The On-Line Buzzletter

2 Tennessee gay teens/1 NY Girl Committed Suicide from Bullying

2012-01-28T06:13:00.001-05:00

If you think that bullying gay teens isn't a problem, read this article from this week's Nashville newspaper - AND one from USA TODAY about a NY Teen. Here's what I have to say about it: ATTENTION RELIGIOUS CONSERVATIVES- You are responsible for the deaths of these 2 Middle Tennessee teenagers. - This news appeared in the Nashville Tennessean newspaper on 1/25/12, and sickens me.
IT'S TIME for the CHURCHES to step up to the plate and STOP the INTOLERANCE, and Get a message to ALL TEENS to Stop the Bullying!!! DO YOUR JOB, CHURCHES. Stop enabling this crap to happen and start ending it!!!
- Rob

2 Tennessee gay teens Committed Suicide from Bullying
Two Middle Tennessee gay teens have killed themselves in recent weeks, and friends and family members say both were the objects of persistent bullying in school because of their sexuality.
Which is the best reason Tennessee lawmakers need to examine their hearts and put a screeching halt to the “don’t say gay” bill, which would contribute to a toxic atmosphere in schools. By telling teachers that they cannot discuss homosexuality, the legislature would be endorsing free-for-all bullying of gays.
The bill breeds hostility in the highest halls of power in Tennessee. There’s no excuse for it.
Funeral services were held Monday for Phillip Parker Jr., 14, an eighth-grader at Gordonsville High School. He hanged himself in the upstairs bathroom of his home Friday night. Family members said they complained to school officials about the constant bullying he experienced because he was gay.
In December, Cheatham County High School senior Jacob Rogers, 18, killed himself. He, too, was gay. He, too, complained about being bullied because of it to school officials. He had other troubles as well.
Could any elected official look in the eyes of one of those two teens’ relatives and defend a vote in favor of this horrific “don’t say gay” bill? If teachers and guidance counselors are forbidden from using the word “gay,” how can they respond to bullies?
This has put Tennessee in the national headlines once again, and not in a good way. Schools should be turning to the legislature for leadership, not hatred. Such a law sanctions the ridiculous idea that being a gay teen is somehow deviant.

USA TODAY: Column: Bullying in USA: Are we defenseless?

Tragically, last month Staten Island took a giant step closer to becoming like the rest of the nation. On Dec. 27, a 15-year-old high school sophomore named Amanda Cummings walked onto the main boulevard in her neighborhood and, according to witnesses, threw herself into the path of an onrushing bus. She died from her injuries six days later. Police say that at the time of the accident, she was carrying a suicide note in her pocket.

A common scenario

Amanda's back story is all too familiar: She had been bullied relentlessly at her school, mostly by other girls. She had suffered a failed romance that brought her into conflict with a female classmate. She had reportedly sunken into a fog of drugs and alcohol. And most sickeningly, even as she lay dying in the hospital, the bullying continued on her Facebook page.

FULL ARTICLE: http://www.usatoday.com/news/opinion/forum/story/2012-01-24/bullying-teen-school-suicides-cyberbullying/52777832/1?csp=Dailybriefing

Preacher Tries to Bilk Jim Reeves Estate while Widow Suffers Dementia

2012-01-27T05:37:00.000-05:00

I just read that the estate of Country Singer Jim Reeves (I enjoy his music), who died in 1964 is STILL being disputed in court!! - Apparently his widow married a Baptist preacher, who divorced her and is trying to get more Reeves Estate than the $100k she's already given him.
She's living in squalor and filth as an elderly woman and can't use the rest of the estate money to get into a home. Sick, Sick, Sick. This guy is a PREACHER and he sold off a bunch of property and memorabilia of the late Jim Reeves' estate already, and now while his ex-wife is dealing with dementia, he wants to take it all. He also let her live in FILTH in her dementia - read the article below from the Tennessean. - Rob

Jim Reeves’ music catalog still generates significant income.

A trial to determine how to divide royalties earned by the late country great Jim Reeves got under way Monday in Davidson County Probate Court, with testimony about the singer’s widow’s declining health and unsanitary living conditions at the time her second husband made deals to sell Reeves’ property and memorabilia.

Davis has been the central character in the ongoing legal battle, which predated Mary’s 1999 death. He was married to Mary Reeves Davis for 30 years. In the last several years of her life, her relatives grew concerned about their relationship.
When both Mary Reeves Davis and Terry Davis were signing off on property sales and making deals to transfer Jim Reeves’ royalty rights and memorabilia, she was suffering from dementia, according to her physician Dr. Anderson Spickard, whose previous deposition was read aloud in court.
About the same time, Department of Human Services officials were investigating reports of the woman living in unsanitary conditions. Investigators found more than 100 dead cats in the freezer of the Rutherford County farm that she shared with Terry Davis, and numerous live cats and animal feces littered the home.
Mary Davis was subjected to “degrading comments” and “verbal abuse” and was observed with numerous bruises, according to DHS social worker Debra Keener’s testimony. Terry Davis objected to the reading of the Department of Human Services’ findings into the record as irrelevant.
Outside of court, Davis said he is frustrated that he is still battling claims more than a dozen years later for what he believes is rightfully his inheritance. STORY: http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120124/BUSINESS01/301240021/2047/NLETTER01/Jim-Reeves-legacy-at-stake-in-court-case?source=nletter-news

Tip from a Blonde Woman about Replacement Windows

2012-01-26T06:42:00.000-05:00

Here's a tip from a blonde woman about getting REPLACEMENT WINDOWS this winter:Last year I replaced all the windows in my house with that expensive
double-pane energy efficient kind, and today, I got a call from the
contractor who installed them. He was complaining that the work had
been completed a whole year ago and I still hadn't paid for them.
Hellloooo,............just because I'm blonde doesn't mean that I am
automatically stupid. So, I told him just what his fast talking sales
guy had told me last year, that in ONE YEAR these windows would
pay for themselves! Helllooooo? It's been a year! I told him.
There was only silence at the other end of the line, so
I finally just hung up. He never called back. I bet he felt like an idiot.

READ THIS- Jefferson's Wall of Separation Letter: Church and State

2012-01-25T06:34:00.000-05:00

Here's a VERY important piece of history that everyone needs to read- especially people who are trying to force the entire U.S. to adhere to their Religious views, by imparting them in Federal Legislation. Thomas Jefferson was strongly for keeping church and state separate. Read the information below, which includes information from USConstitution.net (where you can buy a copy of the Constitution). - Rob and Tom

Jefferson's Wall of Separation Letter

Thomas Jefferson was a man of deep religious conviction —his conviction was that religion was a very personal matter, one which thegovernment had no business getting involved in. He was vilified by hispolitical opponents for his role in the passage of the 1786 Virginia Statutefor Religious Freedom and for his criticism of such biblical events as theGreat Flood and the theological age of the Earth. As president, he discontinuedthe practice started by his predecessors George Washington and John Adams ofproclaiming days of fasting and thanksgiving. He was a staunch believer in theseparation of church and state.

Jefferson wrote a letter to the Danbury Baptist Associationin 1802 to answer a letter from them written in October 1801. A copy of theDanbury letter is available here. The Danbury Baptists were a religiousminority in Connecticut, and they complained that in their state, the religiousliberties they enjoyed were not seen as immutable rights, but as privilegesgranted by the legislature — as "favors granted." Jefferson's replydid not address their concerns about problems with state establishment ofreligion — only of establishment on the national level. The letter contains thephrase "wall of separation between church and state," which led to theshort-hand for the Establishment Clause that we use today: "Separation ofchurch and state."

The letter was the subject of intense scrutiny by Jefferson,and he consulted a couple of New England politicians to assure that his wordswould not offend while still conveying his message: it was not the place of theCongress or the Executive to do anything that might be misconstrued as theestablishment of religion.

Note: The bracketed section in the second paragraph had beenblocked off for deletion in the final draft of the letter sent to the DanburyBaptists, though it was not actually deleted in Jefferson's draft of theletter. It is included here for completeness. Reflecting upon his knowledgethat the letter was far from a mere personal correspondence, Jefferson deletedthe block, he noted in the margin, to avoid offending members of his party inthe eastern states.

This is atranscript of the final letter as stored online at the Library of Congress, andreflects Jefferson's spelling and punctuation.

****************************************

Mr. President

To messers Nehemiah Dodge, Ephraim Robbins, & Stephen S.Nelson, a committee of the Danbury Baptist association in the state ofConnecticut.

Gentlemen

The affectionate sentiments of esteem and approbation whichyou are so good as to express towards me, on behalf of the Danbury Baptistassociation, give me the highest satisfaction. my duties dictate a faithful andzealous pursuit of the interests of my constituents, & in proportion asthey are persuaded of my fidelity to those duties, the discharge of thembecomes more and more pleasing.

Believing with you that religion is a matter which liessolely between Man & his God, that he owes account to none other for hisfaith or his worship, that the legitimate powers of government reach actionsonly, & not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act ofthe whole American people which declared that their legislature should"make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting thefree exercise thereof," thus building a wall of separation between Church& State. [Congress thus inhibited from acts respecting religion, and theExecutive authorised only to execute their acts, I have refrained fromprescribing even those occasional performances of devotion, practiced indeed bythe Executive of another nation as the legal head of its church, but subjecthere, as religious exercises only to the voluntary regulations and disciplineof each respective sect.] Adhering to this expression of the supreme will ofthe nation in behalf of the rights of conscience, I shall see with sinceresatisfaction the progress of those sentiments which tend to restore to man allhis natural rights, convinced he has no natural right in opposition to hissocial duties.

I reciprocate your kind prayers for the protection &blessing of the common father and creator of man, and tender you for yourselves& your religious association assurances of my high respect & esteem.

(signed) Thomas Jefferson

Jan.1.1802.

SOURCE: http://www.usconstitution.net/jeffwall.html

Doggone Good Poses

2012-01-24T06:52:00.000-05:00

It's not always easy to get Dolly, Franklin and Sprite to pose for a camera. Typically, they all look in different directions, but on snowy Saturday, they were pretty cooperative, so Rob snapped these pictures with his cell phone. Too bad we didn't have a high-resolution camera handy.

In the NEWS: The chocolate that won’t make you fat

2012-01-23T06:50:00.000-05:00

Here's new research that will make EVERYONE happy!

The chocolate that won’t make you fat

January 11, 201

By adding linseed and chilli to dark chocolate, researchers can raise your metabolism so you can eat chocolate without putting on weight.

Imagine a bar of chocolate that tastes good, is filling – and which raises your body’s metabolism, so you can eat the chocolate without putting on weight.

This may sound too good to be true, but it is precisely what researchers at the University of Copenhagen have in their melting pot.
“It would be good if ordinary people could use this chocolate as part of their normal eating diet and actually eat less,” says Arne Astrup, a doctor of medical science and the head of the university’s Department of Human Nutrition, who led the development of the new chocolate. Together with his colleagues, Astrup focuses on appetite, energy metabolism and preventing and treating obesity. FULL STORY: http://sciencenordic.com/chocolate-won%E2%80%99t-make-you-fat?utm_source=ScienceNordic.com+Newsletter&utm_campaign=3e41a6b4c5-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email

Washington Post: The economy? It’s still Bush’s fault

2012-01-22T06:58:00.000-05:00

Here's an article from the Washington Post on 1/18/12. It seems the majority of Americans understand how the deficit began. - Rob
The economy? It’s still Bush’s fault
WASHINGTON POST - A majority of Americans believe that former President George W. Bush is more responsible than President Obama for the current economic problems in the country, according to a new Washington Post-ABC News poll.
Fifty-four percent of respondents said that Bush was more to blame while 29 percent put the blame on Obama; 9 percent said both men deserved blame while 6 percent said neither did. Among registered voters, the numbers are almost identical; 54 percent blame Bush, while 30 percent blame Obama.
Independents, widely considered the most critical voting bloc this fall, continue to blame Bush far more than Obama for the economic troubles. Fifty-seven percent of unaffiliated voters put the blame on the former Republican president, while 25 percent believe the blame rests more with Obama.
Heck, even one in five Republicans say Bush is more responsible than Obama for the state of the economy!
The economic blame game numbers are somewhat remarkable given that Obama is in the third year of his presidency, a tenure defined by the continued economic distress in the country.
We’ve written for quite some time that the longer Obama is in office (and the longer Bush is out of it), the more likely it is that blame for the economy would shift toward him. But, these numbers suggest — gasp! — we were wrong.
Article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-fix/post/the-economy-its-still-bushs-fault/2012/01/17/gIQAE7Dy6P_blog.html?wpisrc=nl_pmpolitics

Video: Age-Activated Attention Deficit Disorder

2012-01-21T07:39:00.008-05:00

We can relate to this... and if you're over 40, now there's a medical term for your forgetfulness! Enjoy this short 4 minute video. Thanks to Cathy in PA for sharing it! Rob and Tom

Age-Activated Attention Deficit Disorder
by Borehamwood Camcorder Club

The director, Steve Pemberton, writes about the making of this film in our Film Talk section.

New from NASA: NASA Finds 2011 Ninth-Warmest Year on Record

2012-01-20T05:58:00.000-05:00

Here's the latest news from NASA (this was issued from the center where I work, and YES, it is VERY MUCH true.). Anyone that tells you the Earth is not warming, and that mankind does not have a hand at making it warm at a much faster than normal rate is simply UNINFORMED. Here's a chance to get informed!
NASA Finds 2011 Ninth-Warmest Year on Record
The global average surface temperature in 2011 was the ninth warmest since 1880, according to NASA scientists. The finding continues a trend in which nine of the 10 warmest years in the modern meteorological record have occurred since the year 2000.

NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS) in New York, which monitors global surface temperatures on an ongoing basis, released an updated analysis that shows temperatures around the globe in 2011 compared to the average global temperature from the mid-20th century. The comparison shows how Earth continues to experience warmer temperatures than several decades ago. The average temperature around the globe in 2011 was 0.92 degrees F (0.51 C) warmer than the mid-20th century baseline.

