Here we are, approaching the holidays. Do we ever actually ‘approach’ the holidays, or do the holidays kind of sneak up and take over? Although it’s not quite Thanksgiving, we’ve noticed the Christmas movies, the first Christmas trees in stores and malls, or perhaps heard questions like “What are you doing for Thanksgiving?” There are times when holidays bring up … [Read more...] about Survival of the Fittest: Staying Solid through the Holiday Season
Opinions
November: Time for Football; Time for Elections
Thanksgiving, among many traditions, is a time for football. I don’t know if a game still comes on every year on that last Thursday of November, but it did when I was a kid and, sure enough, my family would have it on in the den. I would see my dad, my uncles and my grandparents cheer and jeer over something on the television, but I could never quite understand what on … [Read more...] about November: Time for Football; Time for Elections
Fight or Flight: The Impact of Chaos
For those of you, who may be tired of the political ads from all sides, spewing negativity and inaccuracy every day, I offer empathy and join you in your probable annoyance. Sadly, for the next few weeks, our area will be inundated with partisan politicos, stumping rallies, group grousing, and mailings to convince us to give support to…whomever. During the past two … [Read more...] about Fight or Flight: The Impact of Chaos
Gretchen’s Essay
Because I have a free rein to write what I want I generally try to honor this by offering thoughts and reflections on our community. This article will expand our community to include our pets. During our last pet blessing a couple of weeks ago we so enjoyed this community of furry barks, howls, and hounds. In each case as the “owner” approached with their friend one could … [Read more...] about Gretchen’s Essay
American Things
Before Trump was even elected there was talk that something funny was going on with Russia. Bob Woodward writes about it in his book, Fear: Trump in the White House. It’s first mentioned almost in passing as some far-off threat that might not be anything serious. But as soon as James Comey began his investigation, people on the left started making allusions to the … [Read more...] about American Things
Hard Rock Hotel was Controversial from Start
The dramatic collapse of the Hard Rock Hotel in New Orleans re-opens a can of worms. The proposed development was controversial from its inception. 1031 Canal Street for decades was the site of Woolworths, a five’n’dime department store whose lunch counter was ground zero for civil rights protesters in 1960. When it was proposed the Woolworths building be … [Read more...] about Hard Rock Hotel was Controversial from Start
Louisiana Governor’s Race
The results of the Louisiana Governor’s race on October 12 were disappointing but not surprising. Incumbent John Bel Edwards (D) will face Eddie Rispone (R) in a run-off election on November 16. Primaries in Louisiana are unique in that if no candidate gets over 50%, the two top vote-getters, regardless of party, face each other in the run-off. Governor … [Read more...] about Louisiana Governor’s Race
Holding Out for a Hero
Last weekend, Comic-Con descended upon Gotham City. The visitors and residents of midtown Manhattan never felt safer as there seemed to be a superhero on every corner. Comic-Con is an event that I think everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. It’s one weekend of the year where comic book fans of all ages can geek out and let their freak flag … [Read more...] about Holding Out for a Hero
Eating Disorders and Body Image: How to Help Fight the Epidemic
As we approach National Coming Out Day on October 11, it’s fitting to dedicate this column to the topic of eating disorders andbody image dissatisfaction, with a focus on gay men. According to a study NEDA (National Eating Disorder Association) published in 2017, the occurrence of eating disorders is three times higher in gay men than in straight men, and nearly 15% of all gay … [Read more...] about Eating Disorders and Body Image: How to Help Fight the Epidemic
A world in constant motion requires constant attention
Headlines: Trump Administration Asks Supreme Court to Legalize Workplace Discrimination Against Gay Employees (TIME.COM August 25, 2019) It is a dicey time in the U.S.A for faith folk and for Gay folk. Our society is in a great transition and none of us are sure of where its arc will bend. Recently Dr. King’s words have been reprinted and have been stuck in my mind, “The arc … [Read more...] about A world in constant motion requires constant attention