COMPARING "OBAMACARE" TO NAZI GERMANY IS OFFENSIVE AND DISGUSTING. WHAT THE HELL WAS SENATOR TED CRUZ THINKING?

     There HAVE BEEN disgraceful people in politics...and there ARE disgraceful people in politics.  And then there is Republican Senator Rafael Edward "Ted" Cruz of Texas - one of perhaps the top 10 of all disgraceful politicians.  

     Now I have no intention of discussing at length...Senator Cruz's fake filibuster...which was a pointless speech...since the Republicans didn't have the votes anyway...to defund The Affordable Care Act...which is the law of the land...will always be the law of the land...and will never be defunded.  Besides...Cruz's "talk-a-thon" was merely a publicity stunt...that began on Tuesday afternoon, September 24th, 2013... and was designed to advance Cruz's own career and give himself exposure to voters in "The Lone Star State"...and all across the country.  But instead...all Cruz did with his marathon protest of "Obamacare"...was shoot himself in the foot...as even other Republicans called his jibber-jabber a joke...that was totally nonsensical.

     Despite his words that "I intend to speak in support of defunding 'Obamacare' until I am no longer able to stand"...Senator Cruz's statement was bogus.  After all, it was a pre-negotiated arrangement between the 42-year old freshman senator and the 73-year old Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid... Democrat of Nevada...that required Cruz to stop talking by 12 o'clock noon on Wednesday September 25th.  Therefore, it wasn't a filibuster at all...since a filibuster - by definition - is to delay a vote...and in this situation...there was no possibility of delaying anything.  And when all was said and done...as odd as his phony filibuster was...after opposing any government funding for The Affordable Care Act...Cruz voted several hours later - along with 99 other Senators from both the Democratic and Republican parties - to move ahead on a spending plan that would avoid a partial government shutdown this coming week...and that would not defund "Obamacare."  The rare 100 to zero vote means that the measure can be amended by Senate Democrats to restore funding for President Obama's healthcare reforms...which had been eliminated on September 20th by Republicans in the House of Representatives.  The bottom line...Senator Cruz verbally pummeled and pelted a bill for 21 hours and 19 minutes...that in the end...he passed with the rest of the Senate.  What a waste of time!

     The exercise that will accomplish nothing...continued Saturday night, September 28th when the House - early Sunday morning, September 29th - voted in favor of a temporary spending bill so that the federal government won't shutdown as the clock strikes midnight...going from Monday, September 30th in to Tuesday, October 1st...but that includes a one-year delay for "Obamacare."  The Senate, however, will act during the day on Monday...but leaders insist...that they won't accept the House plan...and will reject any postponement of the Affordable Care Act.

     Republicans are continuing to make matters
worse...for themselves...as a party...and for the country...as a whole.  Republicans have got to know that President Obama is not going to budge...and, therefore, there is no possibility of the President postponing "Obamacare."  And he shouldn't.  Mr. Obama is not going to compromise...when it comes to the law itself.  And he shouldn't.  The President bargained and haggled before the Affordable Care Act became law...and he was basically forced to give in on elements of the bill that he wanted to include...but the President negotiated and came to terms...in order for the ACA to pass.  Come this Monday...the Senate is not going to agree with the House...on their latest plan...and even if they did - which we know they are not going to - President Obama would veto it.

     House Republicans just don't get it.  When will they finally understand that The Affordable Care Act is going to provide millions of Americans access to healthcare...that without "Obamacare"...they would not be able to afford?  In a word...that's extraordinary!  Children and young adults can stay on their parents' health insurance policies until they reach the age of 26.  That's spectacular!  And then there's my favorite part of the law...that those of us with pre-existing conditions...can get insurance...and nobody...NOBODY...can ever say again..."Because of illnesses in your past...we can't insure you."  For me...and for so many others...that is by far the single best ingredient of the "Obamacare" package.  That's phenomenal!  The President is phenomenal!  And I thank you, Mr. President.

     Those are just a few of the many, many positive reasons that Republicans should in no way be arguing against The Affordable Care Act.  But President Obama...this past week...may have hit the nail on the head...as to why people such as Senator Cruz and others...oppose the President's glowing achievement.  It's quite possible that Cruz has made such a stink about "Obamacare"...and he and others don't want the law to move forward... because they don't want Americans who may be uncertain right now...to begin thinking that The Affordable Care Act is the greatest thing since sliced bread.  

President Obama commented that he knows... that Senator Cruz knows...that "It's gonna prove almost impossible to undue 'Obamacare'"...so Cruz and the Republicans have "gotta shut this thing down...before people find out that they like it."  The fact of the matter is...I am quite confident...that any American who opposes The Affordable Care Act today...is eventually going to support "Obamacare"...and - along with those who are currently uninsured - are going to praise President Obama...for giving the United States a program...that gives every single American...expanded access to get health insurance. 


     But what irks me the most...is that Senator Cruz had compared "Obamacare" (which the President has no problem with that name...and affectionately calls it)...to Nazi Germany.  For the "Tea Party" Texan to equate the killing of 6 million Jews to the defunding of the nation's healthcare law is coldhearted, insensitive and reprehensible.  How dare Cruz use The Holocaust and the despicable, deplorable and detestable acts of Adolf Hitler in the same breath...as anything that is connected to President Obama.

     Theodor Seuss Geisel...fondly, if not lovingly known as "Dr. Seuss" to perhaps billions of children worldwide...throughout nearly a century...is spinning in his grave today...that one of the most beloved "bedtime stories"...Green Eggs and Ham...would be part of a political presentation... that also included a poor parallel between the nation's healthcare law...and the abuse and death caused by Adolf Hitler.   

