The Infuriated Faggot

8.5%

2009-04-03T10:25:00.000-07:00

The unemployment in the U.S. has reached 8.5%.

Missouri's Unemployment Rate is 8.3% as of February, 2009. The previous year (February, 2008) the Missouri Unemployment rate was 5.5% For a cummulative 2.8% increase over the course of a year.

Scary.

This data can be found at This Site. You can search for any state.

Hold on to those jobs people!

Weather and illness. . .

2009-03-12T10:30:00.001-07:00

Since the weather here in Saint Louis has been so up and down lately, a lot of us are becoming ill...I, to this point at least, have avoided it- probably because my immune system is already turned on by my small pox vaccine- ha! Anyway, if y'all are sick, here's a kick ass recipe to fix that shit. . .

If this doesn't work, you are- as my dear old Granny used to say- Fucked!

1 whole lemon squeezed into a coffee mug
Sprinkle of cayenne pepper
2 tables spoons of brandy

Fill the cup with hot water

Chug that drink as fast as you can and cover yourself up with a blanket.
(repeat as necessary- preferably AFTER work)

You will sweat out every bit of badness that is in your body.

Spring is on the way...

Hammer

Amsterdam

2009-03-06T11:14:00.001-08:00

Okay, so many of you heard about that Plane Crash in Amsterdam last week, right? A Turkish Airways Jet crashed while landing at Schiphol. Well, since I still read up on my Dutch News, I cam across this article today.

Here's the heading...

SCHIPHOL - Aanhangers van de Westboro Baptist Church, een sekte waarvan de aanhangers onder meer geloven dat god homoseksuelen haat, willen demonstreren bij de herdenking van de vliegtuigcrash op Schiphol.

Schiphol- Followers from the Westboro Baptist Church (God Hates Fags Group), a sect in which the follwoer belief that God Hates Homosexuals, wants to hold a demonstration at the Plane crash site at Schiphol.

HOLY SHIT!

They're still spreading their hate people...

Abstinence Only

2009-02-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

Guess who just admitted that abstinence-only education doesn't work?

I love it. After listening to her mom push abstinence-only bullshit down our throats through the election process. . .Bristol Palin spoke out against her mom's policies!

Love it!

92.9

2009-02-16T11:35:00.000-08:00

For some reason on my way to Saint Louis from Chicago yesterday, there was a stretch where only ONE radio station was working. That radio station, 92.9FM, had a hateful and typically caustic Ann Coulter bitching about the stimulus package. Saying things like "why fund education when our children are dumber than those from Ghana by the time they're twelve" and screaming anti-socialist rhetoric like "they're coming for your doctors, they're coming for your schools, they're coming...they're COMING!" As if socialism is bad. . .look at the Netherlands for a comparison. But that's a different post.

Now the thing that always confuses and astounds me is Ann's desire and ability to draw such a clear line between Republicans and Democrats. The Right and the Left. that's all it is to her...There is no in between. It's "they're repressing us" or "THEY want to destroy the country." Really Ann? REALLY? This is not the way to unite people in a common cause and move the country forward. In fact, it's the type of speech that leads to sociopolitical regression. AAAAAARRRGH! Before Ann speaks, she should really think of some positive resolutions. But, the fact she doesn't think about the consequences of her words will be her downfall.

Anyway, after listening to her (and fuming in my seat) I was left thinking "what did we learn from this?" "What was the point."

The truth is that the only thing we learned is that Ann Coulter is a hater- of everything that doesn't serve her privilege. The point of the show was to get Ann more publicity. The point of the show was to provide Ann with more time to spread her hate. And you know what. . .I'm over that shit.

I think she really needs to step back, evaluate her hate and choose a different route. The time for whining rich white people is over Ann. Sorry! And don't forget to break the news to your Hollywood friends.

And really, all she does is COMPLAIN. If she really cared about what she was talking about she would be out influencing policy. . . on the ground. . .one person at a time. But that would be REAL work.

I pity her.

Okay, had to vent!

What I want from Obama. . .

2009-02-02T06:15:00.000-08:00

Since Obama won the election there have been a lot of people expecting things to get better. Well, of course I would like to see Obama take care of issues that are near and dear to my heart. Here they are:

(1) Let unfair "free" trade agreements lapse. I mean really...race-to-the-bottom economics has screwed this country enough already, no?

(2) Repeal 2005 Chapter 7 Bankruptcy laws that prevent the middle class from getting their bailouts! If you are going to let companies reap the benefits of being U.S. citizens, you damn well better the rest of us do it too. Plus, Bankruptcy is a good thing when it comes to companies. They get to write down excessive debts and then go to the government for more cash.

(3) Have a "Baby Tax." If you breed, you pay more taxes. Period. You utilize more resources than the rest of us, you pay more taxes. And, if you give birth to a litter (like that woman who had 8 kids) and your community pays your way, the least you can do is declare those donations as taxable income. Right? Pay for your kids goddammit. Fuck.

Okay, that's it...for now. These are not unrealistic demands, no?

7.2%

2009-01-09T16:20:00.000-08:00

The unemployment rate in the U.S. spiked to 7.2% as reported today. This translates into about 11,600,000 unemployed people (in the workforce) in the U.S. AMAZING!

Obama's Repair List (Part I)

2008-12-29T06:51:00.000-08:00

Leading up to Obama's Inauguration, I decided to put together what I think is Obama's Repair List (in priority order)...I'll update this regularly as needed...your input also helps!

To Do:

(1) The Economy. I'd like to see some long-term repairs here, but Obama is just going to put some gum on the hole in the leaky pipe that is the Economy. Borrowing another $850B to fix lending problems is stupid. Plain and Simple. Bailing out more companies that are going to fire workers isn't going to help. Also, creating infrastructure jobs is nice, but when you spend $750B + $850B ($1.6 trillion) to bail out asshole companies, there is very LITTLE to spend on INFRASTRUCTURE!

(2) Afghanistan/Iraq. Obama is going to refocus troops into Afghanistan (30,000-50,000 taken from Iraq and transplanted into Afghanistan). Ending the Iraq war would be awesome...but we'll always have a police presence there. As far as Afghanistan...don't be stupid Obama. Everyone knows Osama is in Pakistan...you need to talk to Christiane Amanpour...NOW!

(3) Israel and Hamas. Not sure what Obama's stance is on Israel. I know that during the election, he was all about giving more support to Israel. But what about when they become a terrorist state, using EXCESSIVE force to wipe out a people that have just as much right to occupy space as they do...Hmmm. That's a tough one. Lebanon and Syria have also said they are no longer going to talk peacefully with Israel. These destabilizing actions should have Obama ready to chastise Israel...but that won't likely happen.

(4) The Environment. Obama is going to make companies vie for and buy the right to pollute. That is, carbon emissions will come with a price. Of course, this doesn't stop companies from polluting. The big companies will simply buy the rights to pollute from small companies and effectively drive these small companies out of business...unless of course they get creative and come up with green solutions to pollution.

(5) Education. Teach these children something, please!

(6) Immigration?

(7) Restore Civil Rights, Grant new civil rights and restore the "Rule of Law". Broad, I know but this includes things like:
Patriot Act repeal, Military Commissions Act repeal, Dept of Homeland Security dismantled, FISA Court Authority restored, VA Healthcare fully funded, Electronic-Voting paper backup required, Congressional War Powers authority restored, Presidential Signing Statements eliminated by statute, Military Forces fully-equipped/trained restored, Elimination of “stop loss” orders, Restoration on NatlGuard deployment rules, Restoration of state Governor’s control of NatlGuard, Restoration of U.S. legal fidelity to Geneva Accords, Restoration of Congressional oversight of Executive Branch, A “True” Balanced Budget, Iraq War brought into Budget, Limiting Presidential ‘Executive Order’ power by statute, banning torture, GAY RIGHTS, HUMAN RIGHTS, etc.

(8) Prosecute the Bush Administration. Bush, Cheney, Gonzalez. War crimes, Treason and more treason! Prosecute. Prosecute Prosecute!

Okay, that's a lot for now. If you think of anything, let me know.

Israel and Hamas. . .

2008-12-29T06:37:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm sure all of you have heard about the current war between Israel and Hamas. Though, calling it a war seems unfair since the distribution of weapons across that line is so disparate. Israel came out and said that the attacks were needed as Israel wants to live in Peace from attack from Hamas.

Hmmmm. Going to war to live in Peace? That sounds like extermination talk. Gross.

I'm not even going to try to pretend that I'm an expert in Israel/Palestinian relations. That's impossible. But I will say that, as Americans, we must stop letting our government send weapons to a country that provokes war throughout their region (look at Syria and Lebanon now) and must certainly separate our economies. (The price of Oil took a big leap this morning on midEast war news).

We all know that this hate is taught at an early age. Israelis and Palestinians hate each other but when asking newer generations, they don't seem to know why. By launching attacks like this, Israel is ensuring that this hatred will continue through upcoming generations. My question is this: If Hamas has been such bastards why has Israel not sought U.N. intervention in the matter...? why do they take it into their own hands to violently resolve the issue? and further more, why is Violence the way they solve the issue?

I've heard some interesting input into this issue...A comment today stated that Israel is trying to shore up its place on Obama's Repair List. That's interesting, no? Kill people and get support/repairs from the U.S.?

Damn.

Either way, Peaceful Conflict Resolution is what both parties need to work on...but, it's always difficult.

New Song...

2008-12-23T09:52:00.000-08:00

Here's a new song! I hope you enjoy it! Go fight my prop 8 protestors!

Queer Rights Fight Song
Craig Rouskey, 2008

We have seen a great injustice perpetrated by the right
Their offenses give us fuel to continue our great fight
For the freedom to be married is our goal and it’s in sight!
Yes, Queer Rights can be won!

In Solidarity Forever
Solidarity Forever
Solidarity Forever
Queer Rights can be won

When the folks in California/ said yes to Proposition Eight
They banned our same-sex marriages out of ignorance and hate
Though we struggle we will rise and get religion out of state!
Queer Rights can be won!

We are citizens of this country we are taxed and contribute
To the workforce and economy we should have the right to choose
To adopt and care for Children trapped in a system in which they lose
Queer Rights can be won!

After Losing Matthew Shepard our community saw the light
We now seek hate crimes protection and will never cease to fight
To be safe in our communities whether fag or tranny or dyke!
Queer Rights can be won!

Violent Protest

2008-12-22T06:36:00.000-08:00

Hello Community.

I've been hearing about this violent Protest in University City since Saturday on Fox News. I've listened to the Fox News Reporters consistently miss the point, so since this a Fox Exclusive, I am writing this blog to the Fox Reporters in an attempt to explain what they seemed to have missed,

"(KTVI - myFOXstl.com) -- A violent protest in University City ends with several arrests. An estimated 30 to 50 people were on Delmar carrying signs and protesting an event in Greece a few weeks ago where a Greek policeman allegedly shot and killed a teenage boy."

Well, yes, the protest was in "Solidarity" with a teenage boy murdered by police in Greece. For the record, Solidarity is defined as "mutual support within a group"- this is a word that Randi Naughton had a huge problem understanding this morning. Randi, people act in Solidarity with other people when a crime has been committed, you have often seen this in the form of a vigil, but solidarity can manifest itself in other ways!

So, let's talk about this Solidarity event. The protesters used language, and civil disobedience to make a point. When asked to not block traffic, they did. They distributed literature on Fascism, excessive police brutality and wage slavery. (Fascism= distribution of power from the top to bottom- much like the political structure of the U.S.; wage slavery- working to support a system that doesn't support us- as evidenced in the bailouts).
They made a statement about overuse of Police force and without the police there, they wouldn't have succeeded.

That's right. The Aggressors (the police) acted with PHYSICAL violence against protestors who used language and literature. This is what the protestors were protesting against...overuse of police violence.

The real story headline here should have been something like "Police turn peaceful protest violent when confronted with literature detailing their abuse of power."

Now, I know you reporters are just told what to read and don't really do the thinking, but come on...get a conscience and report ACCURATE news. Please.

If this is how they feel...

2008-12-14T12:47:00.001-08:00

Okay, I watched an AWESOME video today about an Iraqi Reporter throwing shoes (count 'em..2 shoes) at George Dubya during a press conference. The video is hilarious- watching that idiot dodge shoes!! haahahah. However, if that is how an Iraqi reporter feels about Dubya, imagine how the American People feel...

Here's the Video

In fact, I say, that if you feel like Bush is an idiot...THROW YOUR SHOES AT HIM! But, remember to get them back since you KNOW we can't afford new ones!

Peace y'all!

Hammer

The Chicago 200...

2008-12-07T07:23:00.000-08:00

Can I get some solidarity, please? There are 200 Electrical Workers that are occupying a factory in Chicago after being laid-off with 3-days notice (law required 60 days). They are demanding severance.

Show these United Electrical Workers some solidarity. If you're in Chicago, go to the Chicago Republic's Windows and Doors factory and show support.

The amazing thing about this is the incredible show of worker solidarity...putting power into the hands of the workers. That's what we need these days.

With all of the lay-offs going on in this country AFTER many of these institutions are receiving government bailouts is RIDICULOUS. In order to preserve ourselves we'll have to work together. You ready?

In peaceful struggle,

Hammer

Finally Acknowledgement of Truth.

2008-12-07T07:12:00.000-08:00

Okay, If you haven't noticed, Dubya has been going on tour acknowledging all of the lies he spread throughout his Presidency. Here is a transcript from a Charlie Gibson/Bush Interview. In it, he admits that Iraq had no WMDs before the war and that the reason we went was because Intelligence in Iraq was wrong. We, of course, all knew this was the case and spoke out against it. Unfortunately, those Bush-loving idiots out there didn't quite understand...Well, now even BUSH is setting the record straight.

