There may be a major change in the guest list at the White House Correspondents'
Dinner next year. Many regular attendees who come year in and year out may not
come next year if Donald Trump is elected our next president.
The list of Hollywood celebrities who threaten to leave the country is growing.
This is fine with most people who love our country and never "give up on it" no
matter who resides in the White House.
Its not surprising the folks from Hollywood are the first to say they will leave.
After all, these are the people who become overly demanding, people of privilege
once they achieve some degree of success.
Its the world they live in, guided by trivialities, always in flights of fancy taking them
to their personal comfort zones.
But, don't expect them to leave, their "threats" are just another way to get their names
in the papers for one day. In fact, no one even remembers who said they would.
Does anyone remember the one who said they'd leave if George W. Bush was elected?
Chairs may be vacant next year if Donald Trump is sitting on the dais, but don't
expect to see lots of homes in the Hollywood hills, the comfort zone of the United
States is too damn comfortable!
Please add feedback in comments section
below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com
"Point of View" blog
http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Saturday, April 30, 2016
NC GOP removes Harnett as chairman
There is no need to look to Washington to see how the political establishment works.
We can find the "process" running right here in North Carolina.
We can find the "process" running right here in North Carolina.
The state Republican Party has finally dispatched its first elected Black chairman,
Hasan Harnett, the conclusion of a lengthy process that took away from the work
of winning the next election.
This was the culmination of yet another episode of the disconnect between the
party leaders and its members. Not much different between the people we elect
and their constituents.
I am not writing to defend Mr. Harnett, only offer a view on a process which was
clouded with secrecy, discrediting leaks and unprofessionalism, not worthy of the
party or the good people who voted for him.
clouded with secrecy, discrediting leaks and unprofessionalism, not worthy of the
party or the good people who voted for him.
We don't even know what "violating the party's plan or organization and "gross
inefficiency.". Don't we deserve to know?
inefficiency.". Don't we deserve to know?
I don't know much about the inner working of the party, but from what I see, its
duplicitous at best. Perhaps, this is reason enough the party should change how
it operates so members know what to expect from its leadership.
duplicitous at best. Perhaps, this is reason enough the party should change how
it operates so members know what to expect from its leadership.
For example. I thought the party chair had authority. I had no idea the position was
toothless, merely ceremonial. I am sure members who voted for Mr. Harnett
thought the election meant something. We now see it does not!
Perhaps the first thing we should do would be to eliminate the chairman's position
or make it worthy of the electorate!Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Friday, April 29, 2016
Drip, drip, drip "solution" to Las Vegas water problem!
No city is like Las Vegas. Yet, in some ways, Las Vegas is not much different
than most others cities spread across the country, all share a troubling
"condition" not being tended to, unbridled growth driven by real estate
developers.
Over the years I've visited Las Vegas many times, watching the city reinvent
itself, starting with the Sinatra era, millionaire high rollers, mega-casinos,
family friendly marketing, wealthy millennials, and the latest addition, high
priced condos which have even created a "skyline" equal to many small cities!
With each reinvention, Las Vegas, Clark County and its neighboring towns
have grown. Las Vegas now has 700,000, Clark County more than 2,000,000.
Years ago one old timer told me, "when Las Vegas exceeds 1,000,000 I don't
want to be here". He's now gone, hopefully to a better place, and I'm an old timer.
His concern was about the very reason people settled in "The Meadow", the
translation of Las Vegas, water!
When I first visited, looking down at the area from Hoover Dam forty miles
away from Las Vegas I saw thirty miles of desert before seeing homes and
businesses approaching Las Vegas.
No more, the desert has come to life, now developed, bundled into numerous
communities of homes and shopping malls like most of America, all occurring
as the critical need for water remains.
Visiting Lake Meade that flows through Hoover Dam I saw first hand the problem.
The water level is down 140 feet, 38% of capacity, and lowest in 80 years! Now
add a fourth number to these three, two million, the population.
The problem is so bad the marina to access Lake Meade was moved 200 yards to
be at the water's edge so boats could remain in the water!!!
Speaking with residents in Boulder City and the ones working in the Hoover Dam
tourist center you get a perspective, they care deeply about this wonderful part
of our country and what is happening.
Out West this is a major problem. rarely reported East of the Mississippi. Yet,
the building continues in at risk parts of Nevada and California, both dependent
on the Colorado River.
Politicians having more hearings are meaningless as long as the construction
noise of new residential towers can be heard in the background and only developers
and politicians remain unconvinced of the damage they are doing.
Drip, drip, drip solutions will not save "The Meadow"
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
than most others cities spread across the country, all share a troubling
"condition" not being tended to, unbridled growth driven by real estate
developers.
Over the years I've visited Las Vegas many times, watching the city reinvent
itself, starting with the Sinatra era, millionaire high rollers, mega-casinos,
family friendly marketing, wealthy millennials, and the latest addition, high
priced condos which have even created a "skyline" equal to many small cities!
With each reinvention, Las Vegas, Clark County and its neighboring towns
have grown. Las Vegas now has 700,000, Clark County more than 2,000,000.
Years ago one old timer told me, "when Las Vegas exceeds 1,000,000 I don't
want to be here". He's now gone, hopefully to a better place, and I'm an old timer.
His concern was about the very reason people settled in "The Meadow", the
translation of Las Vegas, water!
When I first visited, looking down at the area from Hoover Dam forty miles
away from Las Vegas I saw thirty miles of desert before seeing homes and
businesses approaching Las Vegas.
No more, the desert has come to life, now developed, bundled into numerous
communities of homes and shopping malls like most of America, all occurring
as the critical need for water remains.
Visiting Lake Meade that flows through Hoover Dam I saw first hand the problem.
The water level is down 140 feet, 38% of capacity, and lowest in 80 years! Now
add a fourth number to these three, two million, the population.
The problem is so bad the marina to access Lake Meade was moved 200 yards to
be at the water's edge so boats could remain in the water!!!
Speaking with residents in Boulder City and the ones working in the Hoover Dam
tourist center you get a perspective, they care deeply about this wonderful part
of our country and what is happening.
Out West this is a major problem. rarely reported East of the Mississippi. Yet,
the building continues in at risk parts of Nevada and California, both dependent
on the Colorado River.
Politicians having more hearings are meaningless as long as the construction
noise of new residential towers can be heard in the background and only developers
and politicians remain unconvinced of the damage they are doing.
Drip, drip, drip solutions will not save "The Meadow"
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
"Make America Mexican again", underlying message!
As Donald Trump is getting closer to securing the Republican nomination
for the presidency, the anti-Trump constituency have ratcheted up the
rhetoric and worse, the violent protests against him, using aggressive
protests to put fear in elected officials.
This 'constituency' is composed of representative groups, 'Black Lives
Matter', environmental, anti-capitalism, pro-illegal and others targeting
Trump on a variety of social issues.
Most notable has been 'Black Lives Matter', the nationwide well-funded
group with paid protesters demanding local law enforcement be neutered!
Not only do they threaten local politicians and law enforcement, they
even intimidate presidential candidates, as they did to Bernie Sanders
at an early rally.
But, the most vocal group and the one which plays a significant role in
the election are the Mexican protesters attending Trump rallies in California
who are angry for his position on illegals in our country, fearing Trump's
campaign promise will become a reality if he is elected; border security
will be improved and illegals will be deported.
In a recent event in California more than 30,000 Trump supporters showed up.
Outside the venue approximately 3,000 protested and many were arrested for
damaging police cars and assault.
What grabbed my attention was the numerous displays of the Mexican flag by
many of the protestors.
Why would people who want to remain in the United States carry flags of a
country they refuse to return to?
Earlier immigrants from Europe displayed flags as a sign of pride in their
heritage; the Mexican protesters are using these flags to send a message,
"this land belongs to Mexico and is rightfully ours!".
Most Americans would laugh at the unspoken but subtle threat shown at each
protest, the display of the Mexican flag and the desire to "return" California
to Mexico from which it was "stolen" more than one hundred-seventy years ago.
Many of today's Mexican protesters don't want to assimilate, they want to "occupy",
gradually changing America or achieve the absurdity of giving Southern California
back to Mexico.
The display of the Mexican flag will continue until the US government has the spine
to take control of its borders and has immigration policies are best for our country,
not the final nail in a coffin which this Leftist wing of an anti-American constituency
hopes to bury our country as we know it.
The goal of this Mexican "cartel" goes well beyond the desires of earlier immigrants
who only sought freedom, liberty and to live under our Constitution and the guarantees
it provided.
Next time you see a protest with the Mexican flag proudly displayed remember the
reason for the pride.
There is a "silver lining" that I found in a surprising place, the Los Angeles Times.
The paper published a story about the Mexican protesters. As I often do I read it
online, scrolled down to read comments, which totaled 250. Most were in favor of
Trump's position, which I would not have expected in LA.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
for the presidency, the anti-Trump constituency have ratcheted up the
rhetoric and worse, the violent protests against him, using aggressive
protests to put fear in elected officials.
This 'constituency' is composed of representative groups, 'Black Lives
Matter', environmental, anti-capitalism, pro-illegal and others targeting
Trump on a variety of social issues.
Most notable has been 'Black Lives Matter', the nationwide well-funded
group with paid protesters demanding local law enforcement be neutered!
Not only do they threaten local politicians and law enforcement, they
even intimidate presidential candidates, as they did to Bernie Sanders
at an early rally.
