Immigrant Song

"For peace and trust can win the day despite of all your losing."

The Tampa Tribune justified yesterday's front-page spread about so-called immigration reform because Tampa has so many affected immigrants.

That rationalization is weak.

I'd like to see their numbers compared to uninsured children, senior citizens who cannot afford prescription medication, or students forced into crowded schools and tested instead of taught. Focusing on immigration laws in Congress diverts attention away from what's really affecting most Americans and gets us talking about something other than civil war in Iraq or a growing deficit at home.

And here I am. Playing along.

Reports say as many as twelve million illegal immigrants may be living in this country. Some lawmakers want to make it even more difficult for them to get in. Right. As if crossing the Rio Grande is easy. Let's make it harder. That'll stop them!

Immigrants risk everything to get out of their own dire circumstances because life might be better for them and their children in America. Sound familiar? Your own grandparents or great-grandparents probably felt the same way. Putting up a fence isn't going to make freedom a deterrent. Perhaps halting unfair trade practices and promoting reform in the countries of origin might help.

I know. It's easier to punish those poor folks yearning to breathe free. The bastards.

And let's not forget bigotry inherent in such reform talk. Who are we trying to keep out - white Europeans? Canadians? Please. When legislators talk immigrant, they mean Hispanic. Watch out, though. Latinos are a formidable voting bloc and, as a rule, do not support punitive legislation like the disgraceful House bill passed last December. Our representatives voted to make illegal immigration a felony and punish employers who hire such "guest workers".

Men and women who come here without proper papers, or stay once such paperwork expires, want to work and contribute to our community. At least the current Senate bill provides a path to permanent residency - the ultimate dream for all who make it inside. Once these immigrants prove themselves and pass a criminal background check - our newest guests can be permanent members of our American family.

We do immigration fine here and even Reagan supported amnesty. Republicans should get behind any effort to help those fleeing poverty and despair - especially if it helps the American economy at the same time. After all, it's the compassionate thing to do. At any rate, let's get off our newest scapegoats and let them return to the business of contributing the way my not-so-distant ancestors did.

Their grandchildren will thank you for it.

Responses - Part One

People have funny ways of expressing grief. When I say we're moving to Colorado Springs, barring some last-minute intervention, most look puzzled - then slightly sad - before responding with one of the following questions or comments:

"Give me a kiss goodbye. Ignore the tongue."

"Who the hell is going to buy a blue house?"

"Wait until after the elections. I wanna see you throw up."

"Did you know the founder of Coors Beer is anti-Semitic?"

"Mountain air might be fresh, but those high-elevation nose bleeds are the worst."

"Don't become a John Denver fan, okay? He sucks."

"Poor Becky."

"One less Democrat in the neighborhood. Thank God."

"Are you going to host a going-away party for yourself? It'd be nice to attend an event at your house that doesn't require a donation of some kind. Get JGLB to play and I'm so there."

"Are Jews allowed in Colorado Springs?"

"You and cowboys and wild animals... I'm going to purchase some stock in Xanax. Two words: easy money."

"I'll focus on the bright side. No more Jim Davis fundraisers."

Go Girl

As I'm beginning to thoroughly understand, often when one door closes - another opens. If you live in District 11 and fear losing Jim Davis to Tallahassee, chin up peeps!

Kathy Castor is kicking ass and taking names.

Jim's shoes will be hard to fill; however, Kathy is already on her way. She was one of the few members of the BOCC who stood up to Ronda Storms and really listens to her constituents' concerns. We need more progressive female voices in Congress and Kathy is a rising star in the Democratic party.

The League of Conservation Voters has just endorsed Kathy's candidacy for the US House of Representatives. More are sure to follow. Good news for District 11, the Democratic Party in Florida, and DC in general.

I Got Nothin' For You

No post tomorrow.

Oh sure, I could go on about Antonin Scalia using the profane middle finger in a House of God. I could wax philosophic about the upcoming birthday of Sigmund Freud and talk about how I once got kicked out of a psych class in college for a paper I wrote called Freud or Fraud? Perhaps maybe I could post about Colorado. Again.

Nope. Not gonna do it.

Instead I am waking up at 4am (mountain time) tomorrow morning and dragging two tired children through the Denver airport to return to Tampa later on in the afternoon.

Shhh...if you listen closely, you can hear me screaming "Hands to yourself!" from the sky above.

What are we doing in Mexico, I mean, Colorado?

For everyone back home in Tampa, Spring Break ends today as teachers and students return to the classroom. I'm still in The Springs fluctuating between excited and scared, happy and downright morose. A joy to be around, I'm sure.

Every story must have a beginning and end because, let's face it, sequels suck. And so it appears that our time in Tampa is coming to an end.

Maybe not, though. What the hell do I know?

I suppose it shouldn't come as a shock that I hesitate to go. Back in June 1995, I was thrilled to leave Tampa for the first time. Left skid marks out of town. However, when we stopped at Becky's house (then in the outskirts of DC), I remember feeling so homesick I cried myself to sleep. First night in Boston it rained and I called home.

"It's not a summer rain," I cried into the phone. "It's one of those cold-ass northern rains. I don't know anyone here and we may have made the biggest mistake of our life!"

