NOM at the Jelly Belly tour stop: Signs that this just may be one long foodie road trip
September 29, 2010 at 11:42 am adambink 219 comments
It appears Jelly Belly representatives decided to not give the Vota Tus Valores staffers an opportunity to solicit and possibly have a conflict per their policy of no events/rallies/special interest groups soliciting tourists. Either that, or this really is one long foodie road trip. -Adam
By Arisha Michelle Hatch
Camping out in the parking lot at the Jelly Belly factory in Fairfield, we were thrilled when the VotaBus arrived on time to their scheduled location.
Upon arrival, tour organizers were greeted by John Jamison, the Director of Retail, and led into a private tour.
As a few of the commenters have noted – and confirmed by Jamison – President Ronald Reagan was central to the growth of the Jelly Belly namesake because he used the company’s licorice sticks to help cure his pipe-smoking habit.
“He put us on the map,” said Jamison.
I’m under 30 so I must admit that my memory of President Reagan is limited to “just say no” and trickle-down economics, but according to Alfonso he was also a leader on immigration reform.
In the parking lot, the VotaBus began blasting the song “Born in the U.S.A.” but then the CD started to skip (and no, “Anonygrl” is not ghostwriting this post).
We tried to ask Alfonso why stopping at Jelly Belly was so critical, but rather than answer he put is hand to his throat suggesting that he had laryngitis. Two seconds later he began speaking to another staffer.
They’ve clearly instituted a no-discussion policy. We couldn’t even get Thomas to tell us his favorite jelly bean flavor.
I don’t understand what these people think they’re doing. We thought for a moment that the organizers were using the opportunity to engage Jelly Belly factory workers during the tour, but they all apparently work behind a glass wall and can’t communicate with tourists.
More and more this looks like one long foodie road trip.
Although there’s nothing like jelly beans and free fudge samples in the morning. Alfonso, can we get a McDonald’s stop tomorrow morning?
Update (Adam): It’s all the more amusing when you see their first tweet this morning:
it’s a beautiful morning! excited to begin a new day meeting with Latinos and discussing the importance of voting our values! #votabus
Exactly how many Latinos did they meet, again?
Entry filed under: NOM Exposed, NOM Tour Tracker-California.
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Prop 8 Trial Tracker 
1.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 11:44 am
Subscribing
2.
Alan E. | September 29, 2010 at 12:02 pm
Same
3.
JonT | September 29, 2010 at 2:09 pm
duplicating.
4.
Sagesse | September 29, 2010 at 1:24 pm
Subscribing now, reading later
5.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 11:45 am
Jelly Belly also had “All Flavor Beans” as mentioned in Harry Potter, with flavors like Booger.
Uh-oh, witchcraft! NOM, you shouldn’t be going in there!
6.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 11:45 am
Click the box, Ann. Click the box.
7.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 11:45 am
No, really. (Darn codeine.)
8.
Rhie | September 29, 2010 at 1:17 pm
Yea, codeine will knock a person off it for a good long while.
Feel better soon.
Interesting thing about Reagan is that he is more myth than reality to the Republicans. They keep claiming him as a hero but really don’t like his policies as he stated them. There is an interesting book – Tear Down This Myth – that talks about this.
9.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 1:28 pm
That does sound interesting.
My typing is very – interesting today. I have to keep going back and fixing things.
Now why might that be?
Thanks for the good wishes.
10.
Rhie | September 29, 2010 at 8:43 pm
Hah well you still kick my butt in Scrabble :)
11.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 8:53 pm
mine too!
12.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 9:04 pm
LLB, you’re kicking mine tonight. Rhie, your game will come!
13.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 9:09 pm
Speaking of Scrabble, it’s your turn, Rhie!
14.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 9:11 pm
Just another lucky ‘Z’. I have my next word. I don’t think anyone will use the spot.
15.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 11:47 am
I am actually beginning to think this is all written by Anonygrl…and it’s just an act!
16.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 11:48 am
Thanks for the mention. I WISH I were writing this stuff, I could make a fortune!
Born in the USA? On a tour that is aimed towards Hispanics (who are, most likely, heavily made up of immigrants)? I would imagine the CD self destructed in SHAME.
17.
Gregory in Salt Lake City | September 29, 2010 at 11:49 am
“Skipping” Born in the U.S.A. nonetheless. HOLY CRAP! AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH
18.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 11:53 am
Born down in a dead man’s town
The first kick I took was when I hit the ground
You end up like a dog that’s been beat too much
‘Til you spend half your life just covering up
[chorus:]
Born in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A.
I got in a little hometown jam
And so they put a rifle in my hands
Sent me off to Vietnam
To go and kill the yellow man
[chorus]
Come back home to the refinery
Hiring man says “Son if it was up to me”
I go down to see the V.A. man
He said “Son don’t you understand”
[chorus]
I had a buddy at Khe Sahn
Fighting off the Viet Cong
They’re still there, he’s all gone
He had a little girl in Saigon
I got a picture of him in her arms
Down in the shadow of the penitentiary
Out by the gas fires of the refinery
I’m ten years down the road
Nowhere to run, ain’t got nowhere to go
I’m a long gone Daddy in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A.
I’m a cool rocking Daddy in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A.
19.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 11:56 am
Now, now, Anonygrl; do you think the NOMbies go beyond the titles when they choose their music?
20.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 12:16 pm
Not even THAT far, since it is likely that many of the people they are supposedly preaching to were NOT born in the USA. Probably the only song they could play that is LESS appropriate would be the KKK Anthem. And no, I am NOT posting those lyrics.