But, the most vocal group and the one which plays a significant role in
the election are the Mexican protesters attending Trump rallies in California
who are angry for his position on illegals in our country, fearing Trump's
campaign promise will become a reality if he is elected; border security
will be improved and illegals will be deported.
In a recent event in California more than 30,000 Trump supporters showed up.
Outside the venue approximately 3,000 protested and many were arrested for
damaging police cars and assault.
What grabbed my attention was the numerous displays of the Mexican flag by
many of the protestors.
Why would people who want to remain in the United States carry flags of a
country they refuse to return to?
Earlier immigrants from Europe displayed flags as a sign of pride in their
heritage; the Mexican protesters are using these flags to send a message,
"this land belongs to Mexico and is rightfully ours!".
Most Americans would laugh at the unspoken but subtle threat shown at each
protest, the display of the Mexican flag and the desire to "return" California
to Mexico from which it was "stolen" more than one hundred-seventy years ago.
Many of today's Mexican protesters don't want to assimilate, they want to "occupy",
gradually changing America or achieve the absurdity of giving Southern California
back to Mexico.
The display of the Mexican flag will continue until the US government has the spine
to take control of its borders and has immigration policies are best for our country,
not the final nail in a coffin which this Leftist wing of an anti-American constituency
hopes to bury our country as we know it.
The goal of this Mexican "cartel" goes well beyond the desires of earlier immigrants
who only sought freedom, liberty and to live under our Constitution and the guarantees
it provided.
Next time you see a protest with the Mexican flag proudly displayed remember the
reason for the pride.
There is a "silver lining" that I found in a surprising place, the Los Angeles Times.
The paper published a story about the Mexican protesters. As I often do I read it
online, scrolled down to read comments, which totaled 250. Most were in favor of
Trump's position, which I would not have expected in LA.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Media failed to report history of bathroom accommodation.
The media "jumping" feet first into its 'toilet' of what used to be called journalism
and honest reporting. Local and national newspapers knew the narrative they
would report omitting the factual history of this issue, going back further than
the ordinance Charlotte passed.
The following provides a detail history of NC was, Charlotte's action, the states
response, and the legal authority it used to overrule the ordinance.
With respect to employment discrimination, HB2 clarifies the state’s existing policy
BY JOHN L. RUSTIN
John Rustin is president of the N.C. Family Policy Council.
The propaganda campaign about House Bill 2 has reached a fevered pitch, and the media have been complicit in fueling hysteria and gross misrepresentations about the bill. The truth is that HB2 made very few substantive changes to North Carolina law. In fact, the policy of the state with respect to bathrooms, employment and most other matters did not change one iota when the bill was passed.
In a March 29 blog post on its website, the ACLU–North Carolina exclaims, “North Carolina’s lawmakers passed and Gov. Pat McCrory signed the most egregious, sweeping, hate-filled anti-LGBT legislation in this country’s history. Overnight, Governor McCrory and lawmakers transformed North Carolina into one of the most hateful states in the nation for LGBT people.”
This is outrageous! Quite the contrary, HB2 was passed to rein in a rogue city council in Charlotte that acted beyond its legal authority, to establish a statewide bathroom privacy and safety law clarifying existing state policy and to enumerate existing state policy as it relates to discrimination in employment and public accommodations.
With respect to governmental authority, North Carolina is known as a “Dillon’s Rule” state, meaning city and county governments derive their legal authority from the N.C. Constitution and acts passed by the state legislature. This doctrine has the benefit of preventing a patchwork of conflicting ordinances across the state.
On Feb. 22, the Charlotte City Council approved a set of radical ordinance changes that would have added “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” as legally protected classifications to several sections of the city code. The N.C. General Assembly has never authorized these classifications for use by the state or by local governments, and these terms do not exist in the State Constitution or state nondiscrimination laws. House Bill 2 reined in the Charlotte City Council for its attempted overreach.
With respect to bathrooms, many people do not realize that Charlotte has had a policy in place for over 30 years that expressly directs that, “restrooms, shower rooms, bathhouses and similar facilities” are “in their nature distinctly private” and should remain separate based on the sex of the user. On Feb. 22, the Charlotte City Council voted to repeal this separate-sex bathroom ordinance, which would have allowed men to enter women’s restrooms, shower rooms, bathhouses and changing rooms throughout the city, placing women, children, the elderly and other citizens at great risk of personal privacy violations, unwarranted exposure to individuals of the opposite sex and sexual assault.
Charlotte council was warned
Despite numerous warnings from state leaders, the Charlotte City Council moved ahead with its radical policy change, and the General Assembly was forced to act. HB2 established a statewide bathroom privacy and safety standard that authorizes individuals to use multiple occupancy bathrooms and changing facilities that correspond to their biological sex as designated on their birth certificates.
HB2 makes accommodation for the use of single-occupancy bathrooms and changing facilities “upon a person’s request due to special circumstances,” and existing state law allows individuals who have undergone sex reassignment surgery to change the sex designation on their birth certificates. Furthermore, the bill does not affect the ability of private businesses and nonprofit organizations to set their own policies.
With respect to employment discrimination, HB2 clarifies the state’s existing policy. The classifications recognized for these protections include race, religion, color, national origin, age, biological sex and handicap. These classifications are practically identical to those recognized in federal employment law, and according to a map on the ACLU’s own website, North Carolina is one of 28 states that do not recognize “sexual orientation” and/or “gender identity” as legally protected classifications in state employment non-discrimination laws. HB2 does not affect the ability of private businesses and nonprofit organizations to set their own policies.
With respect to public accommodations, HB2 also codifies the state’s policy. The classifications recognized for these protections include race, religion, color, national origin and biological sex. Once again, these classifications are practically identical to those recognized in federal public accommodation law. North Carolina is one of the 29 states that do not include “sexual orientation” and/or “gender identity” in statewide public accommodation laws.
To claim that House Bill 2 is “the most egregious, sweeping, hate-filled anti-LGBT legislation in this country’s history” is just plain old-fashioned propaganda. Opponents of House Bill 2 are mad that the Charlotte City Council was rebuked for its overreach of legal authority. They are mad that HB2 pre-empts their efforts to open public bathrooms and showers to individuals of either sex. And they are mad that HB2 curtailed their efforts to impose a radical social policy of unbridled sexual license on our state. Unfortunately, the media are propagating the smear campaign, and many levelheaded citizens have been confused and misled by it.
John Rustin is president of the N.C. Family Policy Council.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
Hillary Clinton's Biggest Decision since....
The speculation now seems to appear to be the foregone conclusion
many expected, Hillary and Donald will battle for the presidency.
From Hillary being "unbeatable" to how can she respond to the
unconventional onslaught Trump will be sure to use in his general
election campaign, is the question many will be asking.
At this point both candidates are teasing the media with the names
of prospective VP selections.
Trump is coy, beginning by saying there are so many to choose from
the high quality opponents he had, the same ones he repeatedly
destroyed in the primary debates.
But, we should not expect Trump to do what many previous nominees
did, select someone to provide a demographic or regional advantage.
Trump will choose the person who makes sense to him, not consultant
class.
As for Hillary, she will be as predictable as she is about outfit she will
appear in, only the color of her pantsuit will be different.
We can expect Hillary to choose a "person of color' or a woman. White
men need not apply. It does not matter of differing ideologies, Democrat
VPs merely echo whatever he is told.
Remember, strong 'Catholic' Joe Biden, not seeing a problem with how
Planned Parenthood runs its abortion "business"?
But, in the end, the VP doesn't matter...no matter what the media says.
Ask yourselves, has a VP choice ever tipped the scales when you voted,
it didn't for more.
But choosing a running mate will be Hillary Clinton's biggest decision
since she decided to marry Bill Clinton and move to Arkansas!
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Sunday, April 24, 2016
Impossible expectations, quality airline service!
Over the years the indignity of the airline industry on the traveling public only worsened.
Airline travel has gone from an experience only the few, well-dressed travelers could
afford to become the equivalent of public bus or train service with a "come as you are"
dress code, at bargain prices.
This was, despite the benefit of "affordability", the first giant step, backwards as $99
airfares could not be offered without smaller airlines either failing or forced to merge,
which brought us to where we are.
Over the past fifty years airlines, large and small, have come and gone, including some
of the most successful. Only a few of the larger carriers remain. Most others are out
of business or have merged. These are some now gone, American, American West,
Continental, Eastern, National, Northwest, Ozark, Pan AM, TWA, and Western.
As of today only three major airlines American (was US Air), Delta, and United remain.
To appreciate the difficulty of an airline being successful, consider Warren Buffet saying
he would never have bought an airline after seeing his investment in US Air plummet.
But, after the shakeout these three carriers have done little to bring air travel to the standard
of decades ago or even to the level of $99 fares.
Consider "21st century" air travel. Complementary beverage and peanuts are now a rarity,
select magazines to read, gone!, meals on long flights, no longer free, stowed luggage, now
have a cost per bag, even reserving a window or aisle seat requires an extra charge.
But, some things have not changed. Planes are still overbooked, flights still take off late,
passengers miss connections,and don't forget the egregious cancellation fee.
There was an old line, "can anyone run this airline", guess the answer is still NO!
Note: Guess who just finished booking a flight?
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Airline travel has gone from an experience only the few, well-dressed travelers could
afford to become the equivalent of public bus or train service with a "come as you are"
dress code, at bargain prices.