"We know the planet is absorbing more energy than it is emitting," said GISS Director James E. Hansen. "So we are continuing to see a trend toward higher temperatures. Even with the cooling effects of a strong La Niña influence and low solar activity for the past several years, 2011 was one of the 10 warmest years on record."

The difference between 2011 and the warmest year in the GISS record (2010) is 0.22 degrees F (0.12 C). This underscores the emphasis scientists put on the long-term trend of global temperature rise. Because of the large natural variability of climate, scientists do not expect temperatures to rise consistently year after year. However, they do expect a continuing temperature rise over decades.

While average global temperature will still fluctuate from year to year, scientists focus on the decadal trend. Nine of the 10 warmest years since 1880 have occurred since the year 2000, as the Earth has experienced sustained higher temperatures than in any decade during the 20th century. As greenhouse gas emissions and atmospheric carbon dioxide levels continue to rise, scientists expect the long-term temperature increase to continue as well. (Data source: NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies. Image credit: NASA Earth Observatory, Robert Simmon)

The first 11 years of the 21st century experienced notably higher temperatures compared to the middle and late 20th century, Hansen said. The only year from the 20th century in the top 10 warmest years on record is 1998.

Higher temperatures today are largely sustained by increased atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide. These gases absorb infrared radiation emitted by Earth and release that energy into the atmosphere rather than allowing it to escape to space. As their atmospheric concentration has increased, the amount of energy "trapped" by these gases has led to higher temperatures.

The carbon dioxide level in the atmosphere was about 285 parts per million in 1880, when the GISS global temperature record begins. By 1960, the average concentration had risen to about 315 parts per million. Today it exceeds 390 parts per million and continues to rise at an accelerating pace.

The temperature analysis produced at GISS is compiled from weather data from more than 1,000 meteorological stations around the world, satellite observations of sea surface temperature and Antarctic research station measurements. A publicly available computer program is used to calculate the difference between surface temperature in a given month and the average temperature for the same place during 1951 to 1980. This three-decade period functions as a baseline for the analysis.

The resulting temperature record is very close to analyses by the Met Office Hadley Centre in the United Kingdom and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

Hansen said he expects record-breaking global average temperature in the next two to three years because solar activity is on the upswing and the next El Niño will increase tropical Pacific temperatures. The warmest years on record were 2005 and 2010, in a virtual tie.

"It's always dangerous to make predictions about El Niño, but it's safe to say we'll see one in the next three years," Hansen said. "It won't take a very strong El Niño to push temperatures above 2010."

What Happened to all U.S. Snow?

2012-01-19T06:37:00.002-05:00

This article explains perfectly what's been going on in the atmosphere this winter and why there has been very little snow in the lower continental U.S. states. It also features quotes and explanations by my friend and colleague, Dr. Bill Patzert.
What Happened to all the Snow?by Dauna Coulter for NASA Science News
SOURCE: http://www.terradaily.com/reports/What_Happened_to_all_the_Snow_999.html

Winter seems to be on hold this year in some parts of the United States. Snowfall has been scarce so far in places that were overwhelmed with the white stuff by the same time last year.

Here's a prime example. "The Mammoth Mountain ski resort in the Sierras of California got more than 200 inches of snow last December," says NASA climatologist Bill Patzert of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. "This December they got less than 10 inches."

Snow in the Rockies (only) seen by NASA's Terra satellite 1/17/12. Cr: NASA

Temperatures have flip-flopped too. There were 583 new heat records broken in the first five days of January in the US.

"It's 86 degrees in Los Angeles today [Wednesday, January 4th]," says Patzert. "Everyone thinks it's July! In fact, it's warmer now in LA than it was on July 4th last year. And it's been in the 60s and 70 even in the Dakotas lately."

On January 5th in Bismark, North Dakota, it was 62 - a marked departure from their average 23 degrees for that day. It was 66 in Denver, Colorado, where it's usually in the low 40s on that date.

What's going on? Patzert identifies two culprits: La Nina and the Arctic Oscillation.

First of all," he explains, "we are experiencing a La Nina pattern of sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean. This pushes the jet stream and the cold arctic air northward."

"On top of that, this year's Arctic Oscillation has been stronger."

The Arctic Oscillation is the whirlpool motion of the air around the North Pole. When this motion is weaker, like last year, cold air escapes from that whirlpool and heads southward to the US.

"This year the whirlpool has been more forceful, corralling the cold air and keeping it nearer the pole. That has reinforced the La Nina impact."

While the corralling action of the Arctic Oscillation has kept snow away from parts of the contiguous United States, it has brought extra snow to places inside the whirlpool.

"The strong positive AO has kept the Jet Stream north," says Patzert. "Snow-delivering storm tracks are pounding Alaska."

Cordova, a small coastal town about 150 miles east of Anchorage, has been especially hard hit. More than 18 feet of snow has fallen so far this winter. Snow dumps are full, roads have turned into one-lane "snow canyons," and National Guardsmen have been sent in to help residents dig out.

Even heartbroken snow-lovers of the lower 48 don't want that much white stuff. But they'd like some.

"Be patient," advises Patzert. "We haven't gotten to the heart of winter. Hold off on selling the new dogsled. There's plenty of time for snow. It ain't over till the Siberian Huskies sing."

Did you know? World's 'most expensive' tea grown in Chinese panda poo

2012-01-18T06:02:00.000-05:00

This is ONE "steaming" cup of tea we won't be drinking!

Rob and Tom

World's 'most expensive' tea grown in Chinese panda poo
Chinese entrepreneur An Yanshi is convinced he has found the key ingredient to produce the world's most expensive tea -- panda poo.

The former calligraphy teacher has purchased 11 tonnes of excrement from a panda breeding centre to fertilise a tea crop in the mountains of Sichuan province in southwestern China, home to the black and white bears.

An says he will harvest the first batch of tea leaves this spring and it will be the "world's most expensive tea" at almost 220,000 yuan ($35,000) for 500 grams (18 ounces).

Chinese tea drinkers regard the first batch of tea to be harvested in the early spring as the best and successive batches, regarded as inferior, will sell for around 20,000 yuan.

The 41-year-old, who is so passionate about his new project he dressed in a panda suit for his interview with AFP, has been ridiculed by some in China for his extravagant claims of the potential health benefits of the tea.

But he insists he is deadly serious, saying he quit his job at Sichuan University to throw himself "heart and soul" into his company, Panda Tea, whose logo features a smiling panda wearing a bow tie and holding a steaming glass of green tea.

While An hopes to make money from the tea, which he has planted on just over a hectare (2.5 acres) of land, his main mission is to convince the world to protect the environment and replace chemical fertilisers with animal faeces -- before it is too late.

"Panda dung is rich in nutrition... and should be much better than chemical fertilisers," An told AFP, as he sat at a traditional Chinese tea table drinking tea grown with cow manure. "People should make a harmonious relationship with heaven, earth and the environment," An said.

The tea aficionado got the idea to use panda feces as fertiliser after attending a seminar last year where he discovered that the bears absorbed less than 30 percent of the bamboo they consumed, excreting the remaining 70 percent.An showed AFP reporters a glass jar of fresh-looking panda feces, which he uses to fertilize two tea plants in his office, noting the "quality" and "green" color of the dung.

FULL STORY: http://www.seeddaily.com/reports/Worlds_most_expensive_tea_grown_in_Chinese_panda_poo_999.html

Home Improvements!

2012-01-17T07:08:00.001-05:00

Old stairway rug/runner

This weekend we decided it was time to get a new rug for the stairway (a runner) as the old one was 3 years old and was actually wearing out. So, we ripped out the old one, cleaned the dirt that filtered through it (yes, your stairway rug likely has a good bit of dirt under it), washed the stairs and installed the new runner. Here are the pictures of it, including the dogs, who were supervising.

Sprite Supervising

Franklin wondering if there are any crumbs on the old rug

Dolly dis-interested and squirrel searching

Tom installing the new carpet

Vacuuming the dirt under the old rug

The new carpet all tacked down.

Tom and Rob happy with the new carpet!

Republican Group in NH Stands for Gay Marriage

2012-01-16T05:26:00.006-05:00

- New Hampshire has had a gay marriage law for a couple of years now, and we have friends that have married under the law. NOW, there's a huge move by the Republican Party to repeal the gay marriage law and Invalidate all of the gay marriages. A nasty, hateful thing to do, and certainly not one of equality.

- NOT all Republicans believe in repealing gay marriage. We have straight friends who are Republicans that live in NH and believe in gay marriage rights. Now we know they're not alone.

- It was founded by a straight, married, Republican, Ex-marine who has a gay brother.

Republicans For Gay Marriage in NH

- We recently learned of a group in New Hampshire created by a straight, married couple, who are Republicans and who firmly believe that Gay Marriage should stand in New Hampshire. It's called " Standing Up for New Hampshire Families."

I can't tell you how relieved I (Rob) am to see this group and movement. I think all states should read their message and be aware of it.

PLEASE SIGN THEIR PETITION NOW TO SAVE GAY MARRIAGE IN NEW HAMPSHIRE (you can be from any state):

http://www.change.org/petitions/new-hampshire-state-legislators-dont-repeal-the-freedom-to-marry

ABOUT THE GROUP: http://standingupfornhfamilies.org/

Standing Up for New Hampshire Families is a bipartisan group of citizens, business owners, people of faith, and civic leaders who oppose repealing the popular 2009 law allowing gay and lesbian couples to marry. Lew Feldstein, former president and chief executive officer of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, and Craig Stowell, a former Marine who served in Iraq, serve as co-chairs.
Feldstein has been named one of the ten most influential people in New Hampshire by Business NH Magazine. Last year, he was inducted into the New Hampshire Business Review’s Business Excellence Hall of Fame. Feldstein serves on the Boards of Directors of the Independent Sector and the National Center for Family Philanthropy. He is a graduate of Brown University and holds a Master’s in Law and Diplomacy from Tufts University.
Stowell, a former Marine who served in Iraq, provided testimony before the New Hampshire Legislature earlier this year on behalf of his gay brother’s freedom to marry. He also wrote an Open Letter to state lawmakers published in the Union Leader. “As a former Marine, I take freedom and liberty very seriously,” he wrote. “And as a conservative, I find the effort to take away marriage from loving gay and lesbian couples not only to be wrong, but completely off task. This is not why we sent you to Concord.”

Political News You may not Know: WASHINGTON POST

2012-01-15T06:40:00.001-05:00

Here's some news from the Washington Post that you MAY NOT know about.

Obama seeks to streamline government
The move would merge the Small Business Administration and other Commerce Department agencies. White House says proposal would cut more than 1,000 jobs and save $3B over 10 years.
» Read full article
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/obama-to-propose-combining-agencies-to-shrink-federal-government/2012/01/13/gIQAHsLqvP_story.html?wpisrc=nl_pmpolitics&sub=AR
Santorum charity spent most of its money on political friends
Santorum’s Operation Good Neighbor gets low ratings for helping the poor.
» Read full articlehttp://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/santorum-charity-for-the-poor-spent-most-of-its-money-on-management-political-friends/2012/01/11/gIQAGDKVwP_story.html?wpisrc=nl_pmpolitics

SIDEBAR:
Tom found this from an economist, and it really makes you think.

The Republican legacy:

· A President elected by the Supreme Court despite losing the popular vote.

· A war in Afghanistan, but didn't get bin Laden.

· A war in Iraq predicated on lies about WMDs.

· Tax cuts for the wealthy that exploded our national debt. (and continue to do so)

· Failed to monitor the financial and real estate industries which caused the “Bush Depression.”

· · Nominated a former mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, to be Vice President of the United States.

- The Republican response to losing the 2008 election was to create the Tea Party.

-Once back in a position of power, they have held the middle-class tax cuts hostage, threatened to shut down our Government, and brought us to the brink of default with the debt limit crisis.

Talk/Book Signing: Novel Places Books, Clarksburg, Md. 1/15/12

2012-01-14T08:26:00.000-05:00

If you live near Frederick or Gaithersburg, Maryland - come out on Sunday, January 15 from 1 to 3:30pm for a TALK and BOOK SIGNING: INTRO TO GHOSTS & SPIRITS AND HOW THEY COMMUNICATE

Novel Place Books. Credit: Caroline Leavittville

- In the setting of a former home built in the 1790s, that may have supernatural activity of its own, join me for an introduction to learn the how, what, where and why ghosts and spirits exist, and how and why they communicate to people. If you've lost a dog or a cat, they also have the ability to come back and give messages! You'll learn about a puppy that provided physical, auditory and other signs he was still around.

LOCATION: Novel Places Books, 23341 Frederick Road, Clarksburg, Md.

http://www.novelplacesusa.com/

I hope to see you there!

Inside Novel Places. Credit: Caroline Leavittville

My book: Ghosts & Spirits; Insights from a Mediu

Tonight at 7pm: Local Talk: A LOCAL HAUNTING: A DOUBLE MURDER

2012-01-13T06:07:00.000-05:00

Tonight, I (Rob) will be giving a talk about a ghost investigation in a local home. I joined The Inspired Ghost Trackers of Odenton, Md. and our friend Troy, also a medium. It was fascinating.
TALK: A LOCAL HAUNTING: A DOUBLE MURDER
FRIDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011 (Free to the Public)
TIME: 7-9:30pm EST
Rob Gutro and members of Inspired Ghost Tracking discuss an investigation in a local home where a double murder occurred.
WHERE: Inspired Journeys, 1350 Blair Drive , Suite E, Odenton, Md.
RESERVE A FREE SEAT: Contact Margaret at: inspiredghst@aol.com.
OR go to www.inspiredghosttracking.webs.com

ABOUT INSPIRED GHOST TRACKERS:

Ghosts & Spirits: Insights from a Medium by Rob Gutro

Inspired Ghost Tracking was founded in October 2008 and is located in Odenton, Maryland.

