His Royal Highness Decrees

2010-03-01T11:36:00.000-08:00

Skating Gold!
Damn this boy is hot! Besides curling, this was the highlight of my 2010 Winter Olympics viewing.

So graceful on the ice, and looks so hot off the ice. I want to be that lighting rod! lol

2010-03-01T09:15:00.000-08:00

Rail Assistance for Short People! I hear this is also used by germaphobes. I had to block out the face of the woman seated in front, as she gave me the nastiest look as I took a photo of the device.

2009-07-30T12:17:00.000-07:00

Her Unexpected Life

So I finally picked up a paperback copy of Queen Noor’s (of Jordan) memoir. I have long wanted to read the book, but as it is sometimes hadn’t gotten around to getting a copy.

All I can say is I am so glad I finally did. Her account as an American-born Arab transplant to the Middle East is a true eye opener to the plight of Second-Generation immigrants and their yearning to assimilate to their new land, as well as the probable return to native roots.

Queen Noor’s telling of her life vividly weaves the sometimes conflicting ambitious aspects of life, love, and career with passionate historical recollections, political observations, pursuit of Palestinian self-determination and the advancement of a unified Middle East.

It is a complete pleasure having the privilege to delve into the personal achievements, struggles, joys, and tragedies of this wonderful woman who feed her desire to learn as much as she could about the world around her. I adore people with an insatiable thirst for knowledge.

The book has also made me better versed in Israeli-Arab relations. I have reconsidered my original stance on the issue. But that’s a blog for another time.

2009-06-30T14:12:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you have to take a minute and read posters/billboards as you pass them; you never know what how they might be spelled!

This sandwich board is located on 27th and Seventh Avenue (the corner of the block I work on). Speaking of sandwiches, I once ate at a resturant that spelled sandwiches -- Sandwhiches. lol

HRH

2009-06-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

For the Last Time, I'm Not Connie Chung
by Kaity Tong, Television Anchor, WPIX New York

So I jump into this cab at the corner of 54th and Fifth. I'm schlepping like maybe four bags... purse, gym bag, leftover sandwich from lunch, giant CVS bag....you get the picture.

Anyway, I've barely settled in when the driver turns around and yells, "Hey, I know you! Watch you all the time on Channel 11! Love you guys! (Those were his exact words. I am not making this up.) He is so happy, I have to remind him not to TURN AROUND COMPLETELY while DRIVING! But small matter. Hey, come on, the guy's a fan.

So we start chatting. Very agreeable fellow, just trying to make a living. Tells me about his little girl who clearly is his world.

And he has pictures. Of his wife and child. In his wallet. Which he pulls out of his pocket, finds the photos and hands them to me while hurtling down Fifth. Again, have to remind him not to TURN AROUND COMPLETELY while DRIVING! This becomes a recurring theme during our short but exciting ride.

He confesses that since he started driving a cab, he hasn't watched the newscast as much as he used to, but he IS a fan. "That Mr. G! He's so funny! You and Jim, very funny, too!"

He seems to put quite a store in the 'comedy' aspect of our newscast. The actual news? Not so much. At least we didn't get around to discussing the issues of the day.

We arrive at the studio on 42nd in record time. I thank him for the conversation, the ride, and being so enthusiastic about Channel 11. Then, as I'm dragging all my stuff out of the cab and onto the sidewalk, he beams at me and says "Say hello to your husband, Maury!"

Now, you might think this is a rare occurrence. It is not. The odd thing is that fans know that it's ME who's the one doing the evening news on PIX. They know I work with Jim and G, but even though they know all this, they still think I'm married to Maury!

Let me set the record straight. Connie Chung is the one married to Maury Povich, not me. At least not since the last time I checked.

I used to correct people when they make this mistake, but they get so embarrassed, even when I tell them I don't mind, in fact I think it's funny, they cannot be consoled. So I have now taken to just saying, "Thanks. Maury's home making dinner, but I'll pass on your nice remarks." It saves a lot of time.

While we're on the subject, you should HEAR all the different ways my name as been butchered in the many years I have been in this biz. Connie Tong, Kathy Chung, Kitty Kong, Catty Tung, Tighty Tang, Katie Kong, Cidy Wong.

But my favorite is from a letter I got when I was working at Channel 7. The letter begins, "Dear Tiny Tongue....."

Still have that letter somewhere.
btw, if you like this blog, please visit my blogsite by going to wpix.com/kaity tong! Thanks!

2009-06-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

Join Jorge for his 29th Birthday celebration at the 79th Street Boat Basin Cafe (on the Hudson River). We'll be there at 5:30pm (there is a happy hour until 7pm). Hopefully it will be a beautiful day/night so we can watch the sunset!

2008-09-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

Watching Dancing with the Stars last night reminded me of my Favorate Toni Braxton song (since Toni is one of the new contestants). I fell in love with this song- and dedicated to an ex-beau (although he didn't last long- the song still rang true).

Well, its too late for givin in
Ive been waitin for too long
Theres no way that I could lose
Givin me the love youve been holding back
Today Im not gonna wait
Not anymore, the time is nowId give up everything
Just to have you for myself
Cuz when I think about it

Your love, your kissI never felt anything like this
Youre sent from above
Im so in love
When I think about it
Your touch, your smile
I never felt anything like this
And I know its real
Its just the way that I feel
Im just a little bit

Im selfish
I dont wanna share you with anybody else
Dont want them hugging you
Touching you, feeling you, kissing you
You could call me selfish

Im selfish
I dont want to share you with anybody else
I dont want no one around you
Calling you, paging you
You can call me selfish

Should I stop trippin and let it flow? It happened a long time ago
Damn, boy you hurt me so
When you cheated on me with that other lady
Well, I felt embarassed and ashamed
And to top it, you called out her name
Keep thinking Im the one to blame
Still, I took you back
When I think about it

Your love, your kiss
I never felt anything like this
Youre sent from above
Im so in love
When I think about it
Your touch, your smile
I never felt anything like this
And I know its real
Its just the way that I feel
Im just a little bit

Im selfish
I dont wanna share you with anybody else
Dont want them hugging you
Touching you, feeling you, kissing you
You could call me selfish

Im selfish
I dont want to share you with anybody else
I dont want no one around you
Calling you, paging you
You can call me selfish

There are reasons why I care
The way you love me seems so unreal
There are times when I feel scared
Cuz you had a girl when we first metI close my eyes and pray
That you would be more truthful baby
Be the love of my lifetime
Say that youll be mine

Im selfish
I dont wanna share you with anybody else
Dont want them hugging you
Touching you, feeling you, kissing you
You could call me selfish

Im selfish
I dont want to share you with anybody else
I dont want no one around you
Calling you, paging you
You can call me selfish

2008-08-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

Won't you help me Doctor Beat?
I'm going! HELL YEAH- I LOVE GLORIA.
I'm taking my cousing Priscilla! Priscilla, Gloira and Jorge- Deadly trio.
I only wanted to buy the third level tickets (out of four) but couldn't get seats in an area I liked so I had to up my level of purchase to the second level (UGH-- MONEY) and got seats I'm GOING TO LOVE! Seeing Gloria in Florida is going to be unbelievable.

I saw her years ago at MSG and it was as if she brought South Beach to New York. I can't imagine seeing her in her home state. I am too excited.

Date: October 24, 2008

Description: Five-time Grammy Award winner Gloria Estefan will perform all her greatest hits and feature music from her CD "90 Millas". A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Education Funds of Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Indian River County Public Schools, all of which are dedicated to improving the lives of our youth through education.

Location: Hard Rock Live - Hollywood

Showtime(s): 8:00pm

Doors Open: 7:00pm

Prices: $254, $179, $129, $99

Tickets on sale Friday, August 15 at noon. Visit the Hard Rock Live box office or call: 954-523-3309 Broward, 305-358-5885 Dade, 561-966-3309 Palm Beach

2008-08-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

40 Minutes I'll never get back

A few weeks ago a woman came in to the office peddling her phone equipment services. I was SUPER busy at the time and didn't want to be bothered. I took her card but barely acted human towards her - an automatic realization that this person isn't interested.

I just shoed her off- as I ran into my next meeting. She asked for my business card and I complied ... STUPID ME! She ended up calling me a few days later to set up a meeting. She (like every sales rep out there) said she just wanted to review her services with me. UGH.. BITCH I'm busy!!! She started talking to me on the phone as if we were buds (I know your game heifer! though I keep you on the phone to waste your time as well-- distract me- I'll cost you money- cause all the time you spend on a person who has no intention on using your services keeps you from a customer who will.. MMMWUAHHHAAA).

I was still pissed at her just showing up at the office and pushing herself on me! The only reason I went through with scheduling the meeting was that I in fact was unhappy with our current phone equipment provider. When she found out I was going to be away for part of the summer, when we tried to schedule a meeting, she inquired about my plans all chipper like.

I was sooo mean and rude in all my responses. I gave one word, monotone responses. The universal sign for DON'T FUCK WITH ME. Yet she persisted - Damn sales Rep.

Well I met with her today-- 40 MINUTES OF MY LIFE I'LL NEVER GET BACK. All the while I wanted it to end- I was enjoying wasting her time! At one point I told her straight out that we didn't need all her fancy services and I had only entertained her because I was unhappy with my current provider. She then, as a good sales person would try to do, readjusted her pitch to a level of service we are using with our current provider. I'm like BITCH BEGONE!!!

OMG- Can we start a new drink called BITCH BEGONE?
HRH

2008-08-09T11:07:00.000-07:00

Played Hookey and got Sun

Yesterday I played hookey from work (shhhh!).. The morning started off pretty bad.

Then my friend invited me to join him and his boyfriend to go to the beach. I wondered if I'd be uncomfortable as we had dated shortly last year and broke up badly (though mad up). I also wondered if I'd be bitter at someone with a bf and me being single, as always.

I must admit I ended up having a great time with them. They bf is lots of fun, and his friend (who joined us) was equally as fun. I loved taking in sun (want to keep my tan). They made me jump into the water - which I wasn't to thrilled about. We had tons of fun watching the papis at the beach.

I took the picture to the right at the beach. Doesn't my mipple look great. LOL I'd suck my own hahaha. I sent this to all my friend who kept berating me for taking the day off and going to the beach.

HRH

2008-08-07T07:27:00.000-07:00

Putting on the Ritz!

Last night I accompanied my friend to see Mel Brooke's Young Frankenstein. I had very low expectations of it, but went along anyway because it is a popular Broadway show and my ticket was free.

Well, I was actually blow away. The show, albeit slow to start, really grabbed my attention. The dialogue was very funny (in the way only Mel Brooke's can think) and the characters were sweet and cute (leading me to want to relate to them fast). Damn I love Broadway.

The songs were ok... I pretty much don't like songs written on silly premises- (Avenue Q the exception) but the performances of said songs more than made up for it. The performers belted each one out as if it were closing night. My favorite song was "Deep Love" - though I'm upset I missed Megan Mullally (Karen from Will and Grace) perform it by a week.

I think everyone should go and see the play for the lighting effects and set design alone. It's the most vibrant set I've seen so far. I see now why the producers charged $450 for the best seats. They originally argued that the cost of the special effects warranted them to charge extra for such seats- I now agree!

I felt bad because I had tickets last night to see the Kanye West concert with Tasha. I asked her to find someone else to go with because I was feeling run down still from the cruise (I need like a day's worth of sleep to catch up). As soon as she found someone, I was offered the chance to go to see the play for free. I wasn't passing that up lol.

HRH

2008-04-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

Nostalgic Disappointment?
Yesterday was the long awaited "Holy Family Youth Group" reunion. We had been working on it for two months. But when the event day came alone - it was a huge disappointment.

The reason? Attendance at the event was poor. Only the core members of the group and a few of the cherished moderators attended; save for 8 members of my family who I invited to experience a little of my formative years.

When asked by other planning committee members who I would be able to invite I was honest and answered the small group of Youth Group members that I am still friendly with; along with my family who I wanted to attend. Nearly all of the people I invited attended. I felt like the other committee members let the ball fall.