This was, despite the benefit of "affordability", the first giant step, backwards as $99
airfares could not be offered without smaller airlines either failing or forced to merge,
which brought us to where we are.
Over the past fifty years airlines, large and small, have come and gone, including some
of the most successful. Only a few of the larger carriers remain. Most others are out
of business or have merged. These are some now gone, American, American West,
Continental, Eastern, National, Northwest, Ozark, Pan AM, TWA, and Western.
As of today only three major airlines American (was US Air), Delta, and United remain.
To appreciate the difficulty of an airline being successful, consider Warren Buffet saying
he would never have bought an airline after seeing his investment in US Air plummet.
But, after the shakeout these three carriers have done little to bring air travel to the standard
of decades ago or even to the level of $99 fares.
Consider "21st century" air travel. Complementary beverage and peanuts are now a rarity,
select magazines to read, gone!, meals on long flights, no longer free, stowed luggage, now
have a cost per bag, even reserving a window or aisle seat requires an extra charge.
But, some things have not changed. Planes are still overbooked, flights still take off late,
passengers miss connections,and don't forget the egregious cancellation fee.
There was an old line, "can anyone run this airline", guess the answer is still NO!
Note: Guess who just finished booking a flight?
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Saturday, April 23, 2016
"United we stand, divided we fall"
In 1858, under the cloud of a fractured nation, at the state Republican convention
in Springfield, Illinois Abraham Lincoln gave a speech which warned,
"A house divided against itself cannot stand."
Full transcript http://bit.ly/1FBivyS
His statement was true then and and true today. Two hundred years ago half the
nation believed all men were equal, the other half believed some were not.
Lincoln's warning failed to stop what was looming, the first divisive war between
neighbors in a nation founded on being "united". His words were soon forgotten
as more than 600,000 Americans died in what would be known as the Civil War.
Are we any less divided today than we were then? You may not be able to see that
we still are as the visible bondage of the past has been replaced with the invisible
"chains" of servitude to government.
Most don't realize this, the "controlling legal authority" makes sure we don't. Laws
and regulations govern us all and set asides leave some in containment camps.
Americans have no time and little inclination to challenge their governance. Their
attention is on their families and personal interests.
And what little time they have i directed towards other citizens, especially those
unlike them, citizens of a different color or ethnic background.
has
been directed towards one another. Citizens see each as they have been instructed
to see them. They don't need to know the names of their names, seeing their skin
color and ethnicity is enough to keep the house divided,
What has been front and center is the distinction between Americans. We are White,
'people of color',
servatude so many have
not kept some Americans
from sharing the fruits of our nation, or preventing them from having a voice in our
governance.
The governing system provides for all to contribute with their votes, their voices and their
service.
But, we now are mired in a sea of distinction where every one of us is measured,
marginalized, and even weighted down by the very government which promised
equality for all.
Even in our everyday life we cannot avoid being pigeonholed into a group, we are
placed in a "coop" by our gender, our race, our nationality, our faith, our political
beliefs, our vocation, even our age.
This is not what we desire, yet others do, those who benefit from viewing us differently,
Today, America heralds itself is being the nation Founders envisioned
Time often turns warnings into forgotten meaningless "words" by future generation, no
matter the danger of not heeding them.
Civil War.
But, even after the senseless killing of "each other" American remained a "house divided",
even more than 150 years.
Today, Lincoln's other warning, "united we stand, divided we fall", falls
on deaf ears.
Did Lincoln mean the American people should be "divided" into
groups based on their color, ethnicity, race and gender?
Whether Lincoln ever gave thought to viewing individual as
members of groups, this is what our country has become,
In political circles, no matter the issue, one viewpoint
is often stated. How does this effect 'people of color'
which described individuals who are not White.
I'm sure those who bring up 'people of color' do so to
ensure any discussion on important issues benefits
everyone.
But, 'people of color' also infers unless mentioned non-Whites
are not factored into such discussion.
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Oh Heavens! Felons can now vote in Virginia!
McAuliffe restores voting rights for 206K ex-felons; GOP calls it move to boost Clinton
Story on this link...http://bit.ly/1SAKJ
Oh Heavens! Felons can now vote in Virginia!
This story should come as no surprise, it has been a political tug o war for many years,Democrats believe felons, once completing whatever penalty they receive by the legal
system, should have their right to vote restored. Republicans believe this is a blatant
political act as statistics show the majority of felons vote for Democrats.
While both parties have their own partisan view, we must put politics aside, as hard as this
may be.
The question should be, is losing the right to vote forever too harsh a penalty for any citizen
who has already paid his debt?
I believe it is, and suggest a reasonable structured "time frame" needs to be created so
felons can be part of the governing process of electing their representatives.
And, if the Republican Party feels it cannot compete for the 'felon vote' they should use the
same approach which works successfully with lobbyists, donors, corporations and other
special interests for years to win them over.
Lastly, since this happened in Virginia the Republican Party can share the blame. The GOP
candidate, Ken Cuccinelli was cash strapped near the end and funds stopped coming,
leading to McAuliffe win.
The party could have and should have done more. Fight to win for your candidates!
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The Reagan legacy, what if.....
Even after leaving public life almost thirty years ago fans of Ronald Reagan
still fondly look back to his presidency with melancholy knowing there will
never be "another Reagan".
Interestingly, no such displays of affection can be found for George HW Bush
who Reagan selected to be his running mate in 1980. Perhaps its because
President Bush was not cut from the same cloth Reagan was. Some may
even conclude the Reagan legacy died the day Bush was sworn in.
Unlike Bush, Reagan pounded his message that government "was the problem"
and the reason more times than not, he refused to offer new programs or agencies
to address problems.
George Bush was different, he really believed government could successfully address
and resolve problems, all that was needed is new legislation and more regulations.
I offer this as I am reading "Empire of Liberty", a series of commentaries published in
several national newspapers.
As I read them I thought Reagan could have written them himself.
Each of these essays placed American interests on the forefront; still working with other
nations and international organizations with one caveat, we would never agree if the
interests of our nation took a back seat in the name of "compromise" or "capitulation".
I wondered how different post-Reagan America would have been if this author was
chosen by Reagan to be his VP. Like Reagan this man was a Democrat who changed
parties and was elected to the US Senate in 1972, and known as a staunch conservative.
Reagan was well aware of him and his conservative credentials for he urged Reagan to
not publicly say he would select a more liberal senator for his first failed run at the presidency
in 1976.
If this author had been chosen, his inauguration speech would be not much different than the
one Reagan gave in 1980. You would not hear him utter "kinder and gentler" or a "thousand
points of lights" as Bush did, both not too subtle slights against Reagan conservatism.
Perhaps Gulf War One, the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait would not have occurred, with the Reagan
Doctrine still the guideline for protecting our allies. Even the turmoil in the Middle East may
never have gotten as bad is it is today.
The "what could have beens" should be left to historians. For the rest of us, its a politically
charged national pastime.
Some of the few remaining candidates are being asked who would their VP choice be.
Listen carefully, this will tell you if the candidates care enough about their vision for the future,
not pick one to "win an election". The candidate should always select someone who believes
as he does, someone who will be at-the-ready to continue the work promised in the
campaign if he has too.
Its important candidates are pressed, as this is the first and most important and enduring
decision a presidential nominee has to make.
Let me close with the name of this "author". Sen. Jesse Helms of North Carolina. And his
book,"Empire of Liberty", is available at Amazon. http://amzn.to/1Qusubw
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still fondly look back to his presidency with melancholy knowing there will
never be "another Reagan".
Interestingly, no such displays of affection can be found for George HW Bush
who Reagan selected to be his running mate in 1980. Perhaps its because
President Bush was not cut from the same cloth Reagan was. Some may
even conclude the Reagan legacy died the day Bush was sworn in.
Unlike Bush, Reagan pounded his message that government "was the problem"
and the reason more times than not, he refused to offer new programs or agencies
to address problems.
George Bush was different, he really believed government could successfully address
and resolve problems, all that was needed is new legislation and more regulations.
I offer this as I am reading "Empire of Liberty", a series of commentaries published in
several national newspapers.
As I read them I thought Reagan could have written them himself.
Each of these essays placed American interests on the forefront; still working with other
nations and international organizations with one caveat, we would never agree if the
interests of our nation took a back seat in the name of "compromise" or "capitulation".
I wondered how different post-Reagan America would have been if this author was
chosen by Reagan to be his VP. Like Reagan this man was a Democrat who changed
parties and was elected to the US Senate in 1972, and known as a staunch conservative.
Reagan was well aware of him and his conservative credentials for he urged Reagan to
not publicly say he would select a more liberal senator for his first failed run at the presidency
in 1976.
If this author had been chosen, his inauguration speech would be not much different than the
one Reagan gave in 1980. You would not hear him utter "kinder and gentler" or a "thousand
points of lights" as Bush did, both not too subtle slights against Reagan conservatism.
Perhaps Gulf War One, the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait would not have occurred, with the Reagan
Doctrine still the guideline for protecting our allies. Even the turmoil in the Middle East may
never have gotten as bad is it is today.
The "what could have beens" should be left to historians. For the rest of us, its a politically
charged national pastime.
Some of the few remaining candidates are being asked who would their VP choice be.
Listen carefully, this will tell you if the candidates care enough about their vision for the future,
not pick one to "win an election". The candidate should always select someone who believes
as he does, someone who will be at-the-ready to continue the work promised in the
campaign if he has too.