Charlie Gibson: You've always said there are no do-overs as President, if you had one...

Dubya: The biggest regret of the presidency has to have been the Intelligence failure in Iraq.

Charlie Gibson: If the Intelligence had been right would there have been an Iraq war?

Dubya: If they had had Weapons of Mass Destruction would there have been a war? Absolutely.

Gibson: No, If you had known he didn't

Dubya: Oh, I see what you're sayin'. Uh, You know that's an interesting question, that is a do-over, that I can't do, it would be hard for me to speculate.

I'm glad some truth is coming out now. Let's keep it going.

Oh my god...

2008-12-05T08:25:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry, I need to bitch about this for a minute.

Read this shit!

WASHINGTON – President Bush said Friday that the fight in Iraq has been longer and more costly than expected, but he defended the U.S.-led invasion, saying the world could not risk leaving Saddam Hussein's power unchecked.

Uh, first...Really? Longer and more costly? Who knew? I mean, there's no way we could have predicted that this war was a colossal waste of resources and time, right? Fuck my life!

Second- as far as "Checking Sadaam's power..." There is a HUGE difference between CHECKING POWER and HANGING A MAN!

Maybe we should "CHECK BUSH'S POWER" before he leaves office? Let's hang that fucker!

(side note- have you noticed how cooperative he's been now that he's leaving office?)

Grrrrrrr.

Weddings...

2008-11-17T06:53:00.001-08:00

I had the wonderful opportunity stand up in my brother's wedding on Nov 14th. It was a great time. A nice, short ceremony followed by a limo bus ride to the reception and about 7 hours of drinking and happiness. It was an amazing time. However, as I stood there listening to the commitment my brother and his now 'wife' were able to make to each other in front of their peers, I felt a little, well...left out. I watched as the friends and family of this couple vowed to make sure they would support their relationship. That they would think of the couple and remember them in their prayers when times were tough. I heard the friends and family vow to be there to celebrate the milestones and accomplishments of the couple. Again, I couldn't help wishing I had the same rights.

I have been in a committed relationship longer than my (younger brother). Donnie and I have been together for 8 years now. We have gone through hard times, good times, long distance separations and have helped each other become better people. Why can't we have LEGAL acknowledgment of our relationship too?

I don't know, it seems to me that we should be encouraging love. It seems to me that we, as a nation, should be encouraging monogamy and commitment. It seems to me that if you want to protect marriage, then you should LET PEOPLE MARRY. Especially people that don't have a 60% divorce rate...

Everything about Proposition 8 in California is coming straight here...Straight to the Midwest. We have let a group of people, a CULT essentially- people who believe that Jesus had a lay over in America on his way to Heaven so he could plant some tablets for Joseph Smith to find. You know, which is more ridiculous....believing in that FUCKED UP STUPID STORY, or BELIEVING IN EQUAL RIGHTS?

And, more over, how can someone who believes in Jesus deny human rights for all. My people do NOT ask for RELIGIOUS MARRIAGE. MY PEOPLE ASK FOR SECULAR MARRIAGE, THE SAME SECULAR MARRIAGE THAT UNITES SO MANY HETERO COUPLES! Why should my people be denied this right? What makes Mormons- and other non-taxed institutions- think they can have a voice in the Government when they don't financially participate?!?!?!?!?!?

There was a huge debate over this issue in the Bush Administration- remember when preachers were evaluated by the IRS following Preaching about government in churches? Well, IRS MAN...you best be taxing the fucking MORONS, I mean, Mormons for their VOICE in the PASSAGE OF PROP 8.

No Justice, No Peace...

Congrats and A Word on Change!

2008-11-06T05:50:00.000-08:00

I'd just like to say Congratulations to all of the people of America. We've made a decision that will allow for some goodness to be done in the US. It has been SOOO long since I've felt Proud of this country. Really. I feel like we have the ability to effect some real change here. I feel hopeful.

I'd also like to say Congrats to the Real winner of this election...Levi Johnston. You don't think he's going to marry Bristol (Palin's Daughter) now that the election is over, do you?

Consider.

Okay, a word on Change. I'm very glad everyone thinks Obama is going to bring change to this country. I am glad people think that by electing Obama we've removed Racism from the US...But I would like to warn you about thinking Racism is gone. While racism may have vanished from the Political Arena, it STILL exists in the Public Arena...in increasing amounts. However, I think this too can change.

I'd also like to say that because of the work we did to get Obama elected (I canvassed, and worked the Polls) we've given ourselves the opportunity to create great change! The motto "Yes We Can, Si Se Puede" applies to the work that is yet to come, not to the election. So, change what we need to change using Obama as a conduit. A listening ear to our problems. A source of enacting the change we want to see.

Yes We Can, because we'll have a president that listens!

Good Luck President Obama, Good Luck Americans! We are going to make our country better!

Now, let's convince President Obama to help us create a Peace Loving Nation!!

Electronic Voting Issue...

2008-11-04T17:28:00.000-08:00

I worked the polls this morning in Webster Grove and there was some issues with the electronic machines- it seems a woman noticed her vote for Governor changed, she caught it before she submitted it, and came out and reported it to me (who was encouraging people to choose a paper ballot). I started informing people that this occurred while they shut down the machine (it helped my paper ballot argument). Turns out the people inside were encouraging people to select electronic ballots even with the issue!!!

We poll workers later saw a man go in with machine parts to repair the down machine- at 2pm...how many people's votes were screwed with?

I just hope this woman's case was the first and only case of electronic voting problems...though I doubt it since she arrived at 11am...and many people had used that machine before her- they probably just didn't catch it. I'm not saying the machine was tampered with to cheat, but it was faulty and needed to be shut down... I mean, the rest of the world uses paper ballots...WHY CAN'T WE USE IT AS A STANDARD?

Ugh!

I encourage you to write in with your issues!

Hammer

Proposition A in Missouri. . .

2008-10-28T20:21:00.000-07:00

Okay all, please go to Smart Voter and read about the Ammendments up for a vote on November 4th and find out more about your candidates!

By going there today, I read about Proposition A (which I though I would vote for based on the advertisements I've seen). Unfortunately, I will be voting against this Proposition...here's the Text:

Proposition A Revision of Statutes Relating to Casinos and Gambling 2008-035
Shall Missouri law be amended to:

* repeal the current individual maximum loss limit for gambling;
* prohibit any future loss limits;
* require identification to enter the gambling area only if necessary to establish that an individual is at least 21 years old;
* restrict the number of casinos to those already built or being built;
* increase the casino gambling tax from 20% to 21%;
* create a new specific education fund from gambling tax proceeds generated as a result of this measure called the "Schools First Elementary and Secondary Education Improvement Fund"; and
* require annual audits of this new fund?

State governmental entities will receive an estimated $105.1 to $130.0 million annually for elementary and secondary education, and $5.0 to $7.0 million annually for higher education, early childhood development, veterans, and other programs. Local governmental entities receiving gambling boat tax and fee revenues will receive an estimated $18.1 to $19.0 million annually.

It's a proposition in support of raping those with gambling Addictions. Fuck that! Also, why can't we fund education with OUR TAX DOLLARS? Isn't that where they're supposed to be going?

Ugh!

A word on bailouts and profit margins. . .

2008-10-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

Watching the evening news tonight there were two stories one on the first ever Saint Louis Enterprise Rent-A-Car layoffs and the other on AT&T Layoffs. I started yelling and of course my partner was like "you ok?" haha.

SO, here's my question. . .

We have been bailing out banks so they can increase lending to people and companies, right??

Then why are people being laid off? It seems to me that these companies laying off employees should be able to meet their salary requirements by sales or by receiving lent funds, no? Also, why bailout banks if no one has a fucking job? Why bail out banks ad fuck the people?

This is bullshit. And believe me, there have been soooo many layoffs here in STL and around the world...

Why are we backing big business but not the people? Something doesn't seem right.

I suppose the issue is profit margins, no? I mean, if you have a profit of 20 Million dollars a year with 1000 employees, and then your profit could possible decrease to 10 Million, you can recover some of that by laying off half of your people, right?

I mean, that's 500 people that won't be able to afford your product and will definitely speak out against your company, but fuck them, right...it's all about the cash (I'm being sarcastic)!.

Oh shit this country is fucked up!

I think it's time to move to Seoul Korea...they need English teachers!

Money talk. . .

2008-10-28T13:31:00.000-07:00

Well, today was an amazing day for the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Today the Dow jumped 889.35 points to close at 9065.12. The Nasdaq and S&P 500 also did amazingly well, but why?

We all know that we are poor as hell. We all know that times are hard and that the global economy is headed toward a huge recession. Why so well today?

Hmmm.

My thought is that since the Fed is set to cut the Federal Funds Rate from 1.50% to 1.00% tomorrow, the Dow is pricing this in. Normally, when the Fed cuts rates the Dow goes up and the US Dollar goes down. However, the market usually reacts to such news a day or two in advance. For example, the Euro rose against the Dollar today to 1.27 from a 1.245 level. Why is the Euro strengthening? My feeling is that this is due to the possible rate cut tomorrow.

If the Fed cuts to a 1.00% level, the Euro (if not over-bought) should stay at the same level or decrease against the Dollar. If the Fed cuts below 1.00% (not predicted), the Euro will gain more strength against the Dollar. Why? well, simply, when interest is low in your country, no foreign investors want to put money into your country...They want a return on their investment!

So, if this Fed Cut is 1.00% tomorrow, look to see small moves in the DJIA. If the cut takes us below 1.00%, look for another rally in DJIA...that is, if investors are paying attention to details!

So, the unfortunate part about this rate cut is this...

When the Fed Cuts rates, the DOW increases, Commodity prices increase, but the Dollar...she weakens. That means as Wall Street takes profits from the Cut, we, the consumer, suffer. High commodity prices and a weak dollar = RECESSION...big time! (We had this back in February-April).

So, anyway, tomorrow should be interesting.

Jam!

2008-10-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

Hello all! I received a donation to the HEN Foundation today...it was from Michelle Shocked!. Awesome!

In her honor and in the spirit of the (economic) times. . .I present you with Strawberry Jam by Michelle Shocked. Go buy her music!

Saturday morning found me itching
To get on over to my grandma's kitchen
Where the sweetest little berries was cooking up right
And then we'd put them in a canning jar and seal them up tight

We were making jam
Strawberry jam
If you want the best jam
You've gotta make your own

We have Smucker's, Welches, Knotts Berry Farm
But a little homemade jam never did a body no harm
A little local motion is all that we need
To close down these corporate jam factories

We have a little revolution sweeping the land
Once more everybody's making homemade jam
So call your friends up on the telephone
Invite 'em over, make some jam of your own

Amazing! Thanks Michelle!

A word on Experience

2008-10-27T07:31:00.000-07:00

So, I'm sure you have all seen that ad against Obama...the TV ad that asks whether or not we would want the inexperienced, executive experience-lacking Obama to be sitting in that leather chair in the Oval Office.

Do you think that every President we've had has been experienced enough to be in the White House? I mean, Bush had executive experience but had NO IDEA what to do once he was in the White House. He was also tested in his first year as President, and failed miserably, no?

Do you think you have to have executive experience prior to being the president? I think out country is founded on the idea that ANYONE over the age of 35 can run for President- regardless of experience, or is that too constitutional to be considered?

How do executives become executives in our country? If you had to have executive experience to hold an executive position, we would NEVER change Governors, Senators, Presidents, etc. It is the ability to learn on the job and the level of education that is most important here.

I think Obama is a well-educated man with good ideas to help our country. Most importantly, I think Obama is willing TO LISTEN- to the people and to his advisors. I think he is WILLING TO LEARN! Anyone who thinks they know everything BEFORE they get into a new position (whether that's a scientific position, a political position, a construction position, a WalMart position or whatever) is an idiot and won't amount to much in their new job.

I wish McCain had a little humility. A willingness to say "I've never done this shit before, but I can learn." Isn't what we want our president to say? Obama can learn!

It's going to be a bumpy ride. . .

2008-10-24T06:16:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning and turned on CNBC to be shocked by what I saw...here's a recap...

Dow Jones Futures -550
Nasdaq Futures - 84.75
S&P Futures - 60

These are all trading at "Limit Down" levels- that means they have halted pre-opening lower limits...they can't get lower before the opening bell. Eeek!

It's important to note that if the Dow drops 1100 points before 2pm there will be a 1 hour trading stop; If it drops 1100 after 2pm, there's a 30min stop.

Also, to my amazement, the dollar fell 5.00 points against the Yen, rose $.0263 against the Euro (1 Euro= $1.2642, was at 1.2515) and the Pound fell to 1.5638 against the dollar (1GBP=$1.5638). That's insane considering the 1.5 month ago highs of $1.65 Euro and $2.03 GBP. Insanity!

Interesting in the commodities, Oil fell (after a 1.5million barrel a day production CUT by OPEC) and Gold fell briefly below $700/oz.

It's a crazy market today- though I have to say, it all seems barely representative of what the STL economy has been looking like since February 2008.

Good luck people!

Rating Agencies...

2008-10-22T12:04:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've been following this news today.

It seems that a congressional oversight committee is reviewing what seems to be bad ratings made by S&P. Of course bad ratings lead to false confidence and skews the market leading to false support of this 'house of cards.'

Officials performing S&P ratings have said things like "I hope we're all rich before this house of cards comes tumbling down" and "we'd rate deals compiled by a cow."

Turns out all of those complaints of citizens against Wall Street are COMPLETELY ACCURATE...Wall Street Fucked Us, and we bailed them out! And the fucked us with a forethought... Those bastards...

Recession...

