LIVE: Body & Soul NYC

New York City's legendary Body & Soul is live-streaming their classics party tonight. Strictly for the hardcore househeads! I was lucky enough to attend the B&S closing party at the old Vinyl. What year was that? Anyway, it's early in Manhattan at this writing and things are still in downtempo mode. Give it a couple of hours and the ball queens will be walking.

UPDATE: Sorry folks, park's closed. Moose out front shoulda told ya.

AFA's Home Depot Boycott Pledge

The American Family Association has just posted their Home Depot Boycott Pledge to the reader forums at Free Republic. The comments there are as you'd expect.

Obama The Snob Wants Kids To Go To College So Liberals Can Indoctrinate

NYC Tabs "Outraged" Over Dolan Dis

As I reported yesterday, the Catholic League and other theocrats are up in arms because the privately-owned Empire State Building refused to honor the elevation of Cardinal Timothy Dolan by lighting the landmark in red. Today the New York Daily News continues to suckle at Dolan's pendulous teats with the above cover and a Page Two outraged item which includes the expected bloviation from Bill Donohue.

Religious leaders, politicians and city-dwellers are seeing red. “It’s an insult to Catholics and to the vast majority of New Yorkers who love Cardinal Dolan,” said Bill Donohue, head of the Catholic League. Port Authority officials came to the rescue after Empire State Building owner Anthony Malkin squashed a request by Rep. Michael Grimm (R-S.I.) to pay tribute to Dolan in lights. The rising 1 World Trade Center began glowing red late Friday after the Empire State Building’s Dolan dis. It will continue until next Friday. “Cardinal Dolan has captured the hearts of all New Yorkers with his quick wit, street smarts and compassion for those of all religious faiths,” said PA Executive Director Pat Foye.

Yep, you read that right. The Port Authority, a public agency, has lit the uncompleted World Trade Center in honor of a Catholic Cardinal who allegedly hid more than $130M in church assets rather than pay the victims of the molestations, some of which occurred under his watch. Stop repressing the religious liberties of the Catholic Church! [Photo source]

Weekend Mix - DJ Jerry Bonham

How about a dreamy mix of lovely morning music from Denver's DJ Jerry Bonham to get your weekend off on the right foot? Setlist. Website. Facebook.

PREVIOUSLY ON JMG: DJ Michael Fierman. DJ Sin Morera. DJ Herbie James. DJ Paul Ferrer. DJ Dave Huge.

NOTE: This is the sixth in the revived JMG Weekend Mix series in which we highlight major national and up-and-coming DJ talent. This series ran for 28 installments in 2010 with entries from such well-known names as Susan Morabito, Corey Craig, David Knapp, Paul Goodyear, Ted Eiel, and many others. Lots of great names coming in 2012!

GOP Attorney General Tries To Slip NOM Wording Into WA Marriage Referendum

Washington state GOP Attorney General Rob McKenna, who is also running for governor, used NOM's "redefining marriage" wording when writing Referendum 74, the coming ballot measure to repeal same-sex marriage. Anne Levinson, attorney for Washington United, has already convinced a judge to reword one of McKenna's anti-gay bills. Now she's going after him on R-74.

Levinson will be headed back to court by February 27 over McKenna's proposed R-74 language, which she calls "not as balanced and clear as we would like it to be." Meanwhile, the state Democratic Party is accusing McKenna of "misusing his public office to advance his discriminatory views on marriage equality" via these ballot language recommendations. For example: The phrase "redefine marriage" does not appear once in the gay-marriage bill signed into law by Governor Chris Gregoire on February 13. And referenda—which by definition ask voters to "approve" or "reject" a bill passed by the legislature—are supposed to have ballot language that hews very closely to the language of the actual bill in question. Yet McKenna, who knows this, comes up with "redefine marriage"?

In the above-linked piece, Slog writer Eli Sanders notes that anti-gay groups are actually trying to place TWO anti-marriage items on the November ballot. One would repeal the same-sex marriage bill and the other would limit marriage to "one man-one woman." The reason? They want to create "voter confusion." The pro-gay side would have to vote YES on one bill and NO on the other.

Tired Old Queen At The Movies #95

The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie, starring Maggie Smith.

From Reddit...

(Via JMG reader Kent)

TRAILER: Let There Be House

Another Win For NYC Churches Vs Schools

A Bronx judge has granted an injunction against an earlier ruling that banned churches from meeting in New York City public schools. That means viciously anti-gay preachers, congregations, and at least one "ex-gay" organization will again convene tomorrow, essentially for free, in public spaces across the city. Some church groups openly admit that they are engaging in a "church planting" program intended to indoctrinate public school students.

Focus On The Family celebrates:

If you’re wondering why this case is still around, and how a court could give the church a second life in the public schools after the Supreme Court refused to accept the adverse decision of the Second Circuit for consideration in December, it’s pretty simple. For the last 16-17 years, the case has been litigated as a free speech/viewpoint discrimination case, and the courts haven’t looked at whether the City’s policy violates the First Amendment’s Free Exercise Clause. ADF re-opened the case earlier this month on just that issue and this judge, who has been the same trial judge in this case for its entire history, agreed to look at it, and so far thinks the church has a winning argument. So here we go again.