We are a meetup group that gets together a couple of times a month for investigations and events. Our investigations are not for the purpose of labeling a site as "Haunted" but rather as an experience to document and collect data, to further our understanding of the paranormal and to help those who are experiencing paranormal activity.

As a paranormal investigative and researchteam we hope that by using the equipment

and our senses we will be able to further educate ourselves and others.

*Need Help?

*Want toRequest or Suggest an Investigation?

*Are you experiencing paranormal activity in your home or business?

*Do you feel that you need help figuring out strange occurrences?

*Please email us at inspiredghst@aol.com

All information will be kept confidential!

*We are also available for guest appearances!

* If you are looking for a guestspeaker for your event then contact us.

* We do local events for free.

Canine Forensic Experts

2012-01-12T06:00:00.001-05:00

Dolly investigating the toy death

Our weimaraner Dolly and dachshund Franklin have become experts in forensic science with stuffed animal deaths. They carefully pick through the once-stuffed shells of former stuffed animals to determine exactly what killed them. They're a little messy in their methods, as we'll sometimes find stuffing scattered about on the floor, but we have to admire their determination in finding a new career for canines.

Sprite: "I'm too darn old to start a new career like that!"

Frankin - Concludes "It was bad stuffing."

Most of the time, they decide the former stuffed animal left this world because improper stuffing during the stuffed animals creation. Sometimes they carry the stuffing-less shell around the house to do further investigation, perhaps to see it in a different light. We really admire their ingenuity, even though we usually have to pick up the stuffing. :)

From a 21 Year-old Girl in Texas

2012-01-11T06:44:00.000-05:00

Our friend Maureen in Mass. sent us this email and we thought we'd share it with you.

Tom and Rob

This was written by a 21 yr. old female who gets it. It's her future she¹s worried about and this is how she feels about the social welfare big government state that she¹s being forced to live in! These solutions are just common sense in her opinion.

This was in the Waco Tribune Herald, Waco , TX Nov 18, 2010

Put me in charge . .

Put me in charge of food stamps. I'd get rid of Lone Star cards; no cash for Ding Dongs or Ho Ho's, just money for 50-pound bags of rice and beans, blocks of cheese and all the powdered milk you can haul away. If you want steak and frozen pizza, then get a job.

Put me in charge of Medicaid. The first thing I'd do is to get women Norplant birth control implants or tubal ligations. Then, we'll test recipients for drugs, alcohol, and nicotine and document all tattoos and piercings. If you want to reproduce or use drugs, alcohol, smoke or get tats and piercings, then get a job.

Put me in charge of government housing. Ever live in a military barracks?

You will maintain our property in a clean and good state of repair. Your "home" will be subject to inspections anytime and possessions will be inventoried. If you want a plasma TV or Xbox 360, then get a job and your own place.

In addition, you will either present a check stub from a job each week or you will report to a "government" job. It may be cleaning the roadways of trash, painting and repairing public housing, whatever we find for you. We will sell your 22 inch rims and low profile tires and your blasting stereo and speakers and put that money toward the "common good.."

Before you write that I've violated someone's rights, realize that all of the above is voluntary. If you want our money, accept our rules. Before you say that this would be "demeaning" and ruin their "self-esteem," consider that it wasn't that long ago that taking someone else's money for doing absolutely nothing was demeaning and lowered self-esteem.

If we are expected to pay for other people's mistakes we should at least attempt to make them learn from their bad choices. The current system rewards them for continuing to make bad choices.

AND While you are on Gov¹t subsistence, you no longer can VOTE! Yes that is correct. For you to vote would be a conflict of interest. You will voluntarily remove yourself from voting while you are receiving a Gov¹t welfare check. If you want to vote, then get a job.

Of all God's creations, man is the only one who drinks without being thirsty, eats without being hungry and talks without having something to say.

Fascinating Interview w/Cosmologist Lawrence M. Krauss about his findings and recent book "Everything and Nothing."

2012-01-10T06:43:00.000-05:00

As a scientist (meteorologist) and someone who has been following the latest research into the cosmos, including Stephen Hawking's research, I found this interview fascinating. It's an interview conducted by author and philosopher Sam Harris (a famous author in his own right) with Lawrence M. Krauss about his findings and recent book "Everything and Nothing."

I urge everyone to read at least this first question and answer (and the others can be found at the following link). FULL INTERVIEW: http://www.samharris.org/blog/item/everything-and-nothing/

I plan on reading this book and learning from it... Krauss' findings parallel those of Stephen Hawking.

- Rob

Lawrence M. Krauss is a renowned cosmologist, popularizer of science, and director of the Origins Project at Arizona State University. He is the author of more than 300 scientific publications and 8 books, including the bestselling The Physics of Star Trek. His interests include the early universe, the nature of dark matter, general relativity and neutrino astrophysics. He is also a friend and an advisor to my nonprofit foundation, Project Reason. Lawrence generously took time to answer a few questions about his new book, A Universe from Nothing.

***

One of the most common justifications for religious faith is the idea that the universe must have had a creator. You’ve just written a book alleging that a universe can arise from “nothing.” What do you mean by “nothing” and how fully does your thesis contradict a belief in a Creator God?
Indeed, the question, “Why is there something rather than nothing?” which forms the subtitle of the book, is often used by the faithful as an unassailable argument that requires the existence of God, because of the famous claim, “out of nothing, nothing comes.” While the chief point of my book is to describe for the interested layperson the remarkable revolutions that have taken place in our understanding of the universe over the past 50 years—revolutions that should be celebrated as pinnacles of our intellectual experience—the second goal is to point out that this long-held theological claim is spurious. Modern science has made the something-from-nothing debate irrelevant. It has changed completely our conception of the very words “something” and “nothing”. Empirical discoveries continue to tell us that the Universe is the way it is, whether we like it or not, and ‘something’ and ‘nothing’ are physical concepts and therefore are properly the domain of science, not theology or philosophy. (Indeed, religion and philosophy have added nothing to our understanding of these ideas in millennia.) I spend a great deal of time in the book detailing precisely how physics has changed our notions of “nothing,” for example. The old idea that nothing might involve empty space, devoid of mass or energy, or anything material, for example, has now been replaced by a boiling bubbling brew of virtual particles, popping in and out of existence in a time so short that we cannot detect them directly. I then go on to explain how other versions of “nothing”—beyond merely empty space—including the absence of space itself, and even the absence of physical laws, can morph into “something.” Indeed, in modern parlance, “nothing” is most often unstable. Not only can something arise from nothing, but most often the laws of physics require that to occur.
Now, having said this, my point in the book is not to suggest that modern science is incompatible with at least the Deistic notion that perhaps there is some purpose to the Universe (even though no such purpose is manifest on the basis of any of our current knowledge, and moreover there is no logical connection between any possible “creator” and the personal God of the world’s major religions, who cares about humanity’s destiny). Rather, what I find remarkable is the fact that the discoveries of modern particle physics and cosmology over the past half century allow not only a possibility that the Universe arose from nothing, but in fact make this possibility increasingly plausible. Everything we have measured about the universe is not only consistent with a universe that came from nothing (and didn’t have to turn out this way!), but in fact, all the new evidence makes this possibility ever more likely. Darwin demonstrated how the remarkable diversity of life on Earth, and the apparent design of life, which had been claimed as evidence for a caring God, could in fact instead be arrived at by natural causes involving purely physical processes of mutation and natural selection. I want to show something similar about the Universe. We may never prove by science that a Creator is impossible, but, as Steven Weinberg has emphasized, science admits (and for many of us, suggests) a universe in which one is not necessary.
I cannot hide my own intellectual bias here. As I state in the first sentence of the book, I have never been sympathetic to the notion that creation requires a creator. And like our late friend, Christopher Hitchens, I find the possibility of living in a universe that was not created for my existence, in which my actions and thoughts need not bend to the whims of a creator, far more enriching and meaningful than the other alternative. In that sense, I view myself as an anti-theist rather than an atheist.
FULL INTERVIEW: http://www.samharris.org/blog/item/everything-and-nothing/

BOOK: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/145162445X?ie=UTF8&tag=wwwsamharri02-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=1789&creativeASIN=145162445X

LA auxiliary bishop resigns, admits fathering kids

2012-01-09T05:33:00.000-05:00

As a former Catholic, I still think that demanding priests not marry is simply stupid. Religious people in many other faiths marry. Forcing priests to "shut off" their sexuality is dangerous. Of course, the church also needs to ensure that priests who are mentally ill and abuse children are removed and given therapy. While I'm at it, the church needs to stop spending their congregation's money attacking gay marriage- not only because it's political and they're not supposed to do that (and should lose their tax exempt status), but also because it's a legal right, not a religious one. - Rob

LA auxiliary bishop resigns, admits fathering kids

By ROBERT JABLON | AP – 11 hrs ago

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The resignation of a Los Angeles bishop who fathered two children has shocked the nation's most populous Roman Catholic archdiocese, where Auxiliary Bishop Gabino Zavala grew up and was an outspoken supporter of causes dear to the huge Hispanic population.

Zavala, 60, who once urged Catholic media to report scandals such as clergy sex abuse "in a spirit of love and mercy," had his resignation accepted Wednesday by Pope Benedict XVI. Roman Catholic canon law permits bishops to step down earlier than the normal retirement age of 75 if they are sick or otherwise unfit for office.

"This is unexpected, sad and disorienting news for many people who know and like Bishop Zavala," archdiocesan spokesman Tod Tamberg said. "Remember, he was raised here. He has deep roots in Los Angeles and so he's very well-known here."

Tamberg said he knew nothing about Zavala's affair except that it involved consenting adults and that no church funds were used.

A handful of other priests have quit their post over sexual relationships, including: Florida priest Alberto Cutie, who resigned in 2009 and married his then-girlfriend; Auxiliary Bishop James McCarthy of New York, who resigned in 2002 after the archdiocese was alerted about his affairs with women; and Archbishop Robert Sanchez of Santa Fe, New Mexico, who resigned in 1993 after confessing relationships with women.

The late Archbishop Eugene Marino of Atlanta resigned in 1990 when his relationship with a parishioner was made public; the woman said she and the archbishop had secretly married.:

FULL STORY http://news.yahoo.com/la-auxiliary-bishop-resigns-admits-fathering-kids-210529533.html

La Nina Means a Mild Winter Continues for southeastern U.S.

2012-01-08T06:37:00.000-05:00


This Dec. 2011 NASA satellite image shows the cooler than normal sea surface temperatures (blue) that represent La Nina. Credit: NASA JPL

If you live in the southeastern and mid-Atlantic states, you've been enjoying a milder than normal winter, thanks to the La Nina phenomena in the eastern Pacific Ocean. La Nina is expected to continue through the winter, so the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says the mild winter temperatures will continue.

What is La Nina? It's below-average sea surface temperatures (SST) across the eastern and central equatorial Pacific Ocean that affect (and bend) the path of the jet stream. The Jet Stream is a fast moving ribbon or "street" of air in the upper troposphere that moves from west to east, and storms track along it. The Jet Stream is buldging north of the Mid-Atlantic, keeping that area and the states south of it, warmer than normal.
In a forecast issued on January 5, 2012, NOAA said "During January - March 2012, there is an increased chance of above-average temperatures across the south-central and southeastern U.S., and below-average temperatures over the western and the northwest-central U.S. Also, above-average precipitation is favored across most of the northern tier of states and in the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys, and drier-than-average conditions are more likely across the southern tier of the U.S. (see 3-month seasonal outlook released on 15 December 2011)."

FOR THE FULL REPORT FROM NOAA: http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.pdf

Santorum and His Dead Baby- this is sick!

2012-01-07T18:40:00.001-05:00

We received TIME magazine today, and trying to understand Rick Santorum's mindset and his voracious hatred for gay people and men and women who use contraception(which he wants to make illegal in the U.S., BTW), I read an article by Joe Klein. Joe interviewed Santorum, who shared stories about his grandfather, his religion, etc.

- One thing that stood out is DISTURBING.

Santorum and his wife Karen lost their son Gabriel in childbirth 15 years ago. A horrible tragedy.

-The article says "Karen nearly died from septic shock, but she refuses to have an induced birth - an abortion, in effect. In retrospect, she admitted she wasn't thinking clearly; she had three other children at home." Sadly, Santorum wants to make that kind of abortion illegal, putting the life of the mother at risk. That's just stupid.

*** NOW for the DISTURBING PART: "After Karen miscarried, the Santorums BROUGHT THE DEAD CHILD HOME OVERNIGHT SO THEIR OTHER CHILDREN COULD SEE THAT HE WAS "a beautiful, tiny little baby."

- We don't have children, but we think that's SICK. There's something mentally wrong here. His living children will ALWAYS have the mental trauma of seeing their dead newborn brother! Telling them is one thing, but bringing home the corpse of a newborn is just SICK.

We welcome your thoughts on this.

SOURCE: TIME Magazine, Vol 179, No. 2, Jan. 16, 2012. Article "The Passion of Rick Santorum," p. 33

Some GOOD Economic News! Private hiring surges, jobless claims dip

2012-01-07T07:12:00.003-05:00

-- For those who think the economy is still miserable, there's good news. Things are getting better in the job sector of the economy. Here's a story from Reuters News on 1/5/12:

(Reuters) - Private-sector hiring surged in December as employers added 325,000 new workers while claims for jobless benefits fell, raising hope that recent labor market improvement would continue in 2012.
The ADP National Employment Report's December job tally surprised economists who had expected a 178,000 gain. It was also well above the 204,000 private jobs added in November.
"The number is stunning," said Wayne Kaufman, chief market analyst at John Thomas Financial in New York. "This is another data point that shows our economy is healing. It fits in well with improvements we've seen in consumer sentiment, and obviously that's because there are more people getting paychecks, which is making everyone happier."
Joel Prakken of Macroeconomic Advisers, which helps produce the report, struck a note of caution, telling reporters that the December surge in hiring might have been caused in part by year-end seasonal factors and revisions were possible. In the U.S. stock market, stock futures pared losses after the data while U.S. government debt prices fell slightly.
FULL STORY: http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/05/us-usa-economy-idUSTRE7BM0AB20120105?feedType=nl&feedName=ustopnewsearly

PHOTO DOG BLOG: A Day in the life

2012-01-06T05:42:00.000-05:00

Dolly tears into a stuffed Dolphin from her grandparents

Playing, napping, listening - all part of a day in the life of our dogs, Dolly, Franklin and Sprite. Here are some pictures of them over the holiday week.