2008-10-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

Reports today indicate that 27 states are in Recession...here's Missouri's info (from The Dismal Scientist)...mind you, this Data is from August 2008. My Personal feeling is that Missouri has been in Recession since February.

Do you still blame The People?

2008-10-20T06:37:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to continue my seemingly endless pursuit of a career and saw this article.

The article explains that Freddie Mac hired a Republican consulting firm to kill a bill (by influencing 13 Republican Senators) that would have called for more regulation of Banks and Wall Street.

Fuck! And we just wrote a check to these fuckers!

Economic Data Today. . .

2008-10-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture showing some of our country's fundamentals (data released 10-16-08)...Notice the unemployment claims (number of people filing for unemployment insurance for the first time last week).

The fundamentals of our economy are strong- John McCain

Ha!

Largest Percentage Gains on the Dow...

2008-10-15T08:47:00.001-07:00

Biggest Percentage Gains

March 15, 1933: 8.26 points, or 15.34 percent, to 62.10

Oct. 6, 1931: 12.86, or 14.87 percent, to 99.34

Oct. 30, 1929: 28.40, or 12.34 percent, to 258.47

Sept. 21, 1932: 7.67, or 11.36 percent, to 75.16

Oct. 13, 2008: 936.42, or 11.08 percent, to 9,387.61

Oct. 21, 1987: 186.84, or 10.15 percent, to 2,027.85

Aug. 3, 1932: 5.06, or 9.52 percent, to 57.22

Feb. 11, 1932: 6.80, or 9.47 percent, to 78.60

Nov. 14, 1929: 18.59, or 9.36 percent, to 217.28

Dec. 18, 1931: 6.90, or 9.35 percent, to 80.69.

8 out of 10 of the largest percentage gains were during the Great Depression!

A note on the economy. . .

2008-10-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

Our former Fed-Chair NOW says we've entered into a recession! Hmm, I've been in recession for a long ass time!

I spend a lot of time watching CNBC, I trade Forex and have done so for quite some time now. I have to say that I am really worried about this economic situation. First, let me say that I was opposed to the bailout- $700 Billion to bail out banks when our economy is super-crappy? Come on, really?

After approving the bailout, Wall Street had a REALLY bad week closing on Friday around 8400 (after dipping down into the 7600 range for a minute). That's scary! So, what did our Federal Reserve do? They cut interest rates (yet again!) 0.5% to 1.5%. Okay. They also created an institution to buy up debt of banks to increase liquidity in lending. Hmmm. Okay. They've also announced today measures to spend $250 Billion dollars in capital injection into the banks, and have increased the FDIC account limit to $250,000 (just shy of meeting inflation requirements since FDIC incorporation post-Great Depression).

Okay. So, after the stock market sorta-crashed last week, on Monday, the stock market rose 936 points (an all-time one-day POINT increase record). Awesome. But what does that mean for us? Mental Note- 6 out of 10 of the LARGEST percentage gains happened DURING the Great Depression.

(1) Commodities will increase- oil for example, that was down to $76/barrel and gas at $3/gallon will go back up (an has started to do so- even with low demand). Natural Gas, Copper, wheat, etc...will continue to increase! awesome for our pocket books in the short term!

(2) The value of the US dollar will decrease against major currencies like the Euro (especially when oil goes up) make YOUR dollar unable to go as far as it once did. The dollar may look strong now, but let me say the only reason our Dollar is doing well against the Euro now (1.36 Euro= 1 dollar) is because Europe's economy sucks too.

(3) Our individual tax-debt will continue to go up...the cost per hosuehold is now $483,000 for the national debt plus this bailout.

(4) The bailout allows Wall Street to Sell into Rallies...that is when the Dow increases, Traders sell to make a profit on their way out...That will start happening this week (and definitely happened last week...)

So, inflation increases, your dollar doesn't go far, your personal debt goes up and let's not forget that EVEN WITH THE BAILOUT unemployment is INCREASING and the HOUSING CRISIS is not being resolved...That's right, capital injections to increase liquidity do not erase bad housing debt...

It doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me...Bail out the banks by stealing from the poor...

Something is wrong here...

I hope if someone out there has a better understanding of this economic situation they will share it with me...I really don't see how this economic plan RESOLVES any issues...I see it as (ANOTHER) bandaid...just covering up the problem...

And now our government is considering another STIMULUS package for us? As if giving us $600, and another $1000 will make us forget that you just made us give $2500 to banks?!?!

The unfortunate thing here is that I don't have any solutions...I see letting the economy fall apart as the 'smartest' long-term option...It keeps the power on OUR side (the People's side), and though it will hurt, it provides us with the opportunity to re-build...

Solving a credit crisis by allowing bad banks to give out more bad credit is NOT a solution...it's FUBAR!

Good luck to everyone!

Hammer

P.S. the Dow just turned Negative again!

Gas. . .

2008-10-07T09:23:00.001-07:00

I have a question...maybe someone can answer this for me...

When I moved back to the US in early 2008, gas was $2.25/gallon or around $90.00/barrel.
When oil went up to $140.00/barrel, gas was $4.25...

Why then, when oil is around $88.00/barrel (this week) is gas still $3.50?

Inflation? Oil companies selling off their "expensive" oil before they start buying the cheap stuff?

If our reserves were low, the futures would be going up (and the USD value would be going down compared to the Euro)...why is gas still so damn expensive?

Maybe we're just used to the prices now?

Hmmm...

Speaking Engagement

2008-10-02T22:00:00.000-07:00

I will be presenting a talk at the University of St. Francis on Single Issue Politics and my evolution from political cheerleader to activist...it should be interesting.

The University of St. Francis is located in Joliet, IL.

Vice Presidential Debate Night. . .

2008-10-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

Hello my fellow St. Louisans...

Today is a (another?) sad day for the People of our Country. Tonight, at 5pm, I went to a Rally and March to the gates of the VP Debate at Washington University in St. Louis. We met at Northmoor park, set amongst the mansions whose owners WERE invited to the debate. Standing in that park, surrounded by wealth, we, the people, heard from several of our brothers and sisters: a man whose daughter was raped and murdered by the US Military in Iraq- while serving her country; a representative from the School Board with no access to money to educate; a woman who lost her home (foreclosure!), and a woman struggling with cancer who had no healthcare.

We met at Northmoor to organize the march up the street to the barricaded debate. A debate in which our voices should have been heard. We did this because we, as Americans, wanted to inject some DEBATE (over REAL issues) into the theatrical spectacle that will occur shortly (8pm-CST). We were denied entry into the debate. The people who had real issues with government were DENIED entry into a debate. The voice OF THE PEOPLE was rejected from the debate.

Our country is in a sad state my friends. Our government, held hostage by greedy bankers, will soon be passing a bill that bail's out executives who have raped our brothers, sisters, neighbors, families, and friends. The disparity between the rich and poor is growing stronger every day. The rights that were once promised to us all- the pursuit of Happiness, Life, Liberty- are all being sold. Our voices are muted. Our consciences silenced by those that are meant to act based on our collective conscience. Our government is too strong, my people. Our government is too large. We have no education. We have no healthcare. We have no homes. We have no money. What will they take next? Our voices? Our will? Our Humanity? No. No. No.

My people, our voices must be heard. Not through voting. Voting selects a leader that will continue to propagate a government that represses us. Our voices will be heard through civil disobedience.

From today, I vow the following:

No longer will I be standing on the sidelines watching as my life is sold.

No longer will I silence my conscience in hopes that my representatives in Congress will speak for me.

No longer will I fund war, torture, bad business, and repression.

No longer will I participate in a government that doesn't recognize me as a citizen- deserving equal rights and access to benefits.

My people, I am infuriated, but in my anger I've found direction. I've found my conscience. I've found the voice that I know resonates within all of you. Look within yourselves and act based on your conscience. Let us move forward in solidarity and take back our country.

In struggle and hope,

Hammer.

Canvass. . .

2008-08-30T19:21:00.000-07:00

Today I spent the day canvassing for Obama in the 8th ward. Truthfully, it was more of a 'register to vote' thing than an Obama-education thing, but it was an interesting experience. I ran into an angry Republican who talked about how Clinton screwed the country with legislation that gave him the right to deploy troops within the US without notifying congress...

Hmmm...

I believe Bush did that!.

Then he went off about Trade and said "Fuck those liberals, I'm voting for McCain!" My response went something like: "Trade? You realize that voting for McCain will not stop the race to the bottom economics that is free trade while Barack wants an instant moratorium placed on free trade?!?!"

He shut his door!

I then walked down the street and met an awesome law student who is doing really awesome work and found we had a lot to talk about in the way of politics and activism.

This was the eye opener I needed!

Since I've been back in St. Louis (February), I haven't been participating in my community. I've been spending time with friends, working on the HEN Foundation and working to earn some green, but really, I lost touch with my community. Today, I re-realized the importance of participation. I RE-REALIZED the importance of community and KNOWING THY NEIGHBOR! I RE-REALIZED the difference one person in a community can make. I can't believe I forgot (okay, I took like a 5 month hiatus) how important it all is. But, I'm glad to be back on track!

After all was said and done, my companera and I registered three voters (regardless of who they said they wanted to vote for) and I was able to understand my neighborhood a little more. From the Kenyans now able to vote for the first time, to the Yugoslavian woman with an awesome garden and a passion for memorizing things, to the spoiled young, white, straight boys who were unwilling to consider voting because they were too focused on consuming as much as they could, I understand my neighbors, I understand my neighborhood.

Participation...Understanding...

Sweet!

Hey Folks...

2008-08-23T16:11:00.001-07:00

Wow, it has been sooo long since I've written on this blog. Sorry for neglecting and "Thank YOU" to those who noticed my absence!

So, I've been really busy- working on The HEN Foundation (GO MAKE A DONATION!) and trying to piece back my life after returning to the US. I've been working for the devil (science job in STL, you figure it out) and have recently decided to ditch science all together and go for non-profit/music/activism as a career- full force. It's been a stressful 2008! I've been reminded of that folk song quite a bit lately...

Hey Ho, Nobody Home
No meat, no drink
Money, I've got none.

But Still I may be Merry!

I'm poor as hell, busting my ass, but you know what, I've never been happier!

In peace!

Hammer

Kucinich and New Hampshire. . .

2008-01-11T08:48:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, the drama of the upcoming election is continuing to grow. The latest development is that Kucinich wants a recount (completely legal, though a little pricey) of the N.H. Primary. Nice! I hope Diebold isn't already starting their shit!

Why are we still using these machines for voting? Why are more Americans not pissed off about the way their RIGHT to vote is being exploited. There is a lot at stake with this election people. Let's make sure it is fair and accurate!

"Only 20% of New Hampshire's primary ballots were counted by hand. The
other 80% were counted exclusively by Diebold machines. Obama secured
his predicted lead on the hand-counted ballots, but Diebold-counted
ballots ended up giving the lead to Hillary. Stalin once said, "The
people who cast the votes decide nothing. The people who count the
votes decide everything." Or was it John Kerry who said that after he
conceded the 2004 election? Well whoever said it, it's Kucinich who has
had the courage above his slighted contenders to request that the New
Hampshire Secretary of State William Gardner recount Tuesday's
election......."

Vigilance!

Oh, Snap!

2008-01-11T05:05:00.000-08:00

So, it's all over the news here in Amsterdam. Apparently, the FBI got handed its ass from the phone companies!

I guess the FBI is having a bad time making ends meet. They can't pay their phone bills! Because of this, the phone companies have "cut their service."

And we thought that our government was scary?

At least now we know who is really in control!

You can fuck with the CIA or FBI, but don't you DARE fuck with AT&T.

Pay your bills!

Vigilance!

2008-01-07T06:04:00.000-08:00

I watched a CNN news report today (Monday) that said late Saturday night the U.S. Navy and Iranian warships had a conflict in the Strait of Hormuz.

Is this the beginning of the war with Iran? Why are we only hearing about this conflict on Monday morning? Damn! Damn Damn!

The news is changing. . .It went from being a 'conflict' to Iranians saying to US Navy "You will explode" to there being "no conflict" where Iranian ships returned to port.

Mmmhmmm.

The story can be found here.

My problem is, of course, none of the 'sources' of information could be identified. How is that possible? What kind of reporting doesn't ask "who are you and why are you telling me this story?" Ick!

We've got to be vigilant y'all. Another war? Hell no! Piss poor reporting? HELL NO!

Vigilance is the name of the game in 2008!

Picture and Lyric of the Week (week 5)

2007-12-31T06:11:00.000-08:00

Eternal Frost

The place all frozen still [The glaze of frozen steel]
Upon the body laid still
Extracted by sorcery
Once there was a myth [Once temples of myth]
Rivers of fear run cold
Ice castle formation
Frozen tears escape eternal frost
Hope and desire fade
Fury in the emperor's eyes
Cast here for eternity
Season of the damned [dead]
Rivers of fear run cold
Ice castle formation
Frozen tears escape eternal frost
Forbidden land of sorrow
At last the winter winds sing
Scattered ashes of kings
Gaze at the fallen walls [fallen ones; fallen world]
Rivers of fear run cold
Ice castle formation
Frozen tears escape eternal frost

Picture and Lyrics of the Week (week 4)

2007-12-24T06:09:00.000-08:00

Okay, I thought this doggie was cute! Had to post him. He's actually representing how I feel this week. I had such a great time ignoring the troubles of the world. Forgetting about the Evangelicals, the radical Right, the struggle for peace, the Iraq war. It did a body/mind/spirit good!

So, I hope everyone had a worry-free holiday! I hope we can take the spirit of the holidays and spread them throughout the year! I know this year, more than ever, I have realized the intrinsic connection I have to the world. The unbreakable bond of humanity, spirit and will. I have taken more time to understand death, life, -rebirth. Very important concepts to me these days.

