and are often over $20/hr (including fringe benefits paid in cash) for a basic laborer. (When working with government funds, these pay levels become mandatory.) Paying these good wages when others pay "illegal immigrant" slave wages has helped out with the retention of valuable employees.
MSN MoneyCentral
"Male" student banned from prom...
... for wearing a dress.
Another of those pretty common "gay boy wants to go to prom in a dress" stories.
Based on the article's descriptions, the student had pretty much transitioned into a female identity for this academic year, so it is pretty much wrong to force "him" out of the prom when "he" had already been allowed to wear girls' jeans to classes. (In my neocon Asian suburb, doing anything along these lines would've been unthinkable.)
I'm definitely keeping an eye on this one's development.
MSNBC
Another of those pretty common "gay boy wants to go to prom in a dress" stories.
Based on the article's descriptions, the student had pretty much transitioned into a female identity for this academic year, so it is pretty much wrong to force "him" out of the prom when "he" had already been allowed to wear girls' jeans to classes. (In my neocon Asian suburb, doing anything along these lines would've been unthinkable.)
I'm definitely keeping an eye on this one's development.
MSNBC
23 May 2006
Fashion Corner
For the first time, I have a Los Angeles picture. From The Break-Up premiere yesterday in West Los Angeles, here is another of my idols, Jennifer Aniston.
Photo courtesy of WireImage.com
I'll let her impeccable fashion sense do the talking here. Jennifer is the ultimate example of how to turn an ugly duckling into a graceful swan.
Previous Fashion Corner
Photo courtesy of WireImage.comI'll let her impeccable fashion sense do the talking here. Jennifer is the ultimate example of how to turn an ugly duckling into a graceful swan.
Previous Fashion Corner
20 May 2006
World on Fire
It's a Sarah McLachlan song, and the link below will take you to the video.
World on Fire
Sarah spent $150,000 to make the video. Normally, the cost would've been spent on production personnel, equipment, and sets. But the actual video cost only $15, and the rest of the money was donated to various causes to help the world's most needy. Most of the video, in fact, is a slide show detailing how much work just a few hundred dollars here and there could do.
I'm reminded that greed is what seems to be killing people around the world - and within the US. For example, other countries lack universal healthcare because they can't quite afford it. The US lacks it because its neocon ideology won't allow a vital government program (while funding another governmet program, the war machine).
Thanks to a classmate in my novel class for sharing this link.
World on Fire
Sarah spent $150,000 to make the video. Normally, the cost would've been spent on production personnel, equipment, and sets. But the actual video cost only $15, and the rest of the money was donated to various causes to help the world's most needy. Most of the video, in fact, is a slide show detailing how much work just a few hundred dollars here and there could do.
I'm reminded that greed is what seems to be killing people around the world - and within the US. For example, other countries lack universal healthcare because they can't quite afford it. The US lacks it because its neocon ideology won't allow a vital government program (while funding another governmet program, the war machine).
Thanks to a classmate in my novel class for sharing this link.
18 May 2006
Mann Coulter: Real Men fight liberalism to death
Just came across another interesting article, one that definitely addresses Coulter's own gender confusion as he calls for real American men to stand up and fight against anything that's not neocon.
Definitely worth reading, both for the points about neocons that it makes, and for acknowledging Coulter's own gender problems.
The article also states that Coulter is a "fag hag" - a "woman" with many gay male friends. Given Coulter's politics, I presume all of them are Log Cabiners. And I'll repeat: Log Cabiners are the most despicable scums of the American politics, down there with the Cuban lobby in Florida.
OpEdNews
Definitely worth reading, both for the points about neocons that it makes, and for acknowledging Coulter's own gender problems.
The article also states that Coulter is a "fag hag" - a "woman" with many gay male friends. Given Coulter's politics, I presume all of them are Log Cabiners. And I'll repeat: Log Cabiners are the most despicable scums of the American politics, down there with the Cuban lobby in Florida.
OpEdNews
17 May 2006
Fashion Corner
Even though it's been just one day since my last Fashion Corner, I just had to add this one.
Here is my current idol Calista Flockhart, attending an event yesterday at New York's Lincoln Center (that's 5 for 5 for the Big Apple!), to mark the beginning of her new TV drama, Brothers and Sisters, where she'll be one of the four adult siblings featured. She'll play a Republican talk show host. (Maybe I should change my nickname from Ally McLesbian to Ally McRepuke.)
Calista's fashion strengths shine here, from her always-impeccable hair to the small yet noticeable purse, to of course the suit. Although Calista is best known for the sexy, skimpy miniskirt suits she wore on Ally McBeal, she's been seen in this black pantsuit more and more lately. I love the satin collar, as well as the cut that is menswear-inspired yet very feminine. The partially unbuttoned black blouse is a great touch, and the pointed heels round out the look.
From the neck up, understated earrings add a touch of class, without detracting from the rest of the setup. Calista looks much younger than her 41 years as well, thanks to minimal makeup - and did I just say great hair?
Calista could wear a rag and still be a fashion icon. And she easily lives up to that reputation in this photo. The pantsuit will definitely cause closet envy among many women, like the Ally miniskirt suits did in the late 1990s.
Previous Fashion Corner
Here is my current idol Calista Flockhart, attending an event yesterday at New York's Lincoln Center (that's 5 for 5 for the Big Apple!), to mark the beginning of her new TV drama, Brothers and Sisters, where she'll be one of the four adult siblings featured. She'll play a Republican talk show host. (Maybe I should change my nickname from Ally McLesbian to Ally McRepuke.)
Calista's fashion strengths shine here, from her always-impeccable hair to the small yet noticeable purse, to of course the suit. Although Calista is best known for the sexy, skimpy miniskirt suits she wore on Ally McBeal, she's been seen in this black pantsuit more and more lately. I love the satin collar, as well as the cut that is menswear-inspired yet very feminine. The partially unbuttoned black blouse is a great touch, and the pointed heels round out the look.
From the neck up, understated earrings add a touch of class, without detracting from the rest of the setup. Calista looks much younger than her 41 years as well, thanks to minimal makeup - and did I just say great hair?
Calista could wear a rag and still be a fashion icon. And she easily lives up to that reputation in this photo. The pantsuit will definitely cause closet envy among many women, like the Ally miniskirt suits did in the late 1990s.
Previous Fashion Corner
Model minority myth
I made my usual quick tour through my favorite blogs, and Angry Asian Man had a New York Times editorial, written by Nicholas Kristof, that attempts to explain why Asian-Americans excel in academics. Kristof was basically trying to nail it down to the Confucian morals of the East Asian nations, and its reverence for educational achievement and filial piety.
It's yet another "model minority" myth. The real reason Asian-Americans excel in academics, as pointed out in a reply in the Angry Asian Man blog itself, is that there is too much racism out there against Asian-Americans, and that Asian-Americans see educational excellence as simply a way out of the discrimination. There is a reason why the elite students in high school and college are overwhelmingly Asian, yet the upper rungs of the corporate ladder are overwhelmingly white, even today.
I name another reason. It's that Asian (and Asian-American) academic excellence is the product of zealous parents who see their children as a "product" to show off. In the more individualistic white American circles, education is more likely to follow the wishes of the child him/herself, and if he/she decides that fine arts are more suitable than engineering or economics, then so be it. This self-motivation, as opposed to parental motivation, is what keeps them going through college - at the same time the Asians collapse under the academic, parental, and social pressure.
In any case, Angry Asian Man says, and I concur: don't believe the model minority myth.