Its important candidates are pressed, as this is the first and most important and enduring
decision a presidential nominee has to make.
Let me close with the name of this "author". Sen. Jesse Helms of North Carolina. And his
book,"Empire of Liberty", is available at Amazon. http://amzn.to/1Qusubw
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Friday, April 22, 2016
New official NC LGBT restroom sign has been approved!
The rest of the country, especially in liberal meccas
scattered across the country are pointing to our fair
state with scorn, ridicule and worse, to the point of
making NC citizens the laughing stock of the nation.
Well, North Carolinians enjoy a good joke as much as
anyone else, so perhaps the new, official restroom sign
is fitting to show how serious we take the fabricated
trauma some men feel if they are prohibited from using
the women's restroom.
Not sure this will be the new standard but it puts a new
meaning for men wanting to show "their feminine side".
For those gentleman who do feel offended, "Man Up"!
Earth Day, committed to saving the planet, but for whom?
Today is the 46th anniversary of Earth Day, a
movement to inspire, challenge ideas,
ignite passion, and motivate people to action, a movement gave voice to an emerging consciousness, channeling human
energy toward environmental issues.
The objective was laudatory, but fifty years later while the "movement" continues to
believe its mission is to save the planet, around the world we see humanity is at greater risk then the Earth is.
Some recent stories in the news...
ISIS Executes 250 Women In Mosil For Refusing To Serve As Sex Slaves…
The Islamic State group, ISIS, has executed more than 250 women in Iraqi city of Mosul for refusing sex slavery. The women had been ordered to accept “temporary marriages” to the militants, and were all put to death after their refusal.
Chicagoland: Man Pick Pocketed And Ignored As He Lay Dying In Street
Surveillance video shows more than a dozen people doing nothing to help a Chicagobartender after he is attacked, left unconscious on the street and accidentally run over
by a taxi, Marques Gaines, 32, later died at a hospital.
Democrat Strongholds Baltimore, D.C., Chicago Drove Rising U.S. Murder Rate In 2015…
A new study of crime statistics from major cities across the country reveals a rising number of murders in 2015, with violence in three cities fueling half of that increase. Crime data for the 30 largest cities in the U.S. released by the Brennan Center for Justice indicates a 13.3 percent rise in murders in 2015.China Tests Missile Capable Of Hitting Los Angeles Or London In Just 30 Minutes…
China has tested a weapon of mass destruction capable of hitting London and other major European or American cities in just 30 minutes. The People’s Republic fired a nuke called the Dongfeng-41, which has the longest range of any missile in the world. It can carry up to 10 warheads over a distance of roughly 7,450 miles in just half an hour before hitting several targets at once. This would mean Beijing could destroy the whole of London – or wipe out any city in the United States.Video: B-52 Stratofortress Carpet Bombs Islamic State For First Time…
The United States keeps bombing countries in the Middle East to kill terrorists, but it fails to report the number of non-terrorists killed, It appears there is no category for "collateral damage."
And finally, in honor of Earth Day, kudos to its founder, Ira Einhorn!
FLASHBACK FRIDAY: When The Founder Of Earth Day Murdered His Girlfriend, Then Turned Her Into Compost
Ira Einhorn was on stage hosting the first Earth Day event at the Fairmount Park in Philadelphia on April 22, 1970. Seven years later, police raided his closet and found the “composted” body of his ex-girlfriend inside a trunk.Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
"Gotta nip it in the bud"
To borrow a term often used by Barney Fife, heralded North Carolina
lawman, "you gotta nip it in the bud", which is exactly what neither the
Charlotte City Council, General Assembly or Pat McCrory did not do!
Two years ago the Charlotte City council did refuse an "accommodation"
the accurate request by transgenders, not the "anti-discrimination" claim
the LGBT community wanted to shove down the public's throat.
But, failing once only means try, try, again, and the second time was the
charm, the ordinance passed.
While the General Assembly and governor quickly put together legislation
their haste may have been the reason they did not thoughtfully review the
issue or take into account what was at stake is more than an accommodation.
They unwittingly validated a "mental disorder" wrapped in a cloak of legitimacy
as an acceptable 'gender identity' choice.
lawman, "you gotta nip it in the bud", which is exactly what neither the
Charlotte City Council, General Assembly or Pat McCrory did not do!
Two years ago the Charlotte City council did refuse an "accommodation"
the accurate request by transgenders, not the "anti-discrimination" claim
the LGBT community wanted to shove down the public's throat.
But, failing once only means try, try, again, and the second time was the
charm, the ordinance passed.
While the General Assembly and governor quickly put together legislation
their haste may have been the reason they did not thoughtfully review the
issue or take into account what was at stake is more than an accommodation.
They unwittingly validated a "mental disorder" wrapped in a cloak of legitimacy
as an acceptable 'gender identity' choice.
The following should have been the view of the state of North Carolina, which
would followed Barney Fife's advise, "nip it in the bud"
The Truth of "Gender Identity"....
"Gender identity" has come into forefront in recent years, following the tried and
true pattern of repeating the same thing often enough until it hardens into 'factual'
proof rather than just one more political effort to advance a false argument to
support anything beyond the boundaries of normalcy.
Labels such as "gender identity" are a perfect fit in a world where labels are created
so "acceptable" groups gain legitimacy and why this made up name, with no clinical
foundation, was even adopted by the federal govt., as OSHA uses it in transgender
restroom requirements.
"Gender identity" is no more than a fallacious label to describe transgenders, a sub
group within the LGBT community its lobbyists now use in desperation to avoid
the hard clinical assessment that they suffer from a mental disorder, something
you'd have to search long and hard to find, as it will never be mentioned in the
discussions centering around accommodations for them.
In fact, "gender identity" believers have yet to offer any supporting evidence. What
transgenders do have is a "gender dysphoria", the diagnosis used by physicians and
psychologists that conclude it is a mental disorder requiring treatment, the findings
from Johns Hopkins, receiving little reporting, and destroys the folly of "discrimination".
The research and conclusions can be found here: http://bit.ly/1GgZiVg .
Transgenders suffering from "gender dysphoria" need treatment, not a choice of
which restroom to use.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Thursday, April 21, 2016
What was old is new again in Hollywood!
So many in Hollywood feel compelled to voice their opinions on complex
problems and issues affecting out country, even when no one asked them.
They really believe the public wants to know what they think or that what
they have to say has more import than the opinions of millions of Americans
working at menial jobs and barely paying their bills.
Hollywood elitists are so consumed with themselves. They don't care about
any opinion outside their own sphere of influence or what is politically driven.
To them spouting unasked for viewpoints is almost a requirement and must be
done, often dripping with disrespect for opposing viewpoints leaving images
of the "dark ages" of the 1950s when out of the mainstream views led to blacklists
in the very town which now finds such behavior righteous!
Its no secret most up and coming actors are fearful daring to criticize the "accepted"
view would isolate them and perhaps destroy their careers. Only a few who gained
powerful positions can withstand the 'cookie cutter' thinking permeating within the
movie industry.
This un-American behavior is not limited to Hollywood, it can be found throughout
the spectrum of journalism , education, media and even corporations. This is the new
world that "free speech" must fit must neatly into or risk being censured and happens
so often its not even considered newsworthy.
This may be the 21st century, but in some respects its still the 1950s!
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
problems and issues affecting out country, even when no one asked them.
They really believe the public wants to know what they think or that what
they have to say has more import than the opinions of millions of Americans
working at menial jobs and barely paying their bills.
Hollywood elitists are so consumed with themselves. They don't care about
any opinion outside their own sphere of influence or what is politically driven.
To them spouting unasked for viewpoints is almost a requirement and must be
done, often dripping with disrespect for opposing viewpoints leaving images
of the "dark ages" of the 1950s when out of the mainstream views led to blacklists
in the very town which now finds such behavior righteous!
Its no secret most up and coming actors are fearful daring to criticize the "accepted"
view would isolate them and perhaps destroy their careers. Only a few who gained
powerful positions can withstand the 'cookie cutter' thinking permeating within the
movie industry.
This un-American behavior is not limited to Hollywood, it can be found throughout
the spectrum of journalism , education, media and even corporations. This is the new
world that "free speech" must fit must neatly into or risk being censured and happens
so often its not even considered newsworthy.
This may be the 21st century, but in some respects its still the 1950s!
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Be aware of the "Sharpton syndrome", its hard to resist!
The Sharpton syndrome, not to be confused with the Stockholm syndrome, is
a psychological phenomenon first seen in the 1970s when businesses were held
hostage by organized threats of protests and boycotts. As expected, owners cast
aside principles after considering the affect on their "bottom line".
The syndrome is named after Al Sharpton who parlayed these threats into "contributions"
to his community assistance group and even gained notoriety to become a political power
player to the White House.
Today the Sharpton syndrome has become the standard to terrorize businesses to join
whatever cause, pressuring govt. and institutions to meet coerced demands!
Often, when a divisive issue becomes news many businesses voluntarily flock and the
Sharpton syndrome takes over. They know full well they have no choice as the visions of
protestors dance in their heads.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
a psychological phenomenon first seen in the 1970s when businesses were held
hostage by organized threats of protests and boycotts. As expected, owners cast
aside principles after considering the affect on their "bottom line".
The syndrome is named after Al Sharpton who parlayed these threats into "contributions"
to his community assistance group and even gained notoriety to become a political power
player to the White House.
Today the Sharpton syndrome has become the standard to terrorize businesses to join
whatever cause, pressuring govt. and institutions to meet coerced demands!