Trying to get the stuffed monkey from Franklin is impossible!

Dolly resting from playtime

Sprite listening to everyone talk and waiting for a treat

In-Santorum - From the headlines

2012-01-05T06:50:00.002-05:00

I honestly can't believe what I hear coming from the mouths of political candidates like Rick Santorum and Michelle Bachmann. Santorum is apparently not the "Moral Christian" he says he is- doing lots of back door deals and favors. What's horrifying to me is that people vote for them and that these candidates and supporters actually believe this stuff. I can only refer to them as "In-santorum" (Insanity).
If you don't read anything on this page, read the 10th and LAST bullet point.
Here are some examples of the stupidity from the headlines:
1) Santorum Surge Brings Ethics Questions
"There were several instances in which Santorum appeared to have taken campaign contributions in direct exchange for legislative assistance," said Sloan, whose organization, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), spent months investigating Santorum's activities while he was in office.
FULL STORY ON Ethics Violations from ABC NEWS: http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/santorum-surge-brings-ethics-questions/story?id=15287424#.TwWai_Le6Sr

2) Santorum Backs Invalidating All Gay Marriages (how Rotten is this?)
Santorum repeated his support for a federal constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage.

3) Santorum Blames Gays for Marriage Decline (this is just stupid)

Poster found on the Internet

( former senator Rick Santorum, reacting to a newly released report saying that marriage is at an all time low in the United States, tweeted to his near 46,000 followers that the decline is due to “changing” the definition of marriage. (Read more: http://www.care2.com/causes/santorum-blames-gays-for-marriage-decline.html#ixzz1iRUvAzXq
4) Santorum: Gay Marriage Means Kids Would Be Taught Gay Sex (RIDICULOUS!!!)

Jason Kornelis, a 23-year-old recent graduate of Dordt College asked how Santorum’s being against gay marriage is any different to the kind of prejudice that once surrounded interracial marriage. Santorum balked at the comparison, and was incredulous that Kornelius didn’t think same-sex marriage would negatively impact society.

4) Santorum: Insurers Should Discriminate Against People With Pre-Existing Conditions (You think this guy cares about everyone? No)

The former Pennsylvania senator not only defended insurers for denying coverage to people with pre-existing conditions, he also argued that individuals who are sick should pay higher premiums because they cost more money to insure.Read more: http://www.care2.com/causes/santorum-insurers-should-discriminate-against-people-with-pre-existing-conditions.html#ixzz1iRVv7uwp

5) With a Santorum Presidency, You May Lose Your Birth Control

Santorum would let states ban birth control. Story: .http://santorumexposed.com/?p=454
and : http://www.care2.com/causes/with-a-santorum-presidency-you-may-lose-your-birth-control.html#ixzz1iRWMxcxN

Poster found on the Internet

6) Carbon Dioxide is Not Harmful

"Carbon dioxide is portrayed as harmful. But there isn't even one study that can be produced that shows that carbon dioxide is a harmful gas." -Rep. Michelle Bachmann, April, 2009

7) Remove Minimum Wage to Wipe Out Unemployment?

"If we took away the minimum wage -- if conceivably it was gone -- we could potentially virtually wipe out unemployment completely because we would be able to offer jobs at whatever level." -Michele Bachmann, Jan. 2005

8) She Knows her History: NOT

"But we also know that the very founders that wrote those documents worked tirelessly until slavery was no more in the United States. ... I think it is high time that we recognize the contribution of our forebearers who worked tirelessly -- men like John Quincy Adams, who would not rest until slavery was extinguished in the country." -Rep. Michele Bachmann, botching American history while speaking at an Iowan's for Tax Relief event in January 2011. The Founding Fathers did not work to end slavery, and John Quincy Adams was not one of the Founding Fathers.

9) *READ THIS** USA POLITICS ARTICLE: If you’re wondering why Michele Bachmann doesn’t seem to get history, economics, science or facts, it’s not because she’s stupid or gaffe prone. These are not mistakes; these are Bachmann’s real beliefs.

Full Story: http://www.politicususa.com/en/michele-bachmann-dangerous

10) WHO SUPPORTS THESE PEOPLE? - According to an article in USA Politics (See above): How extreme are her supporters? According to a recent poll, 35% of those who support Michele Bachmann thought the rapture was coming on May 21, 2011.

Check Out the SUPERMAN reboot in Action Comics

2012-01-04T06:42:00.006-05:00

It's no secret that I love Superman (Batman, Green Lantern, Flash and others) and still collect comics.

This past September, DC Comics rebooted all of its comics and took some back to a time early in their careers.

ACTION COMICS is set 10-15 years in the past, and 5 years prior to the current JUSTICE LEAGUE arc, and shows us a young Superman, in his early 20s, just having moved to Metropolis… and ready to save the world.. by any means necessary.

My comics shop- Third Eye in Annapolis said in its blog: "In the first four issues of Action, Morrison has done SO much awesome stuff, from introducing big time Superman bad guys like Metallo (and hinting at Brainiac), to supporting cast like Steel and Jimmy Olsen, to the Bottle City of Kandor… it’s incredible. His portrayal of Luthor is especially interesting."

Now, in Action #5, out this week, "Morrison is doing something that is especially huge… he’s retelling, and redefining the origins of SUPERMAN in the 21st century, while not throwing away concepts that came before, but modernizing others," Third Eye Comics said. ***I can't wait! The first 4 issues were great!***

Shopping and Religion: an Analogy/ A viable candidate

2012-01-03T06:19:00.001-05:00

While watching the news about the Republican candidates Monday morning, it became obvious to me how much they continue to push their religion on the American public (except for GOP's Jon Huntsman, who seems to have a great deal of experience and knowledge on how to run a country and has common sense).

My observation is that religion is like grocery shopping. It's something personal. You don't demand that all of your friends shop at your supermarket of choice, do you? No. You can only recommend it.
So, why do most political GOP candidates want you to shop at their "religious" grocery store? It makes no sense. We are a country of individuals who make their own choices.

Further, if this country was run by one religion, we would be the same as another country (or countries, which shall remain nameless), led by one religious leader that vows to destroy all other religions or blot out those who don't follow their beliefs. That is NOT America. We are a melting pot of all beliefs and no beliefs. We need to understand that, and allow for ALL, not just a select few. President Obama is not forcing his religious views on the country and keeps religion separate from politics as our founding fathers intended. (Check out the writings of Jefferson, Franklin, Adams).

BTW- JON HUNTSMAN - is someone I would consider voting for. **I think Huntsman is a smart guy who could actually run the country and do a great job. However, religious conservatives don't like him because he believes climate change is a reality (Finally- an Educated candidate!), who believes in civil rights, and was a diplomat. He's got a lot of great political expereince. Jon Meade Huntsman, Jr. (born March 26, 1960) is politician, businessman, and diplomat who served as the 16th Governor of Utah. He also served in the administrations of four United States presidents. More info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jon_Huntsman,_Jr.

2012-01-02T07:55:00.000-05:00

CNN MONEY: Same-sex spouses lose big on taxes
By Blake Ellis @CNNMoney December 31, 2011: 7:54 AM ET
Same-sex spouses sometimes pay thousands more in federal income taxes than their straight counterparts because the Defense of Marriage Act bars the IRS from recognizing their marriages. An analysis conducted for CNNMoney explains the many federal tax advantages not available to gay and lesbian married couples.
**************************************************

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- Same-sex spouses are paying as much as $6,000 a year in extra taxes because the federal government doesn't recognize gay marriage, according to an analysis conducted for CNNMoney by tax specialists.
While marriage provides tax benefits for many heterosexual couples, same-sex families don't enjoy the same perks because they are not allowed to file their federal returns jointly.
The imbalance persists despite increasing acceptance of gay marriage as a legal right. More than 12 states now grant full or partial marriage rights to same-sex couples, and a recent Gallup poll showed -- for the first time -- that a majority of Americans favor gay marriage.
But not the federal government, which is constrained by the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act. Even as more same-sex couples are able to file jointly at the state level, they are still forced to file as single when submitting federal returns to the IRS.
This means they can't combine their income and deductions to take advantage of lower tax rates. It's also harder for them to qualify for certain tax breaks because the credits phase out sooner for single filers.

State tax changes on the way in 2012

"It's costing these families thousands of dollars a year, as well as the emotional pain and suffering," said Ken Weissenberg, a partner at accounting firm EisnerAmper who is in a same-sex marriage himself.
Why gay couples pay more: To zero in on the tax bill gap between same-sex families across the country, CNNMoney asked H&R Block to crunch number comparing same-sex and heterosexual families according to a variety of scenarios. (Check out H&R Block's methodology)
One scenario involved families with one spouse earning $100,000 and the other spouse staying at home with the family's two kids.
In the same-sex family's case, the working spouse files as "head of household," and the stay-at-home spouse is considered a "qualifying relative."
Say that couple reported no other income or deductions. In that case, the same-sex household's federal tax bill is $15,199, which includes tax the head of household must pay on health insurance premiums to cover the stay-at-home spouse. That's $4,543 higher than the straight couple's liability. Why? Because the "head of household" designation comes with some disadvantages.

Filing as "head of household" instead of "married filing jointly" exposes more income to a higher tax bracket. Plus, standard deductions, which are given based on the filing status to taxpayers who don't itemize deductions, are lower for a head of household than they are for married couples filing jointly.
And then there are the kids. When a child tax credit is claimed, the gap between same-sex households and married couples can grow even wider.
The heterosexual couple in H&R Block's example is able to claim the full $1,000 child tax credit for each kid. But the credit phases out sooner for families claiming "head of household." So in this case, the cost of being unable to file jointly comes out to $6,043 for same-sex households.
The one exception where same-sex spouses can actually come out ahead is the so-called marriage penalty. For some same-sex spouses in the higher tax brackets who work and have no children, filing tax returns using the "single" status makes the liability a little lower than that of heterosexual married couples. Still, "single" status is typically less advantageous than "married filing jointly."

They tried to deduct what?!

Other factors driving up the bill: It's not just income taxes that are costing same-sex couples more.
Many same-sex spouses don't qualify for the same marital exemptions given to other families for inheritance taxes and gift taxes. In addition, same-sex households receive lower tax exclusions for capital gains on the sales of a home (unless the home is jointly owned and each spouse qualifies for the exclusion).
All of this is not only costing same-sex couples more, but it's a paperwork and compliance nightmare.
Same-sex families who live in states where gay marriage is recognized typically have to fill out up to four separate returns -- including mock federal returns -- to cover both their state and federal taxes. Plus, hiring a tax preparer to take on these more complicated returns tends to be significantly more expensive.
"But it shouldn't stop anyone from getting married," said Weissenberg, who says he pays an extra $5,000 in taxes per year simply because he is in a same-sex marriage. "If I had to pay twice as much in taxes to be married to my husband, I would."

Fun in Lynchburg, VA

2012-01-01T05:08:00.000-05:00

During our week off, we drove down to Lynchburg, VA to meet our friends Tom G., Robert and Ed. We stayed at a great hotel that was once a shoe factory. We enjoyed a great dinner, breakfast and lunch, and paid respects to our other friend Ed who passed in 1996 (my Tom's late partner). We learned the Lynchburg closes up shops during Christmas week and about 80% of the stores are closed during that entire week! It was a fun time and great to see Tom, Robert and Ed. Here are some photos- and some thanks to Robert L.

L to R: Rob, Ed, Tom, Tom and Robert in hotel lobby

L to R: Ed, Robert, Tom, Rob and Tom

Shoebox with breakfast order inside

Ed, Tom and Tom breakfasting in downtown

Craddock Terry Hotel- former shoe factory and nice place to stay!

Ed, Tom, Robert, Rob and Tom in hotel lobby

Tom and Tom at Lunch in restaurant that was a former Woolworth store downtown

A Marriage Encounter in VA/Explained in Simple Terms

2011-12-31T09:52:00.000-05:00

This week, Tom and I (Rob) drove down to Lynchburg, VA to visit our friends Tom G, Robert and Ed. We also learned that Brian, a former fellow student of Tom's was now living in that town, too, so we met him for coffee. Brian's a nice guy and went to the same dysfunctional baptist high school that Tom attended. He's also a Christian who has gay friends. Tom and Brian addressed the topic of gay marriage and Brian said that as compassionate as he is with people, he does not agree that gay people can marry, even for legal protections, hospital visitations, tax purposes, etc. It was an interesting discussion. I feel SAD about it.
- I know that some of our friends also may feel the same way because of their religion. But marriage is NOT about a religion.
WHAT MARRIAGE MEANS: It's about a legal, binding promise between consenting adults to love someone for the rest of their lives. It's about how our local, state and federal governments, hospitals, employers and others view and treat us. People who have had NO religion have been getting married since the dawn of time.

RELIGIONS DO NOT HAVE TO BE A PART OF MARRIAGE: Yes, marriages CAN happen in churches,but they ALSO happen in City Halls. There's no mention of anyone's god in city hall.