Dad knew how to put it all in perspective.

"Let me ask you a question," he said. "Are you in a foxhole? Are people shooting at you? Then you don't have it so bad."

Mom assured me after a good night's sleep, I'd see things differently. I did and grew to love the place.

In 2000, we left Boston and returned to Tampa. Second or third night back, my mother was watching Ally McBeal. I made it halfway through (eleven minutes of my life I'll never get back) and, although happy to be home, I cried every time they showed an exterior shot of Boston. I felt so attached to that town and our friends - I swore I'd never find peeps to love again.

Now that I've grown attached to Tampa, is it time to move on? The only reassurance I feel is that I'm sure to bounce back, yet again, and grow attached to our next home.

But first I need that good cry. So excuse me a moment.

Men Named Jamie are Way Hot

Jamie Raskin, Jamie Rubin, Jamie Morgan... I could go on and on.

In Annapolis at a hearing on the proposed Constitutional Amendment to prohibit gay marriage, Jamie Raskin, professor of law at AU, was requested to testify.

At the end of his testimony, Republican Senator Nancy Jacobs said: "Mr. Raskin, my Bible says marriage is only between a man and a woman. What do you have to say about that?"

Raskin replied: "Senator, when you took your oath of office, you placed your hand on the Bible and swore to uphold the Constitution. You did not place your hand on the Constitution and swear to uphold the Bible."

The room erupted into applause.

Sorry Charlie

This post is not directed at wingnuts who believe all abortion is murder and should therefore be outlawed, women jailed and doctors killed. In other words, I am not speaking to possible future neighbors in the foothills of Colorado Springs. Yes, you with the Jesus bumperstickers and lifelong membership to Focus on the Family. So not a fan.

I'm talking to the majority of Americans who believe the governor of South Dakota went too far. Way too far.

Charlie Crist, the man with the tan, would sign such a law in Florida. That's right. Crist would approve a bill that bans all abortion, including cases of rape and incest, despite the fact that such a law is unconstitutional. Shouldn't surprise anyone because Republicans are proving themselves to be above that piece of paper when it suits them. They will say just about anything to get elected. This time, Crist put himself firmly in the camp of the crazies and hopefully moderates that make up most of the state are paying attention.

I'm a bit surprised Crist isn't listening to party leaders and laying off the anti-abortion rhetoric. Get ready. Even the GOP faithful are anticipating a backlash against what more and more Americans are perceiving as extremist views.

I'd rather a governor who takes us into the future and away from fundie politics. Do you know anyone who wants to turn Florida into South Dakota? Besides Charlie Crist, that is.

Quotes I'm Currently Digging

"People plan. And God laughs."

"You know, we used to think we were secure because of oceans and previous diplomacy. But we realized on September the 11th, 2001, that killers could destroy innocent life. And I'm never going to forget it. And I'm never going to forget the vow I made to the American people that we will do everything in our power to protect our people. Part of that meant to make sure that we didn't allow people to provide safe haven to an enemy. And that's why I went into Iraq."

"If this were your idea, Colorado Springs would already be home. Two words, Kate: control issues."

"When you don't eat, your body starts to feed off its reserves. Therefore, if you skip enough meals, your body will eventually eat your ass."

"So the lesson here is, if you're a teacher - don't get half-naked and pose on a bike. That sh*t will come back to haunt you."

"I feel uglier than I've ever felt...well, that's not exactly true. 1985 was a very bad year."

"I’m a Democrat because we believe that power starts with the people. We build from the ground level up, we don’t trickle down, we don’t start at the top."

Still Connected

The Pasco Democrats have created an online survey for those interested in volunteering with the 2006 campaigns. Simply answer a few questions and be connected with the candidate(s) of your choice. Come on, let's get together and prove that Pasco County is no longer home to only rednecks and Republicans.

Get off your tuchis and do something.

Welcome to the Winter of our Discontent

Forget broken presidential promises and terrorist scares. What I'm going through is so much more serious...




...but at least it's real pretty.

Highlights So Far

-- A man, and I use that term loosely, wouldn't give up his seat on the plane. Therefore, he got to sit next to my children while I had relative peace and quiet a few seats back. They must've given him quite an earful for three hours because on the way out of the airport he was telling another passenger "aisle seat or no aisle seat, I'm not putting myself through that again."

-- Snow is everywhere. No complaints really, I like the cold. It matches my soul.

-- Kids say the funniest things. In the library downstairs there stands what has to be a twelve-foot menorah. My youngest stopped to look at it and asked, "Do they celebrate Chanukah?" Husband said, "Yes, they're Jewish." The kid claps his hands and cheers, "Yes! We've got a great team! We're going to beat Christmas!" Yeah, right. All seven of us.

-- On our way into town, we passed by the Focus on the Family Visitor Center. Strike One.

Celebrating Spring Break in Seventeen Degrees

Later this morning, my children and I leave for Colorado Springs. I have promised local friends and family to hate every minute of it.

However, I am looking forward to mountain air that doesn't include unreasonably high counts of nonstop-sneeze-inducing oak pollen. I'd like to breathe through my nose. For a change.