Pagan Grace

There are many different varations of this song that have been recored over the years, below is but one of several that has been created.

V1

Amazing Grace, how sweet the Earth
That bore a witch like me
I once was burned, now I survive
Was hung and now I sing.

'Twas Grace that drew down the moonand
Grace that raised the seas.
The magic in the peoples' will
Will set our mother free.

We face the East and breathe the winds
That move across the Earth.
From gentle breeze to hurricane,
Our breath will bring forth change.

Turn toward the South and feel the fire
That burns in you and me.
The spirit's flame will rise again
And burn eternally.

V2

We greet the West, our souls awash
In tides of primal birth.
Our tears and blood, our pain and love
Will cleanse and heal the Earth.

Reach to the North and know your roots
Down deep ancestral caves.
We find the wisdom of the Crone,
"Of circles we are made."

Amazing Earth, enduring life,
From death unto rebirth.
'Tis Earth I am and Earth I love,
And Earth I'll always be.

Goddess Bless, so mote it be.
Our magic spirals on.
Merry meet and merry part,
And merry meet again.

V3

Amazing Grace, how sweet the Earth
That bore a witch like me.
I once was burned, now I survive
Was hung and now I sing.

'Twas Grace that drew down the moon
And Grace that raised the seas.
The magic in the peoples' will
Will set our mother free.

Amazing Earth, enduring life,
From death unto rebirth.
'Tis Earth I am and Earth I love,
And Earth I'll always be.

Goddess Bless, so mote it be.
Our magic spirals on.
Merry meet and merry part,
And merry meet again.

Peace!

A spirited letter against media consolidation. . .

2007-12-20T07:39:00.000-08:00

So, as many of you know, the FCC secretly voted to allow for hte ownership of multiple media outlets in a single location allowing for the enhancement of media consolidation. I received this letter from a concerned American named Craig E.

___________________________________________________

Hi, For those of us who don't want a few big companies deciding what we see, hear, and read in the news, it's a bad day. The Bush-appointed FCC just voted to loosen media ownership rules so media titans like Rupert Murdoch can swallow up more local news outlets. They did this despite a huge public outcry--when the FCC asked for public comments, 99% opposed media consolidation!

The LAST thing our democracy needs these days is fewer independent media voices and more news outlets like FOX. We are allowing the insidious creation of "Big Brother" right under our sleepy, apathetic little noses!

Congress has the power to reverse this rule change, and I just signed this petition asking Congress to do that. This issue is very important. Can you join me at the link below?

I can't tell you how annoyed I am with both the government AND the corporate media. After being enlightened about our involvement in Iraq, I am so livid with "the system" that I feel there needs to be a grassroots revolution peaceful, of course) to kick this country in the ass and wake up in regard to how we are asleep at the wheel when it comes to staying fully informed about matters of national discourse and policy.

While I am a former military man, and supporter of our national interests, I'm an independent thinker with no allegiance to either political party. That said, I feel our country is being eroded from within. When I studied journalism in college, Woodward & Bernstein were my idols, along with Mike Royko. The way the media is being conducted today, guys like that would be muzzled, thrown out of work, or never hired in the first place. And we'd never have known about the corrupt hacks that we entrust with creating public policy on every level of the government--from Nixon to Vrdolyak.

EXAMPLE: The Chicago Sun-Times is losing money, and must save something like $50 million this year. Has anyone been reading this formerly great paper, once home to Mike Royko? Well, if you have, you're reading a paper that is filled with pre-written press releases, packaged news items, and National Enquirer-style pap. On the front page yesterday, I saw a headline detailing the squalid love life of a Chicago Bears player. WTF!!!!!!

I guess we can thank Paris, Lindsey, and Britney for that, but I digress. In an effort to stop the hemorrhaging and save the paper, they are cutting their news reporting staff to the bone.

Here's an idea to all the brain surgeons at the Sun Times and other papers like them. Get back to what made the industry great--report the NEWS! Get the best reporters who aren't afraid for their jobs, who can dig deep, make contacts, do the footwork, and make a difference by keeping valued readers informed about the things that matter locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. Then, grow these types of reporters from within and cultivate a media culture of being professional, inquisitive, unbiased, and dogged in their pursuit of stories that MATTER.

Then maybe, just maybe, you'll have a product that is worth the investment of time to read every day, thereby increasing your readership and subscriptions. When that happens, your viability as a business increases exponentially, allowing ad revenues to go up. What does that do? It ensures success as both a business AND as a trusted source of news the public needs. DUH.

RRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!

If you agree with me, visit
here
and get your opinion HEARD!

Picture and Lyrics of the Week (Week 3)

2007-12-17T09:10:00.000-08:00

Lately, I feel disheartened. I feel like no matter what I say or think, the currently regressive regime in the US will be heard. Their spin will be put on their stories. I feel like we have lost. I feel like that the days when Americans wanted Peace are over. I though that was the whole point to all of this...PEACE. Not CAPITAL gain. Why aren't we working for Peace?

Don't get me wrong, I will not be giving up. I will continue to work for peace. I will continue to expose the Bush regime for the criminals and assholes they are! We will win in time, but now, I want to refocus some energy on the struggle for Peace.

So, here's the lyrics of the week!

Peace

You do not speak for me
When you say let's go to war
You do not act for me
When you go to kill some more

All I want is peace
All I want is peace

It's time to evolve
As a species, as a family
It's time to resolve
Our conflicts peacefully

When will you speak for me
When will you work for peace
When will our hearts be free
Of all this tragedy

All we want is peace
All we want is peace

It's time to transform
Our warfare into healing
May peace now be born
May we open, may we feel it

May all hearts open now
And grow in understanding
And teach our children how
To live in harmony

All they'll know is peace
All they'll know is peace

¬©2002 Eileen Hazel

Eileen Hazel - acoustic guitar, vocal
Recorded live on KPFA - March 8, 2003

Finally a positive. . .

2007-12-11T15:45:00.000-08:00

I've been spending most of my time on this blog complaining about the U.S. government while seeking positive resolutions. It seems one of the biggest in-house problems in the U.S.- disparity in the execution of law- is being resolved. . .by those in power! Wow!

Read this!.

So first, let's talk about the problem.

Where to begin. . .

Okay.

Here we go!

A while back (2001) I was given a book through a friend of mine Sara Zia. The book was titled No More Prisons written by William Upski Wimsatt. This book spawned a whole movement, really. William was the founder of the Self Education Foundation in NYC. Focusing on philanthropy, the group sought o help individuals take responsibility for their education- personal education- outside of the academic arena! Nice, right!

So, the book, No More Prisons, talked about the disparity written into the Legal System. One of the examples in the book was the sentencing of Crack users and Cocaine users. It turns out that crack users were more likely to go to prison longer for using smaller amounts of crack than their cocaine-using counterparts with larger amounts. That means if I were caught with a gram of cocaine, I'd go to Jail for say, (for example) 6 months while a person caught with 1/2 a gram of crack would go to prison for say, a year. Weird, right?

So, due to other Social disparities in America (i.e. distribution of wealth), it turns out that the people going to jail for crack were poor black people while those going to jail for cocaine were white middle to upper class people. Mmmhmm. Racism inherent in the system is icky people! Icky!

So, now, we have more black people in Jail for drugs than white people and for longer time than white people! Ugh, fucked up!

Finally, people are waking up to this issue and are decreasing prison sentences for crack users/addicts. Yes! Finally people are waking up to the issue and doing something about it! Hooray!

If only now we can help the crack users recover and destroy the social disparities that drive disenfranchised brothers and sisters to turn to drugs in the first place!

One step at a time, sweet Jesus!

Picture and Lyrics of the Week (Week 2)

2007-12-10T04:06:00.000-08:00

Okay, I found this picture on the web. Very Very Very Very Funny. It is freezing here in Amsterdam but unfortunately, we only get cold rain here. NO SNOW. I miss real winter and hope it gets better during the next few months. So, here's a big 'fuck you' to Amsterdam winter so far!

I want to make it very clear that I do view winter as a time to become introspective. A time to focus on the matters of the house. Getting closer to myself, getting closer to my partner, getting closer to my family, getting comfortable being inside and alone. Shutting down only to be reborn in Spring again with new energy. I imagine this is how the trees must feel. But imagine being a tree, wanting to have leaves, but not being able to. Being stuck in your shell waiting to bloom. How frustrating! Perhaps this is why people get depressed during winter...we turn all of our feeling inward too quickly and then after dealing with our shit, we get stuck there, waiting to re-open, bloom, what have you! That's a lot for us to handle all at once.

Anyway, here's to turning inwards and hopes of patience while waiting to bloom!

Paz, Salaam, Shalom!

Heaven and Earth Welcome Spring after a Long Winter from Clear Harmony.

After the longest night,
Memory of sunny days long gone,
Cold, frightened, lost...
One day, the Fa(1) is rectified.
One day, time to awaken.
Day finally breaks:
Turn towards the sun,
Open your eyes,
And welcome the dawn.

(1) Law and principles.

Terror Tapes

2007-12-07T04:51:00.000-08:00

Well, the bullshit out of this administration is continuing. Apparently the CIA destroyed some tapes of terror suspects as they posed a security risk.

Pause.

Think.

Risk for who?

I personally believe that keeping these tapes would've posed a risk to the administration torturing the suspects. However, since WATERBOARDING isn't torture now, the suspects weren't technically Tortured, right???

Fuck that!

The story is here!

Home Despot?

2007-12-05T04:18:00.000-08:00

Lately, the strategy of many large consumer-hungry corporations is to wield power in a way that puts the people helping that corporation under its control. Whether it is the workers who do the labor yet suffer due to decisions made in the best interest of the corporation, or the consumers who have become unwilling slaves to the many corporations that have taken our place in the public and political arenas.

The latest example: Home Depot. Home Despot has laid off 950 slaves, I mean, workers, in an attempt to make a larger profit. Just in time for Christmas!

Mother fuckers!

Unfortunately y'all, this is Despotism.

Workers, we have to unionize. We have to make sure we are not treated as slaves and that we are given the respect we deserve as workers.

Pharaoh, Pharaoh, Let my people go!

Iran and Knowledge. . .(Fascism part II)

2007-12-05T04:07:00.000-08:00

Okay, my thoughts on the Iran situation.

Sure, Bush has been talking about Iran's nuclear program, a program that has not been active since 2003. He was all about working the American people up to go to war, yet AGAIN! Luckily, we have some semi-intelligent people working in intelligence. Whew. Conflict avoided.

However, I'd like to make some comments on Bush's latest speech in which he stated that "Iran is dangerous with the knowledge to produce nuclear weapons." Uh, knowledge? What? I thought we were worried about Iran having the TOOLS to produce nuclear weapons, weren't we?

Since the tools are not being used (since 2003- and remember, there was no intelligence suggesting they were producing WEAPONS- we have to go to controlling knowledge?

My question: Does the government of the U.S. think that it is so superior that it can regulate Knowledge?.

Sure, the US has been regulating the knowledge of it's own people (and that's wrong), but trying to go to war based on access to knowledge is fucked up. In fact, it's Bush's neo-demo-fascist bullshit!

Holy shit! People, we really gotta pay attention to our governments 84-esque Newspeak!

Picture and Lyrics of the Week (week 1)

2007-12-03T16:40:00.000-08:00

Your Infuriated Faggot is starting a new tradition on his blog. A picture, song/poem to inspire the week! Enjoy this week's entry. Just in time to spend assloads of money making corporations richer...why? because as Americans the only way we can show love is by purchasing shit? I hope not.

Peace

Borderlines
By: Valerie Depriest and Gayle Gingrich!

Hearing how business is tough in America
How the union is out of hand
well I heard on the news today
about the latest threat to my pay
but there's one thing I just don't understand:

You say you can't afford our wages
So you turn your greedy eyes to distant shores

While patrols guard the border lines
I'm standing on a picket line
In corporate boardrooms plans are formed
to move my job to El Salvador
Where for fifty cents a day
A woman sweats her life away
and they tell me she's my enemy

At first I didn't have the time
to bother with the words oh no
it seemed so very far away
but now I'm in a worried mood
'cuz hands need work and kids need food
and I just got laid off today

They say it only makes good business
While their PROFITS swell up like some disease

While patrols guard the borderlines
I'm standing in an unemployment line
and somewhere in the Philippines
a mind grows dumb from stitching seams

Guatemalan hills are cash
a coffee picker's skull get smashed
and they tell me HE's my enemy?

I think I am finally putting it all together
borderlines don't hold their loyalty

They don't care who is the drone,
hand of yellow white black or brown,
profit is their only deity!

As corporate arms spread all around the world,
they'll strangle any weakness they can find:
from the mines in South Africa
to the fields of El Salvador
from the manquilladoras in Mexico
to the white slots in Tokyo

Sweat is Sweat and blood is blood
and one day soon the time will come
to stand face our common enemy!

My feelings on Venezuela. . .

2007-12-03T07:21:00.000-08:00

So people, I'm disappointed about the results of Venezuela's vote on 69 constitutional amendments. All of them did not pass.

Of course, the major loss for Chavez was the inability to run again in 2012. (I think a lot of people thought this meant he could just be president without being elected, but that isn't true. Every term he'd have to be re-elected.) This loss isn't that important to me as an American expat living in Amsterdam, however, my feeling is without Chavez in office, Venezuela will open itself up to American neo-demo-fascism and be stifled by the race-to-the-bottom economics that is manifest in the Central American Free Trade Agreement. Eek. With all that oil too. . . shit Venezuela!