EXAMPLES OF STRAIGHT COUPLES WHO ABUSE MARRIAGE: - There are a lot of celebrities and politicians who marry and divorce and make a sham out of marriage. Gay couples who marry WANT to marry for life. Here are some people to consider: 1) NEWT GINGRICH- Now on Wife#3. Divorced Wife #1 on her deathbed. 2) KIM KARDASHIAN - Married 72 Days. I SAID "DAYS." 3) KATIE PERRY - Married 14 Months, filed for divorce today.

-QUESTION FOR THE EVANGELICAL CONSERVATIVE CHRISTIANS- So, if you want to toss your Bible around, are we supposed to Stone all of these people to death now?

**NOTE -WE been married 2 1/2 years (in CT, but still not legal here) surpassing these people!**

A SIMPLE EXPLANATION OF THE BASICS OF MARRIAGE: This was taken from a website that explains why denial of gay marriage is NOT legal. The following may be helpful in shedding light on the LEGAL aspects of marriage equality.
PLEASE READ IT.

Source: http://www.reddit.com/r/Libertarian/comments/nbaq2/how_to_explain_gay_rights_to_an_idiot/

Classic fun video: She Got the Goldmine, I Got the Shaft!

2011-12-30T12:22:00.000-05:00

Here's a FUN music video of Jerry Reed and Dolly Parton doing a duet on "She Got the Goldmine, I Got the Shaft." It's from the 1987 Dolly show, and it's another of Rob's favorites. Enjoy!

Movie Trailer: Dark Knight Rises

2011-12-29T06:27:00.000-05:00

Opening in theaters on July 20, 2012, the Nolan's highly-anticipated third Batman movie stars Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Morgan Freeman, Tom Hardy, Anne Hathaway, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Marion Cotillard, Juno Temple, Josh Pence, Daniel Sunjata, Nestor Carbonell, Matthew Modine, Tom Conti, Joey King, Brett Cullen, Chris Ellis, Josh Stewart, Christopher Judge, Adam Rodriguez and Rob Brown.Villains include Bane (the superpowered villain who once broke Batman's back) and the Catwoman.
- I can do without the football game thing throughout, though. Batman is my (Rob's) favorite, so I have high hopes.

Elf-ed!

2011-12-28T06:50:00.007-05:00

Our friends Jeff and Jose "Elf-ed Tom and Rob in this funny and short video.

http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/JhmpmxoV7liIcg0Z?cmpid=ey_url

Busy day and Back to Normal!

2011-12-27T06:41:00.001-05:00

Monday, Dec. 26th was a busy day- we took down all of the Christmas decorations, met Tom's folks for lunch at the mall, returned something we didn't need, ran errands, walked the dogs and cleaned the house. Now, we're all back to normal. Yay! There's something great about the typical routine. By evening, we were able to have dinner at our regular time, enjoy Judge Judy and the network news. All the dogs are back in routine, too, which is always a good thing for them as well. Here's a picture of Tom and Dolly, taking a break during the take down of Christmas decorations.

Sprite sleeping on Franklin,sleeping on Dolly - and Rob sitting on the floor.

Sprite, Franklin and Dolly all cozy

Holiday Pic with the Governor!

2011-12-26T06:12:00.003-05:00

Every year our great governor, Martin O'Malley and his wife Katie open the Governor's mansion to the public for the holidays. They have live music, food, and the house is beautifully decorated. The big highlight for us is to get our picture with Governor and Mrs. O'Malley. Here's our photo from this year!

L to R: Katie O'Malley, Tom, Rob, Govn'r Martin O'Malley

Pictures with Santa- and a Screamer!

2011-12-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

Dolly screams with Santa?

Who says only human children can scream and cry when they're on Santa's lap? Why not a canine child? - When we brought our kids: Dolly the Weimaraner, and Franklin and Sprite the Dachshunds, to get their annual photos with Santa- Dolly appeared to be screaming in one of them!!
- We also published the best one here, too. :) Merry Christmas!

Santa with Sprite, Dolly and Franklin

Rob's Absolute Fav Christmas Song/Video

2011-12-25T06:17:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone! Here's a musical video treat for you.
In 1987, Dolly Parton had her own short-lived variety show. It was my (Rob) favorite show- I love Dolly Parton (which is why we named our Weimaraner after her). There was one Christmas show that featured Burl Ives (he passed away several years later) and Mac Davis as guests. The opening number was my all-time favorite Christmas song, written by Dolly, and sung by Dolly, Burl and MacDavis with lots of kids, dogs and puppets. I haven't seen this since videotapes went out of style (it was on videotape) and THIS is my all-time favorite. Hope you enjoy it, too.

\

Christmas Party Fun /A Canine-Christmas

2011-12-24T08:38:00.000-05:00

Jill, Matt and Kelli (left to right)

My (Rob) nephew Kenny and partner Allen hosted a tremendous Christmas party this week. Allen was the chef and cooked and baked many things. The house was nicely decorated by Kenny, and everyone had a great time. Here are some pictures from the party. **Further down are pics of a Canine Christmas. Tom's sister and boyfriend brought their 2 dogs, a sweet blue tick hound named Gypsy and a Yorkie named Joey. We hosted Gypsy for the 5 day visit (and they kept Joey at Tom's folks' house, thankfully). Gypsy got along great with our kids: Dolly, Franklin and Sprite.

LtoR: Sterling, Tom, Jill, and Chef Allen (standing)

Kelli upside down on the floor

Matt

Kenny and party-goers

More party-goers

Tom, Allen, Rob

Dolly

Back: Dolly and Gypsy/ Front: Sprite and Franklin

Dolly, Sprite, Gypsy, Franklin

Gypsy and Sprite

NASA Satellites See Santa's North Pole

2011-12-24T06:14:00.001-05:00

All was well at the North Pole this summer, when Santa and his elves were busily making toys and taking orders for this Christmas. NASA's Terra satellite was able to piece together a number of images it took to give us a complete look at the North Pole, which is usually very difficult to see by satellites, so Santa can keep his exact location secret.

On June 30, 2011 the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer(MODIS) aboard NASA’s Terra satellite made multiple passes over theArctic from its orbit in space, capturing a true-color image of thesummer lands and sea-ice near the North Pole on each pass. Individualimages were then pieced together to create a large mosaic of the area,which gives a broader view that would not be possible with individualimages.
In this mosaic of the Arctic, the polar ice cap appears blue-white,while the ice covering land appears bright white. The ice ofGreenland, in the lower left (southwest), is especially bright. Cloudsalso appear bright white, and can be difficult to separate from ice intrue-color images. Most of the clouds in this image appear inbillowing swirls, while ice tends to be smoother. This can only beconfirmed in the false-color images that were also generated by MODISthat same day.

The North Pole is found northeast off the coast of Greenland, in themiddle of the ice-covered Arctic Ocean and roughly near the center ofthis image. This is the northernmost point on Earth. From the NorthPole, all directions are south. Santa will be leaving from here on thenight of the 24th and circling the globe.

Today is Sprite's 15th Birthday

2011-12-23T05:35:00.000-05:00

Little Sprite is a Dachshund (maybe Chihuahua mix) that became our foster dog in early December 2010. He came to us through Coast-to-Coast Dachshund rescue (one of the rescues we work with). He was a mess when he arrived. He was almost 14 years old when a rescue worker took him from a home where an elderly couple raised him. The husband had passed away and the wife went into a nursing home. When he was rescued, he had fleas, so the initial rescuer had to give him several flea baths and comb out the fleas.
- Rob drove to Frederick, Md. and met the rescuer and brought Sprite home. Sprite was a calm little guy, but wasn't even housebroken at almost 14! His breath was so bad that Rob had to drive home with the windows opened in the wintertime.
- The Rescue paid for Sprite's vet visits: He needed 20 teeth removed (the rotted teeth caused the bad breath), it hurt him to eat, poor thing. We de-wormed him, had him on anti-biotics for about 6 months, and he had to be neutered, too. It took about 6 months for his teeth and operation to heal. Meanwhile, he learned from Dolly and Franklin how to be housebroken. He had accidents (and got over a urinary tract infection), but is now housebroken and happily wags his tail. He has a heart murmur and arrithymia, and his kidneys weakened this past summer. Cranberry pills have helped with his kidneys!
- He's very obedient and finally after 12 months comes to us for a head scratch and affection. We could tell that he never had any affection from his home of almost 14 years. He was also never picked up- and now he loves sitting in our laps while we're watching TV. He loves his soft treats, and grunts for dinner and breakfast. Even though 15, he still goes up and down stairs by himself. He also walks 2-3 times a day with Dolly and Franklin - about 1/2 to 1 mile each time.
- We formally adopted Sprite this summer, knowing that with his health a change of households would be very bad on his little heart. We love our little senior boy so very much and are so happy he's celebrating his 15th year with us. Happy Birthday Sprite, our little "peehead," and "squeety-mouse." He "Squeets" or grunts while waiting for dinner!

Holiday Travel Weather- Map and Satellite

2011-12-22T15:09:00.000-05:00

National Weather Service Forecast map for today 12/22/11

If you're traveling today or tomorrow for the holidays, here's a look at today's National Weather Service forecast map and a satellite image from NOAA's GOES-13 satellite from early this afternoon.

NOAA GOES-13 satellite visible image from this afternoon, 12/22/11

From Weather.com: Today's Travel Trouble spot #1: Rain spreads from the South earlyin the day to the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic States by evening.

Trouble spot #2: Snow spreads south from Coloradoand Kansas to New Mexico, northwest Oklahoma and west Texas.

Kids Can Track Santa with NORAD!

2011-12-21T15:50:00.001-05:00

Here's a story we just published from NASA- and your kids can track SANTA with NORAD and satellites:
According to the U.S. Department of Commerce Census Bureau, the world's population is approximately 7 billion (6,979,978,073+) people. Santa Claus has had to adapt over the years to having less and less time to deliver gifts to more people. To better assure prompt deliveries and safe flights, higher technology systems are increasingly being used by the United States Northern Command at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., to support the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).
   NORAD is a joint United States and Canadian organization which provides aerospace warning and control. The United States Air Force (USAF) uses ground based radars, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) operational satellites provided by NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, as well as Santa Cams, Google maps, and jet fighter aircraft.
   Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite information and carefully timed gravity assists from the sun, moon, and/or Earth are used to speed Santa's sleigh faster and more precisely than ever before.
   Multi-variable numerical modeling improvements in the solar wind, auroras, geomagnetic force fields, and space/Earth weather predictions are also being credited for important improved sleigh routing efficiencies. Rudolph (the red-nosed lead reindeer) provides a great infrared (warm) signature for the satellite instruments to focus on. The satellite data indicates where fog is and Rudolph can take over the reins from Santa as they use microwave data to know where the rain, snow, and ice are for those precise landing adjustments.
From 22,300 miles in space, NORAD will use for the first time the GOES-15 (covers the U.S. west coast and Pacific Ocean areas) significantly improved Earth location accuracy and heat detection infrared equipment from various satellites. Rudolph's nose gives off an infrared signature similar to a small missile launch and satellites can detect Rudolph's bright red nose very precisely.
   NOAA, NASA, and the USAF have satellites expertly positioned and additional volunteers are supporting the improved Santa tracking beginning after sundown on Christmas Eve December 24. Near "real time" public updates of progress should be available from the web site www.noradsanta.org/ NORAD Santa and thanks to worldwide corporate and international support updates will be provided in eight languages.
   NASA is in the process of checking out the new NPOESS Preparatory Project (NPP) satellite, launched in October. NPP will provide even more precise and more timely updates of weather information in the years ahead so Santa and his reindeer team can safely deliver more and more presents in all weather conditions in one night!
   To track Santa using NORAD, visit: www.noradsanta.org/

Remembering Ed G. Today

2011-12-20T16:56:00.001-05:00

Ed G.

TOM SAID: Remembering Ed who passed away 15 years ago today. Gone but in no way forgotten. Thanks to Robert L. for finding this great picture. One of the best that I've ever seen.
ROB SAID: In memory of Ed G. - Tom's late partner who passed 15 years ago today. Although I didn't know Ed when he was alive- he's talked to me so much and given me a LOT of messages that I've proven, that I know he's still here. Having the ability to communicate with those who passed has allowed me to get to know him and his fun sense of humor. Tom has asked me "where did that come from?" and I would tell him "Ed told me to say that." - it would be something Ed used to say to him. Really! So, Ed, we remember you today, but you are certainly very much around.

FCC: Loud TV commercials to End!!

2011-12-20T06:04:00.000-05:00

Mikey and LIFE cereal won't be so loud anymore!

Here's a long-overdue thing, finally happening!!

USA TODAY: Those ultra-loud TV commercials will soon be a thing of the past.

The Federal Communications Commission on Tuesday passed regulations requiring broadcasters and cable and satellite TV systems to maintain constant volume levels. The order, which goes into effect one year from now, "says commercials must have the same average volume as the programs they accompany," says FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski.

Last year, President Obama signed into law a measure that Congress passed giving the FCC authority to address the problem. A Harris poll taken around that time found that 86% of people surveyed said TV commercials were louder than the shows themselves — and, in many cases, much louder. "It is a problem that thousands of viewers have complained about, and we are doing something about it," Genachowski says.

FULL STORY: http://www.usatoday.com/money/media/story/2011-12-12/fcc-loud-commercials/51848692/1?csp=Dailybriefing

Who Votes for Them?