Two or three relatives, a life-long friend, and one husband want us to move out there. I feel an enormous amount of pressure riding on this visit. Still. That means everyone will be on their best behavior, right? I mean, no one wants to aggravate me and cause us to stay in Florida. Hopefully, I can use this to my advantage. I'm anticipating a daily show entitled: "Wouldn't You Love Living Here?" Translation: zero 'tude for seven glorious days. I'll hold out for free babysitting and booze, gourmet vegetarian meals, and evening bubble baths before I even crack a smile. Good times.

Let's see; what else am I excited about? Oh right! Husband doesn't require batteries. 'Nuff said.

Becky called to say three inches of snow fell yesterday, but it's real pretty. Of course, she has about nineteen fireplaces - at least I'll stay warm.

*sigh*

Longjohns are so not sexy.

Happy Anniversary

As Dubya tries to celebrate three years of lying to the American public and shortchanging our country's soldiers, I thought I'd re-run this post from a few weeks ago. I've been getting interesting comments from people on the subject of IRR. Everyone should read them before toasting a job well done. No one really believes that Iraq has been handled well, do they?

Didn't think so.

Jim Davis for Governor

Thanks to everyone who made yesterday such a successful event. I enjoyed having so many wonderful people in my home - both old and new friends. We proved a house party in Pasco County does not have to include live farm animals, pick-up trucks, or guests with missing teeth. There was no keg in the tub, yet we managed to have a good time. No one even showed up with a confederate flag t-shirt.

We rock.

This only furthered my resolve to stay. Hopefully, the fates will play along and Colorado Husband will become Wesley Chapel Husband again very soon.

SIDE NOTE: Love the peeps who think I drove him away with liberal sensibilities. No, it was a good paying job with health care and other benefits. We just gotta find one of them there jobs in Tampa. That's all...

I had such a great time yesterday that I didn't have an opportunity to write anything for my morning post. So I'll print what I said when introducing Jim to everyone. I really wish I could print what he said afterwards, as it was much more inspirational and important; however, if you visit his site, you'll be able to read his views and ways he'll make Florida a better home for all of us. Perhaps you could even make a contribution to this important campaign.

Anyway, here is what I said. From the heart.

Back in 1988, I was an idealistic eighteen year-old. My friends and I were involved in worldly endeavors, planning rallies on campus one day when a like-minded young man approached and asked us to work on his campaign.

“Greenpeace?” we asked. “Amnesty International? Perhaps an anti-apartheid movement?”

“I’m running for the State House,” he said.

We shook our heads. I spoke for the group.

“We’re not interested in politics,” I said. “We want to make the world a better place.”

Well, he explained that caring for our city or town was just as important as global issues, that ensuring our elderly neighbors grew old with dignity and our youngest residents enjoyed a good education did make the world a better place.

We were convinced and even volunteered to make phone calls for his campaign. After he was elected, I interned for him all through college. I met a most dedicated staff – who are still with him today. They taught me that public service, at its best, answers to everyone in our community. And, in return, Jim’s constituents re-elected him to the State House, promoted him to the US House, and have been re-electing him there ever since.

Personally, the Davis Crew encouraged life-long activism. He is to blame or thank, depending on which way you look at it, for all the letters, lectures, emails, and phone calls you all get from me sometimes on a weekly basis. I am proud to have been associated with him and his supporters for the past seventeen years.

Please welcome our future governor, Jim Davis.

Thanks for Asking

I love it when people send quick emails inquiring, "How are you doing?" I usually give my stock answer, "Hanging in there!" Lately, I've been considering a new Policy of Truth.

First of all, this single parenting thing ain't easy - my kids are now the only ones involved in a daily conversation with me. Political points of view are catching on. My youngest knows the Cabinet like he used to know the Lightning lineup. Just the other day, my oldest asked if the "g*ddamned Republicans like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches" because, if so, he was going to boycott them.

I'm just glad they're paying attention. And I can now put my mother's mind at ease - obviously, such a question shows they are still kids. I'm not about ruining childhoods; I just need someone to talk to.

Today I've got to go grocery shopping, continue the whole "family that plays together, stays together" routine for neighbors so they don't gossip about lack of outdoor activities since the husband took off, and then host a house party for our future governor.

I haven't even mentioned the high pollen count in Tampa Bay that has reduced me and my children to mucus-and-phlegm-overloaded science projects. Plus I'm up at the crack of dawn.

How the hell do you think I'm doing?

Slainte

My boys and I take pictures and send them to Colorado Husband so he won't miss us too much. Here is their work. Annie Leibovitz, eat your heart out.

Scary Mommy



Katie Kisses



Look! Mommy has no head.

"What does Pog Mo Thoin mean Mommy?"

"It means Happy St. Patrick's Day, sweetheart." Sure. From me to you.

Running for US Congress; District 5

My US Representative, Ginny Brown-Waite, is an embarrassment. Yes, I blog about grown-up toys, among other issues, and still feel comfortable issuing such a charge.