They were friends with a whole other faction of the Youth Group. Why weren't any of those people there? We had also discussed the need to get "seats filled" -- yet no one else invited people outside of the parochial community. A reunion can still be held if many in the audience are just supporters of the event. Yet apparently my argument was overlooked.

Not all of the fault lies with our efforts. The announcement of the event was posted in the church's bulletin for the past four weeks. It's rather frustrating trying so hard and ending up with a minimal endpoint.

In an attempt to find the silver lining I cling to the words of a fellow Youth Group member last night "it is what it is." What "it" is; is the camaraderie of the friends who did attend last night.

2008-04-14T13:36:00.000-07:00

My new obsession-

I know my blog is usually very political- but most of you know I am eclectic. I love so many things- and right now I'm obsessed with Degrassi: The Next Generation. I know the story revolves around High Schoolers- but I like it.

I use to hear about it from friends- but never had the chance to see it. Now that I have, I'm hooked. I like the later season when most of the characters are late teens- prob cause it's much more relate able. I however must confess that I want to purchase all the seasons (even the younger version) so I'm caught up on the back stories (of which I gather are many).

2008-04-14T13:18:00.000-07:00

We Elect these people!
Last week Sen. Lindsey Graham suggested, during a discussion of the Iraq government using revenues from their oil surplus to pay for U.S. Military operations and reconstruction in Iraq, that the Oil surplus revenues could also be used to help pay for operations in Afghanistan.

We spent $700 million on Afghanistan in the last war budge- my question though is- how are the Iraqi people be responsible for the Afghanistan war bill? They didn't engage in a war in Afghanistan (though that is the war that we should be focusing on)- but it is nearly completely our responsibility.

2008-04-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

Elton John's Hillary Fundraiser
My close friend Stefanie and I attended the Elton John Fundraiser for Hillary Clinton's Presidential campaign. What an incredible night! Not only did we get a wonderful opportunity to see Elton John rock out to some of his best songs- solo on a piano; but we were part of a overwhelmingly supporting audience for Hillary's campaign.

One could tell by the applause and hollering that the 6,000 people in the audience wanted this woman to be the next President of the United States. She really connects with people- not in a superficial way like I think Obama does.

We had the "luck" to sit next to DIE-HARD Elton fans- who sung along to every song, had Rhinestone studded glasses with ELTON written on the sides- and played "AIR PIANO" along to their favorite song "Tonight."
HRH

2008-04-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

Volunteers 4 Hillary
CALLING ALL RETIREES, & ALL OTHERS WHO CAN HELP! HILLARY URGENTLY NEEDS VOLUNTEERS TO PHONE VOTERS, FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME, AT NO COST TO YOU--THE CAMPAIGN PAYS FOR THE CALLS PLZ HELP. E-MAIL
bernie4hillary@gmail.com

2008-03-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

Sympathy Vote?
The media scoured through the records of Hillary's First Lady records trying to find dirt on her as usual! They of course found that Bill had several encounters with Monica while Hillary was in the White House Residence.

The reporting on the issue suggested Hillary would suffer from bringing up "Monica-gate" again.
I disagree. I think it's does help Hillary to have the media talk about Monica gate.

When the Media talks about Monica- Hillary receives a bump from the sympathy vote, and while the sympathy vote isn't solid and shouldn't be something we want to garner in this race every little bit will help.

2008-03-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

Four reason to Oppose Sen. Obama

Obama Refuses to denounce Bigoted Reverend and has other high placed bigoted Supporters.

Obama continues to support Reverend Wright, who had been taped spurting hate filled tirades about America and White Americans. Obama went on to deliver a “race” speech that, while effective in engaging a discussion on race that is much needed (and as a minority myself I understand the need for the discussion), didn’t go far enough in denouncing the Reverend. He, in fact, said in the speech that he could no more denounce the Reverend than he could denounce his own grandmother. Which is a lie as, his grandmother is family and the Reverend is but a close friend.

He could very well denounce a friend’s speech and beliefs while stressing his support for their friendship- but Obama refused, choosing instead to further feed the flames of racial tension.

He is supporting a bigoted thought process that is hurtful to millions of Americans. A person can’t govern like that. They can’t win the presidency like that either.

Obama's hate brigade started off with the Senator's inclusion of four anti-gay gospel singers in Obama's gospel tour of South Carolina. They included Reverends Donnie McClurkin, Hezekiah Walker, Pentecostal pastor of Brooklyn mega-church, the Love Fellowship Tabernacle and Mary Mary (a sister act duo), who has called gays murderers and prostitutes.

Just like with Rev. Wright, Sen. Obama refused to ask Reverend McClurkin to step down from the tour after it was revealed that the Reverend had stated several anti-gay remarks, and in fact himself was a believer, and participant, of the “Ex-gay” movement stating “God has delivered me from Homosexuality.” Obama instead choose to add a Gay Minister to the line up to "even" out the tour. That's like saying I'm not a racist, I have a black best friend.

Obama is also supported by NY City Council member Charles Barron – a known bigot and former member of the Black Panthers. Barron is famous for saying a few years ago at a rally “I want to go up to the closest white person and say, ‘You can’t understand this, it’s a black thing,’ and then slap him, just for my mental health.”.”

One must ask themselves “why do so many hate mongers support the candidacy of Sen. Obama?” Can it be just a coincidence? Is there something they see in him? Or something that he is saying that speaks to them?

While a discussion on race is important, one must be very careful with what is said and how it is approached. Obama's speech painted the state of race relations in a negative light (in my view). The American people don't want to hear that. They don't want to be told what's wrong with the American people but what's right with the American people.

The speech should have been more positive, focusing on the accomplishments made, the hurdles we still have to face, and how we will face it together!

If a person chooses to take on the mantel of the race discussion in a negative tone, they will limit themselves to a specific audience- and will ultimately end up turning off the larger section of the society. They will never reached their goal of greater equality because they are basically preaching to the “choir.”

Obama fuels Racial Division

While trying to explain what he meant about the reference to his grandmother's prejudgments of black people (*prejudgments are human nature- and what matters is how someone treats another instead of embedded prejudgments ) Obama called his grandmother a "typical white person"

"The point I was making was not that my grandmother harbors any racial animosity. She doesn't. But she is a typical white person who, uh, if she sees somebody on the street that she doesn't know there's a reaction that's been bred into our experiences that don't go away and that sometimes come out in the wrong way and that's just the nature of race in our society. We have to break through it."

IF A WHITE PERSON (PARTICULARLY POLITICIAN) CALLED SOMEONE A "TYPICAL BLACK PERSON" THEY WOULD BE FINISHED! (Remember Sen. Lott, or Dog the Bounty hunter?)Unbelievable- and people are flocking to him.

The other day Obama also said "Black and brown" issues- something I don't have a problem with when referring to African-American and Hispanic issues, but which Hillary Clinton got much flack for using doing a debate sponsored by Univision. When will both candidates be judge on the same playing field?

Obama will do anything to win nomination

Including selling out his own grandmother. Is it because she’s white? Obama used his grandmother’s prejudice as an example in his “race” speech. Why would you embarrass the woman that raised you so? Just for political points? What else will you do to win the nomination?
He again used her as an example a few days later, calling her a “typical white person.” It’s only human nature to have prejudice and prejudgments. As human beings, we are called to overcome these prejudices by looking at people for what and who they are; other human bothers and sisters. We are to judge each other for how we TREAT each other not what we might think or worry about on first impression!

He is running a hypocritical campaign – (the italicised below is an except from the Clinton campaign Blog, that's right on the money)

While talking a lot about the politics of hope, change and unity, Sen. Obama and his campaign have been conducting a relentless and singularly personal assault on Hillary's character. They have blanketed big states with false negative mailers and radio ads and have described Hillary and her campaign as "disingenuous," "divisive," "untruthful," "dishonest," "polarizing," "calculating," "saying whatever it takes to win," "attempting to deceive the American people," "one of the most secretive in America," “deliberately misleading,” “literally willing to do anything to win,” and “playing politics with war."

This "full assault" on Hillary's integrity and character has reached a new peak since Hillary's victories on March 4th. One of Sen. Obama's top surrogates equated President Clinton with Joe McCarthy; another called Hillary a "monster;" and his campaign manager held an angry conference call claiming that Hillary is "deeply flawed" and has "character issues." That's neither unifying nor hopeful. If Sen. Obama really is the prohibitive favorite some say he is, these negative attacks make absolutely no sense. Why would a front runner seek to attack and divide? If Sen. Obama can't unify Democrats in a primary, how can he unify Americans in a general election?

His campaign is based on "Change" -- "Changing the face of politics as usual." Yet when he was under fire last week for supporting his bigoted reverend he retorted a few days later by releasing a picture of President Clinton shaking the hand of the reverend in 1996. This was meant to suggest Pres. Clinton thought Reverend Wright was an upright person-- when the American people clearly realize a president will meet thousands of people a year and be photographed with them. It's a palpable part of the job, that’s why we have a White House Photographer. It should be noted that Clinton isn’t a 20 yr congregant of the Hatemonger's church, and hasn’t refused to denounce the reverend as Obama is and has.

That tactic is the exact type of politics his campaign has long derided. How is that "changing the face of politics?"

Obama also lied about his advisor telling the Canadian Government not to listen to what he was saying about NAFTA to American, that when he becomes (if) President he wouldn't change NAFTA. Opposing or Reforming NAFTA is a central part of Obama and Clinton's campaign- Obama comes down hard on Clinton for her previous support of NAFTA and his advisers tell the Canadian government that it's all just talk. Obama refuted the claim (saying they never even met with the Canadian government) and then a few days later said yes his advisor did meet with the Canadian government and they did speak about NAFTA but they didn't say that.

So which is it exactly, Sen. Two-face? Pro-NAFTA or Anti-NAFTA?

2008-03-24T18:36:00.000-07:00

SIMPLY INCREDIBLE

Marlee Matlin is absolutely unbelievable. I just watched her on "Dancing with the Stars" and she executed her dance very well. She has the natural ability to light up the room, just like last year's Marie Osborn. I've always admired Marlee- and of course loved her as Joey Lucas on "the West Wing."

2008-03-24T14:45:00.001-07:00

Party Unification
There is a fear that Sen. Clinton won't be able to unite the supporters of Sen. Obama if she were to garner the nomination. I think both sides should really consider the issue of unification- as I, deep down, find it very hard to vote for Sen. Obama if he were to win the nomination. I've found the campaign to engage in hypocritical acts in direct conflict with the campaign's rhetoric.

At this point I will either sit out the election, or vote for McCain; that is if he can sway my vote.

2008-03-21T13:04:00.000-07:00

How could people let Obama get away with saying his
Grandmother was a typical white person?
While trying to explain what he meant about the reference to his grandmother's prejudgments of black people (*prejudgments are human nature- and what matters is how someone treats another instead of embedded prejudgments - HRH) Obama called his grandmother a "typical white person"

"The point I was making was not that my grandmother harbors any racial animosity. She doesn't. But she is a typical white person who, uh, if she sees somebody on the street that she doesn't know there's a reaction that's been been bred into our experiences that don't go away and that sometimes come out in the wrong way and that's just the nature of race in our society. We have to break through it."

IF ANY WHITE PERSON (PARTICULARLY POLITICIAN) CALLED SOMEONE A "TYPICAL BLACK PERSON" THEY WOULD BE FINISHED! (Remember Sen. Lott, or Dog the Bounty hunter?)

Unbelievable- and people are flocking to him. The other day Obama also said "Black and brown" issues- something I don't have a problem with when referring to African-American and Hispanic issues, but which Hillary Clinton got much flack for using doing a debate sponsored by Univision. HYPOCRISY!

2008-03-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

One Night Only!
OMG I'm so excited to be going to Elton John's one night only solo concert benefiting Hillary Clinton's campaign for President. It's going to be AMAZING! President and Future President Clinton will be there as well. I've been itching to go to a concert again for a while- and what better way to go than to help raise funds for Hillary. I'm in heaven!