It's yet another "model minority" myth. The real reason Asian-Americans excel in academics, as pointed out in a reply in the Angry Asian Man blog itself, is that there is too much racism out there against Asian-Americans, and that Asian-Americans see educational excellence as simply a way out of the discrimination. There is a reason why the elite students in high school and college are overwhelmingly Asian, yet the upper rungs of the corporate ladder are overwhelmingly white, even today.
I name another reason. It's that Asian (and Asian-American) academic excellence is the product of zealous parents who see their children as a "product" to show off. In the more individualistic white American circles, education is more likely to follow the wishes of the child him/herself, and if he/she decides that fine arts are more suitable than engineering or economics, then so be it. This self-motivation, as opposed to parental motivation, is what keeps them going through college - at the same time the Asians collapse under the academic, parental, and social pressure.
In any case, Angry Asian Man says, and I concur: don't believe the model minority myth.
Iraqi moral police kills gays on sight
I keep getting disturbing news out of Iraq, where the fundamentalists have infiltrated the new police force and are carrying out Shari'a laws.
Here's an article, which was also posted on the ReBelle Nation blog:
UrukNet
And here is my comment left at that blog. I stand by it; I don't believe in political correctness when a death cult is killing innocent people.
At the risk of sounding like a neocon, I'll make this clear: Islam itself is as evil as religion gets.
From the harsh Shari'a laws, to the honor killings, to being in heaven with 72 maidens (what a sick fantasy, btw) for martyrs, I've never come across a sicker belief system than this. Seriously, name ONE Islamic country that even tolerates (not accepts, but merely tolerates) gays or feminism. There is NONE. Not even "secular" Turkey, which btw should NEVER be allowed to join the European Union.
And remember that it's the Muslims who are testing the tolerance of Europe's live-and-let-live societies, by introducing their sick and deadly brand of intolerance, from homophobia to honor killings.
And this is where I break with the neocons: feeding the bastards like the Saudis, through our oil hunger, is what made Islam such a powerful force - and a sickening, deadly one at that. And as we all know, W is a Saudi puppet.
The sad thing is, fundamentalist American Christianity is not all that far behind Islam in its sickness and death.
Here's an article, which was also posted on the ReBelle Nation blog:
UrukNet
And here is my comment left at that blog. I stand by it; I don't believe in political correctness when a death cult is killing innocent people.
At the risk of sounding like a neocon, I'll make this clear: Islam itself is as evil as religion gets.
From the harsh Shari'a laws, to the honor killings, to being in heaven with 72 maidens (what a sick fantasy, btw) for martyrs, I've never come across a sicker belief system than this. Seriously, name ONE Islamic country that even tolerates (not accepts, but merely tolerates) gays or feminism. There is NONE. Not even "secular" Turkey, which btw should NEVER be allowed to join the European Union.
And remember that it's the Muslims who are testing the tolerance of Europe's live-and-let-live societies, by introducing their sick and deadly brand of intolerance, from homophobia to honor killings.
And this is where I break with the neocons: feeding the bastards like the Saudis, through our oil hunger, is what made Islam such a powerful force - and a sickening, deadly one at that. And as we all know, W is a Saudi puppet.
The sad thing is, fundamentalist American Christianity is not all that far behind Islam in its sickness and death.
16 May 2006
Fashion Corner
I just obtained a free account at WireImage.com, which allows me to use their photos from the last 30 days, in medium size, and with their watermark on it. Not too great, but this is the best free route to go with celebrity pictures. (Besides, if I get the larger, watermark-free paid pictures, most likely I won't be able to use them on this blog anyway.)
And here's the first picture I am using from them.
Photo courtesy of WireImage.com
It's Debra Messing, arriving today at the Ed Sullivan Theatre in New York, for tonight's Late Show with David Letterman. (To think about it, all four of my Fashion Corners so far are set in NYC.)
And this is the first one where I actually like the outfit, and would like to be seen in something similar myself. Debra looks stunning, from the long brown hair to the white coat to the polka dot dress to the scarf. Even her heels add to, not detract from, her whole setup.
Even the assistant to Debra's right is dressed well, in a corporate-looking black pantsuit.
All in all, a nice way to end the successful run of Will and Grace.
I'll be scouring WireImage for more fashion dos and don'ts.
Previous Fashion Corner
And here's the first picture I am using from them.
Photo courtesy of WireImage.comIt's Debra Messing, arriving today at the Ed Sullivan Theatre in New York, for tonight's Late Show with David Letterman. (To think about it, all four of my Fashion Corners so far are set in NYC.)
And this is the first one where I actually like the outfit, and would like to be seen in something similar myself. Debra looks stunning, from the long brown hair to the white coat to the polka dot dress to the scarf. Even her heels add to, not detract from, her whole setup.
Even the assistant to Debra's right is dressed well, in a corporate-looking black pantsuit.
All in all, a nice way to end the successful run of Will and Grace.
I'll be scouring WireImage for more fashion dos and don'ts.
Previous Fashion Corner
15 May 2006
Nicaragua - and International Day Against Homophobia
Two action items, both from Amnesty International:
Nicaragua is sanctioning homophobia at the highest levels of government, and Amnesty International is trying to get that country's sodomy law overturned. Given Nicaragua's track record and religious orthodoxy, I am not surprised at all (the same holds for the rest of Central America).
Amnesty International
And the 17th will be the International Day Against Homophobia 2006, IDAHO for short. Interestingly, the acronym spells out one of the most homophobic states in the US. There will be activities around the world, targeted against homophobic cities and nations, especially in the Slavic and Muslim worlds.
International Day Against Homophobia
Nicaragua is sanctioning homophobia at the highest levels of government, and Amnesty International is trying to get that country's sodomy law overturned. Given Nicaragua's track record and religious orthodoxy, I am not surprised at all (the same holds for the rest of Central America).
Amnesty International
And the 17th will be the International Day Against Homophobia 2006, IDAHO for short. Interestingly, the acronym spells out one of the most homophobic states in the US. There will be activities around the world, targeted against homophobic cities and nations, especially in the Slavic and Muslim worlds.
International Day Against Homophobia
14 May 2006
Replacing my cell phone
I just placed an order for a new cell phone to replace my destroyed Samsung.
It will be a Motorola. (Though it won't be a RAZR.)
I'm glad that I won't be dependent on a company that competes with Toyota for the title of the worst Asia-based labor rights abuser.
It will be a Motorola. (Though it won't be a RAZR.)
I'm glad that I won't be dependent on a company that competes with Toyota for the title of the worst Asia-based labor rights abuser.
Forced suicides in Turkey
In a previous post, I talked about Turkish honor killings being a major social problem in Germany.
While visiting Philobiblon, a feminist blog, I found this article from the Times of London. It digs deeper into the Turkish society, and its high suicide rate among women. Turns out that these "suicides" are not really suicides, but a form of honor killing that lets the killer (usually the father, the husband, or some other male relative) off the hook. The woman, often falsely accused of adultery or naughty behavior, is simply locked in with nothing but a suicide weapon, and is left with nothing to do - but to kill herself.
Turkey is trying to join the EU, and its human rights abuses are coming into focus. Ironically, this form of honor killings is picking up steam, because it is technically suicide, and reflects less badly on Turkey's record.
Honor killings are fair game in not only Turkey, but in most Muslim countries. Even outside the Muslim world, they are fair game in some countries of the Far East and Latin America. This appalling practice must be stopped, and countries where honor killings are practiced must be ostracized and boycotted by the feminist community.