Ginny makes me cringe and long for someone to come along and boot her ass out of Washington. Perhaps one of these men is the answer to my prayers. (Wow. That's a sentence previously reserved for Chris Cornell or Jack Black. Well. Desperate times call for desperate measures.)

I don't know much about these two cats - yet - but I will list what I like and allow you to make up your own minds. I know. Blogger of the year.

John Russell has something in common with me, Dave Andreychuk, and Jim Kelly. He's lived in Buffalo, New York! That's right baby - a Buffalo boy. Russell used to be a nurse and seems to devote a lot of space on his site to health care. Finally, a politician who knows something about which he speaks.

Rick Penberthy has been a teacher for over twenty years and won awards for educational excellence. Score! As a result, he has great ideas about education and ways it should improve. He lives on a ranch. Well. I won't hold that against him.

I will continue to educate myself and you in the months to come. Hopefully the best man will win the primary and restore some decency to Congress. Wesley Chapel, District 5, and Washington need a breath of fresh air.

Life is Good

Positive thoughts and artwork from children who rock.

Irish Eyes Are Smiling

I’ve been to Boston, Chicago, Scranton and Dublin. My entire family comes from Counties Mayo and Cork. This makes me somewhat of an authority on all things Irish. I’m here to tell you that O’Brien’s Irish Pub remains the best place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Bernie and Teresa O’Brien opened their pub at 11744 North Dale Mabry Highway fifteen years ago. Originally from the Emerald Isle, they add an air of authenticity to an Americanized holiday. I’m sick of Yanks who insist Half-n-Halfs are made with Bass instead of Harp. Spare me the businessmen from Idaho who post pictures of shamrocks, serve green beer and call it an Irish celebration.

Bernie and Teresa built a solid reputation with neighborhood regulars who gather for conversation, true Irish music and artery-clogging cuisine –just like Nana used to make.

O’Brien’s and I go way back. My first St. Patrick’s Day with them was in '92 or '93. Afterwards, friends and I quickly became regulars. We’d spend weekends playing darts and downing pints of Guinness – arguing politics with the best of them. Teresa would let me in even when I wore an IRA hat. We celebrated my conversion to Judaism at O’Brien’s. Of course, everyone rolled their eyes just a little. I felt right at home.

Funny story…

My friends held my twenty-fourth birthday party at the center table like always. While a band played songs from the Old Country, I opened presents. That was the night I received my first Grown-up Toy.

A glorious night.

I held it up for everyone to see. Silence fell upon the establishment and someone whispered, “Behold its glory.” Oh, we did. Maggie, over at the dart boards, clutched her heart and said a prayer. Bobby behind the bar quickly made the sign of the cross.

A magnificent gift.

Then the band stopped playing and kicked us out. Embarrassed, I went home and began a life-long friendship with the best birthday present ever. The following weekend, we all made our way back to O’Brien’s. Bernie approached our table, expressed regret for the band’s behavior, promised the Moral Musicians would never again darken his doorstep, and bought a round for everyone.

Good people, those O’Brien’s.

Since then, I’ve retreated north of Tampa to raise a family and only come back once a year for St. Patrick’s Day. This Friday will be no different. I know you’re probably thinking, “Shabbat in an Irish pub? How does that work?”

It works with a wink and a smile. Once a year is once a year. Let us rejoice and be glad.

For those who reject Bennigan’s version of St. Patrick’s Day – come to Carrollwood (or their Brandon location) and enjoy corned beef and cabbage (get a dispensation first), overflowing pints of Guinness, and music that will melt your heart. Doors open at 10:30am and a $5 cover charge begins at 2pm.

See you there.

Update: Dispensations denied for Tampa Catholics. No corned beef for you!

Compelling Video

I posted about Dr. Sultan the other day. Watch her interview on Al Jazeera. While I believe every religion has extremists who have committed, or continue to commit, atrocities in God's name - lately, Islamic fundamentalists have been sinking to new lows. I hope more good Muslims, or people of Middle Eastern descent, speak out against them. In Arabic.

It's about time.

Newsworthy Items

Pensacola News Journal has positive things to say about Jim Davis' proposal to give Florida teachers a raise.

Also, Senator Feingold stepped up to the plate. How about the rest of us run a few bases to help him out? It'll take less than five minutes. Pinky swear.

That is all.

Calling Jim Davis Supporters!

I am hosting a house party for Jim Davis this Saturday from 3:30-5pm for interested Democrats to get acquainted with like-minded individuals, talk with our future governor and enjoy some organic refreshments.

Who can beat that?

If interested, contact me and I’ll email you an invitation today.

Movie Review

Saturday night, I dragged a friend to watch Why We Fight, a deeply disturbing documentary about the military-industrial complex. I know. Friend of the year.

SIDE NOTE: Another called and said, "Okay, what time are you picking me up?" I said, "We'll be there around 6:30pm." She said, "We? You got someone to go? Good! I'm going to bounce and do something fun. I'll getcha next weekend." What is this? Shift work?

DISCLAIMER: The above is really just a fictionalized account of our conversation, meant to illicit a giggle. Mostly true. In spirit anyway. Don't report me to Oprah.