The most important losses here were things like: the 36 hour work week; Rights for women, multiracial minorities and homosexuals; the establishment of social security benefits; the establishment of communities that help give the poor a greater voice in Venezuela; and housing amendments.

On the outside, Chavez looks like an angry dictator. The truth is, Chavez has struggled as a multi-racial man living in Venezuela and was honestly hoping to make Venezuela a better place with these referenda.

I'm sorry for the loss of Chavez's vision and I'm sorry the U.S. succeeded in clouding the dreams of a patriot.

I'm happy however, that the 56% of Venezuelans that went out to vote- did! The Venezuelan Democracy is doing better than America's in that aspect!

I'm happy Hugo C. handled his loss well. Well played!

I'm scared of what this means for the Venezuelan people.

¿quién le mató? - Who Killed Him?

2007-12-02T03:51:00.001-08:00

CNN Spain aired a report asking the question. . ."Who Killed Chavez?"

Video can be found here!.

For the record, Chavez is NOT dead and he is loved by his people. . .despite what the U.S. has tried to do to oust him (i.e. stage a coup) the people of Venezuela respect Chavez as a libertarian whole. By the way, read Petras' uncovered memo Re; Venezuela Referenda here. It describes the U.S. involvement in disrupting Chavez's Power. You can also read about the referendum at Petras' site.

Here's a detailed explanation of the Referenda being considered in today's Venezuelan Vote. (There is mention in the paragraph of SOA graduates as well).

"The outcome of the Referendum of December 2 is a decisive historical event first and foremost for Venezuela but also for the rest of the Americas. A positive vote (Vota ‘Sí’) will provide the legal framework for the democratization of the political system, the socialization of strategic economic sectors, empower the poor and provide the basis for a self-managed factory system. A negative vote (or a successful US-backed civil-military uprising) will reverse the most promising living experience of popular self-rule, of advanced social welfare and democratically based socialism. A reversal, especially a military dictated outcome, will lead to a massive blood bath, such as we have not seen since the days of the Indonesian Generals’ Coup of 1966, which killed over a million workers and peasants or the Argentine Coup of 1976 in which over 30,000 Argentines were murdered by the US backed Generals."

So, my Venezuelan brothers and sisters. . .Vota ¡sí!

Media Bullshit

2007-12-01T16:30:00.000-08:00

I saw this article entitled Death toll for Iraqis falls and freaked out a little bit.

Sure, they talk about the number of dead Iraqis this month being 781 (less than previous months) but saying that the Death Toll fell implies, to me, that the dead have been waking up. Truth is, the Iraqi Death Toll went up 781 this month. It didn't fall.

The media is spreading falseness through sort of misnomers! Bastards! That shit infuriates me!

Check out This Site: Iraq Body Count for DOCUMENTED cases of Iraqi deaths during this war- including ages, situational causes of death, etc.

It's Fascism Man! (part I)

2007-11-29T01:20:00.000-08:00

I alluded to this article a couple of weeks ago. I have to tell you that the more I look at America from the view point of a 6-month expat the more I see that America is currently switching to fascist control. Sure, I wrote about this on the Progressive Puritan blog a couple of years ago, but now I have different eyes. My experiences of what real liberty and democracy look like are changing my views of America. . . for the worse. I see the narrowing of media, the abuse of power, the wealth disparity and the lack of education flooding America being used to continue the repression of a people that- if were a little less afraid of a government that should fear them- have the potential to rise above this nonsense!

With that said, are we ready?

Here it goes. . .

Media Control

My problem with media in the U.S. stems from the narrowing of control and the lack of diverse and dissenting voices in the Media. It scares me. We have one 'unified' voice on all channels and people think they're getting different, diverse and 'real' information? huh? Really, the corporations who own the stations (your stations) own the information and have the power.

For a better understanding of media-based control and the use of that control against the people of the US, read this.

Whether it is the internet, television news (local, national and international), or radio, the streamlining of media ownership is resulting in the formation of a common voice that can use or abuse information as they like. This is not the way to a 'free press.' This is not the way to assure we have information before we jump into wars. This is not the way to assure our liberty.

(side note. . .the FCC is currently dismantling the law that prevents one corporation from owning Newspaper, Television and Radio in a given locale. They are being sneaky about it (i.e. not giving people warning of the meetings, not advertising it) hoping that Americans won't raise their voices in support of a free press. The only Media outlet that covered this story is Democracy Now!. Check out their site for the story from two dissenting FCC commissioners.

Political Correctness

This subject goes hand-in-hand with media control, but I'd like to talk about it because of an experience I had in Chicago over Thanksgiving. I was watching "the Craft" with my Father on Friday. When it came to the part where the 3 bad witches start to fuck with the good witch and they use a 'glamour' to make her think that her family died in a PLANE CRASH, the scene was cut. Later at the end of the film, the phrase 'Plane Crash' was bleeped from the mouth of one of the bad witches.

Truth was slaughtered in the name of political correctness and political sensitivity. Really, this notion of political correctness is just a way to sensor free speech. Do I think people should speak without respect for others. . .NO. Do I think truth should be distorted in the name of what is politically correct? NO! Political Correctness is just another form of state sponsored control. Damn! And you thought you were being a good person!

(Side note. . . I was recently informed that movies made in the US- featuring the twin towers- are being remastered to remove the towers! IS THIS TRUE?? If so, it's crazy that Americans want to delete their History)

Spying

Your government can listen to the conversations of citizens to prevent uprisings in the name of Homeland Security (Hitler used the term "Heimat" for Homeland Security). Patriot Acts I/II and the involvement of national (soon to be multinational) companies in spying is creepy and violates the constitution. Spying on people, making illegal arrests and torturing people. . .hmmm, Fascism, Fascism, Fascism!

Torture

The Military Commisions Act of 2006 legalizes torture. It seems to me that allowing torture and allowing black sites for uncontrolled prisons (i.e. Abu Ghraib/ Guantanamo) is a step in the direction of fascism (in fact, Stalin and Hitler did this too).

With the power of torture, you can better control people. The scariest thing here is that the US has confirmed an Attorney General that denounces Waterboarding as torture (primarily because saying that it IS torture means he'd have to admit there are criminals in the white house). Uh, scary! Our government tortures people and won't stop when it comes to torturing us!!!

As I'm writing this, I'm becoming more and more convinced that America has already become Fascist. It's not in the process of becoming Fascist- it's already there! Americans are afraid of their government, and have therefore surrendered all power to that government. Now what?

Uncover the fascism spreading through our country like poison! Talk about it! Get ready to fight it!

Remember, "Your Silence Will Not Protect You!"

When the Hen Crows, the State will fall!

2007-11-27T11:50:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! The HEN Foundation website is up and running. . . click here.

Briefly, the HEN Foundation is an idea created by Jolie Rickman before dying of Ovarian Cancer in 2005. Briefly, the foundation was established to supply grants to artist activists and to link those artists/activists with a cause (from environment, peace to trade, etc). At the end of each year, a DVD is made detailing the experience of that years' HEN Artist/Activist. Work created by the HEN Artist is then produced and distributed, thus spreading the message of the activist group and helping the HEN Artist be an artist/activist.

Check out the site. And, soon, comrades, we'll need donations which shall be made available through a PayPal account. So, get ready to donate!

SOA Watch Protest II

2007-11-27T11:32:00.000-08:00

So, I'm back from the States- back to my computer- and back to all things Dutch and annoying, and that's OK!

The SOA Watch protest was amazing. 25,000 people together to end torture-based education with our tax dollars. I'm still surprised more Americans aren't all up in this topic since the American rhetoric is all about stopping terrorism. Hmmm.

So, besides the personal aspects of the protest (i.e. seeing Colleen, Jacque, Sandy, etc.) and spending time with my boy (whom I miss horribly) I had a great experience.

Saturday, after a long flight (Thursday) into Chicago and drive (Friday) to Ft. Benning, Georgia we went to the Rally. Boring plenary (I've been going to this protest for nearly a decade now, I get it!), but really good music and spirit throughout the outdoor rally. It's always nice to be around people who share your beliefs, you know?

On Saturday night my boy and I led an illegal protest in the streets of downtown Columbus, Ga with some students from New Jersey! Nice! When the police came (after the under-cover police tried to instigate violence from within the crowd) I became mediator between police/legal collective and protesters. It was the first time I was in this position but I liked it. I mean, I nearly had a heart attack, but I liked it. I'm good at it too. Though, I have to say, there were some asshole cops in Georgia. Specifically, one overly-aggressive black cop who felt the need to poke a protester in the chest provoking violence. Luckily, the protesters took an oath to uphold the principles of non-violence.

Okay, so Saturday night was amazing. Sunday was also amazing. The funeral procession was amazing and, that I know of, 11 people were arrested for crossing onto the base. Three students were arrested for carrying crosses that didn't meet size requirements (ridiculous); you can see that video here.

The Saturday night rally videos can be seen here (also with a clip of me mediating!).

Okay, that's all for now!

Peace and Solidarity!

SOA Watch protest!

2007-11-14T00:20:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! It's that time of year again! Time to head down to Ft. Benning, Georgia to close the School of the Americas, School of the Assassins, Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (WHINSEC/WHISC).

For the complete history of the organization and history of the movement to shut it down, visit The SOA Watch.

I'm heading to Ft. Benning (from Amsterdam, NL) for the protest on Friday Nov. 16th with a group from the University of St. Francis! Woot. Should be fun. I'll keep you posted.

Let's Study War NO MORE!

Learning a different language. . .

2007-11-12T03:59:00.000-08:00

So, since I've been living in Amsterdam I've been trying to learn Dutch. It's a hard language but luckily it has similarities to English which make it easier to understand. As of late, I've been understanding a lot more and am even starting to speak it. The unfortunate part of learning Dutch, however, is that most of my friends here speak Spanish! So, I've been speaking a lot of Spanish as well. With all this studying and practicing of languages I got to thinking about what would happen if we all learned a different language. Not Spanish, Not Dutch, Not German, or Arabic. A different universal language. A different language. . .

I've also noticed that since I've been studying Dutch and practicing Spanish, I'm understanding more of my own language. Understanding where it came from, how it developed, its uses and its limitations. There are some expressions in Dutch that can exactly define how I feel better than English. But, really, what if everyone took the time to learn a different language. . .

I think I have a song for this. . .

A Different Language
By: Colleen Kattau

they're sending my boy to Bahrain
to start another war all over again (2x)
learn a different language.
they won't send their boy to Bahrain
their hand's in the oil and they're pulling the strings
they never send their boy to Bahrain
they're royal with the oil and they would be king.
their son sits in a velvet chair- comfortable he ain't going nowhere
my son doesn't have enough money
so they make him a killer for the land of the free
why don't we learn a different language?
that says:
we want peace in this land nuye du salaaem
we want peace in this land di la kibush
nuye du salaaem
now they want to send my girl to Bahrain
equality ties to that ball and that chain
but they'll never send my girl to Bahrain
not till their child goes and not even then
we're teaching her a different language
we're reaching him with a different language
that says
we want peace in this land
nuye du salaaem
peace, nuye du salaaem

A different language. . .a language of Peace. Only after we study this new language can we understand the limitations of our current language of violence and war.

Immigration Resolution: 4 steps

2007-11-12T02:59:00.000-08:00

I have been giving this topic a lot of thought. I'm trying to put things together. Maybe you can all help me. This is the way I see the Current Immigration Situtaion.

First let me make sure that all of you know where to find the the Current Immigration Guidelines. These play a very interesting role in the current "US Immigration Crisis."

Now, let me say something right off the bat. I do NOT think that the "Minute Men" should be patrolling our borders with their inflated sense of pro-America ideology. If anything, all of you should know that I don't believe in borders. They are not natural and don't have a place in the world. Now, don't confuse my hatred for borders with the acceptance of globalization. Globalization, they way it is abused politically and economically is NO GOOD. I despise the evil trade-oriented globalization. Now, in terms of my Utopia, I think international co-mingling and exploration as derived through the destruction of borders would be fantastic. So, #1: No Borders; they are designed to separate and destroy inter-personal relationships and human understanding (Remember "Divide and Conquer?").

Of course, people get really scared and threatened when you talk about destroying their border lines. Perhaps people feel safer when borders are established. To them I say #2: "let go of your fear!" / You have nothing to fear but fear itself! The reason for war? (Other than Religion, Money and Greed?) Control of land. . . which can be linked to the three parenthetical items. Forget it. You can't own the land! Plus, it's not worth it. Unless of course you are a greedy, selfish asshole. No judgements, I just don't want any of your shit to get on me.

So, no borders; no fear of other people; I guess we should talk about jobs. Taco Bell, the evil and labor-abusive fast food chain has been hiring 'Illegal Immigrants' for years. They hire illegal migrant workers. The workers pick tomatoes, come payday, Taco Bell calls the INS...those ASSHOLES! Now, we are seeing this huge uprising against the Immigrant people (who again: HAVE BEEN DISPLACED BY U.S. AGRO-BUSINESS AND FREE TRADE) by Americans. The stupid people were NOT UPSET AT TACO BELL FOR HIRING THE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS??? If they are so pissed off about ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION, why are they not boycotting Taco Bell with the rest of us?? So, #3: Don't misplace your anger on the immigrants. They do your dirty work. Take your anger out on the CORPORATIONS and OTHER RICH ASSHOLES that employ them. . . preferentially by boycotting their companies and forcing them out of international free trade agreements!

Also,#4 my fellow US-Americans, remember that Compassion thing I talked about...Try to use some!. Got it?

So, we have no borders, we have no fear of a different culture, we don't misplace our anger on the immigrants displaced by US foreign policy and we have compassion. SOUNDS GOOD TO ME.

Let's do this thing. Stop the minute men. Stop evil, people-displacing trade policies.