The hate group Alliance Defense Fund is representing the churches.

Let's Get Rick Santorum Laid

From YouTube's song-a-day dude, Jonathan Mann.

Bill Maher Donates $1M To Obama

Bill Maher has made a $1M donation to a super PAC backing the Obama campaign.

He made the announcement at the end of his hour long special which streamed live on Yahoo on Thursday, saying "I would like tonight to announce a donation to the Obama super PAC, which has the very unfortunate tongue-twister name Priority [sic] USA Action. I know, it was named by Borat. But tonight, I would like to give that PAC one million dollars." Maher told viewers that he felt an Obama victory over any of the Republican candidates would be "worth a million dollars," saying that the donation was "the wisest investment I think I could make," before encouraging other wealthy people to do the same.

The super PAC Maher donated to only raised $59K last month.

Nail Polish: Santorum Brown

Get it here. (Tipped by JMG reader Mark)

NEW JERSEY: Trial Begins In Tyler Clementi Webcam Spying Case

Gingrich On MD & WA Marriage

Newt Gingrich allows that while gay marriage is still of the devil, at least Washington and Maryland did it democratically, rather than by out of control activist judges.

"I think at least they're doing it the right way, which is going through voters, giving them a chance to vote and not having a handful of judges arbitrarily impose their will,” Gingrich said when asked about the votes in Washington state and Maryland. “I don't agree with it. I would vote no if it were on a referendum where I was, but at least they're doing it the right way."

The issue is a tricky balance between federalism and conservative Christian philosophy that tripped up former presidential hopeful, Texas Gov. Rick Perry, last year. After New York approved same-sex marriage, Perry said it was “fine by me” in July because it was a states’ rights issue. Perry quickly clarified his position in an interview with the Family Research Council: “Obviously, gay marriage is not fine with me. My stance hasn’t changed.”

I bet the FRC doesn't come after Gingrich the way they did Rick Perry. But we can hope.

Mrs. Frothy: God Wants Us To Win

"I personally think this is God's will. I think He has us on a path, and I do think there's a lot more happening than what we're seeing. Personally I mean I think Rick's a great guy, and he's really smart and everything. But I think a lot more is happening than what we can actually see. It's completely a spiritual thing. This is God's will." - Karen Santorum, speaking yesterday on Glenn Beck's internet television show.

RELATED: Beck politely did not bring up the abortionist that used to fuck the shit out of Karen while they were shacked up. You know, the doctor that was 41 years old than Karen. That one that delivered her as a baby. That shit was SO not God's will.

Afternoon View - People Chute

Due to subway construction, pedestrians walk this chute down the middle of Second Avenue. All my favorite little shops (on the left) are long gone by now. Only five more years!

Mittens Vs Frothy

Suh-nap!

FRC Slams Cheney On Marriage

Right Wing Watch reports that the Family Research Council is furious with Dick Cheney because he supported marriage equality in Maryland.

Consider this thought experiment. Twin brothers announced on a TV talk show that they were gay. Under the laws proposed, can they marry? If not, why not? They’ve certainly had a “committed relationship” since before they were born. What constitutional principle could you invoke to say these twins cannot marry each other? And if these twin brothers may marry, why not a twin brother and sister? Dick Cheney probably never met Mae West. For younger readers unfamiliar with one of Hollywood’s original blond bombshells, I’ll simply say: sailors in World War II called their large life jackets Mae Wests. (This is a family blog, after all.) Mae West famously said: “Marriage is a great institution, but I’m not ready for an institution.” How strange that Mae West had a better understanding of civil marriage than a former Vice President of the United States, a man who was twice elected to national office by pro-family voters.

As the kids say: wharrgarble.

Melting Down For Jeebus

"Prophet" Paul Begley is rilly rilly upset that Indiana has launched a specialty license plate to benefit an LGBT youth group. Anti-gay groups are organizing to stop the plate from ever being issued. BTW, the final few seconds of this clip totally need to be remixed.

(Via - Bilerico)

Photo Of The Day - Romney Stadium Rally

Details. Hit the link for an Obama rally on this day in 2008.

JCPenney To Air First Commercials With Ellen DeGeneres During Oscars Telecast

According to Ellen, these are the outtakes.

Boehner Appeals Latest DOMA Ruling

On Wednesday a federal court struck down Section 3 of DOMA as unconstitutional. Today GOP House Speaker John Boehner ordered that ruling appealed.