21.
Kathleen | September 29, 2010 at 3:06 pm
They never listen to the lyrics. As long as it has a catchy refrain, that’s good enough for them.
22.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 11:48 am
A private tour??? Are they “special,” or maybe Jelly Belly was trying to keep them from interacting with other jelly bean fans? You can bet this will be spinned very, very heavily.
23.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 11:49 am
It is likely that the JB management figured this was the best way of containing the problem… don’t LET them set up a rally, herd them into the factory, feed them some free samples, send them on their way. Good for Jelly Belly, I say.
24.
Gregory in Salt Lake City | September 29, 2010 at 11:50 am
clever
25.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 11:54 am
I think you’re correct, and it certainly was a wise move on Jelly Belly’s part. I, of course, just wanted to see them get kicked out for passing out brochures. I’d hate for Jelly Belly to think we made this whole thing up.
26.
Carpool Cookie | September 29, 2010 at 11:54 am
Well played, Jelly Bellies!
27.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 12:00 pm
Oh I have no fear that Jelly Belly thought we were making it up. They looked at El Autobus del Fracaso’s website and all the email they got from us (which was all expressing reasonable concerns) and they knew what was up.
I give them props for good containment. They didn’t cause a fuss, just dealt with the problem and no one can fault them for that!
28.
adambink | September 29, 2010 at 12:03 pm
I agree.
29.
AndrewPDX | September 29, 2010 at 11:48 am
These NOMzies are getting more and more ridiculous each day. Any credibility they may have had (which was none IMO) disappears with each of these non-rallies they’re wasting money on.
What the *bleep* are they really doing on this tour? nothing makes sense.
Arisha et al: thanks for following the looney bus for us — make sure to stock up on a rainbow of jelly belly flavors to keep your spirits up on this wild goose chase!
Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
Andrew
30.
Gregory in Salt Lake City | September 29, 2010 at 11:51 am
p.s…yes. Thanks Arisha for update!
31.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 12:21 pm
Hey! Maybe we can get someone on the bus to be a mole for us, and leave a trail of dropped jelly beans in case the Trackers lose them…
32.
Michelle Evans | September 29, 2010 at 11:55 am
They may not have actually engaged anyone while at Jelly Belly (do they really engage anyone anywhere?), but they did get a chance to stop at the factory and take photos of their propaganda bus with the Jelly Belly building and logos nearby. Have to watch if they try to take that and somehow say later that they were being endorsed by this company.
33.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 11:57 am
oooooh — that’s GOOD, Michelle. After all, they ARE posting those pix at their site!
34.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 12:02 pm
If they do, a heads up to the folks at Jelly Belly will probably be enough to get a response that will shut them down rather quickly.
35.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 12:40 pm
Yeah, there’s a concept called “implied endorsement.” Jelly Belly can give them a C&D in the event that they use those pics.
Love,
Fiona
36.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:43 pm
ooooh, Fiona! That photo with the bus in front of the Jelly Belly store is THEIRS. (Want to bet they parked it in an illegal zone just to get that shot?)
37.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:47 pm
Screen print taken.
38.
Ronnie | September 29, 2010 at 12:02 pm
NOMroids are such fraking attention wh0re$….attempting to bring negative press & images down on a company (Jelly Belly) that obviously DOES NOT want it as stated in their replies….. : / …Ronnie
39.
Phil L | September 29, 2010 at 5:54 pm
I’d love to see the Jelly Belly corporation rip them a new one for trying to make it look like they are endorsing them.
“Here,” one of the employees says, “have some buttered popcorn!” The man in the apron then proceeds to cram a gloved fistful of yellow speckled beans into the NOM organizer’s… ahem.
40.
John B. | September 30, 2010 at 8:27 am
Their caption with the photo is “This morning we started the day with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Jelly Belly factory in Fairfield, CA. It was nice to meet the makers of the candy which President Reagan loved and helped make a national success”. “Behind-the-scenes”? “meet the makers”? They sure are trying to imply their group got some kind of special treatment from the company, when anybody could just drive up and get the same tour and meet the same people.
41.
Ronnie | September 29, 2010 at 11:58 am
& now for a musical interlude……<3…Ronnie:
42.
Chris B | September 29, 2010 at 11:59 am
Wow. What do their donors think about the bus tour they are sponsoring? They decide to go off their scheduled/announced route, don’t get the proper permits/authorization ahead of time for their scheduled stops, and instead of preaching their message they are on a sight-seeing tour? Great use of donor’s money. If they head south of SF, they should check out San Simeon, W.R. Hearst’s castle–pretty cool place, and Winchester Mystery House in San Jose. That is if they are really on a sightseeing tour.
43.
bonobo | September 29, 2010 at 12:29 pm
Okay, I’m getting out my California Map now and seeing the possible routes for the most must-see places and still be somewhat in the area of the scheduled stops. Not that they have a problem with missing any stops.
Oh heck, maybe I’ll just call AAA.
44.
bonobo | September 29, 2010 at 12:36 pm
Well heck, according to this, they can stop off at both the GreyWhale Beach and the Red White and Blue beach and not miss a stop. And the RW&B is supposedly haunted sooooooooo. They shouldn’t miss this opportunity now as I was talking to my cousin and he said the owner is going to shut it down. Insurance reasons.
45.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 12:41 pm
They’re coming to San Jose … look out for a stop at Winchester Blvd. and Moorpark (that’s the Mystery House).