     Cruz called "Obamacare"..."a train wreck."  No, Senator Cruz...you're the train wreck.  The Senator...other Republicans...and anybody else who may oppose The Affordable Care Act...have the right to speak their minds...and attempt - albeit an effort in futility - to defund a law that gives 30 million Americans a way to make their lives better with health insurance.  But for anybody to make reference to arguably the single worst human being ever to walk the soil of the planet Earth - no, wait a second...Hitler was an animal...a vicious and ferocious beast...not a human being - anyway...for Senator Cruz to include Adolf Hitler's horrendous acts of peril...with any analogy whatsoever... to the President of the United States...and Mr. Obama's signature piece of legislation....not only disturbs me...but sickens me.

     "If you go to the 1940s...Nazi Germany," Cruz said. "Look, we saw in Britain...Neville Chamberlain...who told the British people...'Accept the Nazis.  Yes, they'll dominate the continent of Europe...but that's not our problem.  Let's appease them.  Why?  Because it can't be done.  We can't possibly stand against them.'"

     Why have so few Americans - whether private
citizens...or people in the public eye - come forward
to blast Senator Ted Cruz for his offensive and nauseating remark.  I am generally not a political fan of Senator John McCain.  But the Arizona Republican is a true hero...having fought in the Vietnam War...where he was tortured as a prisoner of war for six years between 1967 and 1973...after his plane was shot down during a bombing run over the North Vietnamese capital of Hanoi.

Retiring from the United States Navy in 1981...Captain McCain deservedly earned the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and the Distinguished Flying Cross.  But I applaud this honorable American patriot, Senator John McCain...not only for his bravery, his incredible courage and his acts of valor during the Vietnam War...but for standing tall on the Senate floor...and lambasting his Republican colleague, Senator Cruz...and ripping him apart...for his offensive and abhorrent words...during his faux-filibuster rant.

     "I resoundingly reject (Senator Cruz's) allegation," McCain said.  "That allegation...in my view...does a great disservice...a great disservice for those brave Americans and those who stood up and said, 'What's happening in Europe cannot stand.'"  McCain went on to say, "There were many who raised their voices...and then there were those who went to war because of the barbaric and great threats to civilization and everything we stand for - amongst them were my father and grandfather (both of whom were four-star admirals in the U.S. Navy).  I do not agree with (Senator Cruz's) comparison.  I think it's wrong.  I do not begrudge Senator Cruz...or any other Senator...who wants to come and talk...as long as they want to...as long as they can...depending on the rules of the Senate.  But I do disagree strongly... to allege that there are people today...who are like those who...prior to World War II...didn't stand up and oppose the atrocities that were taking place in Europe."

     Senator Cruz is either the most uneducated man to ever to take the oath of office as a United States Senator or he is just cruel and heartless...plain and simple.  How ignorant can he be to match the opportunity of giving health insurance to Americans who should rightfully be able to purchase affordable healthcare...against a diabolical dictator and the venomous evils that he spewed upon the world?  Senator Cruz needs to either go back to high school 

and take a history class...or at the very least...
watch the Steven Spielberg, Oscar-winning Best
Picture, Schindler's List.  Perhaps the Senator might learn something.  In any event...I think Senator Ted Cruz owes an apology - to not only every Jew in America...every Jew in the world - but to all good and decent people.  Better still...while you're at it, Senator...how about apologizing...to everyone.

     And that's The Controversy for today.

     But before I sign-off...a footnote.  Tomorrow...September 30th, 2013...is my 40th anniversary as a media professional.  It was September 30th, 1973...when I narrated a documentary for the Keep America Beautiful Fund.  It was the first time that I was paid...to...(as my mom would say)..."use my voice."  Over the last four decades...my career has taken a journey throughout radio and television broadcasting - as a local and nationally syndicated talk show host...as a news anchorman and reporter...and as a voice-over announcer and narrator.  My adventure has challenged me...as a journalist...as a writer for on-the-air programming and the Internet.  And as I have traveled through the world of broadcasting and entertainment - in both national and local radio and network television...as a writer, as a producer, as a station manager and as an on-air personality...I have had the great fortune of meeting...working with...and/or interviewing...some of the biggest names in show business...in politics...and in all walks of life.  It has been a voyage with ups and downs...but I continue to focus...on the positive.  And I hope...that my dedication and devotion to my craft... along with my credibility, integrity and high moral character...will prove that with hard work... all my dreams will come true.  I wish this for myself.  I wish this for each of you. 

     I'm Gary B. Duglin.

     "We'll talk again."

The Controversy is a publication of GBD Productions.  Founder and Editor-In-Chief of The Controversy is Gary B. Duglin.  

The Controversy will make an effort to publish a new commentary every Sunday.  Unscheduled essays may appear, from time to time, on other days as well.

Please express your opinions in the comment box below.  You do not have to register your name and you can remain anonymous if you prefer.  The Controversy wants to know your views on the essay above and on any other commentaries written on this blog.  Just click on the word "Comments" below and write your thoughts in the box that appears.  Make sure please that when you finish your statement that you click on the word "Publish."  Thank you for your thoughts and thank you for reading The Controversy.

Copyright 2013 Gary B. Duglin and TheControversy.net.  All Rights Reserved.

HOW MANY MORE PEOPLE NEED TO DIE BEFORE A GUN CONTROL LAW IS PASSED? WE HAVE GOT TO GET THE GUNS.

     Unless you've been living in a cave this past week...you obviously are well aware of the tragedy that struck two of America's major cities...when mass shootings brought death to 12 people...and injury to 8 others in our nation's capital on Monday...and 13 people - including a 3-year old boy - were wounded in our country's third largest metropolis on Thursday.  Innocent victims... whose lives were either ended...or dreadfully damaged...by the bullets of guns...that were sprayed intentionally...by murderous madmen...for no other reason...but to kill other human beings.

     It is not my intention, however...to "report the news" of these evil events...or to write about "what happened"...but instead...to express my thoughts...with one point...and one point only - WE HAVE GOT TO GET THE GUNS.