In court papers, a group of congressional Republicans defending the federal gay marriage ban revealed they are appealing the ruling to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The 9th Circuit will become the second federal appeals court to now consider the legality of the Defense of Marriage Act, a 16-year-old law known as DOMA. The Obama administration has sided with Golinski in the case, arguing that DOMA is unconstitutional. Republicans, led by House Speaker John Boehner, have jumped in to defend the law, filing the notice of appeal on Friday. With cases unfolding in several federal courts, many experts predict the issue will wind up in the U.S. Supreme Court.

RELATED: Helping to raise money for Boehner's reelection campaign are Log Cabin Republicans head R. Clark Cooper and former RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman, two out gay alleged activists who will co-chair Boehner's high-ticket Washington DC soiree.

The 1990s In Photos

Buzzfeed has 50 more.

MARYLAND: Catholic Church Vows To Overturn Same-Sex Marriage Bill

"Now, Maryland’s politicians unconscionably have chosen political expediency over the good of society–the fundamental charge of their office–by daring to redefine this sacred union between one man and one woman. Their action poses a grave threat to the future stability of the nuclear family and the society it anchors. The Archdiocese will continue to advocate for the preservation of both and will eagerly and zealously engage its 500,000 members in overturning this radical legislation, and will join with the hundreds of thousands of others in this Archdiocese and throughout Maryland in aggressively protecting the God-given institution of marriage." - Cardinal Edwin O'Brien, Archdiocese of Baltimore, quoted on Good As You.

Capitalism, Yay!

Gay NYC Man Missing

"If you have seen Mr. Reale or if you have information about his whereabouts, please contact: Detective Larry Young (9th Precinct) at (212) 477-7809."

Brian Brownshirt: Gays Fear SCOTUS

"The gay legal establishment is desperately trying to keep the Supreme Court from reviewing their work. Why? Because they don't really think they can win. There is no federal Constitutional right to gay marriage. Gay people in the United States are hardly a powerless minority in need of the extraordinary special protections the Court developed, under the authority of the 14th Amendment, to prevent racial discrimination. And they know it! Money talks in politics. Fawning media coverage also helps. But at times like these we also know: There are forces in the universe greater than money or politics; and with your help we will take the fight for marriage to the people, all across this great land, and we will win." - Brian Brownshirt, writing on NOM's blog.

She's Got A New Hat! (Sneaker Edition)

Since Valentine's Day a long line of sneaker collectors have been camped out on Manhattan's West 33rd Street in anticipation of a new Nike design going on sale at Foot Locker. Ten days. On the street. In the winter. For glow in the dark plastic sneakers. Old man shakes fist at cloud. The shoes went on sale this morning. But not in Orlando.

The release of the new Nike sneaker at a Florida mall ahead of the NBA All-Star Weekend was canceled Friday after riot police were forced to break up fights among the crowd outside an Orlando store. Hundreds of people were dispersed from the Foot Locker House of Hoops store after trouble broke out Thursday night in the countdown to the doors opening at midnight, WOFL-TV reported. Orange County Sheriff deputies on horseback and dressed in riot gear with helmets and plastic shields moved in around 9:45pm local time when things got out of control.

Meet And Seat

KLM Airlines has launched a program by which you select your seat mates based on their Facebook or Linkedin profiles. And then you can turn to them mid-flight and announce, "Unfriend! Blocked!"

Empire State Building Won't Go Red To Honor Cardinal Timothy Dolan

Not only did the "anti-Catholic" owners of the Empire State Building rebuff demands to turn blue and white in honor of Mother Teresa, they've now refused a similar request to light the landmark red in honor of the elevation of Cardinal Timothy Dolan. Bill Donohue will be ever so pissed.

The Empire State Building Company responded Thursday with a resounding "No." “After careful consideration of your proposal, unfortunately, the decision has been made to deny your request,” the rejection letter read. He said the building traditionally lights up every year for the religious holidays of Easter, Eid al Fitr, Hanukkah, and Christmas, but he draws the line there. "[The building] has a specific policy against any other lighting for religious figures or requests by religions and religious organizations," wrote Malkin.

Among the more whimsical ESB lightings was when the building went green to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. And the building always turns a lovely shade of lavender during the last weekend in June. Except for last year, when the pictured tribute to same-sex marriage made its debut.

UPDATE: Bill Donohue, right on cue.

Teen Records His Coming Out

Clip description:

Finally got the strength to come out to my mom. My Mom has been extremely supportive. I could not ask for anyone else. Love you :) Every circumstance is different and you will know when the right time to come out is. Stay strong. Babz and I are here for you. :) Note: I decided to post this so that I could share my experience with you. Hopefully it will give hope to those who do not have such supportive families. Also, I know I am on my phone the whole time. My phone is my comfort blanket. I literally cannot put it down when I'm anxious. I do not mean any disrespect to the content or conversation. OH, and she didn't know she was being recorded. I put the camera in a tissue box on top of the refrigerator.

(Via Zack Ford at Think Progress)

IRELAND: 73% Want Gay Marriage

A new poll reveals that almost three-quarters of the Irish public believes that same-sex marriage should be made legal.