Love,
Fiona
46.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:51 pm
Fiona, are you going to make it to the San Jose “stop?”
47.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 1:30 pm
No, I’ll be working.
Love,
Fiona
48.
Carpool Cookie | September 29, 2010 at 5:15 pm
Will they be passing The Madonna Inn? Very trippy.
49.
Kathleen | September 29, 2010 at 5:17 pm
I’ve stayed there while tripping–definitely adds to the experience. :)
50.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 11:59 am
Their latest twee:
Tus Valores campaign mentioned by Sacramento Press http://dlvr.it/68gHj
51.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:03 pm
ha ha — it includes:
We believe in the family, life, life begins at conception and natural death,”Alfonso Aguilar said.
So these guys don’t believe in keeping themselves alives with ventilators and stuff? Calling Terri Schiavo……
52.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 12:07 pm
life begins at conception and natural death
So… they really ARE Zombies, is what they are saying?
53.
Alan E. | September 29, 2010 at 12:27 pm
Funny, there seem to be plenty of unnatural ways to die, so do they see those people as not dead the same way they see me as not married?
54.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 12:35 pm
I suppose they mean they are against assisted suicide. Again, if you don’t believe in something, just don’t do it. Stay the heck out of my life.
55.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 12:42 pm
“Life begins at conception.”
I guess they mourn every time a woman has her menses, then, since many products of conception flush out at that time without the woman ever knowing she had conceived.
Imbeciles.
Love,
Fiona
56.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 12:04 pm
Thank you, Ken Pierce, for representing!
57.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 12:06 pm
Argh… I can’t look at tweets at work. What did they say?
58.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:07 pm
This was actually the tweet itself, Anonygrl:
Tus Valores campaign mentioned by Sacramento Press http://dlvr.it/68gHj
59.
Chris in Lathrop | September 29, 2010 at 1:15 pm
“This morning’s stop was all about supporting Carly Fiornia.”
Even the Sacramento Press doesn’t respect Carly enough to spell her name right. And Tus Valores quoted them verbatim! BWAhahahahaha!
60.
Bill | September 29, 2010 at 12:02 pm
Perhaps this road trip is really all about procuring tasty treats and confections for the Maggster?
61.
New | September 29, 2010 at 1:03 pm
62.
bonobo@dishmail.net | September 29, 2010 at 12:06 pm
subscribing
63.
Bo's Mom | September 29, 2010 at 1:56 pm
subscribing
64.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 1:59 pm
Drum roll! I’m so glad to see you sign on, Bo’s Mom. You sound as though you are a LOT of fun.
65.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 2:00 pm
Welcome, Bo’s Mom! Say, what crochet pattern were you working on the other day? I mostly knit, but I’d be interested to know.
Hugs,
Ann
66.
John B. | September 29, 2010 at 12:19 pm
I think maybe you’ve missed the point: NOM managed to flout Jelly Belly’s rules simply by parking a giant political billboard in their parking lot. Maybe this “tour” isn’t about getting out and talking to people at all, but just driving the billboard (bus) around so as many people as possible will see it.
67.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 12:22 pm
That does seem to be the point, but it’s probably not a very effective tactic.
68.
Judy | September 29, 2010 at 12:23 pm
That would explain their 15 minute drive through residential areas instead of making one of their regular stops yesterday. Again, I don’t think they care one whit if anyone is at the stops. It’s all about being able to SAY they have a bus tour to get people’s money.
69.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 12:27 pm
And those who do see it and speak Spanish will be annoyed by the slogan which, as it is informal, is kind of rude, and not well worded.
Not to mention that the bus doesn’t really say anything about what your values may be… it is a loser as a campaign.
70.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:30 pm
It may also turn off the rednecks (who, after all, are more the audience of this “tour”), as they could easily assume from this that Carly is in favor of illegal immigration and other out-there “values.”
71.
nightshayde | September 29, 2010 at 1:05 pm
Ooooh – if it makes them want to stay away from the polls, this might not be a bad thing after all.
*flutters eyelashes*
72.
Rhie | September 29, 2010 at 1:31 pm
They’re probably assuming that there is only one set of values – theirs. Anything else is a deviant lie from the Devil.
73.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:28 pm
I used to have a life. Now I have P8TT.
74.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 12:29 pm
*I* used to surf alone…and now I have YOU Kate… so it all balances out in the end.
Smooch!
75.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:31 pm
Smooch back atcha’, Anonygrl! I’m getting all teary-eyed and mushy here……
76.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 12:47 pm
Smooching you both.
77.
bonobo | September 29, 2010 at 12:33 pm
printing up bumper stickers right now Kate. It’s perfect.
78.
adambink | September 29, 2010 at 1:31 pm
Could be worse.
79.
Kathleen | September 29, 2010 at 12:36 pm
I’m beginning to think this is all just a ruse to show the IRS these organizations spend money on “education” and get a nice tour around some tourist stops at the same time. But why not pick some more interesting stops?
80.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:39 pm
They have to first look as though they’re hitting the agricultural areas, which is code for Hispanics-living-there. (Remember, they’re getting fuel receipts at each of those “stops.”) Don’t fret, Kathleen, they’re soon heading on to Monterey/Carmel/Palm Springs.
