The facts about Same-Sex Marriage in Maryland

Protestors in Annapolis. Photo courtesy of WBAL.

Things are heating up in Annapolis now. Legislation on redefining marriage within the state of Maryland is making its way through the General Assembly from both sides. The Senate peacefully passed its version of the bill (SB 116) with amendments by a narrow 25-22 vote on Thursday, February 24. This was 1 more than the 24 votes it needed to pass the bill. Now the bill is making its way through the House. There was a hearing on the bill in the House Judiciary committee last Friday, which had a not-surprisingly heavy turn-out. Delegates debated various amendments on March 9 on the floor. Next step? The Big Vote.

In its original form, this legislation would redefine the definition of marriage as it is stated in the state’s constitution under Maryland Family Law, Section 2-201, which says that “only a marriage between a man and a woman is valid in the state.” Amendments were debated during the second reading of the bill, which took place on Wednesday on the House floor. These included provisions that would protect teachers and families from being forced to participate in education within public school systems on the basis of religious beliefs. There was one amendment that proposed changing the name of the bill from “The Civil Marriage Protection Act” to “Same Sex Marriage” Finally, there was an amendment that would have made the passage of the bill contingent on the passage of another bill still in committee (HB 963). However, none of the proposed amendments were successful.

Although this bill has been pushed rather quickly through both chambers, the bill’s progress was put on a hold in the House Judiciary Committee as two Democratic delegates, who co-sponsored the bill and were believed to be strong supporters, refused to vote in Tuesday’s committee meeting. This brought progress to a screeching halt, particularly shocking those who were hoping to see it passed as quickly and easily in the House as it had in the Senate. Delegates Carter (D-Baltimore) and Alston (D-Prince George’s) did not show up to the voting session, meaning they could not commence voting on the legislation. Delegate Carter, who says she still supports same-sex marriage, is hoping that by doing this, she will bring attention to two of her bills which she says are of equal if not more importance. Delegate Alston admits to having second thoughts despite co-sponsoring the bill, explaining that she needed more time to pray about how she will ultimately vote. Even Delegate Stukes has withdrawn his support, saying that he had been under the impression that the legislation would allow civil unions, not marriage.

The debate is heated on this legislation.

When it comes to arguments for the bill, proponents took a bleeding-heart approach in their testimonies, advocating that it was time to extend “rights” to all Marylanders and the need to stand up for and recognize love. As the primary sponsor of HB 55, Delegate Luiz Simmons argued during the hearing that there is no evidence that marriage for same-sex couples would diminish the institution of marriage or of procreation. In response to arguments that God does not approve of same-sex relationships, he inanely stated “God has not signed the witness list.” Other panelists, who included openly gay Delegates Heather Mizeur and Anne Kaiser, along with other supportive legislators and citizens, made the argument that simply creating civil unions in the state would ultimately create a second-class citizen status for homosexuals. Senator Raskin, in a written statement, said that it is a “fundamental wrong” not to provide the fundamental right of marriage to all Marylanders.

On the other hand, opponents of HB 55 and SB 116 took a traditional stand, arguing for the same sentiments that guided the founders. Delegate Don Dwyer, the most publicly staunch opponent of the bill among Republican legislators in the House, bravely and poignantly opened his testimony in prayer. The arguments against the bill ultimately say that this is not a civil rights issue; marriage is a religious institution recognized by the state, and it is not up to the legislators to attempt to re-define it. They also argue that allowing same-sex marriage would alter and harm our society because marriage is for the purpose of creating new life, and children need both a mother and a father. Multiple former homosexuals even protested that the gay lifestyle is unhealthy and dangerous based on their personal experiences. They claimed that homosexuals are simply rebelling against moral foundations while forcing legislators and Americans in general to embrace their lifestyle lest they be deemed bigots or old-fashioned.

This is not an easy issue and cannot be taken lightly. So many peoples’ lives are involved and affected directly by the results of this legislation. Not only will it affect the institution of marriage within this state, but it will also make a serious impact on the economy, the social structure, and the education system to which we are accustomed. The Delegates in Annapolis are likely to vote on this issue by the end of this week. Many predict that it will pass the House and that it is highly likely that it will end up in referendum for the people to decide. Whatever happens, this issue is without a doubt the most crucial and dominant piece of legislation to be introduced in the 2011 session.

Quirk, Burn’s Rising Sun

When you apply for non-profit status as a church, you understand that you must remain politically neutral.  If you don’t, you could lose your tax exempt status.  Maybe Delegate Emmit Burns, who also happens to be the pastor at the Rising Sun Baptist Church in Woodlawn, didn’t get the message.  Or maybe he just missed that clause when setting up his church.  Either way, I’d say they’re far from neutral.