Equal marriage advocates have welcomed a poll which puts public support for allowing gay couples to marry at 73%. The poll, by Red C, showed nearly three quarters of those asked said they would agree with the statement: “Same sex marriage should be allowed in the Constitution”. The results were presented to Ireland’s Oireachtas yesterday in a report prepared for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on the last Constitutional referendum. Kieran Rose, Chair of Ireland’s Gay and Lesbian Equality Network said: “The poll confirms the openness of Irish people and their support for further critically important progress to achieving equality for lesbian and gay people."

Hot Chicks With Douchebags

I draw your attention to the popular Hot Chicks With Douchebags site only to point to their epic take down of Andrew Breitbart. An excerpt:

This meandering buffoon screams for a living on the teevee, having finally found a profitable way to channel his daddy hatred. Substitute “government” for “Father who didn’t love me enough” and you’ll diagnostic the problem with nary a need to take an intro psych course. His is the inchoate rage of self-hatred turned outward. A core pathology that informs so much of douchebag culture. Merely substitute fauxhawks and bling for political babble, and sex drive for vicarious power sycophantage, and you’ll have this retched disgrace of yak spittle in a nutshell.

(Tipped by JMG reader Graham)

Utah House Bans Birth Control Education

The Utah House has passed a bill banning any mention of contraception in sex education classes. If a school does offer sex ed, it has to be abstinence only.

The state House passed HB 363 in a 45-28 vote following extensive debate. The bill -- which now goes on to the state Senate -- would lift the current requirement that all public schools must teach sex ed in grades 8 through 12. If the bill passes, districts would decide whether to offer sex ed classes that teach an abstinence-only curriculum, or not offer the course at all. Republican state Rep. Bill Wright sponsored the proposal. "We've been culturally watered down to think we have to teach about sex, about having sex and how to get away with it, which is intellectually dishonest," Wright said, according to The Salt Lake Tribune. "Why don't we just be honest with them upfront that sex outside marriage is devastating?"

Rep. Wright say his bill was prompted by Planned Parenthood materials which "promote promiscuity."

The Arab GOProud Spring

"Mulattos" Can't Be President

A lawsuit has been filed to keep Barack Obama off the Alaska 2012 ballot. Because the Constitution clearly forbids mixed race persons from being president.

As stated above, for an Individual to be a candidate for the office of president of the United States, the candidate must meet the qualifications set forth in the United States Constitution and one of those qualifications is that the Candidate shall be a "natural born citizen" of the United States. As Barack Hussein Obama II is of the "mulatto" race, his status of citizenship is founded upon the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. Before the [purported] ratification of the Fourteenth Amendment, the race of "Negro" or "mulatto" had no standing to be citizens of the United States under the United States Constitution.

They aren't even pretending any more. (Tipped by JMG reader Rebecca)

KENYA: Street Mob Storms Safer Sex Conference Held By Gay Activists

Clip description:

"There was drama in Likoni , Mombasa this afternoon when angry members of the public stormed and broke up a training session for homosexuals. The trainees many of them young men escaped unharmed through the backdoor and as NTV's Yassin Juma reports, organisers of the sessions are defiant and say they will continue with the activities."

Elaine Donnelly Sues U.S. Navy

Ever since the repeal of DADT, we haven't much from Elaine Donnelly and her so-called Center For Military Readiness. Probably because all those gay rapes and soldier defections never happened. But here she comes with a new angle of asshattery.

Via World Net Daily:

A federal Freedom of Information Act lawsuit has been filed against the U.S. Navy over the manipulation of “gay” data used to convince Congress to overturn the centuries-old ban in the U.S. military on open homosexuality. It was the military’s original and now-suspect report that famously was quoted as affirming “70 percent” of the nation’s military members believe the repeal of the long-standing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” practice of allowing homosexuals to serve as long as they kept their sexual lifestyle choices to themselves would have either “a neutral or positive impact on unit cohesion, readiness, effectiveness and morale.” However, the IG in documents uncovered by Elaine Donnelly of the Center for Military Readiness revealed the actual figures for military members were: those who believed the change would impact units “very positively” (6.6 percent), “positively” (11.8 percent), “mixed” (32.1 percent), “negatively” (18.7 percent), “very negatively” (10.9 percent) and “no effect” (19.9 percent). The only way the 70 percent figure can be reached is to combine “very positively,” “positively,” “mixed” and “no effect.” But this combination counts people with “neutral positions” as favoring the change, Donnelly reported.

Donnelly is being represented by the Thomas More Law Center, an outfit of pro bono nutjobs that regularly sues school boards to force Christian prayers upon unwilling children.

Legalize Everything

Something different from NYC's Gregory Brothers.

Tweet Of The Day - Billy Crystal

Billboard Of The Day

The anti-gay Media Research Center has posted the above billboard in Times Square.

“There is no better location for this billboard than the liberal media’s own backyard,” said MRC President Brent Bozell in a statement. “We promised this 2012 campaign would be the most expansive, most exhaustive and consequently the most expensive operation in our 25 years. We will keep that promise because this is the most important election in our lifetime and the American people are sick and tired of the left-wing media deciding who will govern our country.”