     I would be remiss, though, if I did not convey my thoughts and prayers to the families and loved ones...of those American patriots...whose lives were struck down...when a mentally ill, deranged gunman...shot them to death...at the Washington Navy Yard on September 16th, 2013...and to those who were hurt by that same vicious villain...plus to those Chicago citizens...who on September 19th...during an evening of pleasurable leisure... while rooting for their team at a friendly neighborhood "pick-up" basketball game...at a park on the south side of "The Windy City"...were harmed - some critically - when up to 3 male gang members...opened fire...with a high caliber, semi-automatic rifle.  The suspects in the Chicago shooting are still at large, but Aaron Alexis - who authorities believe was the lone shooter at the Washington Navy Yard - was killed during a gun battle with police.  Fortunately...and miraculously... none of the victims - including basketball players and spectators - at the Chicago park suffered any life-threatening injuries.

     My sentiments towards those who were wounded...and to those who lost relatives and friends...are sincere and genuine.  But it upsets me...and frustrates me...that I must again write about the senseless massacres...of human life.

     How many times...must we as a nation...have to witness the slaughter of innocent people?  The carnage must stop.  WE HAVE GOT TO GET THE GUNS.

     On December 14th, 2012...I'm sure all of you will recall that 20-year old Adam Lanza fatally shot 20 children and 6 adult educators in a mass murder at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.  Lanza later committed suicide by shooting himself in the head.  

     President Obama proposed tighter federal gun laws after Sandy Hook, but Congress refuses to pass any gun control bill.  What is it going to take...if the heartbreaking murders of 20 little first-grade kids didn't do it...in order for our country to establish a law to get rid of the guns?  Is it all about money?  The fact of the matter is that selling, buying and owning guns are not just a Constitutional right, but millions...if not billions of dollars are at stake...if a gun control law is passed.  But so what?  It's disgraceful to think that Congress is protecting an industry - not to mention the National Rifle Association - because of the big bucks - the financial profits - that would be lost if a stringent gun control bill became law.  What about the lives that are lost...and will continue to be lost until the American public stands up and shouts that we are not going to put up with the demands of the NRA...and the killings by sociopathic psychotics?  How can our elected officials - and any decent human beings - care more about making money...than losing lives?

     This can no longer be a liberal versus conservative issue.  It can no more be a matter where Democrats think one way...and Republicans think another.  This should...and must be...a concern by everyone...as this is a problem that affects ALL AMERICANS...ALL HUMAN BEINGS.  We must make our communities safe.  WE HAVE GOT TO GET THE GUNS.

     This country must join forces - Democrats, Republicans and Independents...liberals and conservatives...Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists and all who believe in God or don't believe in God...all who have faith in a supreme being or who are agnostic or atheist...people whose skin color is white, black, brown, yellow or red...heterosexuals, homosexuals and bi-sexuals...men, women and children...everyone who proudly calls America their home - we must ALL...FINALLY, FINALLY, FINALLY...put a STOP...to the sick individuals...who are able to walk on to a school playground...into a restaurant...a park...a movie theater...a Navy Yard...or anywhere else...and commit mass murder.

     The President of the United States...Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives...state and local politicians, law enforcement officers and everyone from school teachers to sanitation workers...from doctors to lawyers...from supermarket clerks and gas station attendants to corporate executives and religious leaders...no matter what your belief is or what your economic status is...WE HAVE GOT TO GET THE GUNS.

     I noted at the outset that I would not use today's commentary to discuss the specifics of the two shootings this past week.  But my views would not be complete...if I did not briefly question some important elements regarding the violent invasion of the Washington Navy Yard by a man who sought out help... and who knew - at least part of him knew - that he needed assistance...with his mental health.

     Who dropped the ball?  Who - or more importantly - how many people are responsible...for giving Aaron Alexis - a former sailor with behavioral problems - a secret level security clearance...to enter a United States military installation?  Red flags should have been raised over and over and over again...and yet - for some strange reason - they were not.
 
     Pentagon and law enforcement records reportedly reflect a pattern of misconduct by Alexis - in and out of the U.S. Navy - yet after leaving the service...he was provided access to military bases as a Defense Department contractor who handled information technology jobs.  He had been arrested twice for shooting incidents - in 2004 and 2010 - but was never prosecuted or convicted.  As a result...he was not prevented from purchasing the shotgun that he used to kill or wound a total of 20 people at the Washington Navy Yard.

     I'm puzzled as to why the owner of the Virginia gun shop - who sold Alexis the shotgun on the Saturday before his rampage - didn't contact police...when Alexis inquired about buying an assault rifle.  After all...the store refused to sell Alexis the weapon.  Therefore...if a man purchases a shotgun...but also wants to spend money on an assault rifle...wouldn't that raise some eyebrows?  I certainly would want to know the reason why an individual would want to make such a purchase. 

     In August 2013 - just a month ago - Alexis reportedly contacted police in Newport, Rhode Island and told the cops that people were following him and that he was "hearing voices."  He also accused his "stalkers" of using a "microwave machine" to "send vibrations in to (his) body."  The Newport Police reportedly advised local Navy authorities, but apparently the information was never sent up the chain of command...and police in Newport stated that they could not arrest Alexis... just because he was "hearing voices."  Alexis then went to a Veterans Affairs hospital, but according to officials there, he only complained of not being able to sleep...but failed to mention "hearing voices."  Doctors at the V.A. gave Alexis a prescription medicine...and sent him on his way.  

     How was this 34-year old man...with a history of angry outbursts...who struggled with mental health issues for nearly 10 years...able to retain a valid I.D...which permitted him to drive right through the main gate of the Washington Navy Yard...with a sawed-off shotgun hidden in his car?  How did a background check not reveal Alexis' troublesome past...before granting him a security clearance?  We must expand background checks for anyone and everyone who buys a gun.  Universal background checks will help to close some of the gaps in our system - including on-line sales and gun show loopholes.  We, as Americans, need to tell Congress - and force Congress - by our letters, telephone calls, e-mails, tweets - and, if necessary, our votes in the mid-term election - that every single person who wants to buy a gun must thoroughly be investigated.  President Obama has appealed to the good senses of Senators and House Representatives, but they have not listened to him.  We must get them to listen to us.  