It will be held at Radio City Music Hall on April 9th @ 8pm.

2007-11-14T14:35:00.000-08:00

EDP
If you live in NY you probably heard about the young man (18 yr old) who was shot to death by cops as he fled his home. He was a emotionally distressed person (EDP), as first responder professionals call it. The police were first alerted to the scene by his mother's 911 call where they heard over the phone the child screaming he had a gun.

While the outcome is clearly a tragedy and a call for clear lessons learned, there is no reason for accusations of a trigger happy police force. I read in the paper this morning, the family were arguing police officers needed more training on handling EDPs. The family, understandably so, can be lashing out at the police to focus their complete devastation away from the unimaginable hurt that a loss of a child brings.

If we reviewed the situation, I think we would find that the police acted in the same manner any liked minded person would. They arrived on scene to a situation where the person was hostile and brandishing an item that could have been a gun. He was screaming and not responding to directions (though some witnesses say different - can it be selective memory? on the part of the police force so well known for their blue wall of silence - or is it on the part of a community that can be very distrusting of authority?).

The officers had been advised, I'm sure, that the victim had screamed he had a gun and would use it on his mother while the mother called 911. The 911 operator asked the mother if he had a gun and the mother, according to transcripts, said "you hear him don't you." The family is complaining that the police were putting words in her mouth when they told the media the mother said he had a gun. The family is right, she never said those words-- semantics I say. The transcript clearly states the boy kept screaming in the background and the operator asking the mother for verification, which was given in some form (I would have thought "you hear him don't you" was verification).

The family want officers to be properly trained to deal with emotionally disturbed persons. I concur, it is a very useful and needed skill set for the line of work they are in. But most understandably those skills would not have been applicable in the violent, life-threatening situation the officers faced when approached the tragic victim. I don't know if there is sufficient training currently and whether these officers had any, but those skills - in my mind - would be more applicable in situations where the EDP is not violently threatening and the officers have the opportunity to help the EDP.

The mother, according to accounts, called a psychiatric team first which were unable to stay until the boy returned. She did a very brave thing - realizing that she could no longer handle his behavior and needed to reach out for help. But when the boy returned home in an even more violent manner the mother resorted to calling 911, to calling the very people she now is arguing against. I think it's a case of misplaced anger and projection.

He was holding a brush in his hand which, when brandished in a threatening fashion, can be mistaken for a gun. The officers were acting within the guidelines of the department.

I think it's wrong to always point the finger at the police. Sometimes tragedies like this are the result of class differential and embedded racism, but sometimes - as is the case here - a tragedy is just that... a tragedy.

2007-11-14T08:55:00.000-08:00

Men make my head hurt!
This is a note written by a guy I dated earlier this summer and liked very much-
we didn't work out because of an ever changing range of excuses on his part.
I've been ignoring him now for three months as he continues, every so often, to contact me.
********************************************************************
I know you dont want to have anything to do with me. and i know also that you think i played with you, and the truth is that yes im an idiot and i do things like that.

But that doesnt hide the fact that every time i am on the subway with my i-pod on listening to music, and all of a sudden Venus as a boy from corine bailey rae starts to play, i dont get transported into the past, and think of when i first came to new york and met you.

You i will never forget, because even though we never really did anything i remember you with joy, and i know that you dont want me around and thats ok, ill be away.

but i will remember you always....You are so wonderful, and you were so sweet to me, that it kinda melts my heart to think that life is such a bitch and kept us from being together.

Not only because of my idiotic acts, but because of facts that you and i know, but papi, i will always have a special place in my heart for you, even if you detest me and want to choke me to death id still like to come close and hug you sometime.
Joey
********************************************************************
I gave him one chance after we dated to continue a friendship and he messed that up.
I don't like to keep myself in a state where I will be continually hurt (or annoyed) by someone if I can help it, so when I last spoke with him I told him clearly that there was nothing for us to speak about.

Yet the phone texting, the phone calls, and the messages on myspace continue.
Guess I should have played it this when we first hung out, instead of revealing what I felt then.
HRH

2007-10-10T08:32:00.001-07:00

Mom's love with JLO
My mom went to the JLO/Marc Anthony concert on Sunday she was so happy- she called me from the concert.

She was in one of the sky lounges- her friends family apparently owns one (I don't know this friend- I think mom is keeping something from me lol) She said it was like something she never experienced before. A small apartment overlooking the concert- with Closed Circut footage of the action down stairs, food galore, and a private restroom (which she loved lol).
I asked her about JLO's pregnancy- Mom said it was the rumor of the night- but of course JLO didn't say anything. I saw on TMZ (yes I watch) JLO's family enter the garden for the performance- it was so cute.

Her mom (who was a real bitch - when she taught 1st grade in our Church School - I became active in the Church after JLO left and became famous, a few years before Guadelupe stopped teaching. Everyone talked about her- and I was like uhm she left ya'll behind get over it haha) and her aunt showed up in JLO concert Tshirts, so cute. Her sister was dressed normal though.

Today I read that US Weekly is reporting she's having Twins- good for her. My mom is going to be happy, she LOVES JLO's music (even though she states she doesn't have a good singing voice- and acknowledges it's just really good production- but hey good production and pleasing fans is still entertainment!)

I'd be negligent if I didn't mention how much my mom adores Marc Anthony as well- she swoons over him all the time. I never understood her physical attraction to him, but the man is a vocal genius!

2007-10-09T12:35:00.000-07:00

The Feeling of Fate & the Loss of opportunity
Hello Gang- sorry for the hiatus- I know I've been gone for a while. I just didn't have anything to write about, or I wasn't willing to share the things that were worthy of documenting.

I'm back now though. REJOICE!

Saturday I went with a friend of mine to Six Flags Great Adventuress's Fright Fest. I had an enjoyable time, except for all the waiting on the lines! Why people choose to wait on a line for two hours for a ride that will end in a minutes time is beyond me.

So as we progressed on our day, my friend and I pass one of those water gun racing games. There was an employee trying to coax people into joining the game. I passed him thinking I wasn't remotely interested. Then I heard a voice say "Come on and Play"- I look over and there is a GORGEOUS guy- with the ONLY wide and beautiful smile. He looked me dead in the eyes and said it again. MY automatic reaction was "no pa, I can't right now" cause of course he was just being nice.

But a few steps later, after my friend and I both agreed he was gorgeous- we turned back. I went up to the boy and said I had to come back for his smile. He suggested I use the gun next to him, but a FAT SOPRANOS Type Italian man beat me to it. So I grabbed a gun at the other end of the game and layed down the three bucks for the game. The boy and I kept catching each other's eye - I was melting.

My other friend also joined in, he was trying to flirt too- but I'm better at it. I stuck out my ass WAY OUT- as I focused the gun on the target (learned from my mother lol). The bell rang and we were off. There was a pop of the balloon and I stood up and looked around and then heard "the winner is number 13" .... "OH THATS ME!!!!" YA I won.

The employee threw a large bag at me, and I thought to self "Oh hell no, I just didn't win a laundry bag." He said "You didn't know the prize? You get to fill the bag, choose 5 prizes!"
That's why they wanted the game filled- the more players the larger the pot.

I caught the eye of the Smiley boy again as he was leaving and waved him over saying "Pa the only reason I even came back was for your smile. So you get to pick one for yourself" It was so cute. He picked a Pimped out Scooby Doo.

Afterwards, My friend Ely and I joined Mr. Smiley (Michael) and his Brother Jason on a ride. But afterwards we spilt up to allow Michael to take Jason on other rides, using the speed pass they had and we didn't. Jason had a small mental disability and was really impatient. But he was a very sweet person. I enjoyed talking to Jason while Ely tried to keep Michael in convo (Ely is a great continued talker- but not a sly flirt like I am so I wasn't worried).

We all made plans to meet at 7pm at an attraction in front of the fountain- but we never got to run into them again. I was just on such a high though, I wasn't upset at not running into them again cause so many things could have happened why should I let myself guess. I had left my cell phone in the car, as not to have it fall off a ride- which is why I thought it was better to meet up later than try to scribble down our numbers.

I just wish more opportunities show themselves, and that I take them. I'm getting way to old.
Oh and the boy was 20- so hot, and an aspiring model.

2007-09-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

Speak so Fast
FUNNY THING- No one is in the office- so I'm listening to La Kalle lol-- (I'm trying to get win tickets to the special Gloria Estefan concert) - but they are having a political debate. But damn they speak so fast- I can't understand Spanish at super fast speed.

I don't speak Spanish- but the last few months have been attempting to practice it. I understand a good bit of the language- but my family never spoke in the language to us at home (and by us I mean my cousins and I as I am an only child.)

Our parents, Mom and Titi's, now say WE NEVER WANTED TO LEARN! lol- We quickly turned around and said WHAT???-

You can't blame the children when you decided to live an English speaking life only peppered with a few select Spanish words.

They always spoke in Spanish when they didn't want us to hear.
But little did they realize we understood- just were uncomfortable in speaking it.

My own problem is that when I have to speak I forget the words- I'm like a child trying to speak. But if someone is speaking to me- I'll totally understand and retort in English.

I would love to have a friend to practice with. Immersion is the only way I'll learn.
HRH

2007-09-10T17:52:00.000-07:00

Four More Months-
That is until the juicy part of the primary begins- when the votes are cast in early primaries and caucuses. I'm so excited- sometimes though I wonder about the effect primaries have on party moral.

I am, as you well know, an avid supporter of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton - that being said- I know several people who are supporting the other democrats in the primary (and one supporting one of the Republicans.)

Does the knock out drag out nature of a primary system allow for the full inclusion of those whose beliefs and hopes were dismayed by the success of the opposing candidate? Do primaries just end up disenfranchising those who's vote we need so desperately to ultimately defeat the opposing party?

Will the successful candidate in '08 (HILLARY!) be able to mend the fences that undoubtedly be broken before the selection of the final candidate?

If, by some miracle, someone else besides HRC wins the nomination for the democratic party I would still wholeheartedly support them as share the values of the party. But are people all like me? I don't think so.

I remember in 2000 supporting the candidacy of Sen. Bill Bradley of New Jersey - I was enamored with his straight forward approach to politics (a sort of outsider- coming from the world of Pro Basketball) - reminiscent of Sen. John McCain's 2000 campaign and of the supposed freshness of Sen. Barack Obama's current campaign.

But I was backing a losing horse- he was unable to fight Gore's political machine. How could I have hoped he beat Bush if he couldn't play the game correctly against VP Gore?

I refuse to cede any more races to the dream of euporhic perfect scenarios. Republicans have known the secret to governing and getting things done- first you have to gain power - then you can effect what you want.

I've said it time and time again- in 2000 Bush wasn't hammered by the Right to promise a thousand and one different conservative principles- freeing him to establish himself as a pseudo Compassionate conservative. They realized they needed him in office first - before they should attempt to get assurances from him on public policy.

We'll find out in about six months, when the primary calendar is pretty much over and a clear candidate is most likely in view. The good thing about about an early primary is that the selected candidate has more time to bring the party together- on a small more personal scale.

If the candidate tries to be the "uniter" to forcefully or publicly they run the risk of overexposure and voter exhaustion or candidate fatigue - the downside of the early primary.

2007-09-06T20:23:00.001-07:00

Ease on Down The Road
I'm home watching "The Wiz." It reminds me of my childhood again, watching the movie countless times with my father. One of the rare shared memories.

Why couldn't I have had a better relationship with my father? The memory of watching this movie with him, sharing the joy of basic entertainment- mad me sullen.

I enjoyed Nipsy Russell, Diana Ross, and Michael Jackson - and relating to a cast that looked like people I was familiar with growing up in Harlem. Don't get me wrong I also was addicted to "The Wizard of OZ" as well, but this held a larger spot in my heart.

HRH

2007-09-04T13:34:00.000-07:00

Memories: Home sick from School for a week

I use to live on the same block as my catholic school for a period of three years.

I was out sick from school for what had to be more than a week (what I had I don't remember- weird as I never had Mumps, Measles, or Chicken Pox) Upon my return to school, I entered my fourth grade class room and was greeted cheerfully by my Filipino teacher and the class (aww even back then I was loved).