This morning I was sent an anonymous message (at least as far you’re concerned) about a particular visit to said church this past Sunday by our very own councilman, Tom Quirk.  Now for an elected official such as himself to attend a worship service violates no rules, but when the pastor of the church, also an elected official, publicly calls Quirk his “money man,” things get a little murky.  Apparently when Burns ran out of money during his costly and most unopposed campaign, he turned to Tom.  Okay.  First of all, why?  Quirk was running in a highly contested race, whereas Burns was practically a shoe-in.  But let’s put that aside for a moment.  The question you must ask yourself is why any of this is pertinent to one’s walk with God.  Oh wait, I forgot to tell you why Tom was in attendance this past Sunday.  It seems he decided to give a sizable donation to the church.  Now why would someone do that?  Give money to a church he doesn’t attend?  I certainly understand slipping a $20 bill into the offering plate as it passes.  That’s just good form, but to be called to the front and recognized…that had to be a fairly large chunk of change.

Let’s back up a bit.  During the campaign, Quirk attended on several occasions and each time recognized from the front.  Hmmm, careful Delegate Burns, because that could be construed as an endorsement, and a sizable donation at the conclusion of a successful bid for office could be interpreted as payback.  Who knows though?  Maybe Councilman Quirk has been making his rounds to various churches in the area spreading the wealth so to speak.  If that’s the case, I’d be happy to give him the name and address for my church.  After our sound equipment was stolen last month, we could certainly use it.  However, something tells me that’s not the case.

This wouldn’t be the first time I’ve heard of overt bias coming from Del. Burns and his congregation.  During the primary, Rising Sun hosted a Democratic forum for candidates.  By mistake, our friend, Rich Reinhardt, a candidate for Clerk of the Court, was invited.  After speaking, people in the audience actually applauded.  They seemed to agree with his platform.  Then again, they thought he was a Dem.  Once they realized that he was actually a Republican, Delegate Burns asked him to leave.  He wasn’t even allowed the time to gather his materials and they were not returned to him after the fact.  For all intensive purposes, he was thrown out.  Now I could be wrong, but, outside of the Reinhardt debacle, I have yet to hear of a Republican being invited to Rising Sun.  If I’m wrong, I’ll be happy to retract, but I’m guessing I won’t have to.

.The amazing thing is that I’m sure they will continue to promote Democrats at Rising Star because really, who’s going to check into it?

The Downward Spiral of PG County Continues

Today nine more people were arrested in PG County, three of which were police officers.   Now we have cops involved in helping to smuggle cigarettes and tobacco to evade taxes.  Is anyone else out there just scratching their heads?  What the hell is going on down there?  And can I just ask this question?  Why wait until after the election to make the sting?  Clearly the feds have been watching them for a while.  Were they just waiting for underwear and toilets  to enter the picture before they could act?

And Dems demonize us.  Interesting, really!  This type of corruption WOULD NOT HAPPEN IN A BALANCED, TWO PARTY STATE.  Sure, there’s corruption in politics even when there is representation from the other side.  It’s sad but when people believe they’re above the law, what do you expect?  We see the same sort of crap in Hollywood.  The difference is this:  there are absolutely no checks and balances in PG County.  If I were a betting woman, I’d say there’s more to this mud pit then meets the eye.  There’s probably so many people with their hands in the cookie jar of corruption, it’s not even funny.  And it wasn’t funny to begin with.  I’m not saying that there aren’t corrupt Republicans.  We’re all human and we’re all capable of doing wrong.  But I wonder (and I have not studied this scientifically) if you were to do case studies on corruption in politics, what would you find?  Would you find that it festered in places where both sides were equally represented?  My guess…not so much. Misdeeds are not fond of the light, and when you have people of differing opinions breathing down your neck, it’s a little hard to hide all those imperfections.

So why is it that places like PG County continue to vote in one stinking party?  Are they uneducated?  Are they so indebted to the Democrat party that they can’t imagine voting for anyone else?  Is it a race issue?  I really don’t think so.  Do you know why?  The people of Prince Georges and other neighboring counties had the opportunity to vote for a black congressman, a man who was running against an old, white man.  What was wrong with Charles Lollar?  It certainly wasn’t the color of his skin as I’m pretty sure that African Americans make up a large part of the vote in PG County.  No, it was because he had an R next to his name.  Same thing happened to Michael Steele in 2006.  Young, energetic black man running against a slightly older than middle aged white man and he lost.  I remember watching African American leaders referring to Steele as an Oreo, black on the outside and white on the inside.  Now, there is no mistaking.  I’m a white girl.  Can’t change that.  Had no say in that, but hearing a man like Steele be harassed because he had the gall to be black and a Republican was absolutely disgusting to me.