81.
bonobo | September 29, 2010 at 12:44 pm
Wow. They’re not even stopping in Carmel. I’d stop in Carmel if I were on a sightseeing extravaganza, wouldn’t you? Also the Santa Cruz Beach & Boardwalk (love the virtual rollercoaster) and lots of people there, Great America in Santa Clara, more crowds there too. Winchester Mystery house (weekends are best, and it’s haunted too.) the list goes on and on. Are they stupid or what? All of these places could be “expense accounted”.
82.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:49 pm
I bet they do stop in Carmel……..
(where, by the way, I was born.)
83.
bonobo | September 29, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Hillview Park, San Jose. East San Jose btw. Off E. Capitol Exp, if memory serves me correctly. San Jose Petting Zoo and Historical Park and maybe the fairgrounds? Downtown is the Science Museum. Oh wait, what am I saying, they wouldn’t go THERE!!!
84.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 1:01 pm
Isn’t that around where Frontier Village used to be? (Yeah, I know. You’re all too young to remember it.)
85.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 1:04 pm
I think I know where you’re talking about. It’s kitty-corner to Reed-Hillview Airport, and across the way from a water park.
Love,
Fiona
86.
bonobo | September 29, 2010 at 1:13 pm
fiona = correct. right across the street, I believe.
Kate = Nope, Frontier Village & Santa’s Village were both off of 17. Along with that place with the dinosaurs (up the road aways.) Miss miss all those places though. Thanks for remembering them.
87.
IamNotKoi | September 29, 2010 at 2:08 pm
@bonobo
Frontier Village was in San Jose. You can still see some of the grounds in google earth. It’s at the intersection of 82 and branham lane.
I loved riding the flying scooter they had…
88.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:09 pm
Yeah, I remember it in San Jose, too. Santa’s Village was on 17, though. And that place where you could drink all the cider you wanted.
89.
Kathleen | September 29, 2010 at 3:04 pm
Hmmm. Seems I didn’t subscribe. Knew my inbox was getting too empty.
90.
AndrewPDX | September 29, 2010 at 12:58 pm
That’s about the only thing I can think of… they realized that they have to show that xx% of their income was spent on ‘educating’ and other ‘non-profit’ stuffs, rather than political shenanigans and Brian’s giant salary, then the IRS would hit them with a fine or something
— and they just looked at the calendar and realized that Friday is the beginning of the next fiscal year, and they panicked.
Too bad they couldn’t have done the Christian thing, and just bloody given that excess money to actually HELPING people… but that’s too much to ask from those hypocrites.
Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
Andrew
91.
Dpeck | September 29, 2010 at 12:45 pm
OK, the Alameda stop on the BUSted tour is in about an hour and I’m on my way over there (again). I’m bringing a camera. Reporting back soon!
92.
Gregory in Salt Lake City | September 29, 2010 at 12:49 pm
“Take 2” great perseverance! Since I’m in Utah, I appreciate all you p8tt’s efforts to mobilize on-site :D
93.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 12:49 pm
Woo, hoo, you go Dpeck! There’s gonna be another badge ceremony later!
94.
Mark M (Seattle) | September 29, 2010 at 1:00 pm
Go get em!!!
95.
Ed Cortes | September 29, 2010 at 2:06 pm
I waited in Concord starting about 11:45. At 12:05, a curly-haired man came up to and asked if I spoke Spanish, which I do not. He then told me about a bus coming to promote voting Latino values, then asked me where to find a Mexican restaurant. About 20 minutes later, a big bus, followed by a small red car, went by the entrance to the park (It has a one-way loop). I thought that they missed the entrance, so I waited….Eventually, I had to get back to work, so I left, coming back along Monument Boulevard, where I had told them they could find restaurants. I spotted the bus parked almost invisibly behind a building, and pulled in. At least I got to say Hi to the “Red Car People” and to Mormon Mother. As for the rally, I guess they just blew it off!!
96.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 2:07 pm
Will the IRS accept this tour’s expenses as legit? LOL
97.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 2:10 pm
Ed, you also get badges for Promptness and Showing Initiative. Please wear them with Pride!
98.
Manilow | September 29, 2010 at 12:52 pm
P8TT should really jump on the opportunity to wrap a bus for equality and head to Disneyland for Gay Days this weekend. Of course, it would be preaching to the choir.
99.
Linda | September 29, 2010 at 12:56 pm
Is Carly Fiorina footing the bill for this thing? Seems to me this endeavor is simply a travelling billboard for her.
100.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 12:59 pm
It makes me think of the Oscar Meyer Weinermobile. At least THEY admit that the entire purpose is just to drive around and be seen.
101.
bonobo | September 29, 2010 at 1:01 pm
No, she can’t. But we really should be keeping her informed of what the bus is doing in her name. After all, it IS HER name. I think the best thing to do is let the bus finish it’s tours and then contact her with the fail-list. In the meantime, look at all that BAD Publicity she’s getting. It could be a win/win situation for us. :-)
102.
nightshayde | September 29, 2010 at 1:10 pm
If a traveling billboard isn’t seen (or isn’t understood when it is seen), is it really getting bad publicity (other than on P8TT)?
Has anyone seen evidence of this tour in mainstream news coverage?
103.
Cameron | September 29, 2010 at 1:04 pm
Maybe we should contact Bruce Springsteen in the same way that we did with Peter, Paul & Mary when NOM used their song on the Summer for Marriage tour?
Springsteen was extremely outspoken in his support for marriage equality last December when the New Jersey legislature was debating the bill. I’m sure he wouldn’t be too happy that an anti-LGBT organization is using his song, either! http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2009/12/springsteen_endorses_gay_marri.html
104.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 1:37 pm
He’s with the de La Font Agency. I have tried several times to post the contact link, but the comments have not appeared.