The Times
While visiting Philobiblon, a feminist blog, I found this article from the Times of London. It digs deeper into the Turkish society, and its high suicide rate among women. Turns out that these "suicides" are not really suicides, but a form of honor killing that lets the killer (usually the father, the husband, or some other male relative) off the hook. The woman, often falsely accused of adultery or naughty behavior, is simply locked in with nothing but a suicide weapon, and is left with nothing to do - but to kill herself.
Turkey is trying to join the EU, and its human rights abuses are coming into focus. Ironically, this form of honor killings is picking up steam, because it is technically suicide, and reflects less badly on Turkey's record.
Honor killings are fair game in not only Turkey, but in most Muslim countries. Even outside the Muslim world, they are fair game in some countries of the Far East and Latin America. This appalling practice must be stopped, and countries where honor killings are practiced must be ostracized and boycotted by the feminist community.
The Times
12 May 2006
Fashion Corner
Time to throw in another celebrity pic again. And my blog demands a pic of Mariah Carey, given that she was my teeny bopper idol, that she's one of the few celebs I've actually met in person, and that her biggish, chubbyish, wide-shouldered body is closer to my own than the previous two Fashion Corners were.
Photo courtesy of MSN Music
Here's Mariah, from an event sometime last month. Her outfit, at least, is not as overtly obnoxious as the previous two Fashion Corners.
But it won't win any style points (or Grammys) either. I just can't forgive the mess of multiple necklaces that Mariah is wearing. It's just a mess, no more, no less. She needs to keep them simpler, like at most two necklaces that go along with her good-looking earrings.
The black sheer shirt is awful. I don't get the sleeves that extend into being fingerless gloves, and in addition, it reveals too much underneath. Mariah has already had an ill-advised boob job. She doesn't need anything that draws more attention to her oversized boobs, which are screaming for attention even with a black bra.
The capri-length jeans - okay, though on the tight side. It does accentuate Mariah's curves okay, though if she tries to sit down in them, they might accentuate a tad too much. And the heels? Too high for my taste, though Mariah does like to wear those extremely high heels that only a drag queen would dare try to walk in.
I've always liked Mariah's hair, and this time is no exception. Her minimal makeup goes along with this casual setup pretty well.
Overall, an okay outfit, but with plenty of room for improvement.
I'll check back on Mariah in a future installment of Fashion Corner.
Previous Fashion Corner
Photo courtesy of MSN MusicHere's Mariah, from an event sometime last month. Her outfit, at least, is not as overtly obnoxious as the previous two Fashion Corners.
But it won't win any style points (or Grammys) either. I just can't forgive the mess of multiple necklaces that Mariah is wearing. It's just a mess, no more, no less. She needs to keep them simpler, like at most two necklaces that go along with her good-looking earrings.
The black sheer shirt is awful. I don't get the sleeves that extend into being fingerless gloves, and in addition, it reveals too much underneath. Mariah has already had an ill-advised boob job. She doesn't need anything that draws more attention to her oversized boobs, which are screaming for attention even with a black bra.
The capri-length jeans - okay, though on the tight side. It does accentuate Mariah's curves okay, though if she tries to sit down in them, they might accentuate a tad too much. And the heels? Too high for my taste, though Mariah does like to wear those extremely high heels that only a drag queen would dare try to walk in.
I've always liked Mariah's hair, and this time is no exception. Her minimal makeup goes along with this casual setup pretty well.
Overall, an okay outfit, but with plenty of room for improvement.
I'll check back on Mariah in a future installment of Fashion Corner.
Previous Fashion Corner
Yearly Kos conference in Las Vegas
I've just learned of a progressive conference being held in Las Vegas between June 8th and 11th.
It's Yearly Kos, hosted by the fine folks at Daily Kos. It will hold various workshops on how to strengthen the progressive movement, and challenge the conservative ideology at its weak points. There are special workshops being held for various constituents, including LGBTs, Latinos, and people of faith.
I won't be able to make it to Vegas until the juicy bits are over, and besides, I already have another Vegas trip scheduled for the following weekend, for an Epinions.com meeting. In other words, count me out. However, I am posting the link for reference, so that hopefully some other progressive activist will be able to attend.
Yearly Kos
It's Yearly Kos, hosted by the fine folks at Daily Kos. It will hold various workshops on how to strengthen the progressive movement, and challenge the conservative ideology at its weak points. There are special workshops being held for various constituents, including LGBTs, Latinos, and people of faith.
I won't be able to make it to Vegas until the juicy bits are over, and besides, I already have another Vegas trip scheduled for the following weekend, for an Epinions.com meeting. In other words, count me out. However, I am posting the link for reference, so that hopefully some other progressive activist will be able to attend.
Yearly Kos
Clinton vs. W
A recent CNN poll finds that Americans find Clinton to be better at handling the economy, foreign affairs, and domestic issues, by a wide margin.
Even on trustworthiness and security, territories widely perceived as W's strength, Clinton polled better than W.
Sure, Clinton only paused the Republican war on the vulnerable elements of America rather than undoing it, but he nevertheless was competent, allowing middle-class Americans to become stockholders. The problem is that the Democrats are not able to come up with anyone of Clinton's caliber at this time. Gore wasn't it, Kerry wasn't it, and Clinton's wife doesn't even come close.
CNN
Even on trustworthiness and security, territories widely perceived as W's strength, Clinton polled better than W.
Sure, Clinton only paused the Republican war on the vulnerable elements of America rather than undoing it, but he nevertheless was competent, allowing middle-class Americans to become stockholders. The problem is that the Democrats are not able to come up with anyone of Clinton's caliber at this time. Gore wasn't it, Kerry wasn't it, and Clinton's wife doesn't even come close.
CNN
11 May 2006
200 million Americans logged by W
In 2000, as W ran against Al Gore, he had one major slogan.
"My opponent trusts the government. I trust you."
But after 9/11, which W allowed to happen (if not orchestrate himself), he made an about-face, and continually pushed for vastly expanded government powers, in the name of providing security. Today, USA Today has revealed that W has been using AT&T, Verizon, and BellSouth to log phone calls of more than 200 million Americans. Normally pro-W Qwest Communications has been the lone holdout that has prevented the W regime from logging every American.
In a hastily arranged press conference, W kept emphasizing that the surveillance program only covers those Americans who happen to be connected to al-Qaeda. But the way he's been pushing things, I am pretty sure that he can, and will, use the phone call logs to track down every political opponent. Given that W considers ANYONE who opposes him a "terrorist," this will be at least 2/3rds of the population, and even as for the 1/3rd that still supports him, any contact with the "terrorist" 2/3rds would bring them into suspicion as well.
If this isn't the big government that the Republicans themselves kept warning me about (as well as the libertarians), I don't know what is. And it's disgusting that I had to pay taxes - at the premium single rate - to fund this pathetic excuse of a government.
Given this revelation, and the election fixing by Diebold, I no longer consider the US a constitutional democracy. The Democrats must run on a platform of nothing less than a FULL investigation and subsequent IMPEACHMENT of this criminal fascist. (Unfortunately, the likes of Dean, Reid, and Pelosi are still trying to find the nonexistent "center.") Otherwise, they do not deserve to win at all, and fascism is indeed what the sheepish American public deserves.
And whoever succeeds W must take W's "pre-emptive strike" where it truly hurts - W's best buddies and the TRUE terrorists, Saudi Arabia and UAE.