You can’t convince me that it’s a race issue.  It’s not.  It’s a one-party brainwashing issue.  The people of PG, Montgomery and Baltimore City have bought into a big, flipping lie.  Somehow they believe that the Dems are there saviors.  Let me ask this.  Are they better off today?  Or are they stuck in an endless cycle, always dependent on the government to survive.  Really, what have the Democrats done for them?  Seriously!  Someone please explain to me what exactly is so great about the Democratic party.  They’re no different today than when they were standing on the steps of schools in Alabama opposing the end of segregation.  They just got better at hiding their true desire to enslave those less fortunate then them.  And it’s true, they don’t discriminate.  They don’t care what your race is or your gender, your economic status or your sexual preference.  They want to enslave you all, wringing the wallets of those that have and those that work while hypnotizing the less fortunate with milk and honey.  It kind of reminds me of the Matrix.  What they don’t see won’t hurt them right?

Except we can see, and with the help of the web and free media, word spreads rather fast.  Those of us unplugged have a message to send.  Beware peeps.  Their are some mighty hungry watchdogs monitoring your every move.  A word to the wise, for those politicians up here in Baltimore County, who might be tempted to take a payback or a bribe, beware.  We’re watching.

 

County Executive Johnson and wife arrested

We are all familiar with, and are unfortunately becoming all too used to, the scandal that comes with the occasional indiscreet or corrupt politician, whether it be financial, sexual, or otherwise immoral. But for the most part, these scandals are mostly seen at the national level. For example, Bill Clinton and his extra-marital affair, Tim Geithner and his tax cheating, and Elliot Spitzer and his extra-curricular activities. So it may come as no surprise to hear about the arrest of two local elected officials in neighboring Prince George’s County.

County Executive Jack Johnson, Democrat, and his wife, Leslie Johnson, who was recently elected to the County Council, were arrested at their home on November 12 and are being charged with tampering with and destroying evidence pertaining to a federal investigation. This investigation, which has been going on for 5 years, is looking into real estate investors who allegedly have given elected officials monetary rewards for political and personal favors.

According to an article in USA Today, FBI agents heard a recorded phone conversation between Jack Johnson and wife Leslie which took place immediately after the agents had knocked on the Johnson family’s door. Mr. Johnson was recorded ordering his wife to flush what is believed to be a check down the toilet and to hide almost $80,000 in her underwear, according to the affidavit.

Currently, the Johnson’s both claim to be innocent of all charges. Though they were both released that day, Jack Johnson is currently on electronic home detention. Both could face a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

One cannot help but notice the irony in the timing of all this scandal. Even though Maryland bucked the trends of the nation-wide Democratic-ousting, this recent scandal involving two Democratic public officials – he on his way out of his second term and she having just been elected – is alarming and troubling to say the least. Is this what is to be expected from Maryland’s majority party? This story is still unfolding but it will be interesting to see how these two politicians fair in the coming weeks.

More Signs of Good Times

According to a poll that came out late last week, Obama is not doing so hot.  Of course, not even the most liberal of pollsters can bring his approval rating above 50%, but what if he were to go head to head, right now, against top Republicans? Public Policy Polling, a Democrat-affiliated pollster, found that when pitted against Romney, Huckabee, Newt, and Palin, Obama is essentially in a dead heat.

Now this doesn’t say as much about the 2012 election as it does about this November.  2012 is still two years away and we all know that A LOT can happen in 2 years.  However, that being said, we also know what kind of effect an unpopular president can have on a mid-term election.  We, as  conservatives, really have a shot here of taking back some power and giving the Dems a run for their money…even here in Maryland.  Just think, for the first time in 7 years, since I moved to Maryland, we might actually be able to put someone in office that would represent my views and beliefs.  Heck, I’m hoping for a clean sweep.

However, I’m noticing a bit of a lull here in SW Baltimore County.  It’s time to gear it up, peeps.  I know it’s Summer and hot as all get out, but we can’t lose momentum now.  If you can do one thing today to impact this election, do it.  Go out and sign wave for your favorite candidate (or all of them in fact), put up a yard sign or a bumper sticker, invite a friend to Happy Hour this Wednesday night, and for goodness sake, send money.  Conservative candidates can’t win without you.  It’s time to rally the troops.

Speaking of, block out September 11 on your calendar for our annual Patriot Day Reception.  We have something real special in mind.  Details will be revealed this week.  Are you sitting on the edge of your seat yet?

Healthcare Isn’t Really About Healthcare?

At least Howard Dean is admitting what this thing really is.  I love when he says, “Yeah but you’re making a million dollars.  $46,000 of discretionary income is not as big as $430 when you’re making $10,000.”    And by the way, that $46,000 tax increase is just for the healthcare bill.  We haven’t even started to talk about the other myriad of taxes the Dems are willing to siphon out of the upper class and give to the lower classes (or line their own pockets with…let’s not forget that part.)