Often, when a divisive issue becomes news many businesses voluntarily flock and the
Sharpton syndrome takes over. They know full well they have no choice as the visions of
protestors dance in their heads.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
The Truth of "Gender Identity"....
"Gender identity" has come into forefront in recent years, following the tried and true pattern of repeating the same thing often enough until it hardens into 'factual' proof
rather than just one more political effort to advance a false argument to support
anything beyond the boundaries of normalcy.
Labels such as "gender identity" are a perfect fit in a world where labels are created
so
"acceptable" groups gain legitimacy and why this made up name, with no
clinical foundation, was even adopted by the federal govt., as OSHA uses it in transgender restroom requirements.
"Gender identity" is no more than a fallacious label to describe transgenders, a sub
group within the LGBT community its lobbyists now use in desperation to avoid the
hard clinical assessment that they suffer from a mental disorder, something you'd
have to search long and hard to find, as it will never be mentioned in the discussions
centering around accommodations for them.
In fact, "gender identity" believers have yet to offer any supporting evidence. What transgenders do have is a "gender dysphoria", the diagnosis used by physicians and psychologists
that conclude it is a mental disorder requiring treatment, the findings
from Johns Hopkins, receiving little reporting, as it destroys the folly of "discrimination".
from Johns Hopkins, receiving little reporting, as it destroys the folly of "discrimination".
The research and conclusions can be found here: http://bit.ly/1GgZiVg .
Transgenders suffering from "gender dysphoria", need treatment, not a choice of
which restroom to use.
which restroom to use.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, April 20, 2016
Beware of the media driven "narrative"
Note: I wrote this BEFORE the NY results came in....
Its another presidential election season and in addition to
what the candidates want us to believe, be cautious when
listening to the media.
Most will agree the media has its own 'spin', on candidates
and issues, but too often it veers well off "journalism" to
advance a viewpoint or candidate. And, what is occurring in
this election cycle has ratcheted up the volume to a deafening
level.
Rather that offer its opinion the media will cite polls on
issues and candidates. This gives them cover, direct blame
to pollsters, doing a journalistic "side step", so they
remain credible which so often they are not.
One poll I find amusing is how poorly Donald Trump is doing
among women voters. Is it me, or does this poll not make any
sense at all.
If Trump is not favored by a significant number of women, how
does he round up the thousands of them who attend his rallies
for almost a year!
And, if Trump is doing so badly why are more women attending
his events than Hillary Clintons?
If the media offers an opinions wrapped at "news" take it with
a grain of salt, meant to flavor an otherwise bland concoction.
Lastly, Donal Trump received almost 60% of the female vote, the
SAME percentage he won!!
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Its another presidential election season and in addition to
what the candidates want us to believe, be cautious when
listening to the media.
Most will agree the media has its own 'spin', on candidates
and issues, but too often it veers well off "journalism" to
advance a viewpoint or candidate. And, what is occurring in
this election cycle has ratcheted up the volume to a deafening
level.
Rather that offer its opinion the media will cite polls on
issues and candidates. This gives them cover, direct blame
to pollsters, doing a journalistic "side step", so they
remain credible which so often they are not.
One poll I find amusing is how poorly Donald Trump is doing
among women voters. Is it me, or does this poll not make any
sense at all.
If Trump is not favored by a significant number of women, how
does he round up the thousands of them who attend his rallies
for almost a year!
And, if Trump is doing so badly why are more women attending
his events than Hillary Clintons?
If the media offers an opinions wrapped at "news" take it with
a grain of salt, meant to flavor an otherwise bland concoction.
Lastly, Donal Trump received almost 60% of the female vote, the
SAME percentage he won!!
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
While the media is "overdosing" on delegates.....bigger story looms
Ever since Democrats crammed the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) down the throats of the
American people we have been told it would be a panacea for health care which has become
unaffordable for many Americans.
American people we have been told it would be a panacea for health care which has become
unaffordable for many Americans.
The list of benefits included lower cost, portability, allowable per-existing conditions, coverage
for "children" up until the age of 26, would be Godsend. That was seven years ago!
for "children" up until the age of 26, would be Godsend. That was seven years ago!
But, time is one measuring stick to ferret out whether promises made would actually be kept.
Since becoming law in 2010 the Obama Administration has promoted the Affordable Care Act
at every opportunity. Time and again we learned of more people covered under Obamacare
who previously had little or no health care.
at every opportunity. Time and again we learned of more people covered under Obamacare
who previously had little or no health care.
But, what was not reported was what has happened in the private health care industry; the
practitioners, the hospitals, insurance companies and every ancillary medical business.
practitioners, the hospitals, insurance companies and every ancillary medical business.
There has been a sea change, rarely reported, but taking its toll on the industry and the
patients they serve. Cost of operations went higher as doctors now had more administering
to do and insurers learned all the appealing "benefits" Obamacare touted had to be paid for,
first by them, but ultimately the insured.
patients they serve. Cost of operations went higher as doctors now had more administering
to do and insurers learned all the appealing "benefits" Obamacare touted had to be paid for,
first by them, but ultimately the insured.
Here in NC we have less insurance carriers today, before Obamacare there were 29 and
today, 8, never made the news, but symptomatic of what is happening in every state.
today, 8, never made the news, but symptomatic of what is happening in every state.
And today there was an announcement from the nation's biggest health insurer, United
Health, but don't expect to see it reported as a major story, not as long as there is more
"news" about delegates!
Health, but don't expect to see it reported as a major story, not as long as there is more
"news" about delegates!
United Health will cut its participation in public
health insurance exchanges to only a handful
of states next year after expanding to nearly three dozen for this year.
of states next year after expanding to nearly three dozen for this year.
Full story on this link... http://apne.ws/1WD9EX8
But, the question which needs to asked, why didn't the insurers fight so the Affordable Care
Act would not have become law. They knew costs would dramatically rise even faster in an
industry that is currently rising faster than most other costs.
Act would not have become law. They knew costs would dramatically rise even faster in an
industry that is currently rising faster than most other costs.
Insurers never ran ADs, never warning the public, Congress or President Obama of the perils
Obamacare would do to the industry.
Obamacare would do to the industry.
Its easy to conclude the lack of effort by the insurance industry at the outset may have been
deliberate, knowing full well that even under a 'public' health care system, the industry would
do just fine.
deliberate, knowing full well that even under a 'public' health care system, the industry would
do just fine.
The promises may never materialize but that may not matter. Government will do what it
always does, spend tens of billions of dollars to fix problems it caused in the first.
always does, spend tens of billions of dollars to fix problems it caused in the first.
Gotta go, I heard there is another report on delegates!
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Monday, April 18, 2016
The "misdiagnosis" of 'gender identity!
The following is a reply to a Duke professor who criticized the state for limiting access
to rest room and other facilities to gender specific ones.
Beverly Gray
Assistant professor,
Duke Obstetrics and Gynecology
Durham, NC
Ms. Gray,
I must say for someone in your chosen profession your letter to the News and Observer began in the most unprofessional manner. Referring to the states lawful decision as a "blatant act of malice and ignorance" does nothing to advance a respectful discussion. As a medical professional I would expect more.
However, since you work at Duke, the infamous workplace of the unrepentant eighty Duke professors who wrongly accused and 'convicted' members of the Duke lacrosse team in a full page AD, maybe I should not be surprised.
In your letter you claimed the HB2 law was discriminatory, the customary "go to" and most misused description of the word. What is being denied is an accommodation, plain and simple.
Transgenders can do as they have done prior to Charlotte's city council taking a second "bite" at this issue that failed two years earlier without the "sky is falling" claims we are hearing now.
I was also surprised, given your credentials, your letter to the paper did not venture into the medical arena. If it did you would have entered a mine field which would destroy the view that transgenders are merely another sub group of the LGBT community, which they are not.
Such opinions are the perfect fit in a world where labels are created so "acceptable" groups gain legitimacy, which is why "gender identity" is now the common term being bantered about, a made up name with no clinical foundation, and hardened when adopted by the federal govt. as OSHA now uses in its transgender restroom requirements.
However, there is no clinically confirmed "gender identity". Transgenders have a "gender dysphoria", the diagnosis used by physicians and psychologists that conclude it is a mental disorder requiring treatment. This was the finding from Johns Hopkins, which you were either unaware of or perhaps not interested enough to research.
You can read of the research and conclusions on this link http://bit.ly/1GgZiVg or contact
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
to rest room and other facilities to gender specific ones.
Beverly Gray
Assistant professor,
Duke Obstetrics and Gynecology
Durham, NC
Ms. Gray,
I must say for someone in your chosen profession your letter to the News and Observer began in the most unprofessional manner. Referring to the states lawful decision as a "blatant act of malice and ignorance" does nothing to advance a respectful discussion. As a medical professional I would expect more.
However, since you work at Duke, the infamous workplace of the unrepentant eighty Duke professors who wrongly accused and 'convicted' members of the Duke lacrosse team in a full page AD, maybe I should not be surprised.
In your letter you claimed the HB2 law was discriminatory, the customary "go to" and most misused description of the word. What is being denied is an accommodation, plain and simple.
Transgenders can do as they have done prior to Charlotte's city council taking a second "bite" at this issue that failed two years earlier without the "sky is falling" claims we are hearing now.
I was also surprised, given your credentials, your letter to the paper did not venture into the medical arena. If it did you would have entered a mine field which would destroy the view that transgenders are merely another sub group of the LGBT community, which they are not.