But much to my surprise, the class wasn't dressed like I expected. They were all in regular clothes and I was standing there in my full school uniform like an idiot. They were getting ready for a field trip - to Rye PlayLand at that. My teacher gave me a permission slip (knowing I lived on the same block) and let me run home to try and make the 9am bus departure.

Can you imagine letting a student off the premises now a days without supervision - they'd get canned.

I ran home, and busted through the front door and my mom yelled questioning why I was home. Everything was going well, as mom had signed off on the slip and I was changing into regular clothes- but then mom realized she didn't have the registration money on her and going to the bank would be too time consuming (late 80's in Harlem- where did you find a bank?)
So my hopes dwindled fast - until Mom got a wonderful idea. She picked up the phone and called our cousin Janet. Janet drove over and lent mom some money.

Cut to me running down the block- turning the corner to my school and just catching the bus with the permission slip and money in my hand a la Sister Act 2.

2007-08-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

The Queen of Latin Music Comes to the Bronx

THAT'S RIGHT, GLORIA ESTEFAN IS COMING TO THE BRONX

Do you know HOW EXCITED I AM????
Anyone want to come with me?

09.26.07

In-Store Signing

Starbucks

225th Street and Broadway in the Bronx

5:00pm Eastern Time

2007-08-28T13:31:00.000-07:00

The Common Hispanic Shared Experience

Last night I saw "El Cantante" with my friend Stefanie. It was my second time seeing the movie and it still moved me greatly.

It's a sad commentary on the latino upbringing to realize many of our shared experience (which was portrayed in the movie) are of disfunctional, violence filled, drug effected homes.

My friend and I cried cause she remembered her father shooting up in the house like Lavoe did and I remember being that quiet young only male child in the corner while my parents fought over the dad's drug usuage and spending time with his son. OY-

When I orignially saw it with my mom she was a mess, saying "it's like they took a page right out of my life." I really didn't expect to like the movie at all, or to even like JLo's performance but I was blown away by it all.

HRH

2007-08-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

Conservative US Senator Arrested for Attempted Same-Sex Lewd Conduct
(From CNN)
WASHINGTON (CNN) – CNN has obtained the June 11, 2007 police report detailing Idaho Sen. Larry Craig's disorderly conduct arrest in an airport bathroom.
In the report, the arresting officer alleges that Craig lingered outside a restroom stall where the officer was sitting, then entered the stall next door and blocked the stall door with his luggage. (Read the report [PDF])
According to the report, Craig tapped his right foot, which the officer said he recognized "as a signal used by persons wishing to engage in lewd conduct."
"Craig tapped his toes several times and moved his foot closer to my foot," the report states. "I moved my foot up and down slowly. While this was occurring, the male in the stall to my right was still present. I could hear several unknown persons in the restroom that appeared to use the restroom for its intended use. The presence of others did not seem to deter Craig as he moved his right foot so that it touched the side of my left foot which was within my stall area."
At that point, the officer said he put his police identification down by the floor so Craig could see it, and informed the senator that he was under arrest, before any sexual contact took place.
Craig, who agreed to plead guilty to disorderly conduct, denied to the officer he was engaging in any inappropriate activity.
According to the report, Craig told the police that "he has a wide stance when going to the bathroom and that his foot may have touched mine [the officer's]."
Related: Senator says he regrets guilty plea after restroom arrest

2007-08-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

Comedy Central Presents:

Last night Arnold, Victor, and I went to a taping of "Comedy Central Presents:" We saw two comedians and had a blast. The first one was Billy Gardell (I believe) - he was pretty funny- quiet enjoyable. I have a vague recollection of seeing him somewhere before. He's a very hefty guy so maybe I'm just clumping all fat comedians together though.

The second comedian was, in my opinion, the funniest. His name was Jo Koy, a filipino. His ethnic filipino jokes had me laughing like crazy the whole show.

Tomorrow Empress Tasha and Jamal should be going to a taping. And I have more tickets for Monday's show. Laughter is needed in every one's life.
HRH

2007-08-23T12:09:00.000-07:00

RICKY MARTIN

Tasha and I are going to see RM at MSG on Sunday, October 14th. OMG- I'm going to cream. LOL SORRY TMI! But he is PHYNE! What god do I have to pray to to get someone like him?

HRH

2007-08-22T12:35:00.001-07:00

HRH Collection - Photos part 1

" The Plastics"

Our first "date" lol...

HRH and MarvelBoi in Philly

HRH and Ira- Sexiness doubled

HRH Twisted

She's got my lip

The Rodriguez Cousins

2007-08-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

Slowing down to a Crawl
I haven't posted since Saturday! I had been doing pretty well posting at least every other day. Has nothing exciting happened since then? No, not really.

I've just been working, and pretty much busy afterward either doing laundry with Empress Tasha or cooking.

Tomorrow I'm going to a Comedy Central Show taping - "Comedy Central Presents in New York City" Hope it's good. You'll read all about it then.
LOVE
HRH

2007-08-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

How to Judge "So You Think You Can Dance!"
My friend sent me a response about my support for Danny on "So You Think You Can Dance."

he didn't deserve it. he didn't improve in anything. he basically knew it all. it wasn't too difficult from him. he was the same from beginning to end. how dull. :) hehe that's not deserving to win. Sabra and Sarah..especially sarah...wooo...that girl was a b girl and did all the shit. she was amazing.

I don't agree. Judging someone on their growth is a factor people should use but it isn't the only aspect of dance will determine the winner of the competition. It isn't called "So You Grew as a Dancer!" It's called "So You Think You Can Dance." It tests their ability.

Danny had the ability throughout the show, his growth was in his ability to open up to the audience mid-season and show his vulnerability after Judges called him arrogant.

2007-08-17T10:48:00.000-07:00

We aren't the Champions!
Why can't I pick winners? lol - I'm not talking romantically. I'm talking about selecting a favorite person in the numerous reality shows competitions we watch. And by "We" I mean Empress Tasha and I.

Last night my favorite, Danny, lost to Sabra on "So You Think You Can Dance." I haven't picked a winner since American Idol season 1, Kelly Clarkson. Maybe Fantasia as well.

Danny soooo deserved to win. He was the best dancer by far. Every judge said so. Besides his talent- HE IS FINE! DAMN. I could barely watch the show with other people in the room.
He is a god. I love his chest, and his legs were unbelievably defined. The personality that was shown in interviews also was just so endearing.

He made mentioned he has an apartment in NYC in an interview. COME ON GOOD LUCK GODS RAIN YOUR POWER ON ME- lol Bring me Danny!
HRH

2007-08-16T07:46:00.000-07:00

Checkinoutable
Yes, that's right... I said it! I was fourteen when I went up to the Librarian at my cousin's school and asked her point blank if this book is "checkinoutable." Needless to say she laughed.
I thought it was a word lol.

Do you have any fun stories like that? Empress Tasha has one- ask her about it.
HRH

2007-08-15T20:25:00.000-07:00

After about Three Months I finally got a new phone!

Ya... Thank you Katie for my belated birthday present. I've been wanting this phone for some time. If you know me, you know my favorite color is Orange.

And I had up to three months ago had the V phone which is the predecessor to the enV- which is completely improved (can't be new if it already exsisted). It's sleeker and more functional.

I'm soooo happy!

Love HRH

2007-08-13T20:31:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU, MOTHER!

Even though you don't understand everything I feel or can completely sympathize with my sensitivities talking to you tonight made me feel better!

It was fun talking. How odd that I past the old apartment this weekend bringing back a total and complete nostalgic feeling. Maybe I will be as happy as you wish me too.

I remember how I always wished you could understand me with me having to verbalize it- it's the idiocy of the Cancerian belief that everyone is as empathic as we believe we are. LOL
LOVE
HRH

2007-08-13T08:47:00.000-07:00

HRH'S SUMMER DOLDRUMS
Some people have noted that HRH hasn't been himself recently; these observations have been mainly pressed by the Queen Mom and Katie.

I've basically tired or guessing games. I thank god for shelter and a job, much more than I had five months ago (thank you Tasha, Stefi, Shanise).

But at the same time the constant loneliness is quiet a mental drain. I feel cursed - for sure. I done the I don't care route to no avail, then I've done the you'll never know unless you take the risk route to the same end result.

Every new possibility ends in some form of confusion. Either they are assholes who have intentionally lead me on (many times I will realize the signs but occasionally not), or there are some circumstances that get in the way. I like to think I know which situation came from the particular person - but there are times I can be way off course.

I'm way too self-conscience to be any use in a Club scene, but that doesn't preclude me from social interact. I've meet people on the street, train, while working, and online. A healthy mixture- yet time and again I am on the short end of the stick.

Most times the person will end up entering a relationship right after me. Some persons will want to continue a friendship. Many times I will not- because I am too sensitive. We had established a flirtatious relationship not a friendship originally- often I don't revert.

There have been, and will be, some that I have wanted, and will want, a friendship with. I've experienced though with two of those already a one sided conversation all about their new relationship. Where is the concern of my 1) feelings 2) romantic well being?

I give too many chances- needless to say - Both of those people have been cut off. I think I often am quiet fair. Occasionally I can be unbalanced and selfish- too bad - who isn't!!!

This year- lets see- I've casually dated 4 people again to no avail. There were a few other persons of interest (lol sounds like an investigation) but as you know I'm single so apparently nothing flourished.

The constant quandary- if there has been no progress with so many different types of people then there is an issue that must lie with me. After years of analysis, and adjusting unhealthy or negative romantic practices, I can't find any deep error on my part.

People will usually ask- oh what happened? who did it? No... It's not about a particular person or a particular incident. It's about the continued track record.

Though some incidents can really get my blood bubbling like someone calling after quiet a long time to state he was in the neighborhood but didn't take the charge to attempt a meeting.

He proceeds to say "I'm going to hit up the after parties here and try to behave myself- but if I have more drinks that won't happen"- Who are these people? Why do they keep bothering me? Is that appropriate to say to someone who you were attempting to court? I don’t think so.

Go Figure

2007-08-10T08:11:00.000-07:00

Voguesa
Voguesa, a mixture of Voguing and Salsa. LOL - yes it was made up last night by guess who? No.. not me.. No one else but the fun loving Just B!tch, Jose. Shanise and I joined Jose and his friends last night for drinks at Gonzales and Gonzales. It was tons of fun. I've been to G & G tons of times, even when they had a live band but always just went to eat and never really to drink and dance. Thanks Jose for a fun night out, our two year friendship seems like the real deal. Thank you Shanise for hanging out with us too. I can't imagine the last 12 years without your friendship.
HRH

2007-08-08T08:35:00.000-07:00

Just add Water!
Why do I attract crazy people to talk to me? Every where I go some crazy person mistakes my bright and cheerful smile for an invitation to engage in conversation. I wouldn't care if the people were sane - but they usually are always two sandwiches short of a picnic basket.

Yesterday I was hanging with Arnold and we stopped at a Barnes & Noble and a odd looking young lady started talking to me about Harry Potter. I should have never glanced at the Harry Potter section! I was praying Arnold would finish using the restroom soon so we could leave.

She continued to debate issues of the book verse the movies, and which character should have had more prominence in the last book, and what parts she cried at during her read of the final book. I just wanted her to go back away slowly as I watched her every move.

Arnold finally got back but didn't make moves to indicate we were leaving. When I finally got out of there crazy girls clutches I argued "you should have said let's go." He said "It's not my fault you and INSTA-FRIEND hit it off" lol-- He's too much.

Today on the train ride to work from hell, all NYC trains were functioning in some limited capacity or not at all because of heavy rains through the night, I was stuck in front of another INSTA-FRIEND! She began telling me about her home, and her dogs and trying to get them to go potty before she left for work. The dogs didn't want to potty in the torrential rain but she made them. She was a Cop and she trained the older taller dog as a K-9 companion. The smaller one doesn't listen often though. The older one will pick up the smaller one in his mouth and place him on the grass to do his business. TOO MUCH INFORMATION!