Paz

Also, Check Out One of My Favorite Singers!

The Party . . .

2007-11-07T13:20:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Sorry for the delay in writing! I'm busy cooking a Thanksgiving dinner for my friends in Amsterdam and trying to stay healthy with this horrible weather!

So, here's a story. . . and kind of goes along with my feelings of Amsterdam at the moment (it's so time for me to go on vacation).

I worked at this party last weekend. . .

Pause.

Think.

Okay, it wasn't a party. It was a hardcore techno trip to hell for me and my friend Ana.

We worked from 10:30pm Saturday night until 7am Sunday morning. Mmmhmmm. I sold T-shirts for the first half then switched to selling Ijsjes (popsicles).

How did I get myself into that situation?

Well, my friend Sandra works for the company that threw the party (she builds and strikes the 'set'). Which, by the way, looked really cool. Unfortunately the children at this event were so high on X that they couldn't enjoy (let alone remember) the decorations. Hmmm.

So, while selling shirts and stuff I had a good time. Danced a lot. Talked to some people. But when I switched to Ijsjes, it was all over. People were more ignorant (I think their drugs kicked in) and demanding. Not to seem like it was all bad, because really, I talked to some really cool people and had fun with Ana- even though we didn't get paid! hehe.

So, anyway, my issue isn't with the party but with the drugs and the desire to forget everything that is real in the name of having a good time. . .

Does that seem a little pathetic (zielig) to anyone besides me?

I like reality. I like knowing what's going on in the world. I like being a part of the world. I know that not everyone can think the way I do (bless their hearts) but, come on. . .someone. . . give me an A-MEN on being over that scene!!

Happy Guy Fawkes Day!

2007-11-05T06:26:00.000-08:00

I'll never condone violent revolution. . .but either way, celebrate Guy Fawkes Day!

Revolution starts with the mind!

Fires update. . .

2007-11-05T05:43:00.000-08:00

Hey, recently I wrote about the California Fires and now I have an update!

Enjoy America's Fucked-Uptitude!

Waterboarding

2007-11-05T05:25:00.000-08:00

Okay. I read this a couple of days ago and have to tell you that it really freaks me out. . . for several reasons!

For a person to not immediately condemn waterboarding as torture means a person thinks torture is okay. . .and there are people who think torture is Okay! And I thought Gonzales was bad?

Oh wait. . . do you know what waterboarding is?

Waterboarding is the act of strapping a person down to a board, covering their face with cloth and pouring water through the cloth into their lungs to simulate the act of drowning. Let op! This technique was reportedly first used in the Spanish inquisition.

So, the question. . .is waterboarding torture? For MuKasey, this is a difficult question. MuKasey believes that waterboarding may not be torture depending on the manner in which it is used.

Shudder.

This is a man who is so far up Bush's ass he can't see torture when it is systematically drowning him! And, we want him as Attorney General?

The thought of many is that MuKasey is protecting Bush and his cronies from being charged with war crimes. Torture is defined as a war crime and everyone up the ladder to the president involved in torture can be tried for a war crime (which would be a pity for the President to go out like this, since he and his buddies have done everything in their power to protect themselves against war crime charges (i.e. suspension of Habeus Corpus; Patriot Acts I/II).

Really, I want to know. . . what does this mean for the country?

The dawn of American-style Neo-Fascism?

Pause. . .

Add new 'blog' post entitled 'It's Fascism Man!

Continue. . .

I imagine dissidents of wars in America, activists against free-market economies, -dissidents, activists, people- being dragged from their homes after being suspected of terrorism and tortured like this. I imagine myself going through something like this.

That makes me scared, but my pride will not let me be afraid of my government.

The really shitty thing about torture is that it gets in the way of real Justice. For example, 80% of information used to convict Khalid Sheikh Mohammed- the supposed 9/11 mastermind- is unusable in court because of 'the means by which the information was obtained! That means, our governments torture tactics are actually interfering with the progress of justice!

Cringe. . ..

Fellow Americans, I need to tell you that no longer can you sit in silent support of your government. These tactics, the donation of 48% of your tax bill to military, the excessive use of force by the military and CIA are NOT FOR YOUR FREEDOM OR PEACE. Your government uses your money to torture and kill TO PROTECT THEMSELVES and one day, this FORCE SHALL BE USED UPON YOU.

Look at the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2007!

Shit is scary y'all! Time to rise up!

Phelps' Fine. . .

2007-11-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I was rather happy to hear that Fred Phelps' Church, here was fined $11million for protesting at a military funeral. The policy of Phelps' church regarding war is that essentially "the reason we (America) loses so many wars is because we allow gays to participate in the military."

Shrug.

Let's see. . .

where to begin. . .

Perhaps the reason we lose so many wars is because we participate in too many wars at the same time, over estimate our military strength and underestimate the strength of our 'enemies'? Maybe the reason we lose so many wars is because our military is under the control of our idiot president, Dubya? Maybe the reason so many Americans die in wars is because we hire private mercenaries, like Blackwater, to work toward war and away from peace?

Ugh!

What does war have to do with gaydom anyway?!?!

Now, one thing that really infuriates me with organized religion is the fact that the people who participate usually (a broad generalization, I know; and if it includes you, I'm sorry) believe the simplest stories to understand the most complicated of situations. Whether it's gayness being the cause of military casualties, or God blinking waving his hand to create the universe; the simple stories are only created to make you feel better about where you've come from, why life is the way it is, and comfort you on your journey forward. But, my question is, do we need it? Well, I know that I don't.

I also think that religion in general takes away from the appreciation we all should have for nature and life. With organized religious institutions like that created by Phelps, you put your faith and appreciation into one imaginary being and really, IGNORE the world around you. If Phelps' followers were less interested in following the desires of an imaginary Old Testament God and were more appreciative of life and took a stand for Peace, there wouldn't be wars!

Damn.

Now, back to the funeral issue. Yes, they protested at funerals. Yes, they should have to pay the price (just like all activists). Though I believe in free speech and will support it to my dying day, I still think these people shouldn't have protested at a military funeral. Phelps' church must realize the difference between Liberty and License. Simple. Just because you can doesn't mean you should!!!

Show respect for the dead, even if the dead did not show respect for life. . .

Mmmhmmm. . .

Though I do not support the troops, I do not support people who don't respect life, though I don't support any person (gay, straight, male, female, black, white, brown, yellow, transgendered) who continues our worlds' legacy of war; I still think we must respect the dead. Always!

Oh, I have the perfect song for this!

Universal Soldier
By: Buffy Sainte-Marie

He's five foot-two, and he's six feet-four,
He fights with missiles and with spears.
He's all of thirty-one, and he's only seventeen,
Been a soldier for a thousand years.

He'a a Catholic, a Hindu, an Atheist, a Jain,
A Buddhist and a Baptist and a Jew.
And he knows he shouldn't kill,
And he knows he always will,
Kill you for me my friend and me for you.

And he's fighting for Canada,
He's fighting for France,
He's fighting for the USA,
And he's fighting for the Russians,
And he's fighting for Japan,
And he thinks we'll put an end to war this way.

And he's fighting for Democracy,
He's fighting for the Reds,
He says it's for the peace of all.
He's the one who must decide,
Who's to live and who's to die,
And he never sees the writing on the wall.

But without him,How would Hitler
have condemned him at Dachau?
Without him Caesar would have stood alone,
He's the one who gives his body
As a weapon of the war,
And without him all this killing can't go on.

He's the Universal Soldier and he really is to blame,
His orders come from far away no more,
They come from here and there and you and me,
And brothers can't you see,
This is not the way we put the end to war.

Can I get an A-men?

Soldiers stop fighting- Drop your guns. Soldiers, you perpetuate these wars!

Respect life and honor the dead!

Feliz Dia De Los Muertos!

2007-11-01T03:07:00.000-07:00

To those of you who have lost someone special in your lives, take this day to honor them!
(Though you should be honoring them everyday by your actions!)
Travis
Brian
Richard
Jason
William
Sully
Chris
Jolie

Presente!

Better. . .

2007-10-31T02:58:00.000-07:00

I read This and feel a little better about Obama. He has added a gay pastor (along with the anti-gay pastor) to his tour to rally support. Nice. At least this move, though clearly a way to cover his ass, is supporting open communication between two sides of an argument. Perhaps more presidential candidates should be supporting discourse?

The HRC had this to say about Obama's campaign. And currently, there is a group of GLBT institutions working together to support open dialogue about GLBT issues.

Nice!

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T02:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Can I get a resolution. . .?

2007-10-30T02:33:00.000-07:00

With all the trouble in the world- all the conflict and violence, all the loss of truth and justice- I've decided to participate in U.N. -based training in Conflict Management and Conflict Resolution. According to my studies, it seems that conflict arises from a lack of communication and by opening the door of communication, you can peacefully resolve conflicts.

Example:

Since I've moved to Amsterdam I've been living with a younger guy from New York. He's a staunch, inexperienced Republican. His use of language and manners can best be described as barbaric, literally- he holds his fork like an ape, has no consideration for my feelings and has repeatedly 'borrowed' food without replacing it. Why are we living together? Simply? Economy. It's a bitch to survive here in Amsterdam on a PhD salary. But with a room mate, it's possible.

Breathe.

When I first moved in with this guy, I thought he was nice. I brought him out to meet my friends and we got to know each other a little. The second time I brought him out with me he let his politics fly. Remember, I'm an anarch0feminist. My friends are equally as 'liberal'- most of them being Dutch, Spanish, etc. My room mate got drunk and really and truly offended my friends. . .which, really was due to his inexperience. He was talking about poverty, etc and my opinion is, unless you have worked with the poor, lived in some sort of poverty, and have had to raise yourself up out of poverty- you cannot talk about poverty! Anyway, this was the beginning of the cold war.

Following this event, he tried to spend time with my friends (without me there as a buffer) to which he received a cold shoulder. They don't have the respect for him that they do for me. Also, during this time, I must say that I never said that I hate my room mate. I don't hate him. I find him inexperienced and a bit selfish and whiny, but I don't hate him.

During the summer I had a friend from Spain stay with us which earned my room mate and I 300 euro each (over two months). Nice. This moved my room mate and I into phase II of the cold war. Spending a lot of time with Ri at gay bars, etc., excluded and isolated my room mate. I definitely felt more isolated from him.

After Ri left for Spain (September); I had my friend Jan come visit followed by my partner. He made plans to go to Greece when my partner was in town so he wouldn't have to deal with our gayness. Strange, but appreciated. We had the apartment to ourselves.

Since the end of September, my room mate and I have been living in the strange sort of silence. . .that is, until Saturday.

I woke up Saturday to:

That bastard! I can't believe he would do that! I hear the rumbling of paper in the kitchen. Mother fucker! What a prick! (etc. etc. etc.)

Lying in my bed, in immense fear, I start thinking of all the possible things I could have done wrong. I knew he was talking about me, but what did I do (thinking about the fact that I swore like that about him last Thursday when he drank my beer without asking)? So, I got up to shower and leave the house- as was my usual reaction to such irrational behavior- unless it's mine.

After my shower and a long internal speech to myself, I realized it was time for me to open up the lines of communication. Conflict avoidance was clearly not working. It was time for some conflict management and resolution!

After my shower, I went to my room mate and began to speak. . .

"I heard you swearing this morning, did I do something to piss you off?

Cue the tumble weeds and sounds of crickets chirping.

Me: Hello? Are you pissed at me?

Him:Uh, well, no man. I washed my passport in with my jeans today and the thing is shredded.

Me, Thinking that it's weird to be talking about yourself in the third person while pissed at yourself: Oh, so you were talking about yourself this morning

Him: No, everything was just a big deal this morning, I'm OK now.

Me: So what did I do to piss you off?

Him: Nothing.

Me: Seeing that he is pissed off even talking to me. Well, if you need to talk about something, please let me know. I can't live in a house with no peace. You have to tell me if things piss you off. If this relationship is going to work out, we need to communicate.

Him: Yeah, good luck with that.

So, I left, went to the center and got drunk with my friends. I really tried to resolve this cold war, hostility building bullshit that's going on at home. The question is:

How can I get a resolution if the other side won't cooperate?

Fires. . .

2007-10-29T01:18:00.000-07:00

I've been following the news on the California fires and I'm sending Californians my spiritual support. It has to be difficult to see your life ripped apart by nature. Whether it's a hurricane, a fire, a tornado, or a tsunami, the power of nature can effect lives with non-discriminatory brutality. To the victims of the fire, you have my support. . .

After watching this I realized the victims of these fire are going to need more help than perhaps I can supply them. It seems that Arnold is pissed off and is offering an award for catching the arsonists ($250K in total). Which is fine and dandy if someone actually started the fires! Governments always do this shit in their "Fahrenheit 451" ways. . .if you give people someone to 'chase'- to blame (for the fires)- you'll soon forget you need to focus on fire management and prevention, for example. It was the same for Katrina. They tried to pass the buck in terms of hurricane management but luckily for the people of New Orleans it was too late. The entire U.S. had seen what really happened.

I hope everyone in the U.S. sees the disparity between the way fires in California are managed and the way Katrina was managed.

Stop.

Refocus.

Breath.

Begin. . .

Okay, my problem with the video of Arnold is NOT necessarily the desire to "hunt down" arsonists in Fox-based movie sort of way but rather the second part. You know, the part where the Insurance Fraud Team leader gets on screen and starts yelling about "not letting the victims be victimized again."

Suppress laughter.

I hope to god this man wasn't just telling people the insurance companies are the victim in this fire! I also hope he's not telling people with arsonized houses that they won't be getting paid because of 'suspected' arson- which we all know is usually bullshit. Why would he say "the victims shouldn't be victimized twice?"