You may recall Brent Bozell from his recent national television appearance when he announced that President Obama looks like a "skinny ghetto crackhead."

MAINE: Marriage Makes Ballot

Marriage will be on Maine's ballot this November. And for the first time, it is gay activists who put it there.

Advocates of same-sex marriage turned in more than enough signatures to move ahead with a citizens initiative that would allow gay and lesbian couples to marry in Maine, the Secretary of State's Office ruled Thursday. More than 85,000 voter signatures were declared valid. The advocacy groups needed at least 57,277 valid signatures for their bill to get to the Legislature. Lawmakers now will be presented with a citizens initiative proposing the legalization of gay marriage in Maine. Currently, seven states and the District of Columbia allow gay marriages. Lawmakers have the option of passing the bill as proposed, but they likely will send it to voters in November. Advocates of same-sex marriage, who lost in 2009 at the ballot box in a 53-47 percent vote, say enough Mainers have changed their minds that the measure will pass this time.

God Sent A Warning To Barack Obama Through The Super Bowl Scores

FRC: Federal Gays Gets Special Perks!

MD Gov. Martin O'Malley Reacts

"I'd like to thank Senate President Miller for his leadership and our legislators in the Senate for their hard work and their vote today for human dignity. All children deserve the opportunity to live in a loving, caring, committed, and stable home, protected equally under the law. The common thread running through our efforts together in Maryland is the thread of human dignity; the dignity of work, the dignity of faith, the dignity of family, the dignity of every individual. Thanks to our elected leaders, clergy and faith-based leaders, community leaders, civic organizations, civil rights groups, and citizens from across our state, Maryland will now be able to protect individual civil marriage rights and religious freedom equally." - Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley.

Maryland Marriage Reactions

National Gay & Lesbian Task Force

Maryland and marriage equality will certainly make a lovely couple. Maryland is the Free State, after all. To be able to share and celebrate one's love and commitment both publicly and legally is a lifelong dream for thousands of same-sex couples and their families. It’s thrilling that Maryland is poised to make this a reality by becoming the latest state to treat its families fairly. This has been a long journey of changing hearts and minds, of breaking down walls, of shining a spotlight on our common humanity. Congratulations to Equality Maryland, Marylanders for Marriage Equality and all those who have been part of the journey leading to this victory.

Human Rights Campaign

"We could not be more grateful to the senators who today voted to make all Maryland families stronger,” said Joe Solmonese, President of the Human Rights Campaign. “Today, we took another giant step toward marriage equality becoming law – and we are in this position due to the unwavering leadership and resolve of Governor O’Malley and our legislative allies, particularly Sens. Rich Madaleno, Jamie Raskin, Rob Garagiola, and Brian Frosh.” Virtually any piece of legislation, according to Maryland law, can be subject to a referendum where voters cast a ballot supporting or opposing the legislation. Opponents of marriage equality are expected to begin obtaining the requisite signatures necessary to refer the Civil Marriage Protection Act to the general election ballot.

National Center For Lesbian Rights

Today, Marylanders won a key victory in the quest for equality under the law for same-sex couples and their children. Enormous thanks are due to Governor O’Malley, our legislative champions in the House and Senate, and all those who came forward to explain why discrimination against families in Maryland’s marriage law is just plain wrong. This fight is not yet over in the Free State, but today, we celebrate this fantastic achievement.

Marriage Equality USA

"Since Governor O'Malley has championed this bill and already said he will sign the bill into law, today's historic vote means marriage equality in Maryland!" said Stuart Gaffney, Marriage Equality USA Media Director. "We are encouraged by reports that former Vice President Dick Cheney made calls to lobby Maryland legislators to support the bill. Supporting his lesbian daughter Mary illustrates the true meaning of family values across party lines." "We are seeing unstoppable momentum for equal marriage rights from every avenue," said John Lewis, Marriage Equality USA Legal Director.

AFER

Today’s vote by the Maryland General Assembly shows that the momentum toward marriage equality is unstoppable. Generations of Americans will applaud Governor Martin O’Malley and the bipartisan coalition of Maryland lawmakers for joining the courts and legislatures nationwide in defending the fundamental freedom to marry for all.”

More as they arrive...

Maryland Senate PASSES Marriage Bill

By the expected margin of 25-22, the Maryland Senate has PASSED its marriage equality bill. Gov. Martin O'Malley has pledged to make Maryland the EIGHTH state with same-sex marriage.

Reactions to follow shortly in a new post.

LAST FRIDAY: Maryland House passes marriage bill.

EARLIER TODAY: Things are underway. This is the third and final reading/debate of the bill and the final vote will follow.

EARLIER TODAY: Argh. Recessed until 4pm Eastern.