Why We Fight is a wonderful, thought-provoking movie. No sides are taken - both Republican and Democratic presidents have fed the war machine. Afterwards, you walk away a smarter American, that's for sure. Slightly depressing, though. If no one listened to the warnings of a popular Republican president with military ties - what can the rest of us do about a growing defense budget, overreaching control of corporations and contractors, complicity at the highest levels of government and ever-present state of war? I couldn't help but think that the only thing I can do is make sure the military never gets its hands on my precious children. The aforementioned "complex" twists an honorable duty and turns soldiers into puppets. Dying for oil and corporate greed? No thanks.

A heavy way to spend a Saturday night, I know.

However, Tampa Theatre serves alcohol. Score! And when politically savvy blog readers approach and compliment your work? Better than sex!

And nowadays - that counts for plenty. I mean, come on. Friends will only do so much.

Truth Tellers

--Bruce Bartlett wrote a book titled Impostor : How George W. Bush Bankrupted America and Betrayed the Reagan Legacy. Best. Title. Ever.

Upside: Author is conservative and worked at right-wing think tank, proving that not every Republican is a tool for this administration.
Downside: Homeboy told the truth and got fired.

Wonder why? It's quite obvious Dubya and Co. are conservative in name only. They're actions aren't even socially conservative - as one commenter-poster recently remarked - they truly are wolves in sheep's clothing. These Republicans will say whatever they need to get elected and ensure big business runs your show. Mine, too. And anyone who calls them on it gets the boot.

True conservatives don't need to be convinced anymore. Do you?

-- Dr. Sultan spoke out - in Arabic, no less - against elements within Islam that are killing an otherwise beautiful faith. She even had nice things to say about us Jews. Here is a Muslim I can get behind! Was she cheered? Hailed as a role model? Applauded for telling the truth?

What do you think?

For her bravery, she is being threatened and harrassed. Memorize her name - hopefully she'll be the first of many who take back this remarkable religion and return it to its former glory.

Down with the Program

Another momentous movie occasion comes to Tampa (this time on March 23rd) when the Beastie Boys have a one-night screening for their new flick. The premise behind this sure-to-be award winning film is that several fans were given hand-held cameras during a sold out Beastie Boys concert at Madison Square Garden. These fans filmed the movie and it's supposed to be great.

I saw the Beasties when they hit Tampa in October 2004 and loved every minute of it.

Anyway, thanks to Matt over at Jim Davis' camp for turning me on to this must-see event. Yes, Jim's supporters are not only smart and good looking - we have excellent taste in music.

Yet another reason to vote the man into office.

'Bout to Take a Bueller

But before I go...

We covered religion this week – why not abortion? Especially since South Dakota’s elected officials think the time has come to challenge Roe v Wade.

SIDE NOTE: Back in junior high, I used to rail against a woman’s right to choose like a good little Catholic girl. Becky said I didn't make a bit of sense. Of course I didn't. I was twelve. While in high school, a friend had unprotected sex and got pregnant. Suddenly, I saw things differently. Years later, as an escort and peer counselor at a local clinic, I talked to hundreds of women facing the most difficult decision of their lives. Today I remain committed to keeping abortion safe and legal.

There is much room for disagreement on this issue. Left-wing lunatics believe all abortions should be allowed, no matter the fetus' gestation, and any attempt to limit terminations is misogyny. Right-wing fanatics want religious beliefs like "an embryo is a child of God" legislated. They're in favor of banning contraception, termination pills, and all abortions. (I would argue those fanatics also include some men who hate women. Fact of life. Handle it.)

I could go on about my moderate point of view, but this article from William Saletan sums it up beautifully. Here is someone who did his homework and while those who rely strictly on church doctrine won’t bother to read it (Logic? What's that?), the rest of the country is probably more in tune with this way of thinking. Most Americans support legal and safe abortions during the first trimester and some restrictions thereafter. They also support access to birth control and abstinence programs at the same time. I know. I'm so in tune with my fellow peeps.

Excerpt: Maybe, if we spend the next 10 years helping women avoid second-trimester abortions, we won't have to spend the next 20 or 40 years defending them. Maybe the best way to end the assault on Roe is to make it irrelevant.

Please, wingnuts, continue praying, blocking clinics, and vilifying women in pain. Continue to hate on females, scream about bloody fetuses and lobby Congress to outlaw every reproductive aid known to man. Others, keep with irrational arguments that aborting a viable fetus is a protected Constitutional right. Rock on with your bad selves. You help and save no one. At all. Period.

In related news - this guy is fighting for men everywhere. What a trooper! He says he shouldn't have to support a child he never wanted in the first place. Wow. Bio Dad isn't looking so bad right about now.

If a man makes it clear he doesn't want a child, is the woman on her own? Or does a living child have rights, regardless of sperm-donor's intent? I'm asking.

Any so-called pro-lifer who doesn't respond to this story with a similar: "He should have thought about that before he ejaculated inside someone!" is just a walking contradiction. Yes, Bob, I'm talking to you.

Reminds me of what Barney Frank (big fan!) said a while back: "Pro-life conservatives believe life begins at conception and ends at birth."

Go 'head, talk amongst yourselves. I'm done rambling and off to get my veins zapped. These legs don't stay beeyooteeful on their own.