Love,
Fiona
105.
Kathleen | September 29, 2010 at 2:36 pm
Let’s talk about this off the public board. If you’re on facebook, you can always reach me through private message at fb (click on the link on my name). Don’t have to be my fb friend to send a message.
106.
Mark M (Seattle) | September 29, 2010 at 1:14 pm
This may be old news to some.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/yblog_upshot/20100929/us_yblog_upshot/state-attorney-launches-bizarre-internet-war-on-openly-gay-college-student
107.
nightshayde | September 29, 2010 at 1:17 pm
They were talking about it on CNN this morning — basically giving a great big “SHAME ON YOU” to that nasty little man.
They also did a piece on a really nifty-looking program being implemented in a school back east — a program helping GLBT kids deal with all the emotions they’re going through as a result of their sexuality or perceived sexuality. I’m not remembering much else right now. I’ll have to research & post more useful info.
108.
Mark M (Seattle) | September 29, 2010 at 2:34 pm
Oh cool! Guy sounds like a total A-hole for sure
109.
JonT | September 29, 2010 at 3:58 pm
Wow, I couldn’t believe what this guy was saying.
How much you want to bet he’s one of those self-hating closet cases?
110.
Mark M (Seattle) | September 29, 2010 at 4:11 pm
Oh totally!! No other explaination for him to be THAT hateful.
111.
Judy | September 29, 2010 at 1:18 pm
This was part of the news report they mentioned: “The Tus Valores Campaign is an independent expenditure of American Principles in Action, a 501(c)(4) organization.”
I went to the website for APIA, but it was apparently unfinished, as their links did not work. What is this, a hokey front for the real source of the money? They are claimed as a sister site of the American Principles Project, which claims the sanctity of marriage is “self-evident”.
On the side of the bus they show symbols from the Susan B. Anthony List and NOM.
112.
bonobo | September 29, 2010 at 1:26 pm
this site is working for them Judy.
http://www.americanprinciplesinaction.org/
btw: they’re blaming Obama for ‘No Child left Behind”? How can that be?
Bo – who is making lunch and doesn’t want her stomach turned just yet.
113.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 1:32 pm
Um … No
school left standingChild Left Behind is all Dubya’sfault“triumph.”I guess these folks aren’t paying very close attention to the Reality-Based Community.
Love,
Fiona
114.
Judy | September 29, 2010 at 1:41 pm
That’s the site. Try clicking on About APIA, or try to Join, or try to see their Privacy Policy. Links don’t work. I think it’s a throw-away front.
115.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 1:46 pm
Their join page actually just has text on it join form, it looks like it was never created.
you can see it half way down the page here..
http://www.americanprinciplesinaction.org/?s=join
116.
Mark M (Seattle) | September 29, 2010 at 2:36 pm
NCLB is ALL Dubby’s doing
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No_Child_Left_Behind_Act
117.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 1:39 pm
Hmm. More about 501(c)(4) organizations.
See this site.
118.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 1:40 pm
This is perhaps the most important part:
119.
Anonygrl | September 29, 2010 at 1:40 pm
I am sure if we were allowed to look at their funding, the bus is funded by NOM and the Susan B Anthony List. Who funds THEM is another story entirely.
Basically, this whole event is money laundering for the Mormon and Catholic churches.
120.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 1:41 pm
The Susan B. Anthony List — I know them. They are completely anti-abortion.
121.
RebeccaRGB | September 29, 2010 at 1:31 pm
I just got interviewed by Arisha at the Napa stop a couple hours ago, and I must say, she is *AWESOME*!
A couple gold nuggets from NOM in Napa:
“Intolerance is Unamerican”
Can’t say I disagree!
“You’re wasting your time!”
Nobody is showing up for your bus tour, and *we’re* the ones wasting our time!?
122.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 1:34 pm
Great report! I’m jealous that you got to meet Arisha. How many people were there? Anyone for “them?”
123.
RebeccaRGB | September 29, 2010 at 2:02 pm
I was surrounded by two dozen Barbara Boxer supporters. I counted 27 total, including me. I don’t think there was anyone there for “them.” If there was, it was only one or two.
124.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:07 pm
That is GOOD news — I’m so glad to hear that some Boxer supporters are showing up now.
125.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 1:32 pm
Over at NOMs new facebook page they created a post about NOMExposed.com
One person answered another posters question how legalizing SSM will affect them:
http://www.facebook.com/oneman.onewoman#!/posted.php?id=90378027462&share_id=117503074972900&comments=1#s117503074972900
126.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 1:37 pm
I guess these folks don’t read the California educational standards very closely. Parents are required to opt their kids *in* to the so-called sex-ed courses, and the curriculum consists of “teaching respect for marriage and similar relationships.” That doesn’t sound like anything so horrific.
Of course, item 3 is crap prima facie, but I guess that all of those kids who will age out of the system without having permanent, adoptive homes don’t really deserve families in this person’s book. Item 4 falls under the Unruh Act; if you hang out your shingle to do business with the public, you can’t discriminate. Item 5 is also crap; we all have the right to free association in our personal lives. See Unruh Act for public associations.
The ancient Egyptians were, at one point, monotheistic as well (Aten-Ra). Does being monotheistic give you greater legitimacy? To say nothing of the fact that we have that darned Constitution, saying that there is no official state religion. Poor fundies …
Love,
Fiona
127.