2011-12-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

I would really like to know why anyone would vote for a "conservative" or tea-party Republican candidate in this upcoming election. I WILL say that I admire Jon Huntsman -he's a more moderate Republican, well-educated, well-versed in how the country runs. Why he's not leading in polls seems to be because he's not playing the religious card, and I respect him more for that. Religion and politics should remain separate as our forefathers wanted.
- Granted Obama hasn't followed through with a number of things, but he's done some good. Why the GOP Congress continually brings the gov't to the brink of shutdown over and over this year just makes them look bad.
- For our friends that are typically Republican voters, I want you to think about these simple points. I'm not saying that Democrats are much better, but they certainly vote for things to take care of the majority of Americans.
I've come to learn that the GOP stands for:
1) Catering and Protecting people who make over 1 million dollars annually
2) Believes 1 religion should run a country containing many or no religions
3) Wants to deny civil rights for all and approves persecuting gay people to fire up a base of uneducated.
(Bachmann, Perry and others even want to "Outlaw" state gay marriage- they can't; and repeal the removal of "Don't Ask Don't Tell". Why?)
4) Wipe out medicare and give elderly people "vouchers" to find themselves health care, when they're in their most helpless stage in life. (My elderly mother wouldn't have a CLUE how to deal with that. Would yours?)
5) Reducing number of police, firemen and teachers
6) Continuing to let people making over $250K to pay less of a percentage in taxes than those making less.
7) Manipulating the uneducated with religion to get their own agenda into political power.
8) For those who think they're fiscally conservative- think again. Our country blew a surplus from democratic President Clinton and took it to a record deficit under a republican administration. GOP is NOT fiscally responsible.
*** That's pretty much what the GOP is all about. Want to vote for them now?

Pictures from December! - Stories, fun, and Santa

2011-12-18T05:48:00.000-05:00

Franklin and Dolly enjoying the couch

This month we've taken a variety of pictures from playing outside, to walking the dogs to taking our canine kids to see Santa.
GREAT GIFT- During the week of Dec. 11th, we got a box addressed to Rob from Dunkin' Donuts. Rob opened it and it was a 5 pound bag of Dunkin' Donuts coffee- ROB'S FAVORITE! - However, it was ordered and should've been delivered to a store in Pennsylvania. That's what the invoice inside said. When Rob called Dunkin' customer service they said "don't worry about returning it- it was our mistake. Just keep it and enjoy it." - WOW- What a perfect Christmas present. Rob must be doing something right (although Tom sometimes questions that!)
CONCERT - On Sunday, Dec. 11, Tom's folks sang in a Christmas concert in their neighborhood chorus. It was an elaborate show and they looked great. It was a good way to get in the Christmas mood.
SANTA PICTURES WITH OUR DOGS - Our friends Susan and Cary met us on 12/17/11 at Crunchies pet store when we took Dolly, Franklin and Sprite to see Santa. They had already brought 2 of their 3 beautiful Shelties and waited for us. Their other Sheltie, Murphy isn't ready to be around a lot of people, so he stayed home.Susan and Cary also helped corral our kids to go to Santa.

Sprite and Susan!

Dolly gives Cary a kiss!

Cary and Tom trying to get the dogs to look at the camera

Dolly in her Christmas outfit and Franklin in his red tee shirt

Dolly, Sprite and Franklin ready to walk!

Tom's parents' Christmas Concert

Bob and Mom- Famous Christmas Choir Singers

In Memory of Cooper

2011-12-17T17:10:00.000-05:00

Cooper

COOPERwasa long-haired dachshund adopted by our friends Bob and Arlene Brown in Md. We learned today from his adopted parents that his health had deteriorated to the breaking point. Cooper was put to sleep today and gave his parents a little wag of the tail at the end as a way to thank them for the loving home they gave Cooper.
   Cooper came to us as a senior foster dog through Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue. Cooper was found 2 years ago wandering the streets of northern New Jersey during a snowstorm, and saved by the rescue.
   Bob andArlene took him in with the heart condition he had. They gave him a loving homefor the last 2 years of his life and he was such a great boy. Bob and Arlene so lovingly adopted Cooper because their other long-haired Dachshund at the time, Lucy, also had the same heart condition. Lucy was also blind, and Bob and Arlene told us how Cooper would lead Lucy around and watch over her. Lucy passed last year and today was Cooper's time to go.
We are deeplysaddened by his passing as Cooper became part of our family, too. We know that Cooper is back together with Lucy and they're walking side by side again.

Photo of the day: 2 Rushed Shoppers?

2011-12-17T06:40:00.004-05:00

Tom gets photos of "Unsafe Acts of the Week" at work, and this is one that shows 2 aggressive drivers who didn't want to give the other an inch while driving. Maybe it was 2 rushed shoppers. We think it was just to stubborn morons!

Seeing the Governor for Christmas

2011-12-16T07:12:00.000-05:00

Our favorite, handsome governor Martin O'Malley and his beautiful wife Katie (an accomplished lawyer and more in her own right) open their home for Christmas every year and provide live music, cookies and hot apple cider, free Maryland ornaments and best of all, photos with them! We went to the mansion on Dec. 10th and took these great photos. We're waiting for the pics with the governor and his wife to come on-line.

Governor's mansion nicely decorated

beautifully decorated mantle in the mansion

Gorgeous fireplace!

Tom and Rob

Tom and Rob at the Governor's tree

Tom and Rob at the Governor's Christmas Tree

Beautiful sunroom in the mansion

Parody on Stupid Rick Perry Ad

2011-12-15T06:52:00.000-05:00

Rick Perry did a stupid ad this month talking about a "war on Christmas" and how he wants to get gay people out of the military. It was SO stupid that comics had a field day with it, especially because he wore the same jacket that Heath Ledger wore as the gay character in the film "Brokeback Mountain." Enjoy the parody:

William Wegman's Weimaraner 12 day Christmas Video Countdown: Day 4

2011-12-14T20:16:00.002-05:00

Famous photographer William Wegman takes photos of his Weimaraners (like our dog Dolly) and has museum exhibits, books, etc. For Christmas, he's doing short videos for the 12 days of Christmas- and issuing a 2 minute video daily. Here's day 4:

Macy's Fights Discrimination/Hate Group Uses a False Relgious Front

2011-12-14T08:15:00.000-05:00

I was so glad to read the article below. An employee of Macy's didn't follow store rules and discriminated against a transgender person. Now, I'll be the first to tell you that I don't know a transgender person, but some men I've met SHOULD have been born a woman, and some woman I've met should've been born a man. It happens. I don't understand how it happens, but it must be a pretty horrible struggle for them. Regardless, they're ALL people and should all be treated in a civil manner.
- If you're a Christian, or any other religion, and you don't agree, too bad. Plain and simple. People are all God's children- treat them all with respect. Conservative Christian Hate groups (YES, a HATE group and there are many that call themselves "Christian" much to the disgust of other Christians who don't behave like these Barbarians) exist. One hate group called "American Family Association" tried to sue Macy's and make them adhere to their warped, hateful views when the Macy's policy CLEARLY states acceptance and tolerance. The hate group lost. Good!
- For any Christian that supports the American Family Association, YOU are supporting a Hate Group.

Conservative Christian Hate Group Gets Mad At Macy’s LGBT Policy

Since 2007, Macy’s has received a top rating of 100 percent in the Human Rights Campaign’s evaluation of the treatment of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people by corporations. The department store chain recently stood by its policy when the River Center Macy’s in San Antonio fired an employee, Natalie Johnson, after she told a transgender customer that she could not change in the women’s dressing room. Johnson says that her Christian religious beliefs prevent her from recognizing transgender people.
The American Family Association’s One Million Moms has stepped in to champion Johnson and sought to turn the case into a matter of religious freedom — and expressed its disdain towards transgender people — by saying that “Macy’s has fired a Christian woman for refusing to violate her beliefs” and that “the LGBT agenda has become the theater of the absurd.”
However, Macy’s policy about transgender people using changing rooms is straightforward. Macy’s senior vice president of corporate communications and external affairs Jim Sluzewski issued this statement:

“Macy’s is very proud of our philosophy of diversity and inclusion, and we welcome all customers into our stores. This includes customers of all races, ethnicities, ages, genders, faith traditions, countries of origins and lifestyle preferences. We strive to ensure that each customer is able to shop in a discrimination-free environment.”

Johnson says that, on November 30, she saw a teenager shopping:

“I made sure to keep an eye on him because he was shopping for women’s clothing,” remembered Johnson.

She said she was convinced the shopper was a man. So when she saw him in the women’s dressing room, she told him he couldn’t change there.

“I had to just straight forward tell him, ‘You’re a man,’ and of course that made him really got him steamed,” said Johnson.

The teenager was with a group of five others who reportedly reminded Johnson of Macy’s policy allowing transgender people to change in the dressing room of the gender that they identify with. But Johnson said that she “refused[d] to comply with this policy.” The next day, her manager spoke to her and reminded her of Macy’s policy, whereupon Johnson said that her religious convictions were against the policy. Johnson was fired.

Finally: A major US foreign aid initiative could tip the scales further toward equality.

2011-12-13T05:47:00.000-05:00

Hilary Clinton gave an amazing speech this week, and the U.S. took an amazing stand for Civil Rights and Human Rights this week. Secretary of State Clinton was amazing (she should've been President). She said that the U.S. would not be giving a lot of aid to countries that didn't recognize gay rights as human rights- and will potentially steer billions of dollars in US aid toward countries and programs that protect rights while expanding efforts to protect gay and lesbian refugees.

AMAZING: This would NOT HAPPEN UNDER A GOP ADMINISTRATION!!! -rob
The US took a groundbreaking step on global LGBT rights Tuesday, joining the UK in tying foreign aid to governments’ protection of sexual minorities, raising the stakes in the increasingly globalized battle over gay rights.

The Obama Administration’s sweeping initiative —which will potentially steer billions of dollars in US aid toward countries and programs that protect rights while expanding efforts to protect LGBT refugees — was announced ahead of Human Rights Day. The timing reinforced a now-common refrain that has been spoken, chanted and shouted by rights activists around the world for decades: Gay rights equal human rights.

President Obama issued an official memorandum “directing all agencies engaged abroad to ensure that US diplomacy and foreign assistance promote and protect the human rights of LGBT persons,” while Secretary of State Hillary Clinton made the American position clear to diplomats from around the world gathered at the United Nations in Geneva: "Gay rights are human rights, and human rights are gay rights."

America overwhelmingly remains the world’s largest provider of official development assistance, and the UK is the fourth-largest. Although the US State Department has worked diligently behind the scenes to promote LGBT rights and cultural awareness via its embassies around the world, the agency has never before made such an overt move. Together the two powers have created a united front in a battle that has rapidly escalated in the past 10 years.

ENCOURAGING: From the Netherlands’ legalization of same-sex marriage in 2001 to India’s decriminalization of homosexuality in 2009, many of the world’s laws have changed even if longstanding cultural practices and religious beliefs have not.

For some LGBT rights supporters, the irony of Obama and Clinton’s message is that the US is not typically considered one of the most progressive countries for legal protections of LGBT rights. Since 1996, the federal Defense of Marriage Act has defined marriage as a heterosexual union, and just six states grant same-sex marriage licenses.

And of course, anti-gay bullying remains a corrosive and sometimes fatal cancer on society, while many communities have saved no place at the table for the gay, the trangendered or the intersex. Political leaders like Rick Santorum have continued to frame gay relationships as threatening to American society.

At the same time, public support for gay rights is on the rise and polls at over 50 percent. The US military ended its Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy in September, and even anti-gay activists have conceded that America is moving toward a society that protects its LGBT population.

In October, UK Prime Minister David Cameron told a meeting of Commonwealth leaders that future British aid would be contingent on gay rights protections, drawing livid responses from several African leaders seen as targets of Cameron’s remarks.

"This is an issue where we are pushing for movement,” Cameron said, just weeks after throwing his support behind a new LGBT equality group called The Kaleidoscope Trust. “We are prepared to put some money behind what we believe.”

TOO BAD FOR THESE IGNORANT, BACKWARDS COUNTRIES:
Leaders of countries including Uganda, Nigeria and Zimbabwe — where homosexuality is widely considered “un-African” and remains illegal — called Cameron out on his proclamation.
Ugandan presidential adviser John Nagenda said that Ugandans, who have gained a global reputation for creating an anti-gay climate since 2009, were “tired of these lectures” and were not to be treated like “children.”

Baltimore's Famous 34th Street- Lit up

2011-12-12T09:57:00.001-05:00

Wide shot of 34th Street

Inspired by the Movie "Miracle on 34th Street" residents living in a block of Baltimore's 34th street put on the most incredible light show every year that draws crowds from all over the state. People also open up their homes and let strangers come in and see their inside decorations, like toy train displays, christmas trees, etc. After taking Fort McHenry's tour on Dec. 3, Tom and I (Rob), Jeff, Jose, Yolie and Shelly drove to this neighborhood and walked around marveling at the number of lights. Yes, it was gaudy, but fun!
IF YOU GO- Traffic is tough. Parking is limited, and trying to drive through 34th street will be a long wait- so pack your patience.But, it is worthwhiile!

Chistmas Tree of hubcabs

Jeff and Jose enjoying the lights

Tom and Rob enjoying the lights

Tom, Rob, Jeff, Jose

Yolie and Shelly

Jeff Astounded by the light display, and Tom looks on

POLITICS: Gingrich’s sister supports Obama

2011-12-12T05:01:00.000-05:00

You know that a politician is screwed up when their own family won't support them. That's all we're saying.This article from Reuters News Service says it all:

Gingrich’s sister supports Obama
Candace Gingrich-Jones, the openly gay half-sister of former House Speaker and leading GOP presidential candidate Newt Gingrich, says she will back President Barack Obama’s re-election bid. Gingrich-Jones, a director at the Human Rights Campaign, said that she and her half-brother are "mutually respectful" but hold different views on gay rights issues. Gingrich is known for his socially conservative views and has said he opposes gay marriage. Gingrich-Jones, a director at the Humans Rights Campaign, a gay advocacy group, said he did not attend her wedding. FULL STORY : http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/08/us-gingrich-idUSTRE7B70B420111208

HOLIDAY FUN- Ft.McHenry Candlelight Tour

2011-12-11T06:46:00.000-05:00

Jose, Jeff, Tom, Yolie, Shelly (Rob took picture)

On Saturday, December 3, we were joined by our friends Jeff, Jose, Yolie and Shelly and went to Fort McHenry in Baltimore for an historic Candlelight tour of the fort. The holiday tour was free (usually there's a charge) for the holiday and it featured various actors that explained Christmas-time traditions during the 4 wars that the fort was active (Revolutionary War, War of 1812, World War 1 and World War 2). The fort was at times a hospital during WW1 and WW2. The giant flag flying in the fort was the inspiration for Francis Scott Key's "Star Spangled Banner."