USA Today
Coulter's voter fraud
BradBlog reports that Mann Coulter indeed appears to have committed voter fraud, by registering, and voting, from an address s/he does not live at.
This could be a third-degree felony, punishable by five years in prison and/or $5,000 in fines, if convicted.
Coulter has already fallen silent as a result of this, and may end up in prison over this - probably men's prison, if the rumors are correct.
I hope Coulter's fall from grace serves as a stern warning to all the right-wing trannies.
BradBlog
This could be a third-degree felony, punishable by five years in prison and/or $5,000 in fines, if convicted.
Coulter has already fallen silent as a result of this, and may end up in prison over this - probably men's prison, if the rumors are correct.
I hope Coulter's fall from grace serves as a stern warning to all the right-wing trannies.
BradBlog
10 May 2006
The politics of learning Chinese
Just came across this article from San Francisco Chronicle.
Although Chinese has lots of "dialects" which should be considered separate languages, in written form it's pretty much identical across all dialects. Wait, I'm wrong. There are two systems of Chinese characters: traditional (preferred outside mainland China) and simplified (preferred within China). The simplified system was devised by the Mao Zedong government in order to raise literacy among the population of newly Communist China - a definite concern due to the notorious difficulty of the characters. While it is indeed easier to write and memorize the simplified characters, they have been rejected by many, especially in the overseas Chinese communities, due to the Communist origins. Although I have trouble writing the characters in either system, when I read them, I myself expect to read traditional characters, and I was indeed thrown off by the simplified characters during my 2002 Beijing visit. But with most people of my generation in mainland China no longer knowing traditional characters, it appears that I need to know both sets in order to be truly capable of interacting with the Chinese world.
The Romanization of Chinese runs into the same political mess. The Communists came up with the pinyin system at the same time they came up with the simplified characters. Examples of names written in pinyin would be Beijing, Qingdao, and Deng Xiaoping. The rest of the Chinese-speaking world used the inefficient Wade-Giles system; the same names would be written as Peking, Tsingtao, and Teng Hsiao-ping. Most overseas Chinese communities continue to prefer Wade-Giles even today, though I am seeing pinyin names more often, due to the new influx of mainland Chinese migrants. And with Taiwan now using pinyin, it appears that pinyin will be the standard from now on. My friend's sister, born in Taiwan and not very literate in written Chinese, uses pinyin, not Wade-Giles, as pronunciation aid.
However, back to Chinese characters, I think the traditional and simplified characters will continue to duel for a long time to come. It appears that the Chinese communities around me will continue to use traditional characters within their walls, and simplified characters for dealing with mainland China. I found the same story in South Korea last year, during my visit there; the Koreans continue to use traditional Chinese, mixed with Korean, in written correspondence among themselves, but when dealing with the mainland Chinese or learning spoken Chinese, resort to simplified characters.
San Francisco Chronicle
Although Chinese has lots of "dialects" which should be considered separate languages, in written form it's pretty much identical across all dialects. Wait, I'm wrong. There are two systems of Chinese characters: traditional (preferred outside mainland China) and simplified (preferred within China). The simplified system was devised by the Mao Zedong government in order to raise literacy among the population of newly Communist China - a definite concern due to the notorious difficulty of the characters. While it is indeed easier to write and memorize the simplified characters, they have been rejected by many, especially in the overseas Chinese communities, due to the Communist origins. Although I have trouble writing the characters in either system, when I read them, I myself expect to read traditional characters, and I was indeed thrown off by the simplified characters during my 2002 Beijing visit. But with most people of my generation in mainland China no longer knowing traditional characters, it appears that I need to know both sets in order to be truly capable of interacting with the Chinese world.
The Romanization of Chinese runs into the same political mess. The Communists came up with the pinyin system at the same time they came up with the simplified characters. Examples of names written in pinyin would be Beijing, Qingdao, and Deng Xiaoping. The rest of the Chinese-speaking world used the inefficient Wade-Giles system; the same names would be written as Peking, Tsingtao, and Teng Hsiao-ping. Most overseas Chinese communities continue to prefer Wade-Giles even today, though I am seeing pinyin names more often, due to the new influx of mainland Chinese migrants. And with Taiwan now using pinyin, it appears that pinyin will be the standard from now on. My friend's sister, born in Taiwan and not very literate in written Chinese, uses pinyin, not Wade-Giles, as pronunciation aid.
However, back to Chinese characters, I think the traditional and simplified characters will continue to duel for a long time to come. It appears that the Chinese communities around me will continue to use traditional characters within their walls, and simplified characters for dealing with mainland China. I found the same story in South Korea last year, during my visit there; the Koreans continue to use traditional Chinese, mixed with Korean, in written correspondence among themselves, but when dealing with the mainland Chinese or learning spoken Chinese, resort to simplified characters.
San Francisco Chronicle
Mary Cheney
Apparently, she's called John Kerry an SOB in a book that she just published. She was about to say "fuck yourself" to John Edwards as well.
Like Mann Coulter, she's shilling for the worst enemies of the LGBT movement.
Mary is well-known for her work at Coors, a reactionary beer company.
I wonder if Mary is a closet tranny. I've never seen a genetic woman in the gay community act so right-wing, whereas her reactionary politics is very commonplace in the transgender "women's" communities. Though, I must say, whether Mary is a tranny or "just" a dyke, Dick's acceptance and support of her makes him a rare role model among the neocons, above the likes of Alan Keyes.
Raw Story
Like Mann Coulter, she's shilling for the worst enemies of the LGBT movement.
Mary is well-known for her work at Coors, a reactionary beer company.
I wonder if Mary is a closet tranny. I've never seen a genetic woman in the gay community act so right-wing, whereas her reactionary politics is very commonplace in the transgender "women's" communities. Though, I must say, whether Mary is a tranny or "just" a dyke, Dick's acceptance and support of her makes him a rare role model among the neocons, above the likes of Alan Keyes.
Raw Story
Boycotting Fox's biggest advertisers
I just picked this link up from the Democracy Cell Project.
The link lists the largest Fox News advertisers, and asks the reader to boycott them until Fox has a more fair and balanced coverage of current events. Links are provided so that the corporate bigwigs can read your reasons for boycotting these companies.
Looking at the list, aside from Subaru and priceline.com, it doesn't look too surprising.
Fox advertisers list
The link lists the largest Fox News advertisers, and asks the reader to boycott them until Fox has a more fair and balanced coverage of current events. Links are provided so that the corporate bigwigs can read your reasons for boycotting these companies.
Looking at the list, aside from Subaru and priceline.com, it doesn't look too surprising.
Fox advertisers list
09 May 2006
Fashion Corner
Photo from thesuperficial.comIt's teenage drama queen Lindsey Lohan in the center, with an unnamed friend to her left and her new boyfriend to the right. And her pathetic excuse for an outfit stood out so much, I had to make her a new entry into this new feature.
Back when I was an early teen, this look used to be quite common in school. I might have actually worn the look myself, had I been born a girl in the first place. But then, I'm talking about 1989 to 1990, not 2006. Lindsey was probably not even in grade school back then. Just what made her wear a look from that era is beyond my comprehension.
From the neck up, she actually looks fine, with long brown hair and cute sunglasses. But the rest of her is a disaster. Wearing a thigh-length T-shirt with a wide belt - so 1980s. Wearing a matching-length cardigan - just as 1980s. Wearing white sheer footless tights as an excuse for bottoms - so 1990. (Every time I saw someone do this, I was mighty afraid of an accident - in the form of VPLs or even worse - which indeed happened too often.) Wearing a pair with lace trim and/or runs in them - inexcusable no matter what the era. The flat shoes - better than heels, I guess, but not inspiring at all.