     With Aaron Alexis...there were so many signs...so many red flags that could have prevented devastation at the Washington Navy Yard.  If someone had just paid attention to one of them...12 people - no, 13 including Aaron Alexis himself - would more than likely be alive today.  My goodness...a mentally ill person with military security clearance and an access to guns...a 5-year old child could figure out...that's a lethal combination. 

      To those of you who do not support a gun control law in this country... what is it about death...at the hands of a savagely disturbed and demented demon...do you not understand?  I am not going to attack the National Rifle Association...or any American...who has the right under the United States Constitution...to own a gun.  However...if our Founding Fathers had a crystal ball...and could have seen in to the future...back in the late 1700s...would we have a 2nd Amendment?  

Would the likes of Washington, Adams, Jefferson and Madison...have allowed

 
U.S. citizens...to own, or - worse than that - carry a gun...if they knew then...what we know today?  When are those of you... who recognizably are law abiding citizens...who legally own guns - some of you who holster a sidearm when you merely take out the garbage or go grocery shopping - and most of which support the NRA - going to realize...that each and every American MUST support a gun control law that will rid the streets of illegal guns and stop the horrific acts of depraved homicidal degenerates?  From pistols to shotguns...from revolvers to rifles...from military-style weapons that belong on a battlefield to guns of any kind that are obtained by twisted, warped and manical monsters...who brutally blast their way through the north, south, east and west of our civilized nation...we must totally terminate shooting sprees...by gang mobsters...by homegrown terrorists...and by barbaric beasts.  We must put an end...to the executions of a multitude of people...or even a single man, woman or child...in the backyards of America's heartland...or on the concourse of cosmopolitan centers.  I just hope that those of you...who do legally own a gun...and those of us who would never put our finger on a trigger...can all get together...to find a way...to end the tragedies...and bloody massacres of death...by bullets.  WE HAVE GOT TO GET THE GUNS.

     And that's The Controversy for today.

     I'm Gary B. Duglin.

     "We'll talk again."
  

The Controversy is a publication of GBD Productions.  Founder and Editor-In-Chief of The Controversy is Gary B. Duglin.  

The Controversy will make an effort to publish a new commentary every Sunday.  Unscheduled essays may appear, from time to time, on other days as well.

Please express your opinions in the comment box below.  You do not have to register your name and you can remain anonymous if you prefer.  The Controversy wants to know your views on the essay above and on any other commentaries written on this blog.  Just click on the word "Comments" below and write your thoughts in the box that appears.  Make sure please that when you finish your statement that you click on the word "Publish."  Thank you for your thoughts and thank you for reading The Controversy.

Copyright 2013 Gary B. Duglin and TheControversy.net.  All Rights Reserved.

GEORGE ZIMMERMAN NEEDS TO STAY OUT OF THE SPOTLIGHT AND NOT PARADE AROUND AS SOME SORT OF STAR...WHICH HE IS NOT.

  

   George Zimmerman is not a celebrity.  Oh I understand that by definition...a celebrity is "a famous or well-known person"...but the reasons that Zimmerman is "famous" and "well-known"...surely do not represent what most people think of when we envision "a celebrity."  Yet the media continues to splash his name and face all over the airwaves, on cable systems, in newspapers and magazines, and throughout the Internet.  As a result...in order to express my views on this subject...I...as a member of the media...unfortunately have to exercise the same action...and spell out Zimmerman's name throughout my commentary in today's column.

     Why do we care that George Zimmerman was allegedly involved in an altercation with his estranged wife and her father?  Police in Lake Mary, Florida reportedly stated that Shellie Zimmerman called 911 on Monday afternoon, September 9th, 2013 and that she was frightened for her life.  "I'm really, really afraid.  I don't know what he's capable of.  I'm really, really scared," she told a 911 dispatcher.  Shellie Zimmerman also informed authorities that her husband was threatening her and her dad with a revolver...and that George Zimmerman had "his hand on his gun and he keeps saying step closer...and he's going to shoot us."  

     But later...George Zimmerman's attorney, Mark O'Mara insisted that his client didn't threaten anyone with any pistol.  "The gun was holstered under his shirt...and it stayed there the whole time."  The question, of course is...who do we believe?  But then again...why do we care?  After all...there are domestic disputes everyday...in major cities and small towns...all across the United States...and they don't get covered by network news organizations and other media outlets nationwide.  What intrigues the press...and quite frankly, so many Americans throughout the country...to find interest in anything that involves George Zimmerman?

     According to Shellie Zimmerman...George Zimmerman destroyed an iPad that recorded the domestic dispute.  But law enforcement officials in Lake Mary say the iPad is in such bad shape...that it's too difficult for criminal analysts to obtain any video, which would have captured the blow-up between the couple.  Police have, therefore, placed their investigation on hold since nobody was hurt...there is no clear evidence to arrest anyone...and - as odd as it may be - neither side wants to file charges against the other.  Officials have stated that the investigation could be revived if additional facts are discovered or if video from the smashed iPad can be extracted.

     As most everyone is aware...George Zimmerman became known to the American public...when - as a neighborhood watch commander - he admitted to killing Trayvon Martin...when he shot the teenager to death...during a confrontation on February 26th, 2012...in a gated community...in Sanford, Florida.  Zimmerman was charged with second-degree murder, but pleaded "not guilty"...asserting he fired his gun in self-defense.  He was acquitted by a trial jury on July 13th, 2013.  Shellie Zimmerman claims she separated from her husband about a month later.  She filed for divorce just days before their domestic brawl.

     Prior to the embroiled disturbance between Zimmerman and his wife...he was in the news in late August...when Zimmerman visited a Florida gun factory.  Now for those of you who did not hear about this story...or only know bits and pieces...let me fill you in on the disgusting details.  

