The Stem Cell Debate

The recent controversy surrounding Michael J. Fox and Rush Limbaugh has awakened my opinions on stem cell research. This is a political hot potato of gigantic proportions. In case you don't know, stem cell research is most effective when using the cells of a fetus. It allows researches to grow new cells and create effective treatments for a variety of illnesses, it is believed that if this research is allowed we can develop a cure for Parkinson's, diabetes and numerous other crippling illnesses. (In the light of fairness I should say at this point that I do have diabetes.) Because of the fetal tissue issue some people are strongly against this type of research (some but not all Repulicans)and some are for it (some but not all Democrats). The general argument of those oppossed is that since fetal tissue is the key, aborted fetuses will be used to supply these cells and that will cause an increase in abortions. I do not think an abortion is the answer to anything but I believe strongly that it is not my place to decide for another person what they will or won't do with their body. Babies are aborted in this country everyday and their bodies are discarded in the trash. Abortion is legal, it does not matter what you think of it, it is legal. I cannot understand why people are oppossed to using these stem cells for the betterment of mankind. I don't believe even one young lady will get an abortion simply to supply stem cells, there are plenty of fetuses being aborted now to furnish the researchers. In every election politicians fear the religous right, that is why even Democrats run to the middle during an election. In this case the religous right are wrong, but they have taken a stand and won't back down. The American people need to be heard on this topic and the only way to be heard is the ballot box.

The BEST show on Television

STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP
Look, everyone has an opinion and most of them are different, but this show is incredible. It is about the production of a late night weekly comedy show such as "Mad TV" or "Saturday Night Live". It is written by a genius team headed by Aaron Sorkin, the man who created "The West Wing". The acting is incredible, their is a chemistry you rarely ever see on television. As good as the team was that Sorkin put together for "The West Wing", this team is better. I believe their is 0 chance this show won't win Emmy after Emmy for superior everything. The show stars Matthew Perry from "Friends", Bradley Whitford (Josh) from "The West Wing" and Amanda Peet. The cast is rounded out by such great actors as Steven Weber, D.L. Hughley and so many others. If you have missed the first four episodes and have a video I-Pod or download from I-Tunes you can download the shows you missed. In any event don't miss anymore. At some point you will be asking yourself why?

Politics of Perversion

Another first Tuesday in November is rapidly approaching and the political "noise" is at an all time frenzy. I can only imagine how it will be in two years when the next presidential election takes place. I hate sounding and feeling bitter and cynical when it comes to politics but I guess I have been around long enough to see what is really happening. Republicans run to the far right, Democrats run to the center and both will say anything to get elected. That is the secret of politics get elected and then pander to your base. The way the congress is designed you must run with the pack if you want to stay. You must follow the leadership of your party if you want to get anything done for the people you specifically represent, and you must master the five second sound bite that insults and denigrates anyone who does not view things the way you and your machine do. Today's politicians politisize everything from the insignificant to the important. "I am for the soldiers but am against the war", "I believe in the tradition of the Statue of Liberty, but let's put a fence on the border", and the oldie but goodie from Washington "money, money, MONEY" and yet what we get as citizens is "Money For Nothing". So come election day I will hold my nose, close my eyes and vote, because after all, like the politicians on the ballot, I am a patriot.

"Love" by Cirque Du Soleil / Elton John "The Red Piano"

Just got back from Vegas and was lucky enought to see the show "Love" at the Mirage. If you are a Beatles fan this is a do not miss event. In typical Cirque Du Soleil fashion it is a collection of acrobats and artists performing to specific music. In this case the sounds of the Beatles. I must say the show was outstanding, they use a very diverse collection of Beatles music and overlay some great action and visuals to make you experience the songs in a new (yet old) way. Most importantly to me, the music is handled with a great amount of respect. If your in Vegas, check it out and I am sure you will have a great time.


The second show I saw in Vegas was Elton John's "The Red Piano", outstanding show with great interaction with the audience and lot's of the old stuff that made him famous. Giant screens behind the band showed great visuals with everything from Justin Timberlake playing a young Elton, to a spooky realistic Marilyn Monroe, to a pole dancing, almost totally nude Pam Anderson dancing to "Bitch is Back. Very enjoyable evening, once you get past the five dollar bottles of water and the eight dollar beers it is a great night.