Looks like Lindsey just got out of her boyfriend's bed. But she certainly didn't have to look the part. For starters, she needs a real bottom - maybe she should've borrowed her friend's shorts or leggings. The friend, for that matter, looks just as hideous.
I've been looking at some 1980s-revival fashions, at vendors like Urban Outfitters and elsewhere. I have oversized sweatshirts, leggings, stirrups, and other articles of clothing that definitely hark back to the 1980s. And with this photo, I have a clear-cut example of what NOT to do with those pieces. The key to 1980s revival is to do it in subtle, modern ways, keeping the most iconic of the decade without going overboard or tasteless; by the same token, the key to 1970s revival has proven to be not wearing the most outrageous bellbottoms, but instead wearing the more modern, more subtle bootcut trousers that have dominated the fashion scene for the past several years.
Previous Fashion Corner
Back when I was an early teen, this look used to be quite common in school. I might have actually worn the look myself, had I been born a girl in the first place. But then, I'm talking about 1989 to 1990, not 2006. Lindsey was probably not even in grade school back then. Just what made her wear a look from that era is beyond my comprehension.
From the neck up, she actually looks fine, with long brown hair and cute sunglasses. But the rest of her is a disaster. Wearing a thigh-length T-shirt with a wide belt - so 1980s. Wearing a matching-length cardigan - just as 1980s. Wearing white sheer footless tights as an excuse for bottoms - so 1990. (Every time I saw someone do this, I was mighty afraid of an accident - in the form of VPLs or even worse - which indeed happened too often.) Wearing a pair with lace trim and/or runs in them - inexcusable no matter what the era. The flat shoes - better than heels, I guess, but not inspiring at all.
Looks like Lindsey just got out of her boyfriend's bed. But she certainly didn't have to look the part. For starters, she needs a real bottom - maybe she should've borrowed her friend's shorts or leggings. The friend, for that matter, looks just as hideous.
I've been looking at some 1980s-revival fashions, at vendors like Urban Outfitters and elsewhere. I have oversized sweatshirts, leggings, stirrups, and other articles of clothing that definitely hark back to the 1980s. And with this photo, I have a clear-cut example of what NOT to do with those pieces. The key to 1980s revival is to do it in subtle, modern ways, keeping the most iconic of the decade without going overboard or tasteless; by the same token, the key to 1970s revival has proven to be not wearing the most outrageous bellbottoms, but instead wearing the more modern, more subtle bootcut trousers that have dominated the fashion scene for the past several years.
Previous Fashion Corner
Lesbian brains
Yesterday, I found this article that says lesbians are different at the brain level from straight women, even more so than gay men are different from straight men.
Definitely food for thought.
Now, any studies involving tranny dyke brains?
MSNBC
Definitely food for thought.
Now, any studies involving tranny dyke brains?
MSNBC
08 May 2006
ReBelle Nation
I have just joined the ReBelle Nation blog as a contributor.
It is a very active news blog, and although it sometimes relies on controversial sources, the sources are always cited, so that a true news junkie can check the source out and decide for himself/herself. I really like the approach that this highly political, biased blog takes to current events. (Of course, I share most of the biases too.)
My blog will continue to be my personal webspace, and politics will continue to be discussed here. However, I'll also ensure that the character of ReBelle Nation is upheld, and enhanced, through my presence there.
Thanks to Christy, the main blogmaster of ReBelle Nation, for extending me this opportunity.
It is a very active news blog, and although it sometimes relies on controversial sources, the sources are always cited, so that a true news junkie can check the source out and decide for himself/herself. I really like the approach that this highly political, biased blog takes to current events. (Of course, I share most of the biases too.)
My blog will continue to be my personal webspace, and politics will continue to be discussed here. However, I'll also ensure that the character of ReBelle Nation is upheld, and enhanced, through my presence there.
Thanks to Christy, the main blogmaster of ReBelle Nation, for extending me this opportunity.
07 May 2006
The real cost of a hybrid automobile
Gasoline-electric hybrids are hot these days, especially with the rising fuel prices (and anger over the obscene profits made by the oil companies). Among my acquaintances who blog, activist Karen Bradley of Democracy Cell Project, and author Gayle Brandeis of Fruitful, are proud owners of Honda Civic hybrids. And let's not forget another activist, John Andrews (also of Democracy Cell Project), who doesn't blog, but nevertheless drives an early-model Prius, and is probably looking for the new Camry hybrid.
I've just dug up this article from MSN Money, showing the cost of ownership for popular hybrids over a five-year period, compared to an identical/similar car that uses only gasoline. At least in the case of the Prius and the Civic, the savings are worthwhile - and this is before even counting in tax breaks.
In California, high-efficiency hybrids, such as the Prius and the Civic, are allowed to use the HOV lane even when driving solo. That means less congestion, which in turn means less fuel (and time) wasted, further adding to the savings.
Even though I am not considering a hybrid at this time (and still too mad over Toyota's labor records in the US to consider a Toyota or Lexus hybrid), this is definitely something to keep in mind. In fact, when the European luxury cars finally get into the hybrid game, I'll be ready to snap one up - though the Europeans, for now, seem to prefer diesel engines, as they do back home.
MSN Money
I've just dug up this article from MSN Money, showing the cost of ownership for popular hybrids over a five-year period, compared to an identical/similar car that uses only gasoline. At least in the case of the Prius and the Civic, the savings are worthwhile - and this is before even counting in tax breaks.
In California, high-efficiency hybrids, such as the Prius and the Civic, are allowed to use the HOV lane even when driving solo. That means less congestion, which in turn means less fuel (and time) wasted, further adding to the savings.
Even though I am not considering a hybrid at this time (and still too mad over Toyota's labor records in the US to consider a Toyota or Lexus hybrid), this is definitely something to keep in mind. In fact, when the European luxury cars finally get into the hybrid game, I'll be ready to snap one up - though the Europeans, for now, seem to prefer diesel engines, as they do back home.
MSN Money
05 May 2006
W is imploding
Even W's base, Neanderthal hardcore conservatives, are fed up with him.
The reasons vary; they range from W's massive expansion of the government, to his inability to pass socially backward legislations, such as gay marriage bans. But in any case, rising gas prices, and an economic plan that benefits only the super-rich, are taking a toll, even among W's Christian warriors.
47% of hardcore conservatives disapprove of W's job performance, and over 30% are willing to throw Republicans out from office. This is disaster for the Republicans.
The only question is: are the Democrats ready to take charge, or are they too brain-dead to make anything out of this opportunity?
MSNBC
The reasons vary; they range from W's massive expansion of the government, to his inability to pass socially backward legislations, such as gay marriage bans. But in any case, rising gas prices, and an economic plan that benefits only the super-rich, are taking a toll, even among W's Christian warriors.
47% of hardcore conservatives disapprove of W's job performance, and over 30% are willing to throw Republicans out from office. This is disaster for the Republicans.
The only question is: are the Democrats ready to take charge, or are they too brain-dead to make anything out of this opportunity?
MSNBC
Another fallout of the Iraqi War
It looks like LGBTs are fair game for murder by the morality police.
But then, I guess that is what W and his moralistic friends, both Christian and Muslim, seem to have wanted all along.