     Reportedly...Zimmerman was shopping for a new shotgun.  But the drama continues...and gets worse and worse.  TMZ photographed Zimmerman at the factory...which...believe it or not - and yes, believe it - is the same company that makes the weapon that Zimmerman used to kill Trayvon Martin.

     First of all...why on God's green Earth...would Zimmerman venture out on a shopping spree to buy a new gun...so soon after his high profile courtroom case?  Secondly...why would he go on such an outing...with photographers apparently tailing him everywhere he goes?  And thirdly...why would Zimmerman take a picture...while grinning from ear to ear...and flaunting himself that he's at the gun factory...that built the weapon...that he used to kill Trayvon Martin?  How can such an individual be so egotistical...so conceited...to pose for such a photo?  It's totally and completely beyond belief.

     The picture of Zimmerman shaking hands with an employee of the factory is reminiscent of photographs we have all seen in restaurants...when an entertainment, sports or political superstar dines at the eatery...and then takes a picture with the proprietor.  Why would anyone want to brag about having a photo-op with a man who took the life of a 17-year old kid?

     The controversial decision for Zimmerman to visit the gun factory was widely criticized by his legal team...and even though attorney Mark O'Mara came to Zimmerman's rescue...and spoke on his behalf during the domestic dispute between George and Shellie Zimmerman in September...Zimmerman's lawyers have distanced themselves from their client, as if he was "Typhoid Mary."  The defense counselors wanted no connection with the photograph displayed above or with Zimmerman's actions that represent that picture.  A spokesman for attorney O'Mara released a very descriptive statement, which in no way supports Zimmerman.  "We certainly would not have advised him to go to the factory that made the gun that he used to shoot Trayvon Martin through the heart.  We got the verdict that we believe is just...and the rest of George's life...is up to George."

     The picture of George Zimmerman at the gun factory...wants us to believe that Zimmerman is a hero.  The photo wants us to believe that George Zimmerman is to be compared to the courageous local police officer who perhaps saved the life of a child who had been held hostage by a kidnapper or mass murderer...or the brave firefighter who rescued a kid from a burning building.  That picture makes me want to vomit.  

     George Zimmerman is the farthest thing from a hero.  It is disgraceful that anyone would want to equate Zimmerman to a person who is respected, revered or idolized.  He killed an unarmed teenager without any justifiable reason.  Whether you agree or disagree with the jury verdict...whether you think or don't think that George Zimmerman got away with murder...he still is responsible for the death of Trayvon Martin.  Oh yes...you can quibble with me over the specifics that led up to the fatal gunshot...since nobody but George Zimmerman knows what really happened on that tragic night back in February of 2012.  But no matter how it happened...no matter what the circumstances were...or whether you believe Zimmerman was right in doing what he did...by pursuing Trayvon Martin...by disobeying the orders of a 911 dispatcher when Zimmerman was clearly told that he should not chase after the young man...to leave the teenager alone...and to wait for police to investigate...despite all of these things...George Zimmerman still put a bullet into the body of an unarmed teenager...and killed him with a gun that was manufactured...at the same factory...where Zimmerman visited and posed for photos.  It sickens me that he would make a spectacle of himself in such a fashion with the untimely and reckless loss of Trayvon Martin remaining an open wound to his family, friends and numerous others all across America.

     George Zimmerman is walking the streets today...and is not in prison... because of a technicality of the laws in the state of Florida.  It is true that a jury did in fact find Zimmerman to be "not guilty" of any crime when he shot Trayvon Martin...but George Zimmerman is not by any means...or by any stretch of the word...innocent.  And in no way, shape, matter or form...should he ever be embraced...as a hero.  

     It's just possible...that someday...George Zimmerman's fame...or more accurately, his notoriety...and the gun that he carries...just may get him in to more trouble.  If he was smart... really smart...George Zimmerman should get rid of his lethal hardware...keep his nose clean...stay out of the limelight... and become a model citizen... unknown to the world.  Otherwise, next time...when his arrogance...and his gun...overpower any intelligence he may have...George Zimmerman may find himself...behind bars.  

Should we remind him of O.J. Simpson?






     And that's The Controversy for today.

     I'm Gary B. Duglin.

     "We'll talk again."

The Controversy is a publication of GBD Productions.  Founder and Editor-In-Chief of The Controversy is Gary B. Duglin.  

The Controversy will make an effort to publish a new commentary every Sunday.  Unscheduled essays may appear, from time to time, on other days as well.

Please express your opinions in the comment box below.  You do not have to register your name and you can remain anonymous if you prefer.  The Controversy wants to know your views on the essay above and on any other commentaries written on this blog.  Just click on the word "Comments" below and write your thoughts in the box that appears.  Make sure please that when you finish your statement that you click on the word "Publish."  Thank you for your thoughts and thank you for reading The Controversy.

Copyright 2013 Gary B. Duglin and TheControversy.net.  All Rights Reserved.

A BOSTONIAN NAMED BEN AS BATMAN. WHY ALL THE BROUHAHA?

     Generally, I write about serious subjects that, at times, boil my blood and inflame many of you who agree with me or disagree with me.   Today, however, I thought I'd have a little fun with my commentary and discuss an issue that for some reason or another seems to be getting a lot of people riled up throughout the United States and around the globe.  And quite frankly...I don't know what all the fuss is about, or - for that matter - why anybody really cares.  It is quite apparent, though, that a tremendous amount of Americans - not to mention a great deal more people worldwide - have too much free time on their hands.

     No, they're not upset about the economy, about what's going on in Syria or any other major issue facing our country and our planet today - (although of course they probably are) - but believe it or not, millions of people across the nation and around the Earth...are making an unbelievable stink...to the answer that HE...is going to be the next...BATMAN.  And to borrow a line that may be used on the television game show, Jeopardy..."Who is Ben Affleck?"  But I have another question to ask.  The overwhelming concern over what actor is going to don Batman's cape and cowl...actually matters...HOW?