Log Cabin Head R. Clark Cooper And Ken Mehlman To Co-Host Boehner Fundraiser

Log Cabin Republicans head R. Clark Cooper and former RNC chairman Ken Mehlman will be co-hosts of a fundraiser to reelect GOP House Speaker John Boehner. Why would two self-proclaimed supporters of LGBT rights work to maintain the regime of the man who has vowed to thwart the overturn of DOMA and who recently tripled the legal budget to do so?

Party first, your own people second. That's why.

FRC Vice President: Goodbye, Starbucks

"The effort to redefine marriage to include same-sex partners is a radical social innovation, one fraught with dangerous implications for individuals, families, and culture. Claiming to be post-political and then allowing one’s chief corporate spokesperson to say that same-sex 'marriage' is 'is core to who we are and what we value as a company' are assertions that don’t quite add up. So, for now, at least, I will buy my overpriced flavored coffees elsewhere. I dislike boycotts for a number of reasons, but am undertaking a personal one at present. Being for marriage, as understood in the Judeo-Christian context and Western tradition, is much more to 'the core of who I am' than a Starbucks iced mocha ever will be." - Family Research Council senior vice president Rob Schwarzwalder, writing for LifeSiteNews.

NOTE: Schwarzwalder won't be giving up anything that actually inconveniences his bold Christian principles. Ya know, things like computers, shoes, airlines, the internet, etc etc etc.

Just Launched In Britain

Taking their cue from their American counterparts in hate, the anti-gay marriage movement in Britain has adopted the same language and even the same type of graphics. Details.

Fred Karger Launches Michigan Ad

Quote Of The Day - Steve Andrew

"God calls Christians and churches to not share in the sins of others. To love God is to flee sexual immorality. If we help the wicked, then God's Word says God judges us (2 Chronicles 19:2). God calls Christians to 100 percent love Him and to 100 percent oppose sin. Ungodly politicians, Starbucks, Nike, Amazon and others are doing the devil's work trying to 'change' our Christian laws into non-Christian laws. Every Christian and church should boycott companies making light of Jesus Christ. It is unwise for a Christian to give their money to those working against Jesus and leading people to sin and to possibly go to hell." - Pastor Steve "Jazz Hands" Andrew, speaking to the Christian Post. (Via Right Wing Watch)

TRAILER: Bully

Tweet Of The Day

Buzzfeed notes that Romney actually got the quote wrong.

The Cure For Bridge & Tunnel

If the above 1934 plan had come to fruition, I guess West Chelsea would also be called East Hoboken. From a news article at the time:

In keeping with the Norman Sper plan, the ten square miles of land which would thereby be reclaimed from the Hudson would not only provide for thousands of additional buildings, but also for avenues and cross streets which would greatly relieve the congestion in present thoroughfares. Today there are ten avenues laid out along the length of Manhattan. These are crossed by 125 streets. It is the lack of up-and-down arteries which has given rise to the existing traffic crisis. Sper would double the number of avenues. His suggestions go still further. No use waiting, he says, until the entire area is filled in before starting underground improvements. Build your tunnels, conduits, mail and automobile tubes, and other subterranean passages indispensable to comfort in the biggest city in the universe as you go along. Do it in the process of filling the basin left by the drawing off of the water.

(Via - Gothamist)

Billboard Of The Day

The above billboard only lasted one day in a Bronx neighborhood notorious for street hookers.

The sign came down early Wednesday afternoon. Rafael Salamanca of the Bronx’s Community Board 2, said he was only partially appeased. “They apologized for the insensitivity of the placement, but they were not too apologetic about their message,” Salamanca said. “It’s not a big deal to them. We’re happy they took care of it, but the message, regardless of where it is, is inappropriate.”

Just Baptized, Again

Details.

The Purple Poll

Purple Strategies claims their latest poll shows Santorum leading Obama by three points. "The PurplePoll is fielded and analyzed by Purple Insights, the research division of Purple Strategies, a bipartisan public affairs firm located in Alexandria, Va. and Houston." Never heard of them until now. Lots more at the link.

Johnson/Aniston 2012

Libertarian Party presidential candidate Gary Johnson says actress Jennifer Aniston would be a great running mate for him. But if she's busy, he'd also take game show host Drew Carey. Last week former GOProud chairman Chris Barron endorsed Johnson.

I simply can’t put the square peg in the circle hole. I am firmly committed to defeating Barack Obama and turning back his disastrous policies, and I wanted to believe that I could support whomever the Republican Party nominated. Unfortunately, I cannot in good conscience do that. Let me be crystal clear: I am speaking only for myself and not for GOProud, the organization that I co-founded. I fully expect the GOProud Board will endorse the eventual nominee of the Republican Party. I, however, will not cast a vote in favor of that.

I believe Barron had previously endorsed Herman Cain and was also recently seen literally waving a banner for Mitt Romney. Barron has not yet commented on the Johnson/Aniston ticket.

Morning View - Locked Out Cop

HEADLINE: NYPD traffic cop locks keys in his car, asshole blogger snaps photo. (The entire scene provided much mirth for other passersby, not just me.)