I've just picked up report of a savage streetside execution of a suspected gay teen by the Iraqi morality police. He had been forced into prostitution by the bleak situation caused by W's war.
Outrage is an understatement.
My contempt for radical Islam grows ever larger with every report like this, and I am reminded that I must stop radical Christianity on US soil at all costs, to avoid the same fate for myself.
UK Gay News
But then, I guess that is what W and his moralistic friends, both Christian and Muslim, seem to have wanted all along.
I've just picked up report of a savage streetside execution of a suspected gay teen by the Iraqi morality police. He had been forced into prostitution by the bleak situation caused by W's war.
Outrage is an understatement.
My contempt for radical Islam grows ever larger with every report like this, and I am reminded that I must stop radical Christianity on US soil at all costs, to avoid the same fate for myself.
UK Gay News
04 May 2006
Internet censorship
The following BBC article, citing a Reporters Without Borders report, explains the extent of censorship in more repressive regimes around the world, now extending to Internet access.
Noticing that dissidents were using the Internet as an effective organizing tool, some governments have decided to limit Internet access to public terminals, which are easier to monitor. Others, like China and UAE, have set up massive firewalls blocking out objectionable foreign websites. In all cases, people from Iran to Zimbabwe have been arrested for speaking out on the Internet.
This is a horrible development. The Internet was designed to circumvent such attempts to control and destroy the flow of information. Moreover, if current trends continue unchecked, I am pretty sure that the United States will be the next to follow suit.
BBC
Noticing that dissidents were using the Internet as an effective organizing tool, some governments have decided to limit Internet access to public terminals, which are easier to monitor. Others, like China and UAE, have set up massive firewalls blocking out objectionable foreign websites. In all cases, people from Iran to Zimbabwe have been arrested for speaking out on the Internet.
This is a horrible development. The Internet was designed to circumvent such attempts to control and destroy the flow of information. Moreover, if current trends continue unchecked, I am pretty sure that the United States will be the next to follow suit.
BBC
Fashion Corner
EDIT 5/8: This will become a regular feature of this blog. I need pictures of people, well-dressed or not. Otherwise, the blog stays too serious and boring.
I've been seeing some photos of the Met Costume Institute Gala from a few days ago, and some celebrities arriving there. Although fashion isn't something I normally discuss in this blog, I'm obligated to talk now, because this photo of Sienna Miller hits just too close to me.
Photo from MSN Movies
She's been faulted repeatedly over this setup, for wearing a sequin tunic dress with black winter tights, a look too casual for this occasion.
Unfortunately, I often end up wearing something similar (though minus the sequin). Not quite having fully recovered my identity yet after losing it in 2001, I cannot shave my legs without raising major suspicions, especially in summer. That means I often hide my legs behind the same heavy tights that Sienna is wearing in the photo, even with summer outfits. (Or I can just wear slacks, and forget about wearing skirts, dresses, and shorts altogether. As it stands, I can't even wear the now-popular gauchos. That's pretty pathetic.) The high hemlines I prefer (like Sienna's dress) make the tights scream even louder.
And not having a dress formal enough used to be an issue with me too - at least until buying an LBD last fall. But again, I'll need to wear lighter hosiery with that LBD, not these heavy tights, which are opaque enough to be worn as leggings for some 1980s flashback party.
The hairdo and the fake tan are also faulted here; I certainly don't like the tan either, which clashes badly with the outfit, but the hairdo - I can live with it, I guess. Certainly beats my businesslike hair at any time.
In any case, I hope for an improved situation for myself, so that I won't be committing a fashion faux pas like Sienna does here, against my will.
I've been seeing some photos of the Met Costume Institute Gala from a few days ago, and some celebrities arriving there. Although fashion isn't something I normally discuss in this blog, I'm obligated to talk now, because this photo of Sienna Miller hits just too close to me.
Photo from MSN MoviesShe's been faulted repeatedly over this setup, for wearing a sequin tunic dress with black winter tights, a look too casual for this occasion.
Unfortunately, I often end up wearing something similar (though minus the sequin). Not quite having fully recovered my identity yet after losing it in 2001, I cannot shave my legs without raising major suspicions, especially in summer. That means I often hide my legs behind the same heavy tights that Sienna is wearing in the photo, even with summer outfits. (Or I can just wear slacks, and forget about wearing skirts, dresses, and shorts altogether. As it stands, I can't even wear the now-popular gauchos. That's pretty pathetic.) The high hemlines I prefer (like Sienna's dress) make the tights scream even louder.
And not having a dress formal enough used to be an issue with me too - at least until buying an LBD last fall. But again, I'll need to wear lighter hosiery with that LBD, not these heavy tights, which are opaque enough to be worn as leggings for some 1980s flashback party.
The hairdo and the fake tan are also faulted here; I certainly don't like the tan either, which clashes badly with the outfit, but the hairdo - I can live with it, I guess. Certainly beats my businesslike hair at any time.
In any case, I hope for an improved situation for myself, so that I won't be committing a fashion faux pas like Sienna does here, against my will.
03 May 2006
UK Gender Recognition Act 2004
I've heard about this law, from the couple I just mentioned who relocated to London.
The UK once was one of the few European nations that did not recognize the new sex of a transgender person. That has changed with the Gender Recognition Act of 2004.
I've checked the details just now, after reading a few articles on the Guardian. It looks like two years of medical supervision while living in the new gender is all that's required to be legally recognized as the new gender, for all purposes including marriage and titles. Surgery is not a requirement, which is great for my couple who are non-operative; they would've been forever considered men under US laws.
The surgery, to be honest, is a very expensive procedure with many risks, and should only be undertaken for body image issues. I don't like the idea of being forced to take the surgery route just to have that magic letter "F" on my passport. To that end, I think this law is a very good move, and more nations need to consider adopting similar measures.
Back home, here in California, I can get a driver's license with the corrected gender marker upon presenting a doctor's report, and it's good for identification and employment purposes. However, it doesn't change my LEGAL gender, which will require surgery, and is a must for marriage purposes, and for changing federal paperwork such as passport.
Gender Recognition Act
The UK once was one of the few European nations that did not recognize the new sex of a transgender person. That has changed with the Gender Recognition Act of 2004.
I've checked the details just now, after reading a few articles on the Guardian. It looks like two years of medical supervision while living in the new gender is all that's required to be legally recognized as the new gender, for all purposes including marriage and titles. Surgery is not a requirement, which is great for my couple who are non-operative; they would've been forever considered men under US laws.
The surgery, to be honest, is a very expensive procedure with many risks, and should only be undertaken for body image issues. I don't like the idea of being forced to take the surgery route just to have that magic letter "F" on my passport. To that end, I think this law is a very good move, and more nations need to consider adopting similar measures.
Back home, here in California, I can get a driver's license with the corrected gender marker upon presenting a doctor's report, and it's good for identification and employment purposes. However, it doesn't change my LEGAL gender, which will require surgery, and is a must for marriage purposes, and for changing federal paperwork such as passport.
Gender Recognition Act
American LGBT couples heading for Britain
I know of someone who did exactly this last year.
With worsening conditions for both LGBTs and foreigners in the US, Americans who have European same-sex partners are choosing to leave for an EU country. The UK, with its new immigration law which treats officially partnered gay couples the same as married couples, is proving to be a popular destination.
The Guardian
With worsening conditions for both LGBTs and foreigners in the US, Americans who have European same-sex partners are choosing to leave for an EU country. The UK, with its new immigration law which treats officially partnered gay couples the same as married couples, is proving to be a popular destination.