     I debated with myself whether to devote an entire column on the casting of Ben Affleck as The Caped Crusader in the new Man Of Steel sequel, which is rumored to be titled Superman vs. Batman...with Henry Cavill reprising his role as the Kryptonian Kal-El.  But after reading...or at least seeing thousands... yes, literally thousands and thousands of comments - most of which are unkind and downright heartless remarks about Ben Affleck playing the part of Batman - I needed to put in my two cents...for whatever it's worth.

     What is it that has incensed more than 90,000 fans to sign a petition calling for Affleck to be removed from the motion picture project?  From network news reports to blogs and elsewhere...opinions are being expressed to get rid of the two-time Oscar winner and to re-cast the role of Batman with someone who is less famous...or...perhaps with another Hollywood superstar.  

     For months it had been rumored that Warner Bros. was leaning towards Ryan Gosling to take on the Bob Kane creation...and as a longtime fan of Gosling's, I would have applauded that selection.  But what is wrong with the pick of Ben Affleck?  What is it about Affleck that is enraging fans?  Why the barrage of offensive opinions before Affleck even speaks a word on screen?  Quite frankly, it puzzles me that bloggers have written such cruel comments about Affleck including..."This is the dumbest choice."  "This movie is going to be a disaster."  And..."I'd rather pay to see the Aflac duck play the part...than Ben Affleck."

   

  As a kid, I grew up watching Adam West and Burt Ward as The Dynamic Duo on the ABC television series of the mid 1960s...and I still enjoy watching the reruns in syndication nearly 50 years later on MeTV.  For me...Adam West's portrayal of The Caped Crusader...is and will always be the best.  

But, in the interest of full disclosure...I was fortunate to work with Adam when he was my special guest on my nationally syndicated radio program, Gary B. Duglin Talks With The Stars...and although I would not be so bold to say Adam and I are friends...I can say we enjoyed several hours of friendly fun together...and Adam's "Batman"...is number one in my book.  That being said...those of you who are already critical of the Ben Affleck appointment as the latest Batman seem to forget that the 41-year old Academy Award winning writer (Good Will Hunting) and producer (Argo), who also won the Golden Globe Award for directing (Argo)...is an ACTOR...and as it is with ALL ACTORS...they portray a role that is written and directed.

     There are many actors - who in the public's eyes - would never be able to pull off the part they had been designated to play.  Take Heath Ledger.  Many film fans could in no way imagine Ledger as The Joker.  So there was tremendous disapproval when the Oscar winning Ledger was chosen to wear the white-face make-up in The Dark Knight.  But the late Ledger put his brand, style and talent in to the character...and he triumphed as Batman's diabolical and vicious villain.  

     I can recall numerous times over the years - with motion pictures and with television - when everyone from the professional reviewers to the everyday moviegoer or TV watcher...had thought a particular actor would bomb as a character...and they turned around and made the part their own...and therefore, were extremely successful with it.  

     Case in point was when the so-called "know-it-alls" vehemently ranted about William Shatner being cast as attorney, Denny Crane - first appearing in 5 episodes of the long running David E. Kelley legal drama, The Practice  - for which Shatner won an Emmy Award...and then...as the 

star - (along with the captivating James Spader) - in the smash megahit...and one of my all-time favorite shows...Boston Legal - for which Shatner won another Emmy and a Golden Globe Award for his brilliant performance as the egomaniacal, sexually ravenous, womanizing, bigwig lawyer.  However, prior to the numerous accolades that he received, I recall reading remarks and hearing comments that the television audience would - at that point in his acting career - never accept Shatner for playing anything other than Captain James T. Kirk, which of course Shatner was best known...from the television series Star Trek and its many motion picture sequels.  

     The awesome cast of Boston Legal - including James Spader, William Shatner, Candace Bergen and John Larroquette - to name only a few...was perhaps one of the most spectacular ensembles ever to be created for television.  Spader's courtroom monologues...as lawyer, Alan Shore...were some of the finest speeches...of any actor...from any television show...or from any movie...since feature length "talkies" 

began in 1927 with Al Jolson and The Jazz Singer.  But the phenomenal performances of William Shatner as Denny Crane will go down in history as one of Hollywood's outstanding character portrayals.  As impressive as each actor was in Boston Legal...without the character of Denny Crane...and without William Shatner's richly compelling and commanding force...making Denny come alive...there would have been no Boston Legal.  The friendship and "bromance" between Denny Crane and Alan Shore was by far the best buddy-pair ever created.  But as stupendous as David E. Kelley is for dreaming up such an "odd" couple... without the actors themselves - Spader and Shatner - interpreting those roles - as each of them did - Boston Legal would have not been a top-rated comedy-drama...and it never would have lasted for 5 superb seasons.

     Nobody - at least no one outside of the show business elite - ever expected Bryan Cranston to be good...in Breaking Bad...especially after playing the wholesome dad in the light, family sitcom...Malcolm In The Middle.  But...as the dangerously frightening and pathologically self-deluded Walter White...Cranston has won 3 Emmy Awards...and he has cemented himself as one of the most durable actors in television.  And like William Shatner and Bryan Cranston...Ben Affleck - and all the stars that shine in the galaxy known as Hollywood - are ACTORS.  Do you all understand that?  They are ACTORS.  And they can play all sorts of parts.

     Let's give Ben Affleck a chance.  If those of you are correct...who think he will be "awful" - as one person penned on an Internet blog - then I'll give you your..."I told you so."  But until then...let the guy make his movie.  Ben Affleck is a star who has achieved much more in a short span of time than most people in the entertainment industry accomplish throughout an entire career.  It's true that not all of Affleck's projects have been hits...but they have not all been flops either.  

     There are very few actors...who every time they come up to the plate...hit a home run.  Tom Hanks is one of the very few in today's world of actors who gives us a first-rate performance every time.  But most actors aren't able to make such a claim.  

      Ben Affleck has been...and will again be...a top-notch thespian...and he has proven himself to reach superior heights as a writer, director and producer.  