She kept going on and on. After a while I actually began enjoying talking to her. She was a hoot.
I guess I'll always be a magnet for INSTA-FRIENDS!
HRH

2007-08-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

Guide to Running into old acquaintance
This happens all the time to me. Today on the train I looked up from my seat and a woman had just entered. Her face looked familiar to me and in about two seconds I placed it as someone I was very friendly with at a previous job.

We did our pleasantries but with my inviting face and smile she came over after hesitating for a second. I was seated down and offered her my seat but she declined. I spoke of my night of troubled sleep - she spoke of her cousin that I know and her kids who are wonderful human beings.

A few times the conversation lulled- and it began to feel awkward. I tried recounting my weekend and that really sparked the old conversational flow between us. It was nice seeing her again. There was another moment of tension near the end though. I made mention to a mutual friend of ours (and former co-worker) who has fallen off the face of the earth after being terminated for accusations that was obviously a subject we both didn't want to touch.

Oh well I survived this encounter- on to the next. It's much easier when I don't actually like the person. Then I can just raise my arm a bit, look in their direction, and mutter something totally inaudiable and keep walking.
HRH

2007-08-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

Do I believe people can change their future or that it is all planned out?
Thanks to a friend for initiating this blog!

I am not copping out, but I believe a mixture of both. The explanation is going to get confusing and perhaps convoluted but bare with me.

I believe that our essences, or souls, exist on the other side, what I call Heaven, in a constant state of euphoria. The environment envelops the soul with nothing but perfection and joy. While on the other side we decide whether or not we want to make the journey to the earthly plane.

We might do so just too past time, or to be on the plane at the same time as another of our comrades, or to experience the negativity side of life - as everything in most people’s understanding of heaven is perfect or positive - I think this makes sense.

It goes back to the eternal question- can there be good without evil? Can you truly enjoy and appreciate heaven with out knowing the opposite?

I believe while in Heaven we individually decide and map out our life guideline (with help from others- but that takes to much explaining). The major milestones or items we want to experience are predetermined, in theory.

But in the actually practice, or execution of the plan, there are countless chances to amend our desires, and go a different path. The journey on earth is a learning experience and when we get back to Heaven we’ll debrief our life and analysis what made us chose the direction we did.

We chose to come to earth sometimes to test our fortitude, strength and will, other times it can be just a supportive role. Think of the soul that must decide to be birthed into a child and then perish soon after birth (or a few years later) so that the parents can fulfill their predetermined milestone of experiencing the loss of a child.

When we travel to our human bodies we lose all the experiences and knowledge we have from the other side (although there are pieces that stay with us as children and then are drowned out by conforming to societal and behavioral norms).
An interesting coordinated event that brings lots of discussion using this belief of predetermination is the Holocaust. 6 million souls would have had to coordinate themselves and offer to experience the atrocities if the essence of Adolf Hitler actually went through with the possibility of his evil plans.

I believe there are similar guidelines to the popularly held Christian moral values. Primarily thou shall not kill, but we can give ourselves the test of whether we would actually follow through and chose such a evil heinous crime. We wouldn’t be allowed to “lock in your answer” like they do on millionaire – or “lock the fate of our actions” particularly with actions that would fracture the beautiful gift our lord has given us, that of life and existence. Souls who commit such acts are punished and not allowed re-admittance to the glorious welcoming arms of the lord.

I believe we retain the information we gather during our time on earth.

I came to believe this after reading books by Sylvia Browne. I thought it made a lot of sense, and there is a lot of room for questions and unknowns as we are not able to completely understand the other side until we return home.

2007-08-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

STATE OF HEALTHCARE IN OUR COUNTRY
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/mmedia/player/wpniplayer_viral.swf?vid=080207-7v_title '

2007-08-03T09:22:00.000-07:00

Woman gives birth to her 17th Child!
Ok So I first learned of this family two years ago when they give birth to their 16th child. I was astonished- today I came across the story of the 17th child and I'm like AGAIN!
The story is listed below!
**********************************
Arkansas couple welcomes 17th child
By JILL ZEMAN, Associated Press Writer
It's a girl — again — for the Duggars. Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar welcomed their 17th child, and seventh daughter, into the world Thursday.
Jennifer Danielle was born at 10:01 a.m. at Saint Mary's Hospital in Rogers, Ark., the Duggars said in an interview. Jennifer weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces and arrived five days after Michelle's due date.

Less than 30 minutes after giving birth, the Duggars already were talking of having more.
"We'd love to have more," Michelle said, adding that the girls are outnumbered seven to 10 in the family. "We love the ruffles and lace."

Jennifer joins the fast-growing Duggar brood, who live in Tontitown in a 7,000-square-foot home. All the children — whose names start with the letter J — are home-schooled.
The oldest is 19 and the youngest, before Jennifer, is almost 2 years old.

"We are just so grateful to God for another gift from him," said Jim Bob Duggar, 42, a former state representative. "We are just so thankful to him that everything went just very well."
Jennifer joins siblings Joshua, 19; John David, 17; Janna, 17; Jill, 16; Jessa, 14; Jinger, 13; Joseph, 12; Josiah, 11; Joy-Anna, 9; Jedidiah, 8; Jeremiah, 8; Jason 7; James 6; Justin, 4; Jackson, 3; Johannah, almost 2.

The family includes two sets of twins.

Michelle Duggar said that Joshua, Janna, Jill and Jessa were at the hospital, but that the rest of the family planned to visit their new sister later Thursday.

Michelle Duggar said she started feeling contractions Wednesday night and went to the hospital at about 5 a.m. Thursday.

"It actually went fast," she said. "I guess once I started progressing, it went within 30 minutes."
Jennifer was born via a VBAC — or vaginal birth after Caesarean, Jim Bob Duggar said.

The Duggars have been featured on several programs on cable's Discovery Health Network. The next special, the Duggar Family Album, is scheduled to air next month, Jim Bob Duggar said.

Among the "fun facts" listed on Discovery Health's Web page devoted to the Duggars: A baby has been born in every month except June; the Duggars have gone through an estimated 90,000 diapers, and Michelle, 40, has been pregnant for 126 months — or 10.5 years — of her life.
___
On the Net:
Duggar family Web site: http://www.duggarfamily.com
Discovery Health site: http://health.discovery.com/convergence/duggars/duggarfamily.html

2007-08-01T19:11:00.000-07:00

Who will Clinton Choose?
As her Vice-Presidential Nominee that is (Yes I'm biased - I know she'll win the nomination). I was in the shower thinking about this (so what!). Staying in line with what many nominees have done in recent years, some pundits expect her to select one of her fellow candidates. A common belief is she will, or should, pick Sen. Obama. Lets be realistic, the first serious female candidate for the presidency will not select the first serious black male candidate for the vice-presidential nominee.

Besides the added factor of overcoming the embedded racism in the country, as well as the fear of a female commander-in-chief, there's a very good chance the selection of Obama will overshadow her candidacy and, if successful, overshadow her administration's efforts.

I tend to agree with other pundits, who see the selection of Gov. Richardson (New Mexico) as the most beneficial. He's a proven statesman and negotiator (having negotiated the release of a number of hostages during his vast foreign relations career, his four nominations for Nobel Peace Prizes, his tenure as the U.S. Ambassador to the U.N, and various other foreign relations appointed positions), a proven success at the polls in his slightly right leaning state of New Mexico, a Latino who can energize the Latino voter base, and a westerner who can help solidify the inroads Democrats have been making in delivering their message in the West.

That being said, I was thinking wouldn't it be nice if the nominee (Hillary) would select a running mate that wasn't one of her primary rivals? Going back to a time where candidates actually thought about who they believed would be the best choice to run in country if something happened to them.

Then I started to think about what Hillary might need in a running mate. She herself has the policy know how- she'll be able to battle the domestic issues head on. On the foreign policy side, she does well too - having the faith and respect of most of the world and having a widely popular ex-president at her disposal. What she could use though, in this time of dual concern for domestic and security issues, is a strong strategic Military leader.

Then it hit me- she should select a general! Some one she could put in charge of securing the homeland and working with her to end the war in Iraq and realigning the "war on terror" so that it actually works. But who?

Wait... Why has General Wesley Clark been so quiet lately? Is it because Clinton has already drawn out this idea? I know I'm speculating, but that's what every one does when they talk about what a politician might do next. I think Clark would be a wonderful choice!

We know from his 2004 campaign that he is liberal, so democrats won't have to worry about his domestic stances. And we know of his extensive leadership and military capabilities from his time as the Supreme Allied Commander during the Kosovo operation (isn't that an awesome title?). He would help instill a sense of security that helped Bush win re-election but yet in practice is surely lacking.

Hillary wouldn't have to worry about being overshadowed either.
HRH

2007-08-01T07:25:00.000-07:00

My Favorite Musical EVER! - Ruined?
Disney's Aida is set to come to the big screen. The Broadway musical opened in 2000 and closed September 2005. This play was my favorite musical by far. I've seen it five times, and am still a little sad I didn't get a sixth time in under the belt before it closed.

There are rumors flying around the Internet that Beyonce is in negotiations to play the lead role, Aida. To use the vernacular - "I love me some Beyonce." But have serious doubts as to her ability to lead true credibility to the role. Aida's voice is so powerful and full of emotion, which Beyonce is known for - but unlike Beyonce (who's voice is fluid) Aida's is more raw and grainy. I think the two best actresses who played Aida had a lower, slightly more masculine range. But what do I know? I don't know much about professional singing- these are just my off the cuff opinions.

I have to thank Arnold for raving about it nonstop which ignited my curiosity for it. He also played the CD out every time we were over his house. His poor family, if they didn't know he was gay! lol...

2007-07-30T21:12:00.000-07:00

Harry Potter Spoilers-
J.K. Rowling revealed in a chat interview her belief of what happened to the Harry Potter characters after the seventh book.

Harry Potter, who always voiced a desire to become an Auror, or someone who fights dark wizards, was named head of the Auror Department under the new wizarding government headed by his friend and ally, Kingsley Shacklebolt.

His wife, Ginny Weasley, stuck with her athletic career, playing for the Holyhead Harpies, the all-female Quidditch team. Eventually, Ginny left the team to raise their three children — James, Albus and Lily — while writing as the senior Quidditch correspondent for the wizarding newspaper, the Daily Prophet.

Harry's best friend Ron Weasley joined his brother, George, as a partner at their successful joke shop, Weasley's Wizard Wheezes. Hermione Granger, Ron's wife and the third person of the series' dark wizard fighting trio, furthered the rights of subjugated creatures, such as house elves, in the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures before joining the magical law enforcement squad. The couple had two children — Rose and Hugo.

Luna Lovegood, Harry's airily distracted friend with a love for imaginary animals who joins the fight against Voldemort in the Order of the Phoenix, becomes a famous wizarding naturalist who eventually marries the grandson of Newt Scamander, author of "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them."
HRH

2007-07-29T19:25:00.001-07:00

HRH Royal Reunion RECAP

Last night, Saturday July 28, 2007. My friends and I met up for some drinks at one of my favorite places, Absolutely Fourth (on 4th st and 7th Ave). The drinks there are so good, but like Steffi says "it's a great place to start drinking and then move on." We forgot to reserve a table and were sat at the bar right infront of the open door, making it uncomfortably hot. So we all waited till everyone arrived and drank one round and then moved on.

We settled on Tour (formerly 24, formerly Sol) after considering Cafeteria. When we got there we noted that Candis Cane would be performing at midnight. I saw her before at Tomatoe and absolutely adored her. She blew me away. We had a great time with each other waiting for the performance. I waved down Candis and she came to our table before her performance and we all gushed over her. It was so much fun. She seemed so personable and not fake at all.