Nine Minutes With Barney Frank

The second clip includes some chat with Frank's quite handsome fiance, who is seated in the audience. Frank used the introduction to stump for ENDA and to mention that certain GOP members of the House are invited to the ceremony, but that "no bigots will be at my wedding." Huge applause line.


(Tipped by JMG reader Alan)

Another Poll Thing

I'm getting clobbered.

Top GOP Super PAC Donors

Wow.

Analysis of these new filings and previously available data reveals that 19 wealthy donors have already given a million dollars or more each, combining to funnel $46.75 million to Republican-allied Super PACs so far this cycle. It comes as little surprise that this list is dominated by financial sector investors (8), energy and chemical producers (4), and real estate developers (3). All are white. Only one, the wife of casino tycoon Sheldon Edelson, is female. The Obama administration has backed financial sector consumer protections and environmental regulations unpopular with big Wall Street and big energy. The 19 donors’ contributions accounted for about 53 percent of the $88.2 million combined receipts for those committees.

Fifth on the above list is Paypal founder Peter Thiel, who is thought to be the primary funding source for GOProud.

Christie: Obama Is A Coward On Marriage

Igor Volsky reports at Think Progress:

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) accused President Obama of “cowardice” and trying to have it “both ways” on marriage equality during a contentious appearance on MSNBC’s Morning Joe on Thursday. Christie defended his recent veto of a bill allowing gays and lesbians to marry and reiterated his call to put the question to a popular referendum, arguing, “the Democrats in my state are criticizing me saying my feet are firmly planted on the wrong side of justice. I said yesterday, yeah, my feet are firmly planted right next to President Obama.” “He could have gotten more votes in New Jersey out of Democrats in the legislature — not all of them voted for it –if the President would have taken a stand,” Christie added.

I usually watch local news until 9am, but for some reason I caught this live on MSNBC today. Openly gay reporter Jonathan Capehart and Christie start to tangle at the 5:00 mark. But watch the entire thing.

Sheriff's Ex May Not Be Here Legally

The ex-boyfriend of Sheriff Paul Babeu may actually be in the country illegally, despite what both he and Babeu have told the press. Babeu has denied threatening to have his former boyfriend deported.

Orozco appeared on CNN this week, and the network said he told them he was in Arizona on a “10-year, US tourist visa that allows multiple crossings at the border.” But as the Arizona Daily Star first noted, US tourist visas generally allow foreign visitors to be in the country for no more than six months at a time. The visas may not expire for a decade, but that doesn’t mean the person is allowed to stay in the United States for more than half a year at a time. That could be problematic for Orozco, who previously told the Phoenix New Times that he began dating the sheriff in 2006. And it could be equally troublesome for Babeu, who told CNN that he and the man dated for three years. Prominent immigration attorney David Leopold, who has practiced in Ohio for about 20 years, told TPM that it’s highly unlikely that immigration authorities would have allowed Orozco to stay in the United States with a tourist visa for three to six years.

It's possible that Babeu could be charged with harboring an undocumented immigrant, especially given his position in law enforcement.

Most of the time, authorities wouldn’t prosecute the boyfriend or girlfriend of someone who has problems with his or her immigration status. But in this case, Babeu is in a position of law enforcement, someone trained to know better. Moreover, he has made a career out of being a hardliner on the subject. A prosecutor and judge would likely hold the sheriff to a higher standard, Leopold said. “I think the sheriff’s got a problem if that’s what was going on. He’s got a big problem,” Leopold said. “If they indicted him and charged him, there might be some meat to it.” It’s possible that Babeu could say that the subject never came up or that he was fooled by his ex-boyfriend. But even that might be a hard sell, given Babeu’s expertise on immigration matters and his role as an investigator.

Ten House Reps Pose For NOH8

Ten members of the U.S. House have posed for the NOH8 Campaign.

"Our nation was founded upon the principle of equality. It is imperative that we work for equal rights for all in order to make that principle a reality. Love isn't gay or straight, tall or short, black or white, it is for everyone," said Rep. Dennis Kucinich of Ohio's 10th District.

Hit the link for more photos and a way to ask your rep to participate.

Last Night's Debate In 100 Seconds

Most are giving the win to Romney.

Historically Hung

It's the oldest art yet found in this hemisphere:

A stick figure man with a giant phallus dubbed "the little horny man" by its discoverers is the oldest rock carving found yet in the Americas, researchers say. These findings might shed new light on when the New World was first settled, scientists added. "The figure is probably linked to some kind of fertility ritual," Neves told LiveScience. "There is another site in the same region where you find paintings with men with oversized phalluses, and also pregnant women, and even a parturition (childbirth) scene." Carbon dating and other tests of the sediment covering the petroglyph suggest the engraving dates between 9,000 and 12,000 years old. This makes it the oldest reliably dated instance of such rock art found yet in the Americas.