Let's see what he can do with the role of the Gotham City crimefighter...before any of you put Affleck in the category of..."he'll never work again in Hollywood."  You may just find that the phrase "I'm Batman"... sounds best....when it's uttered by a Bostonian...named Ben.
     
     And that's The Controversy for today.

     I'm Gary B. Duglin.

     "We'll talk again."      

The Controversy is a publication of GBD Productions.  Founder and Editor-In-Chief of The Controversy is Gary B. Duglin.  

The Controversy will make an effort to publish a new commentary every Sunday.  Unscheduled essays may appear, from time to time, on other days as well.

Please express your opinions in the comment box below.  You do not have to register your name and you can remain anonymous if you prefer.  The Controversy wants to know your views on the essay above and on any other commentaries written on this blog.  Just click on the word "Comments" below and write your thoughts in the box that appears.  Make sure please that when you finish your statement that you click on the word "Publish."  Thank you for your thoughts and thank you for reading The Controversy.

Copyright 2013 Gary B. Duglin and TheControversy.net.  All Rights Reserved.

MILEY CYRUS IS NOT A DISNEY CHILD STAR ANYMORE. THERE'S NO REASON HER PERFORMANCE AT THE VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS IS BEING SO VEHEMENTLY CRITICIZED.

     With both barrels fully loaded...I'm about to shoot up the critics - figuratively speaking, not literally - and blast all of you who feel that Miley Cyrus was misguided, mishandled, out-of-line and at fault with her somewhat sensual performance at the MTV Video Music Awards show on Sunday, August 25th, 2013.

     I'm quite frankly amazed that Miley's stage routine with Robin Thicke has struck a nerve and caused blood to boil for so many people nationwide when sexual innuendo has been conveyed on television by so many other entertainers over the years.

     The Parents Television Council called the act "inappropriate for children" and lambasted the cable network for allowing it to be shown...saying "heads should roll at MTV."  I, on the other hand, am flabbergasted that Miley's musical schtick has provoked such criticism and has raised the eyebrows of so many people on cable television, conservative radio and across the Internet.  One right-wing comment insisted that MTV is helping to destroy western civilization.  Such a remark crosses the line of decency.

     And then we have Rush Limbaugh.  For the nationally syndicated radio talk show host to accuse Miley Cyrus of "this side of onstage pornography" is vicious and wicked. 

 
And for radio broadcaster, Laura Ingraham to attack MTV for contributing to "a moral downward spiral" is unwarranted and unfair.
 
     But it was liberal commentator, Mika Brzezinski who surprised me the most with her reaction...as she vented her opinions saying Miley Cyrus is "deeply disturbed."  I will often agree with Mika on a variety of issues, but not this time. The co-host of MSNBC's Morning Joe ranted on Monday morning, August 26th by angrily protesting, "I don't think anybody should have put her up on stage.  That was disgusting and embarrassing.  (She made) a complete fool of herself."

     Justin Timberlake, however, defended Miley Cyrus on the Jim Douglas radio show...and Justin doesn't understand why everyone is in such an uproar.  "What did you guys expect?  I like her a lot.  She's letting everybody know that she's growing up."  And Lady Gaga is also supporting Miley's controversial performance...and told The Sun newspaper that "People need to lighten up about pop music.  It's about entertainment."

     Miley Cyrus accomplished what she, her agent, her manager, her publicist, her record label and MTV set out to do.  And to be perfectly blunt about it - I applaud her for moving her career in the direction that she and her representatives want it to go.  There is obviously no doubt...that the former star of Hannah Montana has - without question - severed herself from...and has now shed...the squeaky clean image of her wholesome, teeny bopper character from The Disney Channel.

     While singing a medley of Miley's number one hit song, We Can't Stop and Robin's number one chart topper, Blurred Lines...Miley Cyrus stuck out her tongue, licked her lips and energetically "twerked" with Robin Thicke.  The 20-year old entertainer also rubbed a foam finger up Robin's crotch before massaging her own genital area.  So what?

     Why has there been such tremendous outrage by parents and others about the sexual overtones in Miley and Robin's performance?  Certain physical gestures by Miley Cyrus and Robin Thicke may have been over the top, explicit and animated, but why was anybody so stunned?  The VMAs are known for their jaw-dropping performances.  Why were certain media commentators - along with Americans who have expressed their views on news Web sites and blogs - so shocked?  Have you all been living in caves?  This is 2013...not 1913.  Sex... and the appearance of sex...is everywhere.  Hot and steamy love scenes are portrayed on prime-time cable shows that are geared toward not only teens, but tweens.  There's the likeness of sex on the major network's top rated sitcoms and dramas.  And let us remember that there are erectile dysfunction commercials aired all over the place...promoting pills to help men "get hard" so they can have sex.  And what about advertisements for condoms?  If you think that children don't understand what all that advertising is about...you are sadly mistaken.  

     Are the pundits and parents who oppose MTV for allowing Miley Cyrus and Robin Thicke to do their act...blind?  Are they so ignorant to think that what Miley and Robin performed on stage was something so unique that it was the first time any teen - or even pre-teen - would have seen such body language?  I grew up in the 1960s and 70s when girls wore the skimpiest of mini-skirts, the tightest of hotpants, and hiphugger jeans that looked as if they were painted on the most curvaceous of bodies.  It was an era when hippies and flower children did more than just talk of "peace, love" - and let's face it - "sex."

     It took a tragic health crisis during the 1980s - it took AIDS - to make it that sex was not promoted on television - at least not for awhile.  I'm astounded that so many people are appalled by Miley Cyrus and Robin Thicke's erotic act that some have chided them for being "obscene and raunchy."  Are we living in a country of prudes who have no clue as to what is going on in America today?  The 60s and 70s were tame compared to what many kids are doing in their bedrooms now.  Most households today have only one parent - and the homes with a mom and a dad...well, generally both are working...so if you think your child is innocent of no sexual activity whatsoever - think again.