Oooooh Damn!

People of California, you have my support!

Trade and Immigration

2007-10-26T05:07:00.000-07:00

*Posted Previously on the Progressive Puritan*
I've been posting a lot of information regarding Free trade and immigration (among other things). A certain C R MountJoy asked me to post my feelings on the matter of immigration, so here it goes. First, let me say that I am a scientist at heart. A real scientist in the way that I report data and let the reader draw their conclusions. But, alas, this clearly won't do on this issue. So, here it goes:

As many of you know, I oppose free trade because of its Race-to-the-bottom policies that broaden the gap between the 'haves' and the 'have nots.' There has been much disagreement over these policies here in the US and abroad. The question is always: Who benefits from free trade and who suffers at its greedy hands?

The US has become wealthy because of free trade. In fact, a certain study suggest that Free trade induces Race-to-the-Top economics...indicating that US exports have risen 7% in 2005. Interestingly, data show only a 5.5% increase in imports. That could suggest, of course, that money being made on exports is not going into the hands of THE PEOPLE who would increase the percentage of imports. Unfortunately, this study is crap since it was presented by the World Trade Organization and did not include average incomes and average economic status of the WORKING class as indicators of economic strength. In fact, I feel that these indicators were intentionally left out of the study.

So, free-market economies are bad for the working class, both physically and economically. Duh!

Example (1): Physical effects of Free trade.MMT (methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl) in Canada. The US-Based Ethyl Corporation uses manganese-based oil refining technology to produce fuel. The refiniery is now in Canada due to NAFTA. MMT is considered a very potent toxin in Canada and because of this, Canada made an environmental law banning MMT (1997). Ethyl corporation, though aware of the toxic effects of MMT in gasoline, decided that Canada's law would get in the way of their profits. Ethyl then sued Canada for 251 million dollars, AND WON. Thus putting the ECONOMICS of corporate profits over the benefits of the people. FREE TRADE HURTS THE WORKING POOR!

Example (2): Economic effects of Free trade.Trade liberalization has had a major impact on Mexican agriculture, and specifically on corn farming. Since many of the poorest people in Mexico engage in corn production,
it serves as a barometer for the condition of the most marginalized groups in Mexican society. After ten years of NAFTA, results show that the poorest have fared exceptionally badly. In asking what went wrong, it is important to note that not all of the increase in rural poverty can be attributed to membership in NAFTA. NAFTA is part of a wider constellation of policies and policy changes that affect the rural poor. Mexican trade liberalization was accompanied by national policy revisions that did away with government support programs and, instead, focused on increasing export led-growth. (Sound familiar Americans?) The liberation of trade again, puts the profits before people and plays a major role in immigration issues.

Stories from campesinos in Mexico indicate the economic market being flooded with rock-bottom priced corn. Corn from the US. The corn prices then require those living in Mexico to sell their corn at even lower prices to compete. Of course, this increases poverty in Mexico since the majority of working poor are campesinos.

So, these are some examples of how Free trade has impacted the world in which we live. Perhaps the effects of Trade liberalization and globalization are indecipherable. Perhaps it's too difficult to make the connections between trade and immigration, so I will make them for you.

(1) why does immigration occur? Immigration occurs because people want opportunity. People want something better for themselves and for their families. If I was forced in to maquiladoras (sweat-shops) to make a piss poor living for my family, I would hike my ass to a better country, wouldn't you?

(2) Does trade liberalization impoverish illegal immigrants in their home countries? Simply, YES. Trade liberalization allows corporations to set up shop in foreign countries, export goods cheaply (yes, CHEAPLY) and pay working citizens very little per hour. (i.e. Delphi Corp. in border town opposite El Paso pays worker $1.09/hour). If Delphi payed US wages to working Mexicans in their home country, that is, if they really cared about ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE WORLD, and NOT THEMSELVES, we could cut back on illegal immigration. Is it reasonable to expect that those entities that have so readily taken the voice and place of the people be responsible for maintaining the welfare of the people in the world? Again, Yes. They take and take but never give back. It's time to give back corporate entities.

Again, this is just a brief overview of how I feel. I hate typing everything I think. But I hope you get the idea. So, where does your Infuriated Faggot stand on the issue of immigration?

(1) The Anarchafeminist in me wants borders destroyed. If we want globalization, let's fucking globalize this shit. Make everyone citizens of the World. Of course, globalization is only meant for the wealthy, right?

Fuck. . .

that. . .

bullshit!

If you don't want globalization, fight trade liberization and help decrease the numbers of illegal immigrants in a way that affirms your humanity!

(2) Since the American government would never allow global citizenship, I suggest we reform the system. It's time we allow nationals more benefits. The 'illegals' living here now would be declared US Nationals. US Nationals, upon registration, would pay taxes, reap the benefits of sending their children to GOOD SCHOOLS (oh yes, if you want legal immigration you must pay for the benefits- hell we need good schools for non-immigrants; maybe they can help relieve some of the tax burden?), be paid LIVING WAGES and be granted citizenship in a reasonable amount of time for a reasonable cost! No mass deportations, no felon charges, and my fellow Americans, NO BURNING FLAGS!

(3) Cease trade liberalization. Illegal immigrants are not taking your jobs! Corporations aren't offering you jobs! There's a difference. Corporations see American wages as a threat to their profits. Corporations do not care about WORKING CLASS citizens. They will offer jobs to someone who can do it for $1.09 a day...right Delphi?

Trade liberalization fuels this "GET THE BEST DEAL" mentality...you know it if you've vacationed in Mexico. Loud mouther Americans pissed off because their ALL INCLUSIVE hotel doesn't allow them 15 meals a day! Ugh. YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR WHAT YOU WANT! AND PAY FAIRLY! (that's an important concept here too...FAIR trade does not want to inhibit trade, but wants tan equal exchange of services and goods that is in the best interest of both parties).

Stopping trade liberalization would open up more jobs for Americans by inhibiting illegal immigration and FORCE CORPORATIONS TO PAY A DECENT WAGE! (which hasn't gone up since 1997...$5.15/hour!)

(4) Congress must increase the living wage. How dare the US Congress pay themselves buckets-o-cash and not pay American workers a living wage.

Ugh.

Anyway, there is my brief, but long, analysis and list of solutions.

Code Pink and Condi!

2007-10-25T04:36:00.001-07:00

I have to tell everyone how proud I am of Code Pink! for going into Congress and speaking a little Truth to the otherwise Deaf "but following orders" Ms. Condi Rice.

Rock on women!

Economy taboo. . .protecting those with more resources than you!

2007-10-25T04:01:00.000-07:00

A taboo is a strong social prohibition (or ban) relating to any area of human activity or social custom declared as sacred and forbidden; breaking of the taboo is usually considered objectionable or abhorrent by society.

If there is one thing I can appreciate about the blogging community it would have to be the openness. The seemingly unrestricted discourse that helps shape new thoughts and ideas into theory and action. This, to me, is the first and most important step in revolution. Everyone knows that you must first be able to discuss the problems of the world before you begin to fix them. My post today revolves around those institutions and concepts that are protected from scrutiny. Those concepts that use Taboo to protect them.

Woah!

Breathe.

First, what institutions/concepts are protected by taboo? A major institution that immediately pops into my head is religion. Others include sex, politics, economy as well as. . . free speech.

Free speech?

Yes, free speech

Emma Goldman said it back in the day. . .

"The most unpardonable sin in society is independence of thought."

Those who think or go 'against the grain' are breaking the Taboo of free thought thereby making people uncomfortable and thus being persecuted for doing so.

Hmmm. . .

What's that smell?

Aaaah yes. . . the resounding fragrance of Bullshit!!

Today I want to talk about economy as a taboo. I was raised, and I know many people were raised, to not talk about their finances. Live this secret life of personal economy and 'take care of your shit.' Well, our personal economy seems to be failing! By not talking about personal economy we prevent education and community solidarity (a.k.a. help when you're broke) and thereby decrease the competency of personal economy.

Mmmmhmmm.

Also, by staying quiet about our personal economies we aren't challenging those that have access to more resources. I think that by talking about personal economies, we have the opportunity to evaluate where the resources have been, where they are, and where they are going! Very important!

Why am I talking about this today? Well, a friend of mine and I are forming a social justice group here in Amsterdam. Really, there are so few non-governmental social justice groups here that we felt like it's time to start a real one- free of bullshit. The group name will be revealed after everything is ironed out logistically (so far, we have a group name, mission statement and statutes but nothing secure). The group revolves around the current economical crisis in Amsterdam (as well as in other countries). I really think we need to discuss personal and national/international economies in order to destruct economical stratification. So, let's try it! Woot Woot!

Hear that?

Thank you. . .

2007-10-25T02:13:00.000-07:00

I'd like to take a moment to "Thank" the visitor who made it to my blog by typing "McClurkin is a Faggot" on Google. Thank you! Welcome to my Blog!

Fuck!

Zeitgeist: Spirit of the Time!

2007-10-25T02:03:00.000-07:00

I don't know how many of you have seen this movie yet, but I highly recommend it.

Watch Zeitgeist here (1hour, 56 min).

Enjoy!

The spirit of Che. . .

2007-10-24T03:46:00.000-07:00

Back when I lived in St. Louis, I met some really cool people. A certain AngryBlackBitch gave your infuriated faggot a nickname (Che) that when coupled with my mentor-given nickname (Hammer) yields "HammerChe." For about two years I've been using this nickname in all of my political dealings and until moving to Amsterdam I've been proud (perhaps naively) of the second part of my "nick."

So, what's the issue?

Well, I have to be honest, everywhere I look I see Ernesto's face and it's starting to piss me off. I really wonder how many of these people know Ernesto. It seems like they're interested in 'looking' counter-culture revolutionaries without really putting in the effort of thinking or know anything. I know this sounds harsh but you have to think about where I'm living as well. Amsterdam is full of pseudo-intellectual pot-smoking counter culture wannabes that talk about drugs all day. So, to see them wearing Che-gear is kind of ridiculous, right?

Ok.

Stop.

Dismout soapbox.

So, here's some brief education for you Che-wearin' yet history lackin' fools out there talkin' revolution without thinkin'!!

Ernesto 'Che' Guevara
Brief Points
Argentinian.
Doctor
Marxist/Socialist revolutionary.
Assassinated.

If you want to read recently de-classified U.S. government info on Che go here.

Now I know some of you think you are doing good by purchasing these shirts, hats, bags, etc. But, personally, I think you are helping defuse potential revolution (as Che is a strong revolutionary symbol). If you 'believe' in what Che stood for, go out and be active DON'T GO BUY A SHIRT- a shirt that was probably made in S. and C. American sweatshops! That's just crazy!!

Remember people, the spirit of Che and the spirit of revolution can NOT be captured on a T-shirt.

Obama and McClurkin. . .

2007-10-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, I’m not living in the U.S. currently but I have to say that I love following political affairs of the States. Today I received word that Obama is beginning his cross-country campaign with Pastor Donnie McClurkin to gather the Southern, Black, Conservative vote.

Choke.

Those of you who don’t know, Donnie McClurkin is an ex-gay gospel singer who believes he was thrust into Gaydom via molestation. I just hope he isn't using molestation to escape from accepting the responsibility of having an alternative lifestyle!

Wow.

Ok.

If he feels this way about his life I’m glad he found the inner strength to change his path. Good for him. However, do NOT bring your childhood drama into our communities trying to force EVERYONE to change back to “straight”. That’s just ridiculous and frankly, a waste of time!!!

I have some questions for Mr. McClurkin. . . you know, since he is off to convert the gay children of the world into straights. . .

(1) What percentage of gay men are molested to ‘make’ them gay?

(2) What percentage of gay men molest boys and girls (I’ve heard that 37% of gay men have sex with girls and boys under the age of 17)?

(3) Do the girls molested by men grow up to be lesbians or is it that gay molestation makes gayness?

Frankly, I don’t buy Mr. McClurkin’s explanation for gayness in general-though I do believe this may be true for him. What infuriates me is that he is spreading his story making his personal drama the problem of a complete community-trying to convert a community!

What also freaks me out a bit is Obama’s sell out. He’s traveling with McClurkin to rally support for his election even though he fully understands what McClurkin stands for (though, after reading his website, I think McClurkin’s real interest is in becoming a famous singer). Does Obama, if elected, wish to continue the anti-gay sentiment oozing- like a bad case of gonorrhea- from the world-fucking cock that is White House? Or, is he trying to be like Hillary C. and sell out his people (as fast as he can) for personal gain?

Fuck

Fuck

Fuck!

Now I understand why people are so interested in Stephen Colbert as president!

Another thought. . .

Now that I think about it, Obama and McClurkin have a lot in common. . .they are both willing to sell out their people to make some money- Obama for his election and McClurkin for his Music Career!

Gross.

I hope I didn’t get any of the bullshit on me!

Anarchafeminism

2007-10-23T05:20:00.000-07:00

Throughout my life I've always related more to women. They're easier to talk to. They offer insight into life (being the bearers of it all) and they help me focus my emotions into positivity. So, it's no wonder that I am a self-described Anarchafeminist.

I have been posting to a wonderful anarchafeminist message board on Yahoo! for a few years and have considered myself a student of anarchy for quite some time (which many of you may think is a waste of time). Today, I'd like to talk about power struggle and the Anarchafeminist's position within the struggle. (Hopefully this won't be too dry for all of you wonderful people out in blogland)! I received most of my training in anarchafeminism by having discussions with other anarchafeminists and working for the struggles brought about by biology-based differences (i.e. sex, sexual identities and race).

First, let me tell you why I think it's important to understand anarchafeminism and the issues it attempts to resolve. The biggest issue to me, pre-dating the time of Emma Goldman, is still unresolved today; the right of women to choose their reproductive agendas.