If you get the chance to see her live, do so. She will have you laughing all night long, and her kicks are amazing. She'll be back at Tour in two saturdays.
To see a video of her, Click here

2007-07-27T23:18:00.000-07:00

Curse on Converse -
While some of them are so cute, they are way too painful to wear!
Why the hell do some people wear them all time?
GIVE ME CUSHION AND SUPPORT OR GIVE ME DEATH
lol
HRH

2007-07-26T11:43:00.000-07:00

Complete Exctasy
OMG- I can't stand it- Gloria is rocking it. There are two new mixes to her single "No Llores" as if the first mix wasn't hot enough!-- The hip-hop version FEATURES PITBULL!! Now you know, his voice makes me cream. GOD- I love that Cuban. He seems sooooo DIRTY but I LOVE IT.

The second mix is a Regeaton mix with Winsin Y Yandel. I really like this mix.
I'm soooooo freaking excited- Can't wait to get home and download them in their entirety. PLEASE PLESE LET THERE BE A TOUR.
HRH

P.S. Read this Review by BillBoard Magazine
Billboard Magazine "No Llores" Single Review

On upcoming "90 Millas," Gloria Estefan returns to her Cuban roots with a contemporary twist, recording all original material whose sound harks back to the old country. First single "No Llores" boasts a vintage feel in its improvisational call-and-response structure and nostalgic lyric. But it is contemporized with a veritable who's who of Latin musicians, including guitarists Carlos Santana (on electric) and José Feliciano (acoustic). Emphasis here is as much on Estefan as it is on the players, underscoring a different project with a novel approach. Aside from its overall catchiness and infectious, make-me-get-up-and dance rhythm, "No Llores" is a standout for impeccable production and enviable mix that allows every instrumental line (and there are many) to resonate with bell-like clarity. This is real music, to be danced to as much as cherished for its adept skill. -Leila Cobo

2007-07-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

Kelly Clarkson's latest album "My December"

Yesterday Kelly issued an appology to Clive Davis for the public spat they had. As you probably read Clive wanted her to use more experienced song writers and Kelly wanted to take the album in her own direction (even not renegotiating contract for more money as most proven sellers usually do).

With "ONLY" 400,000 copies sold in the first three weeks, the album has been seen as a flop. Remember when 400,000 copies would have meant something- isn't that like silver four times over- but since she hasn't reached gold yet let alone platinum, where a successful artist has to be to make it, it's viewed as a dud.

Having an album that didn't really hit the scene is much easier to bounce back from then from having your record company refuse to release the album in the first place, and Kelly noted that in her appology yesterday stating that Clive was classy for allowing the album to be released without being obligated to do so.

I'm sure Kelly will become a better song writer. I liked the songs Never Again, Sober, Judas, Be Still, and mabye Irvine. There's a really good dance mix to Never again at http://www.zshare.net/audio/2799661f7c6adf/ perhaps she just needs better arrangements like that mix.

2007-07-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

Simply Orgasmic to HRH
OK-- my two FAVORITE Artist are comming out with new singles this summer and new albums soon after. I am nearly spastic now cause I can just fell the concerts comming up !!! WOO WOO

Gloria Estefan of course had No Llores come out in June with the new 90 Millas album out in September.

And Hanson had Go released- following the Great Divide song thats just amazing. The new album the Walk comes out today- I GOT TO FIND IT!!!!
Virgin here I come- and the'll be in Atlantic City on September 13th- GUESS WHERE I'LL BE ON 9/13?

I'll go alone mo fo's I've been to both Gloria and Hanson's concerts alone before because none of my friends wanted to go. shit lol
HRH

2007-07-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

I HEAR THE BELLS!
OK I finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows last night... OMG - All I can says is HURRY UP PEOPLE AND READ IT! I want to discuss soon. Can you believe a synopsis is already on Wikipedia?

Secondly, Tasha, Artie, and I went to see Hairspray last night. It was so adorable. I can't stop singing. I adore Allison Janney-- LONG LIVE CJ!
I want to go buy the soundtrack today.

I can't wait to take my mother to see it, she'll just gush over John Travolta's histerics as a woman.
HRH
P.S. - Tammy Faye passed away this weekend. The poor darling.

2007-07-21T23:35:00.000-07:00

One of the Worst Feelings
Is feeling like you might just have out grown some of your friends.
The love hasn't dissipated just the connection that provided the often daily interaction and understanding.
HRH

2007-07-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

Books and Crooks

1) you should watch this video - Young College Republicans "supporting war". But I'll talk more about this below

2) Last night I finished "Son of a Witch" (See previous post under book category for more about this). OMG that was such a good read. The author is crazy I swear. I still don't understand why I didn't like his book "Wicked" which of course takes place chronologically before "Son of a Witch".

3) A few weeks ago I downloaded a sci-fi audiobook about Star Trek: Voyager (I love Voyager). It was read by Kate Mulgrew (the actress that plays Captian Janeway). I fear audiobooks because of the tendency to lead us down the path of laziness and inability. But I still found the experience just as enjoyable as reading it myself. My mental imagery was sharp and active. I felt like I contected with the characters faster because I already knew them and a familiar voice was reading. Because of Kate Mulgrew's experience with Star Trek she was able to read character's dialogue with the cadence given to them buy the actors who portrayed them on the television show. She wasn't very good at changing her voice for different characters but she nailed the cadence and tone. As I listened alone I thought- this isn't very different than being read to by a parent, it can't be that damaging. What do you think?

4) Back to the Video. It was enginered by Max Blumenthal. I've heard good things about him and can't wait to see more. In the video he interviews a convention of young college republicans. You get to see that they are mainly white, well off individuals. They seem to spit out the same proproganda for their reasoning to "support" the war, and do so in a seemingly unintelliagble way. Most of the women sound like valley girls. He then asks them why they haven't enlisted in the war-- I LOVE THIS- their responses are great. VIEW IT. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3inspkrGVbw
LOVE
HRH

2007-07-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

I Know My Body-
You remember I threw up yesterday morning. Well after that, during the day I felt worse and had a horrible headache. I took aspirin thinking it would help but it didn't. By 5pm I knew I was sick. My body ached, my throat was sore, and my headache was still pounding.

When I finally got home, my thermometer read 101.2! I felt like crap! Tasha took care of me- giving me medicines and knocking me out with Nyquill. When I woke up again my temperature was 101.8. We decided to wait it out till morning.

I woke up this morning at 5:40am with a burst of energy. But the thermometer still read 101.7. For a minute I thought it wasn't working but when Tasha came out at 98.2 I knew it was. So to the ER I went. While in the ER all I could think about was the movie SICKO.

They gave me an IV to bring my fever down to 100.2. They said I had a throat infection and gave me a penicillin shot in the ass! Ouch -- It hurt.
HRH

2007-07-16T06:29:00.000-07:00

Sick on the Subway Ride to Work-
This morning was rather odd. I suddenly got sick this morning on the subway ride to work. My stomach started to hurt and I began to feel light headed. All I wanted to do was sit down, but I was riding the 1 train -- meaning there were no available seats. I tried to tough it out for about two stops until It became worse. I held on till the following stop.
At this point I was doubled over, and barely capable of completing my sentences as I announced the need to make way for me before the stop approaches. I also began heaving as if I was going to barf, but again I held it in. A nice woman offered me water, but I stated all I wanted to do was get off. I got off on the 103 st station and found a bench. I sat down and then erupted over the edge of the bench.
Afterwards I felt 100% better- hmmm wonder what that was about? I haven't been overly stressed- It shouldn't be an ulcer. "Maybe it's a tumor!" "It's not a Tuoma" lol I liked Kindergarden Cop.

2007-07-15T21:10:00.000-07:00

Do You Want To Be A Politician?
Why do people always asked that when I say I like politics? I mean do I ask others if they want to be a basketball player just cause they like basketball? Do people not realize that there are a slew of other positions attributed to politics and that everyone who likes politics can't be a politician- ugh. LOL- ok Enough bitching- I promised myself I wouldn't turn the blog into a bitch fest.
LOVE
HRH

2007-07-13T13:33:00.000-07:00

The Unspoken Epidemic
I've said it before and I'll say it again. There's the unspoken epidemic of child molestation that needs to be brought to light. Oprah today featured child molestation stories from various aspects - including ones where in the situation where the molester is in a relationship with the child's parent, the parent would chose the molester over their own children.

I'm so glad that my own mom never doubted me in my own similar scenario. When I was 11 my favorite Uncle molested me over a period of several months. At the time I was living with him (a great Uncle, brother of my deceased grandmother) and my mom on the weekends in Riverdale, while attending school during the week at a catholic school in Harlem and staying at a friend apt nearby.

My Uncle kept teaching me how it would be wrong for a man to touch me, and that if my mom's best friend's (who I was staying with during week) boyfriend touched me I should tell someone immediately. Then soon after this, he initiated wrestling games which progressively got more and more rough and ended with him positioned behind me - pelvis to rear. I adored my great uncle so it didn't really phase me.

Then a few weeks later at the beginning of my summer vacation- I was home watching Eureka's Castle on Nickelodeon when my Tio came into the room. He sat next to me and proceed to massage me. He then massaged me under my shirt and at some point went deep down to my buttocks. He stayed there for awhile- I was uncomfortable but this was my entrusted uncle. I still to this day remember hearing him slurp his finger and then proceed to outline the crack (for lack of a better word). I then got up and he said "you don't want a massage?" I answered "no."
A half-hour passes and he comes back into the room while I'm beginning to watch Gullah Gullah Island (to my recollection) and I'm knelt over the bed (it was my room with my mom) just being a stupid 11 year old- At this point I guess he was overtaken with hormones and he braced me down and pulled down my pajama bottoms and sort of just placed himself on my rear but didn't attempt at any penetration just fondling.

I hate the feeling I get now but all I could do when he first started to pull my bottoms down was to pretend like I was sleeping- but when he got to placing himself on me - I started wiggling like I was waking up but he held me tighter until I forced myself up. I don't remember the conversation after that, until he asked if I was going to take a shower (since I hadn't yet) and I said no- he said we could do it together, there was nothing wrong with a man showering with another man. I still refused.

This was early afternoon- He tried to calm me down by saying I shouldn't say anything to my mom. He used my love for my immediate cousins against me as my mom was fighting with her sisters and I wasn't allowed to see my cousins at the time. As an only child I was very lonely and appreciated when Tio took me to their house. After that conversation I stood on the terrace all day until my mom got home. And subsequently told her of the incident. She did not stay silent and did not just sweep it under the rug.

Child molestation is rampant and should be openly discussed more often, how will the epidemic be addressed if we don't. Growing up I found most of my inner circle had been molested, three close friends, my mom, my god mother, my mothers close friend, and two former co-workers.
I wish people really put more action behind the rhetoric of child protection. If they did then sweeping incidents of child molestation would not occur- they would be dealt with severely and swiftly!
HRH

2007-07-12T20:13:00.000-07:00

A Growth in Ability?
I have been reading "Son of a Witch" by Gregory Maguire since yesterday. I can't put it down. I'm hooked, which is funny because I absolutely hated his more popular book "Wicked".

I couldn't get past the first 100 pages of "Wicked." I tried several times because the Musical has been such a hit. Even though I already hated "Wicked" something drew me to "Son of a Witch"- the idea that Elphaba had a son- lol I was intrigued.

This time I'm hooked, and it seems a bit easier to get through as I already am familiar with most of the characters and settings. I adore the socio-economical, and racial commentary the book has. Even though it was present in "Wicked" - well you get it- I just don't know why but it didn't appeal to me at all.
HRH

2007-07-10T20:26:00.001-07:00

A Particular Favorite Cartoon of Mine

So this evening I brought Seasons 1-3 of Disney's Gummi Bears --- How nostalgic! lol

I used to watch the show every afternoon after school on channel 11. Then a fellow student and I would imagine we were Gummi Bears during recess. We would go to the top of the hill where our school was located on and drink fake Gummi Berry Juice. Then we would hop down the hill as if we were Gummi Bears lol. FOOOLS!