Such opinions are the perfect fit in a world where labels are created so "acceptable" groups gain legitimacy, which is why "gender identity" is now the common term being bantered about, a made up name with no clinical foundation, and hardened when adopted by the federal govt. as OSHA now uses in its transgender restroom requirements.
However, there is no clinically confirmed "gender identity". Transgenders have a "gender dysphoria", the diagnosis used by physicians and psychologists that conclude it is a mental disorder requiring treatment. This was the finding from Johns Hopkins, which you were either unaware of or perhaps not interested enough to research.
You can read of the research and conclusions on this link http://bit.ly/1GgZiVg or contact
Johns Hopkins directly to learn what the LGBT community refuses to acknowledge.
I'm glad you weighed in on the issue. Its too bad you dismissed the clinical evidence transgenders have "gender dysphoria", the mental disorder which need treatment, not a change in restroom.
I'm glad you weighed in on the issue. Its too bad you dismissed the clinical evidence transgenders have "gender dysphoria", the mental disorder which need treatment, not a change in restroom.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Meet the political "Odd Couple"
Looking from afar two individuals could not appear more different.
One is bombastic, shooting from his quick lip, while the other is
thoughtful, measuring every word.
One has a forty plus year career as a real estate developer, successful
using the system he now is railing about, while the other works in the
political arena as a US senator seeing the system is corrupt from a
closer vantage point.
Meet the political "Odd Couple", two men who in another time would
not even know each others name, let alone cross paths.
Well, this is not "another time", this is now and both men aspire to be
the next president.
They have battling for almost a year, one calls the other "Lying Ted",
while the other responds his opponent is a petulant, spoiled "child".
Can these guys ever get along? Most would say no, but such a response
does not consider what this "Odd Couple" have in common.
Both men know the system is rigged in favor of an establishment that would
prefer BOTH of them would just go away.
One says its the Washington "cartel" that governs behind closed doors, while
the other knows from experience what must be done to "work with politicians".
Are their views any different?
One says trade deals with China hurts American workers, so does the other.
One says the border must be secure, so does the other.
One says Common Core education needs to be ended, so does the other.
One believes Obamacare must be replaced, so does the other.
One believes we need to destroy ISIS, so does the other.
BOTH agree several federal agencies are unneeded!
This list can go on, but the point is made, this "Odd Couple" are not that
"odd" after all. They can coexist, work together to make our country what
it should be, which is better than it currently is!
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
One is bombastic, shooting from his quick lip, while the other is
thoughtful, measuring every word.
One has a forty plus year career as a real estate developer, successful
using the system he now is railing about, while the other works in the
political arena as a US senator seeing the system is corrupt from a
closer vantage point.
Meet the political "Odd Couple", two men who in another time would
not even know each others name, let alone cross paths.
Well, this is not "another time", this is now and both men aspire to be
the next president.
They have battling for almost a year, one calls the other "Lying Ted",
while the other responds his opponent is a petulant, spoiled "child".
Can these guys ever get along? Most would say no, but such a response
does not consider what this "Odd Couple" have in common.
Both men know the system is rigged in favor of an establishment that would
prefer BOTH of them would just go away.
One says its the Washington "cartel" that governs behind closed doors, while
the other knows from experience what must be done to "work with politicians".
Are their views any different?
One says trade deals with China hurts American workers, so does the other.
One says the border must be secure, so does the other.
One says Common Core education needs to be ended, so does the other.
One believes Obamacare must be replaced, so does the other.
One believes we need to destroy ISIS, so does the other.
BOTH agree several federal agencies are unneeded!
This list can go on, but the point is made, this "Odd Couple" are not that
"odd" after all. They can coexist, work together to make our country what
it should be, which is better than it currently is!
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Sunday, April 17, 2016
How Lincoln Won the 1860 Republican Nomination!
With all the clamor on what is going on in both parties to ensure the "desired" candidates
are the nominees I don't believe many people know what is occurring is similar to what
occurred in 1860, the second attempt by the newly formed Republican Party to win the
presidency.
At that time, more than 150 years ago, one candidate wrestled against internal Republican
'forces' to prevent him from winning the nomination!
During that campaign the man everyone expected to receive the nomination was the powerful
and well-known William H. Seward of New York. Abraham Lincoln was not considered a
formidable or serious contender for the appointment. Lincoln was a "dark horse" at best.
What Lincoln did was "outfox" Seward. Sound familiar?
The following included excerpts from "How Lincoln Won the 1860 Republican Nomination"
found at: http://www.greatamericanhistory.net/nomination.htm
It occurred at the Republican convention in Chicago, in May 1860. Seward was the front
runner and dispatched his team of 70 delegates and 13 railroad cars of supporters to get
delegates in his pocket.
Seward was confident, having garnered a third of the required 233 votes to win the
nomination. No other candidate had the potential to defeat him as none had nearly as many
delegates.
Seward's only concern was Illinois’ “Favorite Son,” Abraham Lincoln, but he only expected
Lincoln to receive tacit support, the states’ 22 votes, and no more. Steward would not take
the chance of losing, so he sent word, offering Lincoln the VP to secure his nomination in the event of a tough floor fight.
But, Lincoln also had a strategy. Using all his political skill, he persuaded the Illinois
delegation to vote for him in a bloc, and provided them with some tactical guidance which
included an admonishment to “make no deals that bind me,” and waited in Springfield for
the results.
Confident that Seward would not have enough votes to lock up the nomination on the first
ballot, Lincoln intended to get the second highest vote count on the first ballot and line up
additional votes for the second ballot in order to show increasing strength.
Lincoln hoped this strategy--combined with the presence of an enthusiastic band of followers
on the floor, would be sufficient to win the nomination on the third or subsequent ballot.
Lincoln’s men left no detail unattended in their pursuit of this strategy. They made certain
Seward’s New Yorkers were seated far from other critical delegations with whom they
might collaborate. They even printed hundreds of counterfeit tickets and distributed them to Lincoln supporters with instructions to show up early--in order to displace Seward’s supporters. They also assigned two men with very loud voices to lead the cheering. One of these men reportedly had a larynx powerful enough to allow his shout to be heard across Lake Michigan.
and the platform. The evenings were spent in caucusing of delegates, offering champagne for now and “oceans of money” later.
In contrast, Lincoln's team spent their time lining up votes from delegates of other states that didn’t want to see Seward win. Indiana committed 26 first ballot votes to Lincoln. Several of the New England states, including New Hampshire and Maine, provided Lincoln with many first ballot votes that Seward was planning on.
Even more important were the second ballot votes. Several states, including Vermont, were
glad to find that the “stop Seward” forces were finally uniting behind one man and
committed most of their subsequent votes to Lincoln. Pennsylvania was harder to crack, so
a harder decision was made, get a commitment from Pennsylvania to support Lincoln on
second ballot by offering a cabinet position to Simon Cameron.
brass band. To their horror, they found that they could not get in: the Lincoln men, admitted with their counterfeit tickets, had taken their seats.
After the first ballot, Seward, as expected, led with 173 votes. Lincoln was next with 102.
A second ballot was immediately called for, and the Lincoln camp knew that their man would gain strength. Vermont was the first state to make a major shift--all 10 votes went to Lincoln, a significant blow to Seward.
As the roll call continued, Lincoln gained a few votes here and a few there, while Seward’s tally remained largely unchanged.
When Pennsylvania’s turn came, the Lincoln men held their breath. Whereas only four votes from Pennsylvania went to Lincoln on the first ballot, a whopping 48 went to him on the second. Seward supporters sank in their seats. Lincoln clearly had the momentum. The final tally on the second ballot was 184 for Seward and 181 for Lincoln.
Lincoln now had 231 and a half votes, one and a half short of the needed for the nomination.
Ohio would seal Seward's fate as it changed four votes to Lincoln.
of the Treasury, and Bates attorney general. (the way "horse trading" is done today)
That is how Lincoln won, using his power of persuasion with delegates, same as now.
Now, back to the current Republican Party primary. It won't be a surprise if the two leading Republican candidates employ the same "gamesmanship" used in 1860.
All we can hope for is that the desires of the electorate will prevail.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
are the nominees I don't believe many people know what is occurring is similar to what
occurred in 1860, the second attempt by the newly formed Republican Party to win the
presidency.
At that time, more than 150 years ago, one candidate wrestled against internal Republican
'forces' to prevent him from winning the nomination!
During that campaign the man everyone expected to receive the nomination was the powerful
and well-known William H. Seward of New York. Abraham Lincoln was not considered a
formidable or serious contender for the appointment. Lincoln was a "dark horse" at best.
What Lincoln did was "outfox" Seward. Sound familiar?
The following included excerpts from "How Lincoln Won the 1860 Republican Nomination"
found at: http://www.greatamericanhistory.net/nomination.htm
It occurred at the Republican convention in Chicago, in May 1860. Seward was the front
runner and dispatched his team of 70 delegates and 13 railroad cars of supporters to get
delegates in his pocket.
Seward was confident, having garnered a third of the required 233 votes to win the
nomination. No other candidate had the potential to defeat him as none had nearly as many
delegates.
Seward's only concern was Illinois’ “Favorite Son,” Abraham Lincoln, but he only expected
Lincoln to receive tacit support, the states’ 22 votes, and no more. Steward would not take
the chance of losing, so he sent word, offering Lincoln the VP to secure his nomination in the event of a tough floor fight.