- The tour was really enjoyable and educational. We had a fun Park Ranger tour guide named Vince who was extremely educated, very enthusiastic and animated. He made the whole adventure fun!! Here are some photos from that adventure.

The Star Spangled Banner Waves over Ft.McHenry

Actors portraying WW2 vets,nurses

Tour guide holding candlelit lantern

Candlelit entry way into the fort

Building that housed officers

The group listening to the tour - Tom, far right

Actors playing cards, portraying 1812 soldiers

Revolutionary War soldiers outside-Ranger Vince (right)

Tom and Rob trying to stay warm

Jeff and Jose enjoying the tour

Basement cell of the fort where a soldier committed suicide (he haunts it)

Anyone Remember Edgar Rice-Burroughs "John Carter" Character?

2011-12-10T06:31:00.000-05:00

Does anyone remember the "John Carter, Warlord of Mars" character, created by author Edgar Rice Burroughs? It's been a long time since I've heard about the character. In fact, back in the early 1980s there was a comic book about his adventures. I've also read one or two of the novels. Now, Disney studios has made a movie about the character and it's coming out in March 2012. There's a lot of animation in the movie, because the storyline is that Mars is populated with intelligent life that are in the midst of a war. Here's the clip from the upcoming movie. I'm unsure if I want to see it, even though I enjoyed the comic books! - Rob

VIDEO: The Daily Show "Really Going to Miss Herman Cain"

2011-12-09T06:48:00.000-05:00

Here's an 8 minute video that will have you laughing pretty hard. John Stewart of the Daily Show does a tribute of sorts to Herman Cain as he pulled out of the Presidential race. The Cain quote at the news conference is hysterical, and what John Stewart says afterward is really funny. - Our thanks to Ed for sharing this. Enjoy!
Rob

The Daily Show
Get More: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

Moron of the Week Award Winner!

2011-12-08T05:29:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to this week's "Moron of the Week Award Winner"!

Not much guessing needed here. Just read the title

Bachmann: Gays can legally marry ... the opposite sex

Presidential candidate Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., told a teenage questioner in Iowa last week that gays and lesbians can indeed get married, as long as it is to someone of the opposite sex. Bachmann also said she supports ending marriage equality in the state.

Full story: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/michele-bachmann-gay-marriage-overturned-iowa-article-1.986599?localLinksEnabled=false

Another Rainy Day here in the Mid-Atlantic

2011-12-07T06:32:00.000-05:00

Dogs and people don't like the rain... and yesterday, Dolly and Franklin donned their raincoats and made the best of it- in a morning and afternoon walk. The rest of the day they just ran out the back door, hoping to run between the raindrops. Sprite ambled outside in the backyard after a morning walk. At 15, walking in the rain is really irritating to him (and I don't blame him).

Here's a picture of Dolly and Franklin in their raincoats on Tuesday!

Some Misc. Photos from this Weekend

2011-12-06T14:51:00.000-05:00

Sunrise

Dolly Catching the Rope - her favorite outside game

Franklin squinting at the sun- his favorite outdoor "game."

Sprite posing under the Christmas Tree

The finished Tree- decorated tastefully by Tom

Dolly, Franklin and Sprite in their tee-shirts ready to go in the cold!

Gail's Husband Passes Suddenly

2011-12-05T07:07:00.004-05:00

Gail and Craig
Our friend Gail lost her husband Craig to cancer this month - he was very young- in his 40s.
Craig's passing leaves Gail with their two children, Case and , and leaves Gail and their 2 children, Case and Jessica. We are devastated by Craig's passing as he kept his condition quiet for a long time.

Here's what Gail wrote: From Gail Johnson Whitcomb

Craig, Gail, Case and Jessica
I lost my soulmate and best friend today. Craig was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer in oct 2010. He went through several rounds of chemo and radiation as surgery was not an option for us. In June it looked like treatments were working. A scan in September showed progression to metastatic as it spread to several other areas of his body. Up to three weeks ago he was health and things started to go down hill very quickly from there. I know many of you are shocked as you did not know, but that was the way Craig wanted it. He didn't want to dwell on it. We enjoyed everyday that we got to share together. I will miss him tremendously. We are having services in Massachusetts on Friday and will be sitting shiva at the whitcomb house on A st starting on Saturday at Sundown through Thursday at Sundown. Please come by and pay your respects to his whole family. ♥ I will be opening up his facebook page for posts so we all can memorialize him. Peace and love. He can rest peacefully now.

You can help: There is now a benefit fund for Craig's children. Donations can be made to the 'Case and Jessica Whitcomb Fund' c/o Hingham Institute for Savings, 401 Nantasket Avenue, Hull, MA 02045.

An Ostrich Story: Be Careful What You Ask For!

2011-12-04T07:15:00.004-05:00

Thanks to Maureen in Mass. for sending this great story:

A man walks into a restaurant with a full-grown ostrich behind him.The waitress asks them for their orders.
The man says, "A hamburger, fries and a coke," and
turns to the ostrich, "What's yours?"
"I'll have the same," says the ostrich.
A short time later the waitress returns with the order.
"That will be $9.40 please." The man reaches into his pocket and pulls out the exact change for payment.

The next day, the man and the ostrich come again and
the man says, "A hamburger, fries and a coke."
The ostrich says, "I'll have the same."
   Again the man reaches into his pocket and pays with exact change.
This becomes routine until the two enter again.
"The usual asks the waitress?"
   "No, this is Friday night, so I will have a steak, baked potato and a salad," says the man.
"Same," says the ostrich.
Shortly the waitress brings the order and says, "That will be $32.62."Once again the man pulls the exact change out of his pocket and places it on the table.
The waitress cannot hold back her curiosity any longer.
"Excuse me, sir. How do you manage to always come up with the exact change in your pocket every time?"
   "Well," says the man, "several years ago I was cleaning the attic and found an old lamp. When I rubbed it, a Genie appeared and offered me two wishes. My first wish was that if I ever had to pay for anything, I would just put my hand in my pocket and the right amount of money would always be there."
   "That's brilliant!" says the waitress. "Most people would ask for a million dollars or something, but you'll always be as rich as you want for as long as you live!"
"That's right…Whether it's a gallon of milk or a Rolls Royce,
the exact money is always there," says the man.
The waitress asks, "What's with the ostrich?"
    The man sighs, pauses and answers, "My second wish was for a tall chick with a big ass and long legs who agrees with everything I say.."

Shocking- Craig's 5 Year Old Dog, Gracie Passes

2011-12-03T13:06:00.000-05:00

Last night we got a text message from our friend Craig, whose lovable mastiff Gracie passed suddenly. Gracie was rescued by Craig several years ago after his beloved dog, Oprah passed away. Gracie belonged to a neighbor who didn't want her, soon after they adopted her, so Craig took her in and raised her.
- Craig and Gracie went many places and did a lot of things together.
When Craig came home last night, Gracie was failing suddenly and without warning. Craig sent a text that as he was driving her to the vet, she passed away in his car. She was only 5 years old. Craig was devastated as we all are who knew her and know Craig. He said the vet said it sounded neurological.
Craig said on his blog today, Dec. 3,"Nothing will ever be the same because my

Gracie, Princess Velvet Face and PooNoo died at 5 years."

Squirrel!

Gracie & Craig visit a nursing home

Jim and Eric play with Gracie

Gracie's riding buddy- a panda head seat cover!

No place was too small for Gracie to sleep!

We're heartbroken. Craig rescued Gracie when she was in need of a home, and he gave her so much love and affection. She had a short life, but Craig made sure it was the BEST life. Below are some photos of Gracie and the wonderful life that Craig gave her, as a tribute to both Gracie's short time here and to the love the Craig showed her during that time.

Facts About Drinking Water Versus Coke

2011-12-02T06:58:00.005-05:00

This was sent to me (Rob) from a scientist. I DO know that the coke on battery acid is FACT. AND, the dehydration issue with lack of water drinking is also FACT.


WATER
#1.    75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated.
          (Likely applies to half the world population)
#2.    In 37% of Americans, the thirst mechanism is so weak
       that it is mistaken for hunger.
#3.    Even MILD dehydration will slow down one's metabolism as 3%.

#4.    One glass of water will shut down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of the dieters studied in a University of Washington study.

#5.    Lack of water, the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue.
#6.    Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of
         water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain
        for up to 80% of sufferers.
#7.    A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen or on a printed page.
#8.    Drinking 5 glasses of water daily decreases the risk of
         colon cancer by 45%, plus it can slash the risk of breast
        cancer by 79%., and one is 50% less likely to develop
        bladder cancer. Are you drinking the amount of water
        you should drink every day?

COKE

#1.    In many states the highway patrol carries
            two gallons of Coke in the trunk to remove blood from
          the highway after a car accident.

#2.    You can put a T-bone steak in a bowl of Coke
           and it will be gone in two days.

#3.    To clean a toilet: Pour a can of Coca-Cola into the
         toilet bowl and let the 'real thing' sit for one hour,
       then flush clean. The citric acid in Coke removes
       stains from vitreous china.

#4.    To remove rust spots from chrome car bumpers:
            Rub the bumper with a rumpled-up piece of Reynolds
          Wrap aluminum foil dipped in Coca-Cola.

#5.    To clean corrosion from car battery terminals: Pour
            a can of Coca-Cola over the terminals to bubble
           away the corrosion.

#6.    To loosen a rusted bolt: Apply a cloth soaked in Coca-Cola to the rusted bolt for several minutes.
#7.    To bake a moist ham: Empty a can of Coca-Cola into
           the baking pan, wrap the ham in aluminum foil, and bake.    Thirty minutes before ham is finished, remove the foil, allowing the drippings to mix with the Coke for a sumptuous brown gravy.

#8.    To remove grease from clothes: Empty a can of Coke
          into the load of greasy clothes, add detergent, and run
          through a regular cycle. The Coca-Cola will help loosen
          grease stains. It will also clean road haze from your
          windshield.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION:
#1.    The active ingredient in Coke is phosphoric acid.
             It will dissolve a nail in about four days. Phosphoric
             acid also leaches calcium from bones and is a major
             contributor to the rising increase of osteoporosis.
#2.    To carry Coca-Cola syrup! (the concentrate) the
          commercial trucks must use a hazardous Material place
          cards reserved for highly corrosive materials.
#3.    The distributors of Coke have been using it to clean
          engines of the trucks for about 20 years!    Now the question is, would you like a glass of water?

or Coke?

Action Comics #1 Fetched More Than 2 Million Dollars!

2011-12-01T06:46:00.005-05:00

Who says comic books aren't good investments? I still collect them including Superman, Batman, Supergirl, Justice League, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Batgirl and others. They're written for adults with complex social and emotional themes, as well as the good vs. evil.

A copy of the first issue of Action Comics, featuring Superman's debut, has become the world's most expensive comic, fetching $2.16m (£1.4m).

It was auctioned online for a starting bid of just $1, with a reserve price of $900,000.
The buyer or seller's name was not disclosed, but there is speculation it was owned by actor Nicolas Cage.
It is the first time a comic book has broken the $2m barrier. The issue was published in 1938 and cost 10 cents.
About 100 copies of Action Comics No 1 are thought to be in existence, and only a handful of those are in good condition.
Another copy of the same issue sold for a then record-breaking $1.5m in March last year.
But that one was not in as good condition as the copy that sold on Wednesday through New York-based ComicConnect.
It is said to have been stolen in 2000 and was thought lost until recovered in a California storage shed in April this year - just like an issue owned by Nicolas Cage.
The Hollywood star - who has a son called Kal-El, the Man of Steel's birth name - bought his copy of Action Comics No 1 for $150,000 in 1997.
Connoisseurs of the comic world say this type of investment has become popular during troubled economic times because rare collectibles hold their value more reliably than property or shares.
STORY: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-15978677

Best Short Video From Australia- Ever

2011-11-30T07:39:00.000-05:00

Our friend Chris in FL shared this amazing and short video from Australia who are campaigning to End Marriage Discrimination. It will make anyone see that marriage is indeed a right for everyone.

Happy Birthday Dolly -Our Weim turns 7!

2011-11-29T05:12:00.001-05:00

Dolly

Today is our lovable Weimaraner's 7th birthday. Dolly Loretta was born on Nov. 29th, 2004 in a litter of 6 at a breeder's house in Atlanta. When Dolly's mom stepped on a rusty nail and contracted tetanus, the breeder dumped the newborn pups at a shelter. They were a week old. The shelter called Wolf Creek Weimaraner Rescue in Tenn. and Amber (manager) raced there and picked them up. She and others bottle fed them for many weeks and at 3 mos. old they were adopted out.
- Rob's friend Lynn Chandler told Rob to check the rescue websites and adopt another Weim after losing his puppy Buzz in Feb 2005 to a reckless driver. On March 18th, Rob and friend Jeff drove to Knoxville and picked up Dolly.
- Dolly is loyal, obedient and extremely affectionate. She follows us around the house and always needs to be with someone, while our Dachshunds, Franklin and Sprite sometimes prefer alone time. Dolly loves Beggin' Strips and chicken or tuna on her food, and loves walks. She loves rope toss in the backyard, too. She doesn't like cars driving by the house and growls, and little white dogs (one lunged at her as a pup and she never got over it). She's also afraid of bicycles because a 7 year old accidentally fell on her while riding his bike.
Dolly is the most loving, loyal dog anyone could ask for- She's our little "poo poo head," and tonight she gets to pick out treats on a visit to Petsmart.