SSDD

6am – Wake up. Smile at quiet, clean house.

6:15am – Post blog. Read "good morning" messages and some hate mail. Smile again. Tampa rocks.

6:45am – Wake boys with hugs and kisses.

7am – Announce immediate destruction of Nintendo DS Systems if certain children don’t learn to move in the morning. No more smiles.

7:15am – Leave for school. Fight New Tampa traffic. Colorado doesn't sound so bad.

8am – Finally make it to work after spending 45 minutes going two blocks. Look around prison…I mean, school…and feel more alone among 1800+ people than earlier with just two little kids.

9am - Exchange emails with former colleagues at Superior High School and feel the love. I heart Tampa.

9:15am – Read favorite sites and eat a granola bar.

10am – Read favorite paper and grow disgusted at conservative antics. Throw up granola bar.

10:45am – Talk to Husband. Plan reunion fantasies and search online for new home in Colorado Springs.

11:30am – Comment on a blog or two - spreadin' some love. Gonna grow old here. Perhaps Husband can commute?

11:45am – Roll eyes and send silent hex to Mr. C and Bob and their legion of conservative supporters. Then secretly blow a kiss.

Noon – Feel frustrated at lack of progress regarding local job search. Tampa doesn’t deserve us. Good riddance.

1pm –Help students discover themselves. Life is good.

3pm – Pick up kids and bond with teachers who think they are brilliant little boys. Will live here forever.

3:30pm – Fight New Tampa traffic while talking to Becky about western politics. Feel blood pressure rise. Does conservative Colorado need me?

4pm – Get home. Plan a few Democratic events, talk to local activists about issues, and answer emails from people who love me. Feel all warm and fuzzy and secretly hate Husband for liking Colorado Springs.

4:30pm – Watch children play while talking with neighbors in a safe and close-knit community. Loving life.

5:15pm – Help with homework, then talk with Husband and pretend to be self-sufficient Super Woman. Fool no one.

6pm – Eat dinner and tell kids to sit still 65 times.

7pm –Tuck in children with hugs and kisses. Turn on news and yell about Republican hijinks. Call siblings and parents. Everyone is supportive no matter what. Damn them.

7:30pm – Clean and meditate and clean some more.

8pm – Write and exercise and write some more.

9pm - Walk through quiet little house filled with happy memories and pick place in back yard to bury my ashes someday. Never leaving.

10pm – Go to bed a bit dizzy from riding rollercoasters all day. Fall asleep.

That's right. I refrained from mentioning the Magic Banana.

You're welcome.

If You Must Know

I am often asked: "Why did you convert to Judaism? Glutton for punishment?" It breaks down like this -

Rebellious by nature, I became a real pain-in-the-ass toward the end of my teenage years. Politics (anti-choice) and policies (no female priests) in my parents' Church of Choice rubbed me the wrong way. Then I was asked to sign a petition denouncing The Last Temptation of Christ, a movie best avoided because it sucked not banned because it challenged church doctrine. Freedom of speech and all... So I rebelled. And questioned. And then rebelled some more.

I looked into other Christian denominations. A Jehovah's Witness used to visit me every weekend and I read all her material. Fascinating, but too conservative for my free-loving and, according to her, "doomed" soul. A co-worker turned me on to Latter-Day Saints. I liked The Book of Mormon, good people, but couldn't get behind their hard-core stance against homosexuality and women's rights. Most Protestant faiths left me drained and wanting to never again see the inside of a church.

I figured I was without a home. When I wrote a paper titled "The Historicity of Jesus Christ" for a Humanities class, I learned about the Messianic Principle and early Christians - especially Saul...err...Paul and the ways he broke with Judaism to found a new religion.

Good stuff. I was a hit at parties.

Hippie friends turned me on to Eastern philosophies and faith took another turn. I read the Bhagavad Gita and incorporated other practices into my daily routine: meditation, Tai Chi, natural healing, yoga, vegetarianism, and a desire to graduate Samsara. Still. I'm a monotheist at heart and couldn't get on board with any idol-worshiping. Much love, though.

Then my friend Julie asked me to visit her synagogue. No, she did not recognize a kindred spirit and hope to awaken the sleeping Jew inside me. Instead, she had the hots for her new rabbi and wanted me to meet him.

He was way hot. His wife, too. And that was the end of Julie and The Rabbi. However, I felt right at home. For the next few years, I studied and learned about this ancient yet modern religion. So many things felt like a good fit. For example, Israel means "to struggle" with God.

Score!

I also learned the major difference between Jews and Christians has nothing to do with Jesus. Oh, sure, some Jews are waiting for the Messiah. However, many of us take the Messianic Principle to mean that one person makes a difference and, with God's help, we can save ourselves.

SIDE NOTE: Don't even get me started on Messianic Jews. One cannot be both Christian and Jewish - no matter what Madonna says. Jews for Jesus are evangelical Christians out to save your soul. Run don't walk in the opposite direction. They're as bad as Scientologists. Ooops - intolerant moment. Sorry.

The main difference between Jews and Gentiles is a question of emphasis. Christians emphasize prayer while Jews stress the importance of study. Christians focus on belief; Jews - behavior. Simple as that. Or not. What do I know?