Alan E. | September 29, 2010 at 3:26 pm
Item 4 is already in effect in CA. Even if a gay couple wanted to have a ceremony on their own, a bridal shop won’t be able to discriminate because they are gay. It’s built into our constitution that orientation is not a standard for discrimination (except for the hypocritical Prop 8)
128.
Steve | September 29, 2010 at 1:46 pm
Everyone considers everyone else’s religion to be false. That whole “argument” is so ridiculous. Their god is the “true god” because they say so.
Everyone is an atheist about most gods. Atheists just go one god further.
129.
KarlG | September 29, 2010 at 2:08 pm
someone read Dawkins’ God Delusion…… brilliant book!
130.
Judy | September 29, 2010 at 2:56 pm
@KarlG: I just ordered that book.
@Steve: I agree. When someone asks me why I don’t believe in their god I ask them why they don’t believe in (name any other god).
131.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 1:47 pm
What a load of crap.
As Fiona points out, there is no mandatory sex ed in public schools. It is ALL opt-outable.
Don’t give rights because then kids might learn that people have rights. Uh, that’s not how it works.
This makes no sense at all. Plus, what Fiona said.
They already have to do this for commitment ceremonies in California, NM and other states. They want the right to legally discriminate against LGBT people. This is nothing to do with marriage per se. RobTish had a great video about this a while back.
**Yawn**. Again, this is already the case.
Oooh, insulting the poster. Good tactic. NOT.
132.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 1:54 pm
Yeah, I guess that the poster about the “one true god” figures s/he could just go toe-to-toe with a Spartan and survive the experience.
Like they’d a) not be dead of exposure in infancy, b) be guaranteed of living through agoge and c) have the slightest idea of how many of those Spartan warriors had male lovers.
Love,
Fiona
133.
Ronnie | September 29, 2010 at 1:47 pm
So that little Fascist pig thinks it’s ok to discriminate against “Jess’s” (or the person they were replying too) beliefs in the Greek/Roman God’s & degrade, demean, & reduce it to meaningless mythology?……I’m sorry but when did the 1st amendment only mean Freedom of Christianity & free exercise thereof?……There is no evidence regarding “one True God” “Heaven” or “Hell” for that matter other then the Bible & some scrolls a few carving….There is just as much evidence of Christianity as there is every other religion & spiritual belief under the Earths atmosphere (I say Earth because we have no fraking clue of what else is out there beyond our own planet) & guess what
THEY ALL PROTECTED UNDER THE 1ST AMENDMENT….well supposed to be….but the anti-gay Fascist pigs are delusional & are under the illogical, irrational & un-American impression that the 1st amendment only protects Fundamental anti-gay Heterosexual Christians only….so sad….. <3…Ronnie
134.
AndrewPDX | September 29, 2010 at 1:50 pm
There is no evidence regarding … “Hell”
Sadly, as our painful posts about bullies and suicides show, there is evidence about Hell — it is what the Fundies have created of this country.
Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
Andrew
135.
Ronnie | September 29, 2010 at 2:00 pm
True….there is human (man-made) induced “Hell”….but the mythological one the fundies are so scared of…well there is no evidence of its existence….just a bunch of Fairytales to frighten people into behaving how some narcissistic control freak wants people to behave…
when a fundie says “you’re going to hell”…I simply just slowly tilt by head to side while saying “really” very slowly….then jab my head forward very quickly while saying…. PROVE IT!!!!
; ) …Ronnie
136.
ChrisB | September 29, 2010 at 1:56 pm
#1 Notwithstanding the fact that parents would have to opt in their kids, is this even true? Just because SSM is legal doesn’t necessarily mean that the act needs to be taught. Man these people are obsessed with gay sex.
Or do those classes even today have a gay sex unit? My sex-ed classes were in about 1982 and I can’t recall whether we talked about gay sex. Not as though we didn’t all know what it was, for the most part, since I went to a coed boarding school.
#2 What schools teach “marriage” classes? What would be in the curriculum even? That sounds like something made up.
#3 Bullshit. How they can get from legalizing SSM to imposing a quota of gay headed households to place children is bizarre. I would suspect that any agency that receives any public funding would have to consider gay parents in the same they do straight parents, but having aquota is just stupid.
#4 Of course they will. Which is only right. Can they refuse to provide services today to a Jewish couple? Or one of mixed race?
#5 “Associate” and “do business with” are two different things. If you don’t want to be around a gay couple, then go away. It’s probably for the best. If you are talking about a business relationship, that’s different. See above (and fiona64’s reply).
And finally, who cares what the Greeks or Egyptians did or didn’t do, other than to counter the idea that “marriage has always been 1M1W”. It’s not like the pharoah was bound by the 14th Amendment.
This is such “sky is falling” nonsense.
137.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 2:02 pm
I am completely for #1 – it would help us stop the bullying in schools!
138.
Bob | September 29, 2010 at 2:54 pm
Ditto #1 not to mention, the forming of Gay Straight Alliances in all schools to educate people about differences.
It works the kids police their own bullies and make it not cool
139.
Rhie | September 29, 2010 at 4:01 pm
I really see nothing wrong with any of that, honestly. A business is public and must follow the law.
Ask that person what they think of those statements if they insert “interracial” couples or even “couples of color” for gay couples.