HRH

2007-07-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

Senator's Number on Escort Phone Log
Yup.. A Republican Senator, Sen. David Vitter of Louisiana, apologized yesterday for a "serious sin" in his past. He of course noted that it was a private matter that he had to take up with his god, his wife, and his family. Most True--- It's just funny to me though- whats the saying? When you point your finger three fingers are pointing back at you.*

Article in "The Nation"'s Blog posted 7/10/2007 @11:07pm
In the fall of 1998, David Vitter felt compelled to weigh in on the national debate over the possible impeachment of President Bill Clinton for lying about sex. Vitter was not yet a member of Congress; he was a Republican state representative. And in an October 29, 1998, opinion piece for the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Vitter took issue with a previous article, written by two law professors who had argued that impeachment "is a process of removing a president from office who can no longer effectively govern; it is not about punishment." Given that Clinton was still a capable chief executive, they had maintained, impeachment was not in order.
Vitter, a graduate of Harvard University and Tulane law school and a Rhodes scholar, was aghast at this amoral position. He blasted the law professors for criticizing those congressional Republicans pushing for Clinton's impeachment. Their argument that impeachment is "not primarily about right and wrong or moral fitness to govern," he wrote, was utterly wrongheaded. He continued:
Some current polls may suggest that people are turned off by the whole Clinton mess and don't care -- because the stock market is good, the Clinton spin machine is even better or other reasons. But that doesn't answer the question of whether President Clinton should be impeached and removed from office because he is morally unfit to govern.
The writings of the Founding Fathers are very instructive on this issue. They are not cast in terms of political effectiveness at all but in terms of right and wrong -- moral fitness. Hamilton writes in the Federalists Papers (No. 65) that impeachable offenses are those that "proceed from the misconduct of public men, or, in other words, from the abuse or violation of some public trust."
In considering impeachment, Vitter asserted, Congress had to judge Clinton on moral terms. Decrying the law professors' failure to see this, Vitter observed, "Is that the level of moral relatively [sic] and vacuousness we have come to?" If no "meaningful action" were to be taken against Clinton, Vitter wrote, "his leadership will only further drain any sense of values left to our political culture."
Strong words. Now that Vitter, who entered the House of Representatives in 1999 after winning a special election to fill the seat of Representative Bob Livingston (who resigned after being caught in an adultery scandal) and who was elected senator in 2004, has admitted he placed a phone call to the so-called DC Madam, his constituents can only wonder if he will hold himself to the same standards he sought to apply to Bill Clinton.
Vitter, who is married with four children, has been a vigorous advocate of family values, championing abstinence-only programs and calling for a ban on gay marriage. In a statement his office rushed out on Monday night--before he could be outed by Hustler magazine--Vitter said he had committed a "serious sin" and claimed that "several years ago, I asked for and received forgiveness from God and my wife in confession and marriage counseling." I seem to recall that Bill Clinton took a similar stance after he acknowledged his affair with Monica Lewinsky. That, though, did not prevent Vitter from calling for Clinton's forcible removal from office.
Perhaps Vitter ought to revisit the issue of whether the absence of moral fitness is a firing offense for a public official.

2007-07-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

6 Pounds 65
I went to see Sicko last night with my friend Arthur (see I don't always call you Artie...) and his friends. It was so moving! It's amazing what Americans go through with for profit health care, while the rest of the civilized industrial world rely on free (or nearly free) universal health care.

(Read any further at your own risk- it's a spoiler)
I was amazed to see the level of treatment in London and France. In a London pharmacy every prescription drug only cost 6 pounds 65 cents - roughly equivalent to $10 dollars; no matter the quantity of pills or the type. It's shocking to realize this. Moore even asked the pharmacist about Anti-viral HIV meds which typically run $1,200 a month in the states--- nope, only 6 pound 65 in London.

A woman was moved to tears on their Cuban trip when she realized medicine that cost $120 dollars in the states was sold for 5 cents in Cuba. It's an ugly UGLY truth. There's so much more to learn from the movie- go see it.

I was also expecting a little more anti-Hillary venom in the movie from what was reported earlier. But I felt (and maybe I'm biased) the movie protrayed her in a good light for the short time they spoke about her well-intentioned but failed Universal Health Care plan of 1993. Moore notes how as a Senator from NY, she has benefited greatly from campaign contributions from the "Health Care" industry. That wasn't overly negative-- it was holding her feet to the fire.

I believe though, as I always do, it's a calculated strategy. One of the main reasons pundits fault her 93 plan with was the failure to secure the backing of the industry. They came out full force against it-- can she be bidding her time now?

LOVE
HRH

Link To Michael Moore's interview on CNN- He's a new hero to me (in regards to health care)

2007-07-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

CROWN JEWELS

Yesterday (Friday, July 6, 2007) I got a new tattoo! I finally got the crown I wanted right underneath my HRH tattoo.

I got it at Addiction NYC on St. Marks. I didn't like the place but really wanted my tattoo. When we first inquired about the tattoo the ditsy girl quoted 170 for the tattoo with yellow ink. We paid and then waited for 90 minutes- to be told it would be more with color- $250. I said just do it in black ink with shade cause I thought they were being shady.

Then they messed up my vision for the crown- cause I pointed something out on their wall and they gave me all this hell- I explained what I wanted in plain english. The artist drew up this crown though and I was very pleased with it - I like the idea of customization. lol.

It's beautiful-- Let me know if you like it!

HRH

2007-07-05T21:02:00.000-07:00

"Sex and the City" headed to movie theaters
Posted on Yahoo! TV on 7/5/07 at 2:31pm.

The four women who spiced up Manhattan's singles scene for six years on the HBO television series "Sex and the City" appear headed for a big-screen reunion after all.

New Line Cinema, a corporate sibling of HBO under Time Warner Inc., is close to sealing a final deal to finance and distribute the long-stalled picture, a spokesman for the studio said on Thursday.

The project is set to begin shooting in the fall with all four stars of the HBO hit -- Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis and Cynthia Nixon -- on board to reprise their roles.
Longtime series executive producer Michael Patrick King will direct the film from his own script and serve as producer, along with Parker and series creator Darren Star.

While no release date has been set, the movie presumably would arrive in theaters sometime next year.

Plans for a movie were first revealed by HBO in early 2004, months before the show ended its six-season run.
But the project stalled, according to show business newspaper Daily Variety, when Cattrall sought greater script control and a salary closer to that of Parker, who was more highly paid than her co-stars because she was a co-executive producer of the series.

Variety said Cattrall ultimately was won over with a sweetened offer that included a series deal with HBO.

The New Line spokesman said it was not immediately clear whether any supporting cast members, such as Chris Noth, would join the film.
************************************************************************************
Oh you know I'll be going to see this on the day it premiers! I didn't get enough of
Mirenda, Charolette, Samantha, or Carrie! Do you think I need to buy a pair of Jimmy Choos to take with me though? lol
HRH

2007-07-05T07:02:00.000-07:00

Day O' Boredom
Oy my cancerian mood! I stood home all day yesterday, making it a very boring July 4th. Today I really hope to change that lol- but it's starting out that way.
This morning I watched "The Queen" it was a gift from Tasha. I love that movie - Helen Mirren's performance was brillant.
Right now I popped in "9 to 5" -- I loved this movie. And recently it reminds me of my friend Artie who does a wicked 9 to 5 karoake rendition lol.
HRH

2007-07-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 231st Birthday!!!!
LOL- Do the math- America is that old. Most people I know have today off, I hope you all enjoy it. I don't have to go back to work till Monday (SWEET!).

Right now I'm watching women's tennis (Maria Sharapova vs Venus Williams) these women are amazing. I want to move like them. They'll inspire me to go to the gym later (if i get out of this lazy holiday mood).

No plans for today yet, originally I wanted to see Transformers today but since it was released early and we saw it Monday now I have no idea.

I'll let you know what happens tomorrow.

2007-07-02T20:53:00.000-07:00

BIRTHDAY MOVIE- TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE

I just came back from Transformers: The Movie. It was supposed to open July 4th- then they pushed it up to July 3rd- then just recently they decided to push it up to 8pm on July 2nd!!!! woo woo

My friends and I saw it at the 8pm showing. It was amazing. Unbelievably good.. and soo funny.

Shea Lebeif (sp?) was spectacular in his role. I want the movie as soon as it comes out on DVD.

The Autobots were so apealling! I was emotionally attached lol--and the fighting scenes were incredible. Everyone who went was happy.

They moved up the date secretly just cause of this.. cause the movie was actually really good and the critics actually liked it.. so to hype up the word of mouth they kinda "soft opened" the movie- and it doesn't hurt adding all those showings to the first weeks money race right?

HRH

2007-07-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

TELEMARKETERS ATTACKING CELLPHONES
There is some paranoid email floating around that there's this huge CELLPHONE database Telemarketers will be able to access in the next few days- bombarding our cell phones.

The following is from the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) website

"You may have received an email telling you that your cell phone is about to be assaulted by telemarketing calls as a result of a new cell phone number database; however, that is not the case. Federal Communications Commission regulations prohibit telemarketers from using automated dialers to call cell phone numbers. "

You can however register your cell phone number with the NATIONAL DO NOT CALL REGISTRY if your worried about it.

www.donotcall.gov
I did!
Just a Friendly notice from HRH

2007-07-02T08:19:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME... HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME... HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR JORGE... HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME LOL.

Ok.. So I'm feeling a little better about my bday!-- My coworkers have been nothing but sweethearts! And so many sweet, wonderful caring people have wished me a happy birthday! Steffi, Katie, and Tasha. A co-worker who left Friday left a voicemail Sunday night singing me happy bday.

My mom called soon after 12 am, my friend Victor ( a sweet guy) texted me several times and Marco totally surprised me by texting soon after 12am as well. I didn't think he would forget- but didn't expect him to wait till 12 am lol.

Now.. Lets get serious people--
to the bittersweet news of the day.
--Obama's 32 million--

It's great news for Obama, great news for democrats (for finally grabbing the financial lead in election funding) but it's bad news for my girl Sen. Hillary Clinton (bad news, but not terrible as she pulled in 27 million herself).

The fact that the two leading candidates for the Democratic nomination have pulled in 60 Million in the second quarter, and about 112 Million in the last six months is ASTOUNISHING! Democrats have always lagged behind Republicans in fundraising- the TIDES HAVE TURNED PEOPLE.

I chalk Obama's ability to draw so well into his coffers upto several factors.

1) the novelty of a Black President ( although we never had a female prez - Hillary has sometimes been identified as the co-president- BEEN THERE.. DONE THAT)

2) the optimistic view of Hope -- He speaks well of hopes, what can be done, and where we can go. Almost a bit euphoric. And many people love that idea (particularly liberals) but I am fall for the more realistic strategies of HRC (Hillary Rodham Clinton).

Come on gang... Join me in making sure HRC's third quarter surpasses Obama!-
CONTRIBUTE TODAY- As I have already, three tiimes, and will continue to do so.

2007-06-30T14:46:00.000-07:00

New Music by Gloria Estefan

Gloria recently recorded a new spanish album called 90 Millas. The first single off the album, No Llores, is brillant- a beautiful piece she colloborated with Carlos Santana on.

On the album she'll collaborate with Sheila E., Jose Feliciano, La India, Andy Garcia and more.

By now- HRH subjects should know how much he adores Gloria Estefan. He can not wait till a tour is announced to buy tickets.

A few years ago Ellen Degeneres had a comedy special which included a joke about Gloria Estefan being the copper plumbing of the music industry. Hence why this posting and all postings about Gloria will be filed under "Copper Plumbing" lol

Enjoy Loves
HRH

2007-06-29T22:53:00.000-07:00

Preparing for Birthday!

So my birthday is July 2nd. Today I already received my present from my mom (White uptowns) and a Wand from Katie (Harry Potter's Collection- I got Hermione's lol)

AND my co-worker got me a card, flowers, donuts and twenty bucks. I told her I couldn't accept it- but she insisted as her last day was today and she didn't want to miss my birthday.

My other co-worker really left me a touching welcome aboard card- that I'll talk about later.
I'm so excited to have started there at the WCC

2007-06-29T22:50:00.000-07:00

Who's really siding on side of Family Values By HRH

Read an article the other day about Fred Thompson (the actor who plays on Law & Order and is seriously considering running for President) and the writer noted how he married his girlfriend when SHE got pregrant?