But, Lincoln also had a strategy. Using all his political skill, he persuaded the Illinois
delegation to vote for him in a bloc, and provided them with some tactical guidance which
included an admonishment to “make no deals that bind me,” and waited in Springfield for
the results.
Confident that Seward would not have enough votes to lock up the nomination on the first
ballot, Lincoln intended to get the second highest vote count on the first ballot and line up
additional votes for the second ballot in order to show increasing strength.
Lincoln hoped this strategy--combined with the presence of an enthusiastic band of followers
on the floor, would be sufficient to win the nomination on the third or subsequent ballot.
Lincoln’s men left no detail unattended in their pursuit of this strategy. They made certain
Seward’s New Yorkers were seated far from other critical delegations with whom they
might collaborate. They even printed hundreds of counterfeit tickets and distributed them to Lincoln supporters with instructions to show up early--in order to displace Seward’s supporters. They also assigned two men with very loud voices to lead the cheering. One of these men reportedly had a larynx powerful enough to allow his shout to be heard across Lake Michigan.
The first two days of the convention were devoted to acceptance of delegates, administration,
and the platform. The evenings were spent in caucusing of delegates, offering champagne for now and “oceans of money” later.
In contrast, Lincoln's team spent their time lining up votes from delegates of other states that didn’t want to see Seward win. Indiana committed 26 first ballot votes to Lincoln. Several of the New England states, including New Hampshire and Maine, provided Lincoln with many first ballot votes that Seward was planning on.
Even more important were the second ballot votes. Several states, including Vermont, were
glad to find that the “stop Seward” forces were finally uniting behind one man and
committed most of their subsequent votes to Lincoln. Pennsylvania was harder to crack, so
a harder decision was made, get a commitment from Pennsylvania to support Lincoln on
second ballot by offering a cabinet position to Simon Cameron.
Finally, the third day arrived. One thousand Seward men marched behind a smartly uniformed
brass band. To their horror, they found that they could not get in: the Lincoln men, admitted with their counterfeit tickets, had taken their seats.
After the first ballot, Seward, as expected, led with 173 votes. Lincoln was next with 102.
A second ballot was immediately called for, and the Lincoln camp knew that their man would gain strength. Vermont was the first state to make a major shift--all 10 votes went to Lincoln, a significant blow to Seward.
As the roll call continued, Lincoln gained a few votes here and a few there, while Seward’s tally remained largely unchanged.
When Pennsylvania’s turn came, the Lincoln men held their breath. Whereas only four votes from Pennsylvania went to Lincoln on the first ballot, a whopping 48 went to him on the second. Seward supporters sank in their seats. Lincoln clearly had the momentum. The final tally on the second ballot was 184 for Seward and 181 for Lincoln.
Ballot three began. Lincoln continued to pick up votes--4 more from Kentucky, 15 from Ohio--while Seward lost votes.
Lincoln now had 231 and a half votes, one and a half short of the needed for the nomination.
Ohio would seal Seward's fate as it changed four votes to Lincoln.
So Lincoln was nominated and would be elected the nation’s 16th president. He appointed Seward secretary of state, and other challengers, Cameron secretary of war, Chase secretary
of the Treasury, and Bates attorney general. (the way "horse trading" is done today)
That is how Lincoln won, using his power of persuasion with delegates, same as now.
Now, back to the current Republican Party primary. It won't be a surprise if the two leading Republican candidates employ the same "gamesmanship" used in 1860.
All we can hope for is that the desires of the electorate will prevail.
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
Saturday, April 16, 2016
Four trillion reasons why elections are so darn important!
This is the amount you and I spend every year to support the federal government. No one
tells us this, but if we watch the nightly news we can get a glimpse how these trillions are
spent, a couple of billions at a time.
It doesn't matter whether there is a need for whatever is purchased, if someone among the
thousands of govt. employees who have their own "checkbook" wants to buy something,
it is bought!
We hear of the outrageous purchases for military equipment no one in the Pentagon asks for,
but overruled by a member of Congress representing the district that will build the unneeded
equipment. The argument is that it will "save jobs".
Too bad such good fortune does not occur in the private sector outside the benefits it can
provide politicians. If it did, perhaps tens of thousands of jobs lost in the financial debacle
of 2008 might have been saved too. The only "good fortune" these folks received were
unemployment checks, which I suppose was beneath the dignity of military contractors'
employees whose jobs had to be saved.
We also see Federal agencies waste tens of billions of taxpayer dollars on duplicate
spending efforts, even after Congress, the official watchdog, makes hundreds of
recommendations for cutting back. Again, as long as you have Uncle Sam's checkbook
you can never overdraw "his" account!
In 2014 for example, more than $125 billion was spent on improper payments from Medicare
and Medicaid mismanagement to transportation programs to weapon systems acquisitions
all found and highlighted Government Accountability Office (GAO)report.
While the GAO has offered more than 440 recommendations across 180 areas where
agencies can cut back, over the past five years only 29% were fully addressed.
The GAO may have "accountability" in its title, good luck finding anyone who understands
what this means or cares enough to ensure its done.
Now look away from Washington, look across the country as presidential candidates are
traveling around fighting to become their party's nominee.
Two Democrats are arguing which of them can give away the most stuff and Republicans
are fighting about which of them has the best temperament to be president. Yet, in
dozens of debates the $4 trillion spent year is never mentioned!
Politicians can talk all they want about simplifying the tax code, lowering tax rates, making
American government more responsible and anything else. But beyond talk, the same shell
game goes on.
This $4 trillion is the lifeblood of the faceless Washington establishment, its our yearly
confiscated "tribute" that must continue. If it ever is dramatically cut, the house of cards that is Washington 'governance' will collapse.
Say good bye to the $200 haircuts and $400 power lunches. The "important" meetings
attended in Davos and Aspen would have to be moved to a Washington venue.
And what of the satellite communities orbiting Washington? Say good bye to skyrocketing
home prices and don't expect to see traffic jams on the belt-line with new foreign made Mercedes and Lexus all paid for with American greenbacks.
And, what would happen to the "K Street" lobbyists who guide Federal spending from afar,
but not too inconvenient so they can't still drop off their own tribute to Capitol Hill so the
wheels of govt. will keep running smoothly? Their wells may not run dry, but they'll need
a longer rope attached to a smaller bucket to pull up the cash!
This is what this election is all about, which person will lead the parade down Main St and
Wall St. collecting the $4 trillion needed to run our country.
Staying home on election day may be the wisest "vote" you can cast.
Please add feedback in comments section
below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com
"Point of View" blog
http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
tells us this, but if we watch the nightly news we can get a glimpse how these trillions are
spent, a couple of billions at a time.
It doesn't matter whether there is a need for whatever is purchased, if someone among the
thousands of govt. employees who have their own "checkbook" wants to buy something,
it is bought!
We hear of the outrageous purchases for military equipment no one in the Pentagon asks for,
but overruled by a member of Congress representing the district that will build the unneeded
equipment. The argument is that it will "save jobs".
Too bad such good fortune does not occur in the private sector outside the benefits it can
provide politicians. If it did, perhaps tens of thousands of jobs lost in the financial debacle
of 2008 might have been saved too. The only "good fortune" these folks received were
unemployment checks, which I suppose was beneath the dignity of military contractors'
employees whose jobs had to be saved.
We also see Federal agencies waste tens of billions of taxpayer dollars on duplicate
spending efforts, even after Congress, the official watchdog, makes hundreds of
recommendations for cutting back. Again, as long as you have Uncle Sam's checkbook
you can never overdraw "his" account!
In 2014 for example, more than $125 billion was spent on improper payments from Medicare
and Medicaid mismanagement to transportation programs to weapon systems acquisitions
all found and highlighted Government Accountability Office (GAO)report.
While the GAO has offered more than 440 recommendations across 180 areas where
agencies can cut back, over the past five years only 29% were fully addressed.
The GAO may have "accountability" in its title, good luck finding anyone who understands
what this means or cares enough to ensure its done.
Now look away from Washington, look across the country as presidential candidates are
traveling around fighting to become their party's nominee.
Two Democrats are arguing which of them can give away the most stuff and Republicans
are fighting about which of them has the best temperament to be president. Yet, in
dozens of debates the $4 trillion spent year is never mentioned!
Politicians can talk all they want about simplifying the tax code, lowering tax rates, making
American government more responsible and anything else. But beyond talk, the same shell
game goes on.
This $4 trillion is the lifeblood of the faceless Washington establishment, its our yearly
confiscated "tribute" that must continue. If it ever is dramatically cut, the house of cards that is Washington 'governance' will collapse.
Say good bye to the $200 haircuts and $400 power lunches. The "important" meetings
attended in Davos and Aspen would have to be moved to a Washington venue.
And what of the satellite communities orbiting Washington? Say good bye to skyrocketing
home prices and don't expect to see traffic jams on the belt-line with new foreign made Mercedes and Lexus all paid for with American greenbacks.
And, what would happen to the "K Street" lobbyists who guide Federal spending from afar,
but not too inconvenient so they can't still drop off their own tribute to Capitol Hill so the
wheels of govt. will keep running smoothly? Their wells may not run dry, but they'll need
a longer rope attached to a smaller bucket to pull up the cash!
This is what this election is all about, which person will lead the parade down Main St and
Wall St. collecting the $4 trillion needed to run our country.
Staying home on election day may be the wisest "vote" you can cast.