Spending Money in Likeminded Places

Wow, how I’ve missed just sitting on my couch spouting off about whatever happens to blow through my mind.  You can tell campaign season is ramping up because I can barely find time to breathe, much less write.  However, an idea did creep in this morning, and I can’t seem to get it out of my head, so I thought I’d share.

Many times, we talk about supporting local businesses who support us, but do we really know which businesses are Out and Right?  I know of a few, but it might actually be easier to pick out a Left-leaning business than one that is conservative at the core.  In the last Gubernatorial election, several local businesses agreed to put up Ehrlich signs just to be badgered into taking them down.  I don’t remember anyone taking down an O’Malley sign.  I’m guessing we’re just too good a people, right?

Maybe we should be the advocates for conservative businesses.  My guess is that there are far more of us than them.  I’d like to highlight a business or two a week, who consents of course.  Maybe they’ll even offer up a gift card or two for me to give away on the blog.  What do you think?  If you own a local business, are a conservative, and want to be spotlighted for our readers, just send me at email at Hillary@ElectWhisler.com!  I’ll post them on a first come, first serve basis.  Of course, I may have to come check out your business, especially if you’re a restaurant.  What?  I like to try new things.  If you know a business owner that could benefit from this, please let them know.

Found This; Love This

If you can’t see the picture well, just Google “Organizational Chart of the House Democrats Health Plan”   It’s really rather amazing.

Sign the Petition, Attend the Meeting…Just Do Something.

Most of what Obama says goes in one ear and out the other, much like the stories my 4 year old tells me.  I know that it’s either a load of crap or some form of fantasy.  So of course when the President promised complete transparency in his administration, I knew it was ridiculous to put much stock in it.  So he said he’d allow CSPAN to cover the Health Care debates, he also said he’d lower taxes.  To quote the Queen herself, “He said a lot of things.”  Speaking of, Nancy, I thought you and Obama were like that (insert crossed fingers).

Most people think they just have to deal with it. “Oh I’ll get out and vote in November.  Then they’ll hear me.”  There is so much that you can do right now.  Why wait?  Let your voice be heard now.

Sign the Petition put out by Tea Party Patriots in support of CSPAN.

Attend the PVRC monthly meeting next Thursday night.  Del Pat McDonough is our key note speaker, but we’ll also have Daniel McAndrew, candidate for US Senate.  If you stay home, you’re missing out on an amazing opportunity to get to know the candidates in your area, including Steve Whisler, Dave “Augie” Aughenbaugh, and Al Nalley who will be on hand to meet and mingle.  Oh and bring a friend, or two, or three.  There is no reason why we shouldn’t be packing out the joint.  Seriously.

Put a little dough in the oven.  There are many excellent candidates that you could support.  Consider writing a check to an individual or a slate.  I know of several, just ask.

Go to Happy Hour tomorrow night.  This is going to rock.  I am super excited.  I’m bring my husband and several friends.  We’re teaming up with our Ho Co peeps at Serafinos in Ellicott City.  Let’s start off this year with a bang, build up the momentum and keep it rolling right on through to VICTORY in 2010!

Of course, don’t forget about the 1/13 March on Annapolis.  I’ll be there.  How about you?
So there, you have no excuses now.  Hope on board and let’s kick some donkey butt (yes I realize they are the same thing).  Are you with me?

A Telling Tale

Below you will find a Letter to the Editor from one, Michel Collins, in regards to recent attempts by the media to harp on the MD GOP’s financial misfortunes.  The leftist media would like you to believe that we’re in the hole due to a simple lack of giving (interpreted into a lack of support), but Michel was bold enough to speak the truth.  Thanks, Mike, for pointing this out.  I actually never knew this, mainly because I’m so new to the whole game.

Dear Editor:
While your in the business of telling the world about the Maryland GOP’s financial problems you might want to tell the reading public what caused the problem.
You know our financial problems were caused by the Democratic legislature when they created district and legislative boundary lines that were favorable to Democrats running for office, which did not comply with the meaning of the law.
Michael Steele had the courage to take the issue to court costing the GOP expensive lawyers fees in a case the judge agreed with.
Maryland’s legislators were overturned and the GOP won a huge victory.  It is a shame the courts did not award attorney’s fees, for the Democrats continued violation of the law.
Michael Steele did what he thought was right and paid the bill.  Unfortunately, the elections board, filled with Democrats, singled out the GOP for taking the money in excess of the limit and made us pay it back to Michael.
Next time the Democrats violate the law maybe we should pay back the lawyers with $25 gift cards intended for the needy and then the donation could be tax deductible.
No that is not right.  We will just follow the law and continue to fight for our right to have fair elections in a one sided town.

J Michel Collins
Reisterstown, Md 21136
443 844 5213
4Th District BCRCC