140.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother of a wonderful son who just happens to be gay | September 29, 2010 at 1:49 pm
Was at Concord Park as was Ed (although we didn’t really meet there. I was 10 minutes late, talked to different people who had been there since noon or before and no bus. Although one group (teabaggers I was told by the democrat I was talking to) was in phone contact with someone about the bus. Which did drive by the park. They missed the entrance and we all thought they would turn around. After another 10 minutes I gave up and left. Teabaggers were still there. Are teabaggers in support of Carly? they said she was on the bus. That there had been a stop inNapa this morning with about 40 protestors present. On my way home to get the address of the Alameda park, I saw the bus turn into a small shopping center. So knew they were not on ther way to Alameda yet. So got gas. Bus still in parking lot, l pull in and park. Was walking over to bus to find out if they really were going to Alameda, when it started, so back to my car. Then people got off the bus and then others walked over and got on. I drive over and ask if they are still going to Alameda, was told yes. commented that they had not stopped at the Concord park, that they’d just driven by. They wanted to know if there were other people there. I told them 10, didn’t tell them who they were. I then drove over to the red car, and, yes, it was Arisha, Phyllis, and Anthony. Chatted briefly with them. Then Ed came over and introduced himself. We chatted briefly. Bus leaves parking lot by going wrong. was in process of getting turned so they could exit when I left. Needless to say, they were holding up traffic. Okay, I’m off to Alameda. As it is now 1:47, don’t plan on them being in San Jose until way later than the designated time. Oh, told them I had friends that planned on being in Alameda and would try to alert them that the bus would be there, just late. Hi, Dave!
Sheryl, Mormon Mother
141.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 1:51 pm
Sheryl, I love it that you can get away with this stuff, You must have “Mormon Mom” tatooed across your forehead.
142.
Gregory in Salt Lake City | September 29, 2010 at 6:20 pm
Way to go Mormon Mom! Love, Gregory
143.
AndrewPDX | September 29, 2010 at 1:53 pm
Sheryl, you rock!
Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
Andrew
144.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 1:54 pm
Great job, Sheryl! You get badges for Promptness and Showing Initiative.
Please wear them with Pride!
145.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:13 pm
I think Sheryl should also get one for “Taking Advantage of Being a Mormon.”
146.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 2:19 pm
Sheryl, you also are awarded a badge for Excellent Use of Natural Camouflage.
147.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:50 pm
That’s perfect, Ann! BRILLIANT.
148.
Ed Cortes | September 29, 2010 at 2:15 pm
It was great to meet you Sheryl!!
149.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 2:49 pm
I don’t think she was on the bus…her facebook page says she was going a debate today.
150.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:54 pm
But those teabaggers Sheryl saw at the Concord non-stop THOUGHT she was on the bus. (hint, hint)
151.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 2:57 pm
LOL – obviously they really aren’t interested in Carly, otherwise they would KNOW her agenda. Probably were paid supporters.
152.
Dpeck | September 29, 2010 at 5:18 pm
HI SHERYL!!
I got to meet Sheryl at teh Alameda, uh, “event”. That was great!
I’ll post a full account of Alameda in a few minutes.
153.
Clint | September 29, 2010 at 7:43 pm
I was at the Concord Community Park today at noon exactly. I was parked at the first parking space inside the entrance. The bus came by slowly on Cowell around 12:30, drove by with a small red car hot on its tail, and never returned. I did not see any protesters, but I did see a car with a yellow “Brown for Governor” sign and a few people around it. I didn’t speak with them, perhaps they were protesters, too. Can’t be sure. I had a sign and was ready to jump out if the bus actually came into the park. The Hate Tour II is a joke. These clowns don’t even have the courage to make their scheduled stops. They are a bunch of cowards. Fiorina won’t win anyway and I’m voting for Boxer.
154.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 7:51 pm
Thank you for your report, Clint. You are hereby awarded badges for Promptness and Bringing the Correct Supplies.
Wear them with Pride.
155.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 8:06 pm
I sooooo need to do something altruistic! I want a badge! I can’t make it to any of the events (unless I get them to come to Tucson, but that’s never gonna happen.)
156.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother of a wonderful son who just happens to be gay | September 29, 2010 at 9:04 pm
Guess I didn’t make it all the way down to the first car, I did notice you when I drove in.
The democrat I talked with said the people in the office new nothing about the Vote Bus. Another instance of not getting a permit. Most likely why they did not stop. On of the people with the Vote bus that i talked with said they didn’t see anyone. Well, duh, you were driving down the street while most of us were at the middle of the driveway (circular driveway from entrance to exit) enjoying the shade.
You live in Concord, Clint? Did you see my post about the P8TT gathering on Oct. 15?
Sheryl, Mormon Mother
157.
Anonygrl | September 30, 2010 at 8:04 am
I think LLB should get a badge for Out of State Disaster Preparedness.
158.
Ann S. | September 30, 2010 at 10:30 am
LLB, you are hereby awarded a badge for Out of State Disaster Preparedness! Wear it with Pride!
159.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 30, 2010 at 10:31 am
Oh gosh, sniff sniff. I will wear it with pride!
160.
Clint | September 30, 2010 at 3:12 am
@Sheryl Mormon Mother. Sorry I did not realize the group over there by the “Brown for Gov.” car was pro-equality. I do live in Concord and I did not see the other post about 10/15. Where would i find that? Thanks.
161.
Richard A. Walter (soon to be Walter-Jernigan) | September 29, 2010 at 1:50 pm
The NOMbies don’t miss a trick, do they? And I do mean trick. Talk about a bunch of no-brained shysters!
162.