During my two-year conversion (no quickie dip in the lake and you're saved, thankyouverymuch), I also gained more of an appreciation for my Catholic heritage, the Pope, and all that Christianity has accomplished. They brought monotheism to the world, after all. Good job, peeps.

In the end, I picked a Hebrew name (Bruriah), got naked and jumped in the mikvah to come out an adopted daughter of Abraham and Sarah. Then I made my Jewish boyfriend-soon-to-be-husband put down his ham sandwich, pick up a yarmulke and get with the program. While I feel at home among Conservative, Reform, and Orthodox Jews, we picked a Reform Congregation and have been davening ever since.

I realize, for many, I am now your token Jew. So feel free to ask more questions as if I really know what I'm talking about.

A Day in the Life

Natalie Portman - proving once again that Jewish women got it goin' on. "F*ck your man, it's my name that he's screaming." Enjoy.

Hat tip to tiny.

Positive Thoughts

I feel like one of those army wives whose husband is in Iraq - except mine is in Colorado, comes home to visit, and I'm not worried about imminent death due to lack of proper equipment.

Other than that, though...

I'm trying not to focus on the solitude and impending doom felt when contemplating an unknown future. (Will we move? Will we stay?) I took advantage of "me" time this weekend by renting a chick flick. Halfway through the film, I remembered I don't like chick flicks. One glass of wine later and I'm making all kinds of rude comments - to myself.

Neighbor and friend came over the next day while my kids were in Hebrew School and said, "I would've checked in this weekend, but wanted to give you some space."

Everyone must've thought the same thing - except two charming six year-olds who are out like lights at 7pm. Thank God for the Internet! Ahh... the life of a "single", soon-to-be-middle-aged mom. If I start watching Lifetime on a regular basis, commit me.

The boys are doing okay, despite the fact they're used to weekends of sporting events and mindless movies with daddy. These days, Mommy gives them Maurice Sendak exhibits and Gasparilla Arts Festival. Afterward we watched The Prince of Egypt and discussed the plight of our ancestors. Good times.

Highlight: After watching Pharoah's men drown, Red Sea-style, my youngest yells, "Get 'em, God!" while my oldest cheers and throws popcorn at the television. Melts a mother's heart.

Without Husband to nag, Wife can focus on herself. A shrinking waistline and spotless house has to count for something. Still. I miss directing my rude and tipsy comments, made during movies and the rest of life, at the person legally required to smile and respond.

Wonder how he's enjoying his break?

Be There or Be Square

A few weeks ago, I invited interested people to attend Why We Fight this Saturday evening at Tampa Theatre. Afterward, we'll grab a drink somewhere and debate until dawn.

If you're interested or even mildly curious about this groundbreaking film, join other progressives in town for an interesting event. All two of us will be there with bells on.

Good News

This week, Jim Davis will unveil his plan for Florida's future. First up is bringing teachers' salaries closer to the national average by creating an endowment fund. This fund will provide $140 million annually for teacher increases.

UPDATE: My dad and another four or five REGISTERED REPUBLICANS promise to vote for Jim Davis if my family stays put in Tampa. The pressure's on, I suppose.

More to follow...

Join in the Conversation

Jim Davis will be hosting a live chat tomorrow afternoon at 2:30pm - just log into the website to get registered. It's a great opportunity to learn more about a man who will keep his promises to all of us.

I'll be teaching the youth of our great state and won't be able to join in; however, if you listen closely, you can hear my applause.

Keep the Internet Free

Mitchell Szczepanczyk of Chicago Media Action sounds an alarm and every blogger ought to be concerned.

As of now, anyone can access the Internet and determine by choice when and where to go, no matter their beliefs or interests. If the titans of the Telecommunications industry have their way, all that will soon change.

Excerpt: Companies like AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast want to abolish net neutrality and set up the virtual equivalent of tolls on the internet. The idea would be to set up separate tiers of internet access - the digital equivalent of a ten-lane superhighway alongside a single-lane dirt road. If you want to access the superhighway, you'd have to pay AT&T or whomever extra fees through a virtual toll for that access - a source of fantastic profit potential for the would-be tollkeepers on the internet. But those who can't afford the superhighway can still take the dirt road, right?

More : This will then lead to a Catch-22 for bloggers. Either pay the telecom companies hefty ongoing fees which you may or may not afford, or face the digital equivalent of a black hole where you can't easily or readily access independent media content. Either way, the abolition of net neutrality will dissuade a great many online media producers and consumers, thereby striking an effective death blow to the blogosphere and the variety and diversity currently on the internet. The advantage would thus go to already wealthy and entrenched media producers.

As always, there is only one way to stop the ever-reaching arm of corporate influence and that's to GET INVOLVED. If you run your own site, participate by reading and posting comments, or enjoy easy access to the world of information, please don't hesitate to read more about net neutrality and send off an email to CEOs and your elected representatives.

Blog owners: join the fun and run a free banner on your site to bring attention to this important issue.