     Now don't get me wrong.  I'm not condoning the behavior of youngsters - as young as 12, 13 or 14 years old - who are "fooling around" in the woods... and I'm not giving my approval for every kid - who is 15, 16 and 17-years old - to "hook-up."  But I'm not going to totally disapprove of it either...and neither should most of you...just because you're now a parent.  You'd be a hypocrite - at least most of you would be - as the majority of you were doing the same thing when you were that age.

     I certainly wouldn't want my children to be participating in any form of sexual activity in their tween or early teen years.  And would it be better for mid-range teens to wait until they're older?  I suppose so.  But parents need to communicate with their kids and educate them on everything there is to know about sex...and if necessary....provide them with the proper precautions so that a teen who is engaging in any kind of sexual act is fully prepared so that pregnancy or disease is not the result.


     And let's remember that today...the generally accepted definition of "having sex"...or "sexual relations" is "having intercourse."  Former President Bill Clinton has been named - in many surveys - "The most trusted man in America."  Other polls have tagged our 42nd President as "The most beloved person in the U.S.A."  And to quote an NBC News documentary...Bill Clinton is "President of the World" as "there isn't a single political figure today with the global reach and influence of Bill Clinton - a former U.S. President turned humanitarian and diplomat extraordinaire."  And yet...during a "witch-hunt" by certain "Clinton haters"...Mr. Clinton was chastised for making the following statement.  "I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Miss Lewinsky."  
 
Based on those eleven words, President Clinton told the truth and did not lie...as there was never any evidence that he had intercourse with Monica Lewinsky.

     It seems ridiculous to me that Miley Cyrus is being castigated and that she and Robin Thicke are being verbally thrashed because of a seductive dance move that some may find too arousing.

     Parents - by all means - should sit down with their kids and discuss how boys should treat girls - and let's be honest - how girls should treat boys. And in this, the 21st century...when homosexuality is becoming more widely accepted - and rightfully so - mothers and fathers of gay and lesbian children should talk with those teenagers about how they should treat their boyfriends and girlfriends.  But whether a kid is straight, gay or bisexual - despite what some parents may want to believe - their sons and daughters have easy access to pictures, videos and everything else visual that is all about "sex."

     Women - teens and older - walk around with their boobs practically hanging out and over the top of their blouses to attract others.  Men - again...teenagers and older - wear tight-fitting pants to show off their "package."  Kids have many opportunities to look at something that is - in many ways - inches away from being...what some may perceive as being... pornographic.  But despite what Rush Limbaugh may think...Miley Cyrus' performance at the VMAs was in no way...anywhere near...pornography.

     Rock and pop stars from Michael Jackson to Justin Bieber have danced provocatively as they touched, grabbed and held their crotches.   

Britney Spears has slithered across stages in the sexiest of garb while Madonna has exhibited her femininity by wearing pointy bosom apparel.  And numerous other celebrities have appeared in a variety of revealing attire that would make certain individuals blush.  So Miley Cyrus' close-fitting leotard and nude-colored bikini was nothing to gripe about.

     Eight-year old kids and younger are much more sophisticated than children of generations past.  They know how babies are born...what humans and other mammals do to create life.  And I'm not only referring to the beautiful encounter of "making love."  They know about "sex."

     In recent months...every television news program - not to mention Internet Web sites - have reported about male political figures who have had sex with prostitutes or who have revealed their "junk" in photos.  Teens talk about this stuff on the playgrounds and in the classrooms of their schools.  There are those of you who may say that MTV shouldn't blatantly throw sex in to our faces.  It doesn't matter.  Sex is everywhere.  On TV...in the movies.  We can have all the rating systems in the world...but if a kid really wants to see a film or television show - he or she is going to see it.  Just as my friends and I were able to get copies of Playboy and Penthouse magazines... youngsters today can get access to nudity in other media forms.  Therefore, watching Miley Cyrus and Robin Thicke on MTV is harmless...compared to what else is around for kids to view.

     Ratings for this year's Video Music Awards presentation soared through the roof...and MTV made a ton of money for producing the telecast.  More than 10 million people watched the program.  That's 66 percent higher than last year's show.

     Miley Cyrus is not a Disney star anymore...and I can assure you that she, MTV and all of Miley's representatives are smiling today.  After all...millions of people...all across the United States and around the world...are talking about Miley's performance on the VMAs...and her songs are skyrocketing to the top.  She has two of the top five hits on iTunes.

     I read a comment posted on a news Web site by an individual who stated, "I hope she (Miley Cyrus) has enough money saved up from her Disney days to live on...because she just killed what was left of her career."  That is far from the truth.  After all...people have made similar remarks about Hollywood drug addicts and wife beaters...along with show-business superstars who have made racist and antisemitic slurs or who have been involved in fist-fights or have trashed hotel rooms...and their careers were not damaged.  I would in no way compare Miley Cyrus' performance on the VMAs to anything as bad as the examples I described above. 
 

     P.T. Barnum was not only a "master showman"...but a master of promotion.  While he will forever be remembered for and connected with "The Greatest Show On Earth" - the circus that bears his name - Barnum is credited for the following two quotes.  "Without promotion...something terrible happens.  NOTHING!"  And..."There's no such thing as bad publicity."  With that in mind...Miley Cyrus, the Video Music Awards and MTV...had a "three-ring" success.

     And that's The Controversy for today.

     I'm Gary B. Duglin.

     "We'll talk again."

The Controversy will make an effort to publish a new commentary every Sunday.  Unscheduled essays may appear, from time to time, on other days as well.

Please express your opinions in the comment box below.  You do not have to register your name and you can remain anonymous if you prefer.  The Controversy wants to know your views on the essay above and on any other commentaries written on this blog.  Just click on the word "Comments" below and write your thoughts in the box that appears.  Make sure please that when you finish your statement that you click on the word "Publish."  Thank you for your thoughts and thank you for reading The Controversy.

Copyright 2013 Gary B. Duglin and TheControversy.net.  All Rights Reserved.