(Tipped by JMG reader Casey)

LIBERIA: President Says She Won't Sign Proposed Anti-Gay Legislation

Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf says that she won't sign the proposed anti-gay bill now wending its way through the legislature. Last week the widow of Johnson-Sirleaf's predecessor introduced a bill calling for the execution of homosexuals. That penalty has apparently since been watered down to a mere ten years in prison.

A Liberian senator says the Senate will consider a bill to strengthen the West African nation's existing anti-gay laws. Senator Joseph Nagbe, chair of the Judicial Committee, says the bill will appear before Senate on Thursday. Liberia's former first lady, Senator Jewel Taylor, submitted a bill last week that would prohibit same-sex marriage and make homosexuality a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The current law considers gay relationships a first-degree misdemeanor, which carries a punishment of up to a year in prison. If passed by the Senate, the strengthened bill would then go the House and then the president.

RELATED: Last year President Johnson-Sirleaf was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her work on behalf of African women.

Matt Baume: Marriage News Watch

INDIA: Confusion Over Rights Battle

Nobody knows what happened in India today.

A sensitive debate over gay sex in India was thrown into farcical confusion Thursday after a government lawyer urged the Supreme Court to ban it — only for the government to issue a contradictory statement hours later, saying it accepts a recent ruling that made it legal. Television channels reported that the lawyer may have gotten confused and read out the wrong statement in front of the Supreme Court reflecting an old government opinion. Additional Solicitor General P. P. Malhotra told the court that "gay sex is highly immoral and against social order and there is high chance of spreading of diseases through such acts," the Press Trust of India reported. The Home Ministry quickly issued a statement saying it was not challenging a 2009 Delhi High Court order that struck down a colonial-era law making sex between people of the same gender punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

The case continues before the Supreme Court.

MD Senate To Vote On Marriage Today

I'll post an live stream when it's ready.

After a request by Republicans to delay the measure, discussion is expected to begin Thursday morning. Debate comes less than a week after the House of Delegates barely passed the bill. Last year, the Senate passed a similar proposal 25-21 and Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller said the vote is not expected to change. Passing the measure would put Maryland on track to be the eighth state to legalize same-sex unions when Gov. Martin O’Malley signs the bill.

Just like in Washington, the repeal clock starts ticking once O'Malley signs the bill.

AUSTRALIA: Marriage Activists Dine With Anti-Marriage Prime Minister

Santorum: No Civil Unions Either

Rick Santorum says he opposes civil unions too.

Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum, a vocal opponent of gay marriage, said today he opposes civil unions, too. In response to a question by Dean Reynolds for the "CBS Evening News," the former Pennsylvania senator said same-sex couples should work through the legal system to obtain rights similar to those enjoyed by legally married couples. "I believe in people's right to be able to contract for whatever benefits that they have," Santorum told Reynolds. "I believe in freedom of contract and people should be able to contract for hospitalization visits, being able to take insurance policies or life insurance," he added. "And I've encouraged folks if they want to build those relationships to do that."

I can't see why this is surprising or even news.

Christian TV Recaps Marriage Battles

Open Thread Thursday

Regrets, we've had a few. Such as?

Mittens: I Love Lamp

FRC: Gays Ruin Everything

BREAKING: Federal Judge Rules Section 3 Of DOMA Unconstitutional

Chris Geidner reports at Metro Weekly:

Today, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California issued its order finding that Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act -- the federal definition of marriage -- is unconstitutional in Golinski v. Office of Personnel Management, Karen Golinski's challenge to the denial of her request for equal health insurance benefits for her wife. Golinski, a federal court employee, brought suit after her request was denied. She is represented by Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund. Because President Obama and the Department of Justice have stopped defending Section 3 of DOMA in court challenges, the Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group -- led by House Republican leadership -- had opposed Golinski's request in court.

Via press release from Lambda Legal:

"This ruling, the first to come after the Justice Department announced it would no longer defend this discriminatory statute in court, spells doom for DOMA," said Tara Borelli, staff attorney in Lambda Legal's Western Regional Office in Los Angeles. "The Court recognized the clear fact that a law that denies one class of individuals the rights and benefits available to all others because of their sexual orientation violates the constitutional guarantee of equality embodied in the Fifth Amendment. The Court agreed with us that sexual orientation discrimination by the government should receive heightened scrutiny under the constitution. It then concluded that DOMA could not meet that standard, and that there was not even a rational justification to deny Karen Golinski the same spousal health care benefits that her heterosexual co-workers receive."

View the ruling.

Politico has more.

White's 43-page decision is similar to a ruling from a federal judge in Massachusetts in 2010, who also struck down an aspect of DOMA. In White's ruling, he also gave an unusual back of the hand to the Chief Judge of the Ninth Circuit, Alex Kozinski, who ruled at an earlier administrative stage of the dispute that federal personnel managers had authority to cover Golinski's spouse as a non-spousal member of her family. White called that reasoning "unpersuasive."

Just In From The FRC