The Guardian
02 May 2006
Pathetic geographical knowledge
I just came across this article, which says that most Americans cannot locate Louisiana or Iraq on a map, despite the importance of those locations in current events.
They also got lots of other questions wrong, answering that English is the most widely spoken language in the world, for example (the correct answer is Mandarin Chinese). Or that the most fortified border in the world is between the US and Mexico (the two Koreas are the correct answer).
The appalling level of ignorance in American classrooms, not only in geography, but in world affairs and history, keeps America ill-prepared to play its self-proclaimed role as the world's policeman, and ensures that the lies of the W regime become accepted as fact (i.e. Saddam, Iran, and al-Qaeda worked together).
America has the world's best universities (at least still), and an outstanding education system for those who can afford the costs. However, the general population as a whole needs to be educated well in order for a society to succeed, and that's where America is failing.
MSNBC
They also got lots of other questions wrong, answering that English is the most widely spoken language in the world, for example (the correct answer is Mandarin Chinese). Or that the most fortified border in the world is between the US and Mexico (the two Koreas are the correct answer).
The appalling level of ignorance in American classrooms, not only in geography, but in world affairs and history, keeps America ill-prepared to play its self-proclaimed role as the world's policeman, and ensures that the lies of the W regime become accepted as fact (i.e. Saddam, Iran, and al-Qaeda worked together).
America has the world's best universities (at least still), and an outstanding education system for those who can afford the costs. However, the general population as a whole needs to be educated well in order for a society to succeed, and that's where America is failing.
MSNBC
A view on illegal immigration
Here's a letter to Senator Frist, which a retired border patrolman in Arizona sent.
Although I don't necessarily agree with the tone of the letter, this man knows the facts (maybe except #6 - there are nations with more open immigration policies, and the US is falling out of favor as a destination by those in better-off countries), and I am obligated to share the letter.
The letter was posted at a bulletin board I frequent.
Dear Senator Frist:
There is a huge amount of propaganda and myths circulating about illegal aliens, particularly illegal Mexican, Salvadorian, Guatemalan and Honduran aliens.
#1.
Illegal aliens generally do NOT want U.S. citizenship. Americans are very vain thinking that everybody in the world wants to be a U.S. citizen. Mexicans, and other nationalities want to remain citizens of their home countries while obtaining the benefits offered by the United States such as employment, medical care, in-state tuition, government subsidized housing and free education for their offspring. Their main attraction is employment and their loyalty usually remains at home. They want benefits earned and subsidized by middle class Americans. What illegal aliens want are benefits of American residence without paying the price.
#2.
There are no jobs that Americans won't do. Illegal aliens are doing jobs that Americans can't take and still support their families. Illegal aliens take low wage jobs, live dozens in a single residence home, share expenses and send money to their home country. There are no jobs that Americans won't do for a decent wage.
#3.
Every person who illegally entered this nation left a home. They are NOT homeless and they are NOT Americans. Some left jobs in their home countries. They come to send money to their real home as evidenced by the more than 20 billion dollars sent out of the country each year by illegal aliens. These illegal aliens knowingly and willfully entered this nation in violation of the law and therefore assumed the risk of detection and deportation. Those who brought their alien children assumed the responsibility and risk on behalf of their children.
#4.
Illegal aliens are NOT critical to the economy. Illegal aliens constitute less than 5% of the workforce. However, they reduce wages and benefits for lawful U.S. residents.
#5.
This is NOT an immigrant nation. There are 280 million native born Americans. While it is true that this nation was settled and founded by immigrants (legal immigrants), it is also true that there is not a nation on this planet that was not settled by immigrants at one time or another.
#6.
The United States is welcoming to legal immigrants. Illegal aliens are not immigrants by definition. The U.S. accepts more lawful immigrants every year than the rest of the world combined.
#7.
There is no such thing as the "Hispanic vote". Hispanics are white, brown, black and every shade in between. Hispanics are Republicans, Democrats, Anarchists, Communists, Marxists and Independents. The so-called "Hispanic vote" is a myth. Pandering to illegal aliens to get the Hispanic vote is a dead end.
#8.
Mexico is NOT a friend of the United States. Since 1848 Mexicans have resented the United States. During World War I Mexico allowed German Spies to operate freely in Mexico to spy on the U.S. During World War II Mexico allowed the Axis powers to spy on the U.S. from Mexico. During the Cold War Mexico allowed spies hostile to the U.S. to operate freely. The attack on the Twin Towers in 2001 was cheered and applauded all across Mexico. Today Mexican school children are taught that the U.S. stole California, Arizona, new Mexico and Texas. If you don't believe it, check out some Mexican textbooks written for their schoolchildren.
#9.
Although some illegal aliens enter this country for a better life, there are 6 billion people on this planet. At least 1 billion of those live on less than one dollar a day. If wanting a better life is a valid excuse to break the law and sneak into America, then let's allow those one billion to come to America and we'll turn the USA into a Third World nation overnight. Besides, there are 280 million native born Americans who want a better life. I'll bet Bill Gates and Donald Trump want a better life. When will the USA lifeboat be full? Since when is wanting a better life a good reason to trash another nation?
#10.
There is a labor shortage in this country. This is a lie. There are hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of American housewives, senior citizens, students, unemployed and underemployed who would gladly take jobs at a decent wage.
#11.
It is racist to want secure borders. What is racist about wanting secure borders and a secure America? What is racist about not wanting people to sneak into America and steal benefits we have set aside for legal aliens, senior citizens, children and other legal residents? What is it about race that entitles people to violate our laws, steal identities, and take the American Dream without paying the price? For about four decades American politicians have refused to secure our borders and look after the welfare of middle class Americans. These politicians have been of both parties. A huge debt to American society has resulted. This debt will be satisfied and the interest will be high. There has already been riots in the streets by illegal aliens and their supporters. There will be more. You, as a politician, have a choice to offend the illegal aliens who have stolen into this country and demanded the rights afforded to U.S. citizens or to offend those of us who are stakeholders in this country. The interest will be steep either way. There will be civil unrest. There will be a reckoning. Do you have the courage to do what is right for America? Or, will you bow to the wants and needs of those who don't even have the right to remain here? There will be a reckoning. It will come in November of this year, again in 2008 and yet again in 2010. We will not allow America to be stolen by third world agitators and thieves.
David J. Stoddard
U.S. Border Patrol (RET)
Hereford, Arizona
Although I don't necessarily agree with the tone of the letter, this man knows the facts (maybe except #6 - there are nations with more open immigration policies, and the US is falling out of favor as a destination by those in better-off countries), and I am obligated to share the letter.
The letter was posted at a bulletin board I frequent.
Dear Senator Frist:
There is a huge amount of propaganda and myths circulating about illegal aliens, particularly illegal Mexican, Salvadorian, Guatemalan and Honduran aliens.
#1.
Illegal aliens generally do NOT want U.S. citizenship. Americans are very vain thinking that everybody in the world wants to be a U.S. citizen. Mexicans, and other nationalities want to remain citizens of their home countries while obtaining the benefits offered by the United States such as employment, medical care, in-state tuition, government subsidized housing and free education for their offspring. Their main attraction is employment and their loyalty usually remains at home. They want benefits earned and subsidized by middle class Americans. What illegal aliens want are benefits of American residence without paying the price.
#2.
There are no jobs that Americans won't do. Illegal aliens are doing jobs that Americans can't take and still support their families. Illegal aliens take low wage jobs, live dozens in a single residence home, share expenses and send money to their home country. There are no jobs that Americans won't do for a decent wage.