Emma Goldman was imprisoned in 1916 for handing out literature describing birth control for women. Now, for all of you pro-lifers out there, this is what Emma Goldman had to say about Abortion:

"The custom of procuring abortions has reached such appalling proportions in America as to be beyond belief...So great is the misery of the working classes that seventeen abortions are committed in every one hundred pregnancies."

Yet, she was jailed because of handing out literature on contraception. What an interesting power dynamic we have here, no? The removal of knowledge (which, of course is POWER) to force someone into chosing what the empowered envision as proper! Also, note the later half of Emma's comment. "So great is the misery. . ." Here we have two groups in America. Pro-Life and Pro-Choice working for their respective causes. However, the real issue is not whether one group supports life over death (as many pro-lifers would have you believe) but rather an issue of class. Briefly, there are (many) societal factors that contribute to the need for an abortion and many factors lead up to the point in a woman's life where an abortion is necessary. By resolving the disparities (i.e. education, access to other resources) between men and women, blacks and whites, haves and have nots we could resolve the necessity that is abortion.

Anarchafeminism

Here are my four reasons for studying anarchafeminism?

1) Reproductive rights issues. as a man identified as having a non-traditional sexual identity I find reproductive freedom to be a very important issue. I think anyone dealing with sexualities needs to understand reproductive rights and reproductive freedom. I also believe that reproductive freedom, real reproductive freedom, requires a lane change in the road down which we're heading

2) Deconstruction of biology-based social institutions (i.e. masculinity v. femininity; gender struggles, queer issues). Women and Men have been separated in sociology based on biology for a very long time. As an anarchafeminist I think it's important to make sure that biological differences (sex; male/female) do not translate into gender (social; masculinity/femininity) differences. Of course, this has been the case for centuries. The question is, how do we ameliorate this effect? It cannot be ameliorated by putting women into power. Anarchafeminism suggests that by putting women in power, we are in fact NOT abolishing biology-based oppression. It is in the cooperation among men and women with institutions being created by and for both men and women, that oppression based on sex can be ameliorated. You see where the anarchy part comes in here. Anarchists do not want violent destruction of social institutions (though I personally know of no peaceful revolution) but rather to use different, unique mechanisms to counter current institutions.

Whew. . .

This is a long assed list. . .

3) Deconstruction of power dynamics and learning how to equally distribute power. I spoke of Emma's comments regarding birth control and abortion. The idea that knowledge can be withheld in order to maintain the absolute power of one man while enslaving those that are ignorant is something we cannot tolerate. Anarchafeminists work for the distribution of knowledge and support the use of that knowledge to deconstruct the power that has been hijacked. By re-distributing Truth, we empower our brothers and sisters to challenge institutions that seek to oppress them.

4) Deconstruction of oppression. The 'double' oppression of women demands a double fight and double organizing: on the one hand in feminist federations, on the other hand in the organizations of anarchists. The anarchafeminists form a junction in this double organizing.

An essential point in anarchafeminism is that the changes must begin today, not tomorrow or after the revolution. The revolution shall be permanent. We must start today by seeing through the oppression in the daily life and do something to break the pattern here and now.

We must act autonomously, without delegating to any leaders the right to decide what we wish and what we shall do: we must make decisions all by ourselves in personal matters, together with women in pure female matters, and together with the male fellows in common matters.

A serious anarchism must also be feminist otherwise it is a question of patriarchal half-anarchism and not real anarchism. It is the task of the anarcha-feminists to secure the feminist feature in anarchism. There will be no anarchism without feminism.

No feminism, no anarchy. No females, no life. Same principle. I think the important thing to mention is that there have been some fairly decent advances in civil/human/women's rights in America. I think that we shouldn't forget them. I think anarchafeminists make sure we don't forget about the progress that has been made (while questioning why the progress had to be made in the first place).

That's what always gets me. Why is the power struggle (whether it's between men and women, or Nation and State) even an issue? Why do we have differences in power distribution? As if these differences were forged in the stars, religion, biology or any other bullshit. There is no need for inequality. There is no need for unequal power distribution. Ugh, frustration! Let's get over it people!

Movin' on and up!

Violate Intellectual Property Rights. . .

2007-10-22T04:58:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I despise Intellectual Property. I think that if you have an idea, cure, concept, solution, artistic vision or anything else of this nature, you MUST SHARE it, FREE OF CHARGE. In fact, if you prescribe to the notion of collective conscience, you realize that it is UNETHICAL to restrict use of ideas, thoughts and solutions, let alone sell them.

Once "your" thoughts/ideas/concepts are out there, you pretty much have to accept the fact that they will be experienced and altered to enhance use and understanding...

Why am I writing about this? Well, This story talks about a French teen who will likely be facing charges because he translated the latest Harry Potter book and posted it on the internet. He basically made J.K. Rowlings' work more accessible to the world free of charge and now he's in trouble. I think this story can show how the use of Intellectual property keeps knowledge (amongst other things) for those that can afford or understand it thus keeping certain groups of people below the level of others who have access to intellectual property.

It's disgusting. Intellectual property- which in the US usually comes by stealing from those with less power (i.e. drug cures stolen from S. American countries via CAFTA)- keeps the world from collectively moving forward. If we have collective ideas and experiences, one person should not take the ideas and experiences and sell them back to the people that helped make them! It stops the world from progressing as a whole and limits knowledge and experience to those who can afford to partake (I won't even go into the racial issues here, but, please, KNOW THEY'RE THERE). Ick!!!!

I say we all need to violate intellectual property laws. I'd love to be in prison for spreading knowledge, free of Charge! So, go out, steal a book translate it for the world.

Fight the caging of knowledge and power...

Music Break. . .Woman Nation

2007-10-21T03:55:00.000-07:00

For time to time I need a break from the bullshit of politics. Don't get me wrong, I love politics. In fact, I've recently completed a course in Conflict Management from the Unites States Institute for Peace and am now starting two online classes with the U.N. Institute for Training and Research in the hope of becoming more politically focused. However, if you couple my political training with my Dutch classes and full time work as a PhD student at the AMC here in Amsterdam you'll see I'm officially over-worked. Granted, I signed up for these classes myself-I want to keep learning- but still, they take their toll.

With all of that said, I need a music break. Something that I identify with. . .

Stop.

Think!

Ah yes. . . my mentor Jolie

Before Jolie died of Ovarian Cancer in 2005 she wrote a song called Woman Nation relating the relationship between America "State" and America "Nation" to a situation of Domestic Violence. Unfortunately, Jolie never had the chance to record it. Luckily, another brilliant artist and friend of Jolie Colleen Kattau recorded it and has been performing it for the past couple of years. Here are the lyrics.

Woman Nation
By Jolie Christine Rickman
(sung by Colleen Kattau)

Woman, he treats your body mean x2
He likes to knock you in your chest
Slap you in the face
He’s kicking ‘round your children
And he’s messin’ up your place
Woman, He treats your body mean.

Woman, he ‘s the worst he’s ever been x2
He likes to dress you up in lies
And strip you of your will
He’ll send you to the hospital and
Stick you with the bill
Woman he’s the worst he’s ever been.

Woman, to thy own self to be true
Woman, the decisions up to you
If he protects and he feeds and he cares about you
Why is your sweet soft skin
Turning Red and Black and Blue?
Woman, the decision’s up to you.

Now some people don’t think
I’m talkin’ about them
Some are self-lovin’ women
Some are peaceful lovin’ men
But see my Woman’s name is Nation
My man’s name is State
Let me tell you lady nation
You’ve potential to be great
But see your man is a peace-hatin’
Muscle-bound salivatin’
Only into money makin’
Never bringin’ home the bacon
Taco Bell
Cheap Date
Gamble away your children’s fate
Shock and awe
Space invader
Missile dick
masturbator

Nation, he treats your body mean x2
He likes to knock you off your picket line
And choke you of your breath
He’ll be pounding on your eardrums
Until your truth goes deaf
Nation, He treats your body mean.
Nation, he’s the worst he’s ever been.
He says the only road to peace
Is the one that leads to war
And he’s countin’ on us women
To be mopping up the floor.
Nation, he’s the worst he’s ever been

Nation, to thy own self to be true
Nation, the decision's up to you
If he protects us and he feeds us
And he cares about me and you
Why are our rainbow colors
turnin’ red and black and blue
Nation
Nation
Nation!

Aaah. Music Break!

Re-focused!
Now I realize why I've always identified with women. Their struggle is my struggle!

Goodness, Gracious, Great Wall of China!

2007-10-20T02:57:00.000-07:00

Now I have another reason to despise fashion.

A faggot read this blog and was amazed! It seems that Fendi (Italian fashion designer brand) staged a fashion show on the Great Wall of China.

Pause.

Think.

China and Fendi?

Chindi!

The marriage seems perfect. Both Fendi and China are aimed at huge economical growth. In fact, since the late 1980s, China's GDP has nearly quadrupled
and it seems Fendi is capable of producing those results in much less time. Fendi, in 2006, made a 350million Euro profit and planned to double that by 2008. Meanwhile, there is still no food for the poor.

So, with economical bullshit aside, I'd like to know what the point is of staging a fashion show on the Great Wall of China. My possible explanation for such ridiculous behavior is (a) Fendi thinks they are 'tearing down borders' between the East and West with their fashion-which is really amazing. . . does fashion have that much power?, (b) Fendi, in the light of World War III, finds Fashion much more important or (c) Fendi wanted to prove that with enough money, you can do whatever you want on whatever pieces of should-be-preserved history you want.

Ugh.

I really cannot believe that Fendi and China had the audacity to let something like this take place (though I hear China put up a 1 year struggle against the event).

Hmmm.

I wonder how much they sold out for?

Rough Trade: Not Just for the Gays

2007-10-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

Within the realm of gay society there are quite a few things that infuriate me. The most annoying is the breakdown of gay men and women into subtypes. You know, "the butch girl," "the queeny boy." Because of these stereotypes we have subdivided our culture and segregated our force as a community. Because of the stereotypes we have created false concepts of what is attractive. Of course, one manifestation of this cultural breakdown is the evolution of the term rough trade. For those of you who don't know, rough trade is basically the term used to describe a man whose physicality and refinement (or lack there of) make him sexually appealing to more 'upper class' fags. Basically, it breaks down into that porno you saw the other night. . .

Rewind.

A gay, wealthy and well-dressed business man drives into a garage in need of repairs on his new beamer. The mechanic: straight-but-curious, greasified, dirty and a little stupid in overalls with no shirt turns to the business man gives him a 'wink' and assures him that he has the right 'equipment' for the job. The gay man, watches as the 'rough trade' begins to work on his car becoming increasingly excited. The straight mechanic turns, notices the erection beneath the business man's suit and then. . . starts to 'service' the business man's "hot rod." The mechanic and businessman leave each other after a great 20 min. fuck session. The mechanic is pleased because he has taken it up the 'tail pipe' for the first time, eliminating his curiosity; the businessman equally pleased because he has conquered the 'rough trade' adding to his list of conquests.

Got the idea? Rough trade. Accepted. Based on social class-isms within the gay community. Unfair, unjust, and a waste of time.

Unfortunately, I've noticed that Rough Trade does not only apply to the gay community. It seems that this concept applies to what's happening on a global scale with the passing of each "Free" Trade agreement.

Basically, repeat the same scene as above but instead of a mechanic, use a second or third world country.

The wealthy businessman (for example, the U.S.) is looking around and finds tattered countries with scrappy exteriors that are curious as to what it would be like to live in a first world situation. Eager to learn and participate, the tattered countries bow down and service the needs of the first world. Unfortunately, in this situation, after taking it 'up the ass' the tattered country of the day will not leave fulfilled. They are generally left with increased amounts of poverty, unemployment and pollution. After all, the purpose of Free Trade Agreements is to shift the focus from People to Profit.

This happened in Canada (probably the most popular example) with the Ethyl corporation (an oil refining company) and methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT; a neurotoxin). The story goes like this. The Ethyl Corporation (the company that created LEADED gasoline) while refining oil in Canada released a shit-load of poison into the Canadian environment. Canada, realizing that MMT is not healthy decided to ban MMT as a refining byproduct. This of course, got in the way of Ethyl's profits.

So, what happened? Nothing!

You see, NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) says that anyone or any GOVERNMENT that tries to stand in the way of Corporate profits is subject to legal action. So, Canada, having forced down MMT production, was taken to court by Ethyl. That's right, the Canadian government was trying to protect it's environment and people, and Ethyl was able to sue them. So, Ethyl took Canada to court for $251 million dollars, and WON! Canada apparently slandered Ethyl's "clean" name and caused them profit loss by banning MMT. Now, Ethyl Corp. is $251 million dollars richer and MMT is produced in Canada.

Whether it's the businessman or wealthy international corporations getting serviced, one thing is clear. . .Rough Trade is NOT just for the Gays!

Welcome to my Blog!

2007-10-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone and Welcome to my new Blog!

I've been blogging as Progressive Puritan for more than two years now and have decided to rejoin the blog community today as a newly evolved self. I want to share my thoughts and feelings on the things that matter most to me- social issues! I want to use this blog to vent my frustrations as well as provoke my readers (and myself) to think on a deeper level about the day-to-day social structures that dictate our lives. I want to discuss peeling away constructs that keep us from living peaceful, productive and meaningful lives.

Why the title?

Well, to be honest, I'm a faggot and have been all my life. I've been in a committed relationship for about 7 years now with my loving partner. Also, I'm infuriated at the current global and local socioeconomic and political situations. So, put the two together and there you have it...the Infuriated Faggot.

I hope you enjoy the blog and please participate!