Can we save ourselves? Everyone affected must express outrage over this latest attempt to extort money for an already way-profitable enterprise. Do you know anyone satisfied with mainstream media? Keep the Internet free.

Bloggers bring many important issues to light; don't allow media conglomerates to put us all back in the dark.

I'm in a Mood

Remember the "Bert is Evil" craze from a couple years ago? I love Bert. How could my favorite Sesame Street character be considered evil? Still, this picture cracks me up. And how many pictures featuring Osama bin Laden can you say that about?

So be it.

Local News

-- As Joel pointed out recently, a beloved Tampa landmark has closed its doors. Alas, The Masquerade is no more.

Masquerade and I go way back. My friends and I were regulars at a time before streetlights and chain nightclubs made Ybor City a yuppie hotspot. In the late 1980s, we wandered the streets unsupervised, smoking clove cigarettes and feeling misunderstood. There were no hip, urban-style clubs or police officers patrolling 7th Avenue. We only had El Goya, The Cuban Club's basement, and Masquerade. And that was enough for us.

El Goya - the only club in Tampa with a gay theme and patrons who danced to Erasure and Depeche Mode without embarrassment. We were ahead of our time. Cuban Club was the perfect basement venue to slam dance in Doc Martens while Suicidal Tendencies played on stage. And Masquerade was the place to try out fake IDs and dance all night long to Sisters of Mercy while avoiding horny boys in Misfits t-shirts.

My IDs never worked and I always got thrown out. Back then, I didn’t see the upside of looking young for my age. I’d pout outside with bouncers who were more amused than angry. I can still smell the dry ice and stale smoke – familiar and happy memories.

Since then, Ybor City has been dying a slow death. Masquerade’s passing confirms it. Either too safe or too dangerous to encourage rebellious expression – Ybor City has sent its rejects to The Burg. End of an era indeed.

-- A beloved teacher passed away recently. Ted Adams taught Marine Biology at my alma mater, Chamberlain High School, for twenty-one years. He fought a courageous battle against melanoma and died last Thursday at age sixty.

I never had Mr. Adams, but Becky did. Through her, I learned about his ideas regarding conservation and preserving our environment long before Earth Day 1990 brought such ideas to everyone’s attention.

I hope to influence students the way Mr. Adams did – those who were or were not in his classroom will remember him always.

-- A reaction to my op-ed piece in The Tampa Tribune.

Don't Believe the Hype

--This week, I am dealing with All Things FCAT, walking up and down aisles filled with nervous students, asking them to stay focused and do their best. Many issues ride on the results - graduation, school grades, funding, and bonuses. The Department of Education thinks FCAT is so important they've hired temporary workers to grade it.

That's right. Kelly Services is in charge of this gig and our reputations. How are low-paid, part-time workers qualified to grade the most important standardized test in Florida? Is this why it takes four months to get the results? Wow. FCAT - way important.

--Rod Smith is introducing legislation to require a paper trail for voting in Florida. Fantastic! Oh, wait a minute, didn't Rod Smith co-sponsor a bill in 2001 that did away with paper trails in the first place?

That's right. Voting systems that use paper ballots - way important. In an election year.

I'd rather a governor who understands a week of training isn't sufficient for determining whether students graduate or teachers get a bonus. I'd also prefer a governor who doesn't resort to election-year shenanigans.

And I'll bet Jim Davis knows you don't get gas from ATM machines.

'Bout Time

Individual Ready Reserve is one of the worst ideas the Bush administration has utilized yet to solve the problem of a diminishing military. (We all know their many mistakes, so to say this is the worst is saying something indeed.)

As my cousin mentioned in an earlier post, IRR has been on the books for years now. Dubya’s simply putting it to good use.

I know a few people who are getting ready to ship out as a result of IRR. They served their country well and now have to go back against their will. Without exception, every one has been outspoken against this administration and the way Iraq has been handled. I feel for these veterans, I really do. They should be thanked for their extraordinary service and allowed to return to civilian life. They’ve earned it.

I also know people close to such soldiers, who are rethinking their allegiance to Dubya and his corrupt administration. They are softening previously hardcore regurgitations of Fox News and Rove Talking Points. I know I should be happy, or at best relieved, that such coming-around is occurring among the previously neocon-faithful.

Instead, I’m pretty p*ssed off. Bush supporters or apologists are the ones responsible for IRR and every other misguided policy and scandal. With a mighty voting voice, they brought these people into power. Now chickens are coming home to roost and they wanna cry in their coffee.

I don’t feel a bit sorry for them. They're part of the problem.

Once again, Affected Republicans feel no one’s pain but their own. IRR has been going on for a while now and I don’t remember any of these folks raising a stink about it. However, now that the backdoor draft and other such policies are affecting their loved ones – oh, the injustice! They want to call in political favors and write letters to the editor and get involved because they’re experiencing firsthand what it means to have a half-wit in the White House.

God bless activists who aren’t affected personally and still get involved. God bless those who feel for their brothers and sisters in harm’s way and speak out against it. God bless people who care for others as they care for their own.

The rest need to take a long look in the mirror and say thank-you to themselves. They’re the reasons we’re in this mess in the first place.

Welcome to the dance, latecomers. Nice to see you.