Thursday, April 14, 2016
Addressing the Springsteen cancellation of NC concert
Dear Bruce and Steven,
As a resident of North Carolina since 2003, I read with interest that you decided to cancel your April 10th concert in Greensboro because of HB2, the Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act.
In your statement you explained that, in your view, the bill is "an attempt by people who cannot stand the progress our country has made in recognizing the human rights of all of our citizens to overturn that progress."
You added that it was time for you and your band "to show solidarity for those freedom fighters" (speaking of transgender activists), and you ended your statement with these powerful words: "Some things are more important than a rock show and this fight against prejudice and bigotry — which is happening as I write — is one of them. It is the strongest means I have for raising my voice in opposition to those who continue to push us backwards instead of forwards."
I also read that your guitarist Steven Van Zandt, likened HB2 to an "evil virus" that is spreading through the United States in the form of similar legislation. These are strong words, and they represent strong convictions.
So, let me first commend you and your band members for putting your principles before your livelihood, even to the disappointment of your North Carolina fans.
I have read that you regretted not performing at the 1985 Live Aid concert in Wembley, and perhaps this is your way of saying, "I do care and I'm here to make a difference." Whatever your motivation, I admire anyone who puts morality before money.
My question to you and your band is simply this: In boycotting North Carolina and siding against HB2, did you really side with morality? Are you truly standing with "freedom fighters"?
I'm assuming you read HB2 for yourself and you're not just listening to media reports attacking the bill or, worse still, getting your talking points from biased lobbyist groups like the Human Rights Campaign. (If you're not really familiar with the bill, then click here and here and here.)
So, please allow me to ask you some questions.
First, how do you know if someone is really "transgender" or not? Is it determined entirely by how they feel about themselves? If so, do you think that it might be hard to make laws based entirely on how people feel? Did you ever stop to consider that?
Second, what's the difference between someone with "gender dysphoria" (or, as it used to be called, "gender identity disorder") and someone, say, with schizophrenia or "multiple personality disorder" or some other psychological condition? In other words, if a man is a biological and chromosomal male but believes he is a woman, is he actually a woman, or does he have a psychological disorder?
If he does have a psychological disorder, should we try to treat that disorder or should we celebrate that disorder? And is it right to call biological males who feel they are women and biological women who feel they are men "freedom fighters"? Perhaps that's not the best use of the term?
If you are deeply offended that I would dare suggest that many transgender individuals are dealing with a psychological disorder, could you kindly point me to the definitive scientific literature that explains that these biological males are actually females and these biological females are actually males?
I'm not saying they don't deserve compassion.
To the contrary, I'm saying that's exactly what they deserve: compassion, not celebration.
But perhaps I'm being too abstract here, so let's get really practical.
Let's say that a 6' 4" male who used to play professional football and who has secretly agonized over his gender identity for years finally determines that he must be true to himself and live as a woman.
Do you think it might be traumatic for a little girl using the library bathroom to see this big man walk into her room wearing a dress and a wig? Should we take her feelings into account, or is she not important? What if that was your granddaughter? Would you care if she was traumatized? And when you speak of "the human rights of all of our citizens" does that include little girls like this?
I understand that this gentleman will have difficulties should he decide to dress and live as a woman, but that is still a choice he is making, and it is not fair to impose his struggles on innocent little children, is it?
And what if this same man, whom we'll assume is not a sexual predator, wants to share the YMCA locker room with your wife and daughter, standing there in his underwear as they come out of the shower stalls wrapped in towels. Is this fair to them?
Let's take this one step further.
If any man who claims to be a woman can use women's bathrooms and locker rooms, then how do we keep the sexual predators out? I've asked people to watch this short video, giving examples of male heterosexual predators who donned women's clothing to get into the ladies' rooms, and I'd encourage you to watch it too.
Without HB2, rapists and voyeurs and pedophiles would have free access to our women and daughters in the safety of their own bathrooms and locker rooms.
Since you don't like HB2 — indeed, your guitarist called it an "evil virus" — what's your plan to keep the predators out? How can we tell the difference between a "genuine" transgender person and a sexual predator? Since everyone knows you as "The Boss," what would you do to keep the ladies and children safe?
And one final question.
When you booked the concert in Greenboro, the laws in North Carolina were just as they are today: In public facilities, people had to use the bathrooms and locker rooms that corresponded to their biological sex.
Why, then, did you agree to come in the first place? Why cancel the concert when things today are just what they were six months ago?
Again, I appreciate your sincerity, but I question your judgment.
In your zeal to do what is right, you have actually done what is wrong.
Read more at http://www.christianpost.com/news/rapists-voyeurs-pedophiles-bathroom-privacy-bruce-springsteen-steven-van-zandt-north-carolina-161380/#qxlZuajo9oWZkKvz.99
As a resident of North Carolina since 2003, I read with interest that you decided to cancel your April 10th concert in Greensboro because of HB2, the Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act.
In your statement you explained that, in your view, the bill is "an attempt by people who cannot stand the progress our country has made in recognizing the human rights of all of our citizens to overturn that progress."
You added that it was time for you and your band "to show solidarity for those freedom fighters" (speaking of transgender activists), and you ended your statement with these powerful words: "Some things are more important than a rock show and this fight against prejudice and bigotry — which is happening as I write — is one of them. It is the strongest means I have for raising my voice in opposition to those who continue to push us backwards instead of forwards."
I also read that your guitarist Steven Van Zandt, likened HB2 to an "evil virus" that is spreading through the United States in the form of similar legislation. These are strong words, and they represent strong convictions.
So, let me first commend you and your band members for putting your principles before your livelihood, even to the disappointment of your North Carolina fans.
I have read that you regretted not performing at the 1985 Live Aid concert in Wembley, and perhaps this is your way of saying, "I do care and I'm here to make a difference." Whatever your motivation, I admire anyone who puts morality before money.
My question to you and your band is simply this: In boycotting North Carolina and siding against HB2, did you really side with morality? Are you truly standing with "freedom fighters"?
I'm assuming you read HB2 for yourself and you're not just listening to media reports attacking the bill or, worse still, getting your talking points from biased lobbyist groups like the Human Rights Campaign. (If you're not really familiar with the bill, then click here and here and here.)
So, please allow me to ask you some questions.
First, how do you know if someone is really "transgender" or not? Is it determined entirely by how they feel about themselves? If so, do you think that it might be hard to make laws based entirely on how people feel? Did you ever stop to consider that?
Second, what's the difference between someone with "gender dysphoria" (or, as it used to be called, "gender identity disorder") and someone, say, with schizophrenia or "multiple personality disorder" or some other psychological condition? In other words, if a man is a biological and chromosomal male but believes he is a woman, is he actually a woman, or does he have a psychological disorder?
If he does have a psychological disorder, should we try to treat that disorder or should we celebrate that disorder? And is it right to call biological males who feel they are women and biological women who feel they are men "freedom fighters"? Perhaps that's not the best use of the term?
If you are deeply offended that I would dare suggest that many transgender individuals are dealing with a psychological disorder, could you kindly point me to the definitive scientific literature that explains that these biological males are actually females and these biological females are actually males?
I'm not saying they don't deserve compassion.
To the contrary, I'm saying that's exactly what they deserve: compassion, not celebration.
But perhaps I'm being too abstract here, so let's get really practical.
Let's say that a 6' 4" male who used to play professional football and who has secretly agonized over his gender identity for years finally determines that he must be true to himself and live as a woman.
Do you think it might be traumatic for a little girl using the library bathroom to see this big man walk into her room wearing a dress and a wig? Should we take her feelings into account, or is she not important? What if that was your granddaughter? Would you care if she was traumatized? And when you speak of "the human rights of all of our citizens" does that include little girls like this?
I understand that this gentleman will have difficulties should he decide to dress and live as a woman, but that is still a choice he is making, and it is not fair to impose his struggles on innocent little children, is it?
And what if this same man, whom we'll assume is not a sexual predator, wants to share the YMCA locker room with your wife and daughter, standing there in his underwear as they come out of the shower stalls wrapped in towels. Is this fair to them?
Let's take this one step further.
If any man who claims to be a woman can use women's bathrooms and locker rooms, then how do we keep the sexual predators out? I've asked people to watch this short video, giving examples of male heterosexual predators who donned women's clothing to get into the ladies' rooms, and I'd encourage you to watch it too.
Without HB2, rapists and voyeurs and pedophiles would have free access to our women and daughters in the safety of their own bathrooms and locker rooms.
Since you don't like HB2 — indeed, your guitarist called it an "evil virus" — what's your plan to keep the predators out? How can we tell the difference between a "genuine" transgender person and a sexual predator? Since everyone knows you as "The Boss," what would you do to keep the ladies and children safe?
And one final question.
When you booked the concert in Greenboro, the laws in North Carolina were just as they are today: In public facilities, people had to use the bathrooms and locker rooms that corresponded to their biological sex.
Why, then, did you agree to come in the first place? Why cancel the concert when things today are just what they were six months ago?
Again, I appreciate your sincerity, but I question your judgment.
In your zeal to do what is right, you have actually done what is wrong.
Read more at http://www.christianpost.com/news/rapists-voyeurs-pedophiles-bathroom-privacy-bruce-springsteen-steven-van-zandt-north-carolina-161380/#qxlZuajo9oWZkKvz.99
Please add feedback in comments section below, or email ajbruno14@gmail.com "Point of View" blog http://ajbruno14.blogspot.com/
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