EXCUSE ME???? It's only her responsibility? What a misogynistic pig—acting as if it was her fault and he did her a favor by sticking with her.

Unbelievable… This really pisses me off about Republicans right now. The major Republican Candidates all have been Divorced (some several times) except for Mitt Romney.

The supposed party of "family values" just doesn't seem to be able to get it right, yet the democratic party that often is criticized as degrading the family fabric is the only party with all the presidential candidates involved in long-term first-time marriages. Till death do they part.

Republicans
Guiliani- 2 Divorces, 3 Wives (First Wife was his second cousin, and he cheated with his third wife will married to second wife Donna Hannover. Announced his intentions to seperate on live TV in front of reporters while mayor before telling wife Donna, and then shacked up with Judith not long after that. He was also rumored to have cheated on Donna with Christine Latigone)
McCain – 1 Divorce, 2 Wives
Gingrich – 2 Divorce, 3 Wives (discussed divorcing with his wife in the hospital recovering from cancer, Cheated on second wife with an affair with a staffer DURING THE CLINTON IMPEACHMENT TRIALS)
Fred Thompson – 1 Divorce, 2 Wives

Now Lets look at the Democrats Record
Clintons- Only 1 and current Marriage (Trouble at times, but solid)
Obamas – Only 1 and current Marriage
Edwards- Only 1 and current Marriage (that survived the hardship of cancer treatment)
Bidens (Sen. Joe Biden) – Only 1 and current Marriage
Richardson – Only 1 and current Marriage

2007-06-29T22:43:00.000-07:00

Is there Good without Evil? (one of HRH's fav theories)

The Following is an excerpt from the supplement to "Theodicy" from Gottfried Wilheim Liebnitz.

Prosyllogism. Whoever makes things in which there is evil, which could have been made without any evil, or the making of which could have been omitted, does not choose the best.

God has made a world in which there is evil; a world, I say, which could have been made without any evil, or the making of which could have been omitted altogether.THEREFORE GOD HAS NOT CHOSEN THE BEST.

Answer. I grant the minor of this prosyllogism; for it must be confessed that there is evil in the world which God has made, and that it was possible to make a world without evil, or even not to create a world at all, for its creation depended on the free will of God; but I deny the major, that is, the first of the two premises of the prosyllogism, and I might content myself with simply demanding its proof; but in order to make the matter clearer, I have wished to justify this denial by showing that the best plan is not always that which seeks to avoid evil, since it may happen that the evil be accompanied by a greater good.

For example, a general of the army will prefer a great victory with a slight wound to a condition without wound and without victory. We have proved this more fully in the large work by making it clear, by instances taken from mathematics and elsewhere, that an imperfection in the part may be required for a greater perfection in the whole.

In this I have followed the opinion of St. Augustine, who has said a hundred times, that God permitted evil in order to bring about good, that is, a greater good; and that of Thomas Aquinas` (in libr. II sent. dist. 32, qu. I, art. 1), that the permitting of evil tends to the good of the universe. I have shown that the ancients called Adam`s fall felix culpa, a happy sin, because it had been retrieved with immense advantage by the incarnation of the Son of God, who has given to the universe something nobler than anything that ever would have been among creatures except for this.

And in order to a clear understanding, I have added, following many good authors, that it was in accordance with order and the general good that God gave to certain creatures the opportunity of exercising their liberty, even when he foresaw that they would turn to evil, but which he could so well rectify; because it was not right that, in order to hinder sin, God should always act in an extraordinary manner.

2007-06-29T22:39:00.000-07:00

VINTAGE JORGE- EXTREME ISLAM
Finally Someone Is Saying it! By HRH

So the Pope, who I don't have extreme respect for in terms of authority and position but deserves respect as an intelligent person, in a public speech he gave, quoted a emporer saying "Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached."

The Islamic community, since then, has risen in anger and responded with violence against anything perceived to be Catholic. Surprise Surprise....

Is this not an issue of "CASE IN POINT!"?

This community seems to thrive on anger and violence, and grounded, respectable, bright-minded individuals throughout the world have attempted to distinguish the actions from regular nonviolent followers of Islam. This is rightfully so, I am as PC as the next person. In issues of such sensitivity, as religion, one must take delicate steps.

But we can only take so much. If non-Islamic, or as an umbrella group of extremist called us this weekend "infidels and despots", are the only ones coming to the table with conciliatory actions and being met with nothing but bellicosity, what are we to do? Just living in fear of what seems to be such an extreme and dangerous religion?

I say it's a bout time someone stands up and says what's on all of our minds!- THEM PEOPLE ARE CRAZY! lol If it's not their way then it's no way- and we infidels dye by their hand. What is the obsession with blood shed?

If we talk enough about the evils of Islam, maybe the good people who are truly faithly to the core tenets will stand up to those who are ruining their reputation.

I'll probably have a Jihad waged against me for this posting.

2007-06-29T13:12:00.000-07:00

VINTAGE JORGE - Is Nation Ready?
Is America ready to vote for a Black Presidential Candidate?
By HRH Jorge

With Obama's entrance into the Democratic Primary for the presidential nomination comes the ever present question "is America ready to vote for a Black Presidential Candidate?"

This is a great question; I whole heartedly wished the answer was in the affirmative. But the reality of politics and of the electorate is that all is ultimately unknown.

Personally I believe a white woman would be elected president before a black man. This argument originated between my best political friend and I… years ago he took the position that a black man would be elected first and I took the position of a white woman being elected first. The way things are playing out currently… looks like we'll see which one of us is right in the upcoming 2008 elections.

(Side note) I'm still trying to win him… in '04 my friend predicted Kerry would take the nomination even when Dean was at the height of his popularity. I thought my friend crazy, then he was proven right, and I've been trying to even the score ever since.

Many states, particularly the blue ones with a good number of African American voters, have the potential to provide a Black candidate with a sizable Electoral College tally. But are there enough?

Can an African-American man garner enough states to win the presidency?

Let's examine the current African-American political environment. How many African-American Governors are serving currently? One. How many have been elected in the course of the American government? Two. How many African-American Senators are their currently? One. How many African-American Senators have been elected in their own right? Two.
These numbers don't bode well for the possibility of an African-American President. Neither do the polls that state 62 percent of the public would vote for a Black Man.

The numbers are pumped up by what's called the Bradley effect, the artifical increase of polling results due to electorate lying about how they will vote triggered by social pressure.

In the Californian 1982 gubernatorial election Tom Bradley lost the race by a significant margin despite months of strong polling which assured a strong backing by white voters. The white voters proved not to follow through with their support in subsequent exit polls.

2007-06-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

VINTAGE JORGE- HATE CRIMES
Hate Crimes, it's a rather simple concept. Hate crimes are crimes committed against not only the immediately effected individual or entity but also committed with the intention of intimidating the community as a whole. The purpose of the laws are to allow judges to exact a more serious sentence when convicted, if the crime itself only carried a maximum of 5 yrs a hate crime would allow the judge to add to the sentence.

Hate crimes include graffiti the private property with offensive symbols and words such as the swastika or the word nigger; includes the illegal burning of crosses, the assault of a person because of their race, gender, orientation among other protected classes.

Year after year hate crime bills are introduced in the congress (many states have already passed hate crime laws) and year after year Republicans stand in the way of social and judicial progress.
They argue that hate crimes laws are an attempt to read peoples minds. A republican congressman on the floor of the house this week (yes I was watching it on C-span) argued that it would be prosecuting motivation.

Is it not true we already prosecute motivation? Is motivation not taken into account in crimes? Doesn't motivation differentiate manslaughter from homicide? So why is it OK in some situations and not others?

Proponents have long argued that the laws don't prosecuting thoughts, but the clear intimidating actions of the perpetrator against a group. It would not be easy to prove a hate crime in every case, and it shouldn't be. But in cases of gay bashing where the attackers baited gays, shouted anti-gay epithets it's clearly obvious their intention is to instill fear on a community.

Same thing is true for the defacing of property with powerful symbols like the swastika. Or the burning of crosses. What if in the course of an investigation the authorities find a journal filled with hate filled writings against Caucasians in a case of robberies targeting Caucasians, would that not offer clear insight on the perps motive?

Why are republicans protecting criminals? Why would they actively fight to hinder judges from sentencing malicious people? I'll tell you why because the hate crime bills introduced by Democrats include sexual orientation. Most republicans will support similar legislation sponsored by leading republicans that omit the protection of sexual orientation from the hate crimes bill.

Unbelievable.

2007-06-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

Well Well Well
Today I thought- Hey I should start a blog...
Little did I realize, when I searched on Yahoo and found blogger.com, that I
aready had an account here and started a blog.

I promise to update this frequently now.

I will also post old blogs (basically from my Myspace page- as I don't
think Myspace is good for bloggin). They will be marked- VINTAGE JORGE

lol..

Much Love-
HRH

2006-10-26T12:31:00.000-07:00

The following article I wrote 3 years ago on Oct 18th 2003. But the arguements are still relevent today, particularly with the new developments of the gay marriage movement in New Jersey.
********************************************************
With little fanfare, President Bush declared the week of October 12-18th, 20006 "Marriage Protection week." His proclamation defines marriage as "a union between a man and a woman,...a sacred institution" in need of protection and support.

With the National debate on same-sex marriage in full swing, Bush has chosen to align himself with extreme right-wing groups, like the Traditional Values Coalition, America Families Association, and the Southern Baptist Convention.

Firstly these groups, if truly worried about the erosion of family values, should divert their energies to the portrayal of marriage as a serious commitment taken by two individuals who are ready to devote their lives to one another as opposed to the common misconception that marriage is a right of passage of sorts that oft time ends in divorce.

Secondly, these are the same groups who time and time again advocate for the nearly endless strengthening of States Rights, which include the issuance of Marriage Licenses, but when faced with the prospect of states tackling the question of gay Marriage (i.e Massachusetts, New Jersey) their more than willing to circumvent the power of said States.

There's a pattern of circumvention when it comes to the opposition of gay marriage. The Constitution was blatantly disregarded in 1996 with the passage of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). DOMA allows stats to ignore the recognition of Same-sex relationships in any form from other U.S. jurisdictions. It states "No state, territory, or possession of the United States, shall be required to give effect to any public act, record, or Judaical proceeding of any other State, territory, or prossession respecting a relationship between person of the same sex that is treated as a marriage under the laws of such other State..."

DOMA directly violates Article IV of the U.S. Constitution, the Full Faith and Credit Clause, that requires each state to fully recognize the documents and other legal proceedings of every other state. Article IV also entitles every citizen to privileges and immunities of citizens in "the several states." Marriage is a privilege of citizens in "the several states" and therefor should be entitled to all!

It's a sad commentary on society, at the time, that President Clinton lacked the political capital and courage to veto it. Caving into the right and other anti federalist forces, Clinton signed the Act to ensure reelection.
Thirdly and equally important, if not paramount, these groups should remember that marriage, for all intensive purposes, in the eyes of the government is essentially a contract between two persons. In accordance to the contractual nature of Marriage, State fees are levied for the licenses and rights are derived from all levels of government. In those regards, the basics of marriage are largely secular and one will reasonable surmise the opportunity to marry should be afforded to every citizen.

A truly equal and non-discriminatory governing system, that is meant to uphold the tenets of which our "fair" land was based on including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, would offer all the denizens that same abilities.

Denying same sex unions solely on the basis that the government must protect those who faithfully and religiously believe the traditional definition of marriage panders to those particular religions and factions.

The first Amendment states "Congress shall make no laws respecting an establishment of religion." the Heterosexual privilege of marriage denies homosexuals people who wish to practice their faith by entering into a union in a religious ceremony/context, and gives unfair recognition and acknowledgment to religions who bar homosexual marriages.

Maybe next time we can convince President Bush to support the full compliance of the historical understanding of Separation of Church and State and to uphold the U.S. Constitution as he swore.
Church and State Separation Week, Or we can have the Defense of the Constitution ACT (DOTCA) I think they're catchy!