#3.
Every person who illegally entered this nation left a home. They are NOT homeless and they are NOT Americans. Some left jobs in their home countries. They come to send money to their real home as evidenced by the more than 20 billion dollars sent out of the country each year by illegal aliens. These illegal aliens knowingly and willfully entered this nation in violation of the law and therefore assumed the risk of detection and deportation. Those who brought their alien children assumed the responsibility and risk on behalf of their children.
#4.
Illegal aliens are NOT critical to the economy. Illegal aliens constitute less than 5% of the workforce. However, they reduce wages and benefits for lawful U.S. residents.
#5.
This is NOT an immigrant nation. There are 280 million native born Americans. While it is true that this nation was settled and founded by immigrants (legal immigrants), it is also true that there is not a nation on this planet that was not settled by immigrants at one time or another.
#6.
The United States is welcoming to legal immigrants. Illegal aliens are not immigrants by definition. The U.S. accepts more lawful immigrants every year than the rest of the world combined.
#7.
There is no such thing as the "Hispanic vote". Hispanics are white, brown, black and every shade in between. Hispanics are Republicans, Democrats, Anarchists, Communists, Marxists and Independents. The so-called "Hispanic vote" is a myth. Pandering to illegal aliens to get the Hispanic vote is a dead end.
#8.
Mexico is NOT a friend of the United States. Since 1848 Mexicans have resented the United States. During World War I Mexico allowed German Spies to operate freely in Mexico to spy on the U.S. During World War II Mexico allowed the Axis powers to spy on the U.S. from Mexico. During the Cold War Mexico allowed spies hostile to the U.S. to operate freely. The attack on the Twin Towers in 2001 was cheered and applauded all across Mexico. Today Mexican school children are taught that the U.S. stole California, Arizona, new Mexico and Texas. If you don't believe it, check out some Mexican textbooks written for their schoolchildren.
#9.
Although some illegal aliens enter this country for a better life, there are 6 billion people on this planet. At least 1 billion of those live on less than one dollar a day. If wanting a better life is a valid excuse to break the law and sneak into America, then let's allow those one billion to come to America and we'll turn the USA into a Third World nation overnight. Besides, there are 280 million native born Americans who want a better life. I'll bet Bill Gates and Donald Trump want a better life. When will the USA lifeboat be full? Since when is wanting a better life a good reason to trash another nation?
#10.
There is a labor shortage in this country. This is a lie. There are hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of American housewives, senior citizens, students, unemployed and underemployed who would gladly take jobs at a decent wage.
#11.
It is racist to want secure borders. What is racist about wanting secure borders and a secure America? What is racist about not wanting people to sneak into America and steal benefits we have set aside for legal aliens, senior citizens, children and other legal residents? What is it about race that entitles people to violate our laws, steal identities, and take the American Dream without paying the price? For about four decades American politicians have refused to secure our borders and look after the welfare of middle class Americans. These politicians have been of both parties. A huge debt to American society has resulted. This debt will be satisfied and the interest will be high. There has already been riots in the streets by illegal aliens and their supporters. There will be more. You, as a politician, have a choice to offend the illegal aliens who have stolen into this country and demanded the rights afforded to U.S. citizens or to offend those of us who are stakeholders in this country. The interest will be steep either way. There will be civil unrest. There will be a reckoning. Do you have the courage to do what is right for America? Or, will you bow to the wants and needs of those who don't even have the right to remain here? There will be a reckoning. It will come in November of this year, again in 2008 and yet again in 2010. We will not allow America to be stolen by third world agitators and thieves.
David J. Stoddard
U.S. Border Patrol (RET)
Hereford, Arizona
01 May 2006
Danger passes
... rather quickly, to a point where I feel like the proverbial boy crying wolf.
This was the first time I reacted to my father's death threats by carrying out my escape plan. I had been injured in the past because of him, and I was not taking any chances.
But the thought of job hunting without a permanent address, and apartment hunting without a job, was just too much. The last 48 hours have been pure hell, as I scoured all over Los Angeles and Hollywood for community resources and any job/housing leads.
Meanwhile, my parents found that even if they were to replace me, I was still needed to train the replacement. They assured my safety, and I have returned, for now, though the issues still simmer.
Being the materialists that my parents are, they would simply not let me leave with a junk Ford and just a few grand in the bank. Although it stinks that they care more about the make of my car than about me, it's still not too bad a thought.
Now, I am pushing for leaving again, though on my own terms, and dealing with only one thing at a time. No more going homeless AND jobless together.
This was the first time I reacted to my father's death threats by carrying out my escape plan. I had been injured in the past because of him, and I was not taking any chances.
But the thought of job hunting without a permanent address, and apartment hunting without a job, was just too much. The last 48 hours have been pure hell, as I scoured all over Los Angeles and Hollywood for community resources and any job/housing leads.
Meanwhile, my parents found that even if they were to replace me, I was still needed to train the replacement. They assured my safety, and I have returned, for now, though the issues still simmer.
Being the materialists that my parents are, they would simply not let me leave with a junk Ford and just a few grand in the bank. Although it stinks that they care more about the make of my car than about me, it's still not too bad a thought.
Now, I am pushing for leaving again, though on my own terms, and dealing with only one thing at a time. No more going homeless AND jobless together.
The Iranian community in Los Angeles
BBC's website has a pretty good article on the Iranian community here in Los Angeles, also known as Tehrangeles.
Much of it was built in the aftermath of the Islamic Revolution and the exodus of intellectuals that resulted. Ayatollah Khomeini is as hated here as Fidel Castro is in Little Havana.
But it is also good to know that unlike the Cubans (and the neighboring Korean community here in Los Angeles for that matter), Iranian-Americans have diverse political opinions and views, both on issues concerning Iran and more domestic issues.
BBC
Much of it was built in the aftermath of the Islamic Revolution and the exodus of intellectuals that resulted. Ayatollah Khomeini is as hated here as Fidel Castro is in Little Havana.
But it is also good to know that unlike the Cubans (and the neighboring Korean community here in Los Angeles for that matter), Iranian-Americans have diverse political opinions and views, both on issues concerning Iran and more domestic issues.
BBC
In Grave Danger
My parents have threatened me with death, for a minor argument that went back to the newspaper photo of W being kissed by a North Korean child. I was forced to leave when my father swung an oxygen bottle at me.
The primitive Korean culture is in action. I am hiding in a safe place away from the madness, but that's all I can say of my whereabouts at this time.
It's official. The megachurches of Little Havana West are just as evil and death-filled as the mosques of Hamburg that plotted the 9/11 attacks. Please, for the love of humanity, dump your Samsung cell phones and Hyundai cars now. (I just destroyed my Samsung phone.)
EDIT: Somehow Hyundai Motor America had gotten itself into the corporate donor roll of the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center, right alongside gay-friendly Subaru, I just found out... which truly confounds me.
The primitive Korean culture is in action. I am hiding in a safe place away from the madness, but that's all I can say of my whereabouts at this time.
It's official. The megachurches of Little Havana West are just as evil and death-filled as the mosques of Hamburg that plotted the 9/11 attacks. Please, for the love of humanity, dump your Samsung cell phones and Hyundai cars now. (I just destroyed my Samsung phone.)
EDIT: Somehow Hyundai Motor America had gotten itself into the corporate donor roll of the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center, right alongside gay-friendly Subaru, I just found out... which truly confounds me.
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