Franklin and Sprite

DOLLY'S BROTHERS and a WALK THIS WEEKEND: Everyone in the Mid-Atlantic enjoyed the mild weekend weather including our dogs. We loved walking in a sweatshirt or tee-shirt. Look how happy Dolly, Franklin and Sprite are walking in the mild temps and sniffing around!

Party at Our friend Yolie's House

2011-11-28T06:57:00.000-05:00

Our friend and neighbor Yolie had a party this weekend and invited us over to meet her fun family who are visiting from the Bronx, New York. Her sister and sister's husband own a Mexican restaurant in NY and cooked a fresh Mexican meal. They also surprised Tom with cake and balloons for his birthday this past week. Our other neighbors, Deedee and Bill came over, and Deedee's 85 year old mother Betty, who is a hoot. She even danced at the little party! Here are some pictures.

Betty twisting at 85!

Betty, Yolie's mom Rosa, Derek, Bill and Deedee dancing

Tom and Rob with other partygoers in the kitchen

Deck the New Den for Xmas

2011-11-27T16:57:00.002-05:00

Tom decked out the new den in front of the house, too!

Tom & Rob Shopping at Homestead Gardens among the Christmas trees

Prepping for Christmastime

2011-11-26T11:45:00.000-05:00

We enjoy Christmastime because people are nice to each other and things are nicely decorated. Don't get me (Rob) started on the meaning - I focus on being nice to others. Anyway, we started decorating for the holidays- actually, Tom did all the decorating this year, while I wrote out Thanksgiving newsletters. We haven't started the holiday cards yet! Here are some pictures.

Tom hung the lit Christmas wreath on the upstairs dormer

Tom put up the tree as Dolly and Franklin snooze beneath it

Post-Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T11:53:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving was nice- We cooked turkey and trimmings and Tom's folks came over and our friend Darold and his friend Kelly. We took a couple of walks with the dogs to digest between dinner and dessert. We also stopped over our friend and neighbor's house (Yolie) and met her family who are visiting from NY. That was fun, too.
Today, Friday,Nov. 25th the weather is just as perfect as it was on Thanksgiving, so Tom spent the morning raking (again) up the backyard, while Rob wrote hurricane updates for work (although Rob is off today). We all went out in the backyard and took a couple of pictures before doing a little shopping.

Half the bags Tom raked today

Tom collapses for a min (bkgd) after hours of raking as Dolly looks around.

Tom also cleaned out all the flower beds in back

Franklin growling after hearing another dog

Sprite enjoying the backyard

Rob cuddling Sprite as Dolly waits for her turn!

If you missed Rob on the Unknown Paranormal Radio Show... listen here!

2011-11-24T05:14:00.000-05:00

Join Host Kevin Weddle, Founder of Unknown Paranormal, along with Co-Hosts Jeff Stirl and Martin Bravo as they discuss with guests topics of paranormal, spiritual, and the unknown and unexlained. Come join us for an in depth discussion of the paranormal world. This week, our guest will be Rob Gutro. Rob Gutro is a "developing medium" who is still learning how to use his abilities. He can receive messages from those who have passed either from Earth-bound ghosts or spirits who have crossed over. He wrote and published the book "Ghosts and Spirits: Insights from a Medium." (Rob comes in about 30 minutes into the program. The program is 120 minutes).

LISTEN TO THE SHOW HERE:

Listen to internet radio with Unknown Paranormal on Blog Talk Radio

Happy Birthday, Tom!

2011-11-23T08:17:00.000-05:00

Today is Tom's birthday!

Tom and Franklin

So, I say: Happy birthday to the love of my life- my sunshine, my best friend, partner, hubby, soulmate. You know that it's a perfect love when you can make each other laugh every day. You make me whole and bring me so much joy. Life is wonderful because of you. Happy Birthday with love always! Rob

Here are some pictures of our adventures

Ruthie, Tom and Maureen

Tom, Rob, Franklin & Dolly Halloween 2009

Dolly and Franklin

With Governor and Katie O'Malley :)

We see you!

Tom, Hil, Rob

Tom and Rob in Lancaster, PA's Pretzel Factory

Wedding Day, June 26, 2009 in Connecticut!

Remember to Forget this Sign

2011-11-22T11:17:00.000-05:00

A co-worker sent me this sign that is just so awful and distasteful, that it's funny. I had to share it. - Rob

Installed a New Skylight!

2011-11-21T06:34:00.002-05:00

This weekend, we hired a contractor to "let there be light" in our 2nd floor bathroom. The 2nd floor bathroom has a slanted ceiling that follows the roof and there's no window in it. The bathroom opens directly to the stairway that goes downstairs, and it has always been dark. SO, Tom found a great skylight on-line and ordered it.. This weekend, our contractor installed it, and it totally changed the appearance of the stairway, the bathroom and even shines light down into our living room. Here are some pictures from the installation.

Cutting a hole through the roof

Hole cut and window inserted in the upstairs bathroom

The finished skylight in the upstairs bathroom! What a difference!

Light streaming from the new skylight, pouring downstairs

Even in the late afternoon the skylight lights up the staircase!

Prep for Thanksgiving

2011-11-20T11:26:00.003-05:00

Mixing all the baked goods in the kitchen..

This year we're hosting Thanksgiving again and having 6 people for dinner, and others are coming over later for dessert... so Rob's in the kitchen making Pumpkin bread, pumpkin pie, brownies and cookies. Of course, there's a fresh pot of Dunkin' Donuts coffee in the background. :)

Tom working hard in the backyard clearing it for winter

Meanwhile, Tom is outside cleaning up the yard and mulching, and Dolly and Franklin are enjoying their new orthopedic bed, while Sprite snoozes on the bedroom rug for peace and quiet.

DONE! Pumpkin bread, brownies,scones,sugar cookies!

Rob will guest on the Unknown Paranormal Internet Radio Show Sunday 9-11p

2011-11-19T16:47:00.002-05:00

Don't forget to tune into the Unknown Paranormal Internet Radio Show on Sunday, NOVEMBER 20, 2011 from 9pm to 11pm Eastern Time

Rob Gutro joins Host Kevin Weddle, Founder of Unknown Paranormal, along with Co-Host, Jeff Stirl for an evening discussing all realms of paranormal and spirituality.

Rainy Days = Indoor Play Days

2011-11-18T06:09:00.000-05:00

Wednesday and Thursday this week were rainy, cold and grey. So, our dogs, Dolly, Franklin and Sprite didn't go to daycare- because they're be inside anyway. But, first thing in the morning we have playtime (after they eat at 5am and nap for an hour or so). We play with toys or toss a tennis ball. They really enjoy it. Here are some pictures from a rainy day this week. - and a short video of morning playtime!

Sprite (back) & Franklin (front) snooze after breakfast

Dolly's post breakfast snooze in total comfort

Dolly and Sprite- ready for play

Franklin- If I chase a ball, there better be food involved!

Great Holiday Gift Ideas!

2011-11-17T08:44:00.003-05:00

Dunkin' Donuts
If you could customize your DD Card w/ any photo, what woulDD it be? Customize your own DD Card here: https://www.dunkindonuts.com/content/dunkindonuts/en/ddcard/buyacard.html

OTHER GREAT IDEAS:

*Gift cards for Oil Changes; or to CVS, Walgreens or Rite Aid - for prescription refills (even toilet paper!); grocery stores; gas gift cards; restaurants like Panera Bread, Chilis, etc.; bookstores (and comic book shops!); a doggy day care; a pet store; a large clothing store with big variety - like Kohls. Just some ideas for you!

RESEARCH: Slow eating reduces food intake

2011-11-16T06:30:00.002-05:00

We all could use to lose a little weight, and especially when you're over 30, the pounds seem to keep adding on. I (Rob) found this piece of research and it makes sense on a couple of levels. The key to slower eating is taking breaks- talk, read a book, etc. 2) It prevents you from putting MORE food in your mouth. 3) Drinking water makes you feel full, so drink up.
Learn from this article- it's worth reading! - and lose those pounds! Rob

Researcher provides further evidence that slow eating reduces food intake
Kingston RI (SPX) Nov 15, 2011 - Two new studies by researchers at the University of Rhode Island are providing additional insights into the role that eating rate plays in the amount of food one consumes. The studies found that men eat significantly faster than women, heavier people eat faster than slimmer people, and refined grains are consumed faster than whole grains, among other findings.

USDA Food pyramid

"It takes time for your body to process fullness signals," she concluded, "so slower eating may allow time for fullness to register in the brain before you've eaten too much." FULL STORY: http://www.seeddaily.com/reports/Researcher_provides_further_evidence_that_slow_eating_reduces_food_intake_999.html

Enjoying Warmth in Mid-November

2011-11-15T05:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, November 14th, the high temperature hit 67 Fahrenheit. Very unusual. In fact, a year ago throughout November we barely got out of the 40s!! So, as an early Thanksgiving observation, we're all thankful for the warmer than normal fall temperatures.
Here's a picture of Dolly, Franklin and Sprite on a mid-day (lunchtime) walk, enjoying the sunshine.
I always try to take a minute to look up whenever the sky is so blue and appreciate it as a background against the turning leaves. Here's a picture of our gum tree in the backyard with fall-colored leaves. Remember to take a minute a look up!

The On-Line Buzzletter

2 Tennessee gay teens/1 NY Girl Committed Suicide from Bullying

Preacher Tries to Bilk Jim Reeves Estate while Widow Suffers Dementia

Jim Reeves’ music catalog still generates significant income.

Tip from a Blonde Woman about Replacement Windows

READ THIS- Jefferson's Wall of Separation Letter: Church and State

Doggone Good Poses

In the NEWS: The chocolate that won’t make you fat

The chocolate that won’t make you fat

By adding linseed and chilli to dark chocolate, researchers can raise your metabolism so you can eat chocolate without putting on weight.

Imagine a bar of chocolate that tastes good, is filling – and which raises your body’s metabolism, so you can eat the chocolate without putting on weight.

Washington Post: The economy? It’s still Bush’s fault

Video: Age-Activated Attention Deficit Disorder

We can relate to this... and if you're over 40, now there's a medical term for your forgetfulness! Enjoy this short 4 minute video. Thanks to Cathy in PA for sharing it! Rob and Tom

Age-Activated Attention Deficit Disorder by Borehamwood Camcorder Club

New from NASA: NASA Finds 2011 Ninth-Warmest Year on Record

What Happened to all U.S. Snow?

Did you know? World's 'most expensive' tea grown in Chinese panda poo

Home Improvements!

Republican Group in NH Stands for Gay Marriage

Political News You may not Know: WASHINGTON POST

Obama seeks to streamline government

Santorum charity spent most of its money on political friends

Talk/Book Signing: Novel Places Books, Clarksburg, Md. 1/15/12

Tonight at 7pm: Local Talk: A LOCAL HAUNTING: A DOUBLE MURDER

Canine Forensic Experts

From a 21 Year-old Girl in Texas

Fascinating Interview w/Cosmologist Lawrence M. Krauss about his findings and recent book "Everything and Nothing."

LA auxiliary bishop resigns, admits fathering kids

LA auxiliary bishop resigns, admits fathering kids

La Nina Means a Mild Winter Continues for southeastern U.S.

Santorum and His Dead Baby- this is sick!

Some GOOD Economic News! Private hiring surges, jobless claims dip

PHOTO DOG BLOG: A Day in the life

In-Santorum - From the headlines

Check Out the SUPERMAN reboot in Action Comics

Shopping and Religion: an Analogy/ A viable candidate

State tax changes on the way in 2012

They tried to deduct what?!

Fun in Lynchburg, VA

A Marriage Encounter in VA/Explained in Simple Terms

Classic fun video: She Got the Goldmine, I Got the Shaft!

Movie Trailer: Dark Knight Rises

Elf-ed!

Busy day and Back to Normal!

Holiday Pic with the Governor!

Pictures with Santa- and a Screamer!

Rob's Absolute Fav Christmas Song/Video

Christmas Party Fun /A Canine-Christmas

NASA Satellites See Santa's North Pole

Today is Sprite's 15th Birthday

Holiday Travel Weather- Map and Satellite

Kids Can Track Santa with NORAD!

Remembering Ed G. Today

FCC: Loud TV commercials to End!!

Who Votes for Them?

Pictures from December! - Stories, fun, and Santa

In Memory of Cooper

Photo of the day: 2 Rushed Shoppers?

Seeing the Governor for Christmas

Parody on Stupid Rick Perry Ad

William Wegman's Weimaraner 12 day Christmas Video Countdown: Day 4

Macy's Fights Discrimination/Hate Group Uses a False Relgious Front

Conservative Christian Hate Group Gets Mad At Macy’s LGBT Policy

Finally: A major US foreign aid initiative could tip the scales further toward equality.

Baltimore's Famous 34th Street- Lit up

POLITICS: Gingrich’s sister supports Obama

HOLIDAY FUN- Ft.McHenry Candlelight Tour

Anyone Remember Edgar Rice-Burroughs "John Carter" Character?

VIDEO: The Daily Show "Really Going to Miss Herman Cain"

Moron of the Week Award Winner!

Another Rainy Day here in the Mid-Atlantic

Some Misc. Photos from this Weekend

Gail's Husband Passes Suddenly

An Ostrich Story: Be Careful What You Ask For!

Shocking- Craig's 5 Year Old Dog, Gracie Passes

Facts About Drinking Water Versus Coke

Action Comics #1 Fetched More Than 2 Million Dollars!

Best Short Video From Australia- Ever

Happy Birthday Dolly -Our Weim turns 7!

Age-Activated Attention Deficit Disorder
by Borehamwood Camcorder Club

Dunkin' Donuts
If you could customize your DD Card w/ any photo, what woulDD it be? Customize your own DD Card here: https://www.dunkindonuts.com/content/dunkindonuts/en/ddcard/buyacard.html