Jonathan H | September 29, 2010 at 2:14 pm
Just checked their schedule and they still don’t have a location in Fresno. Probably going to just skip us entirely since going from Merced to Fresno to Los Banos is spending an awfully long time going back and forth on 99.
I probably couldn’t pull it off on such short notice, but I’d love to call up every vaguely Hispanic friend of mine and bring them all along. We could shout, “Look! It’s your target audience!”
163.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:15 pm
Oh Jonathan, you MUST do that! I’m laughing way too much now…….
164.
Ed Cortes | September 29, 2010 at 2:17 pm
LOL – They may still be late for their next stop – the last I saw was the bus trying to get out of an incredibly tight parking lot – they may still be stuck there.
165.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:19 pm
Thomas doesn’t exactly have very good driving skills, eh? (Hola, Thomas!)
166.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:22 pm
You know…… what we CAN do is e-mail Carly’s office and say how we waited at the various scheduled stops where the bus was a No Show and complain. After all, we don’t need to know her office isn’t sponsoring it. They’re making it sound as though she is, if those teabaggers showed up expecting her to be aboard.
167.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:23 pm
Might be a good idea to use an IP blocker if you’re not really near the stop in question. ;)
168.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 2:23 pm
Good point! We can say how disappointed we were that not only did we not see Carly but the bus didn’t even show!
169.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:27 pm
contact@carlyforca.com
Here’s a contact e-mail. I’ll see if there’s a FB page, too, but my guess is that our complaints would just get deleted there, a la NOM.
170.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:30 pm
I did it — FB. We’ll so if it stays up.
Hi Carly! My group of friends and I were SO disappointed when your Vota Tus Valores bus didn’t show up in Concord today. I was really looking forward to getting to meet you in person. What happened?
171.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 2:37 pm
that page only has 400 likes
this page has 15,000 likes
http://www.facebook.com/CarlyFiorina?ref=ts
172.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 2:39 pm
LLB — Hmm….. the one with over 15,000 likes is where I was. Dunno what t’other one is.
173.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 2:39 pm
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Carly-Fiorina/112274638789438?ref=ts
174.
dtwirling | September 29, 2010 at 2:22 pm
In other news… the male freshman college student who was filmed by dorm-mates in a “sexual encounter” with another male has committed suicide. When will NOM and their ilk understand that they’re hurting children and young adults (and older adults!) with their hate and intollerance?
http://abcnews.go.com/US/victim-secret-dorm-sex-tape-commits-suicide/story?id=11758716
175.
Mark M (Seattle) | September 29, 2010 at 3:11 pm
Thank you for posting this.
These stories continue to break my heart…… :-(
176.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 3:22 pm
I just read this article on a different news site. :-(
So very sad.
Love,
Fiona
177.
Bob | September 29, 2010 at 3:25 pm
RIP TYLER he joins the list on JonT;s blog, I think we’re up to 9 or is it 10
there’s also stories of three others on the videos here, girls, bullied but no mention of sexual orientation, still it’s bullying.
it’s clos to averaging on death a month due to bullying:::
178.
JonT | September 29, 2010 at 3:41 pm
@dtwirling: Yep, I added him yesterday per a post from Ronnie.
Kathleen sent me an email regarding Seth Walsh (13), who died while on life support yesterday morning, so he’s on the list now too.
@Bob: ‘I think we’re up to 9 or is it 10‘
We’re at 10 now.
http://thepriceofhate.blogspot.com/
179.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 3:15 pm
Autobús del fall — Bus of Fail.
Just because.
Love,
Fiona
180.
Anonygrl | September 30, 2010 at 8:07 am
El Autobus del Fracaso.
181.
Jeff | September 29, 2010 at 3:43 pm
More bullying suicides. This it the 5th one I have read about this week…
http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2010/09/hold_new_rutgers_post.html
A Rutgers University freshman appears to have killed himself by jumping off the George Washington Bridge after his roommate broadcast live images of the 18-year-old having a sexual encounter with another man on the internet, according to campus and law enforcement sources.
Tyler Clementi, 18, of Ridgewood, is presumed dead after his car, cell phone and computer were found near the George Washington Bridge last week, law enforcement sources said. His wallet was found on the walkway adjacent to the New York-bound lanes. In a statement released this afternoon, Clementi’s family confirmed the suicide and said his body has not been found.
Dharun Ravi, 18, of Plainsboro, and Molly Wei, 18, of Princeton, were charged with two counts each of invasion of privacy for setting up a camera in a dorm room on Sept. 19 and using it to view and transmit a live sex scene, said Middlesex County Prosecutor Bruce Kaplan.
182.
Jeff | September 29, 2010 at 3:43 pm
Sorry about the dupe – I had this window open for a long while and did not refresh!
183.
Mark M (Seattle) | September 29, 2010 at 4:53 pm
Don’t be ;-)
184.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 3:45 pm
I need a translater for the latest One Man, One Woman Tweet (I know for a fact number 3 is a LIE – no baker was forced, the group that wanted rainbow cupcakes took the order to another baker after being refused – but they did bring it to the attention of the world):
Homosexual Agenda at work: 1 Hijack rainbow from Christians 2 Use rainbow as official logo 3 Force Christians to bake rainbow cupcakes 4 u.
185.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 3:54 pm
The horrors! Forced to bake rainbow cupcakes!!!
(Yes, I know it’s a lie, but it’s hilarious. Or maybe it’s the codeine talking.)
186.
Ronnie | September 29, 2010 at 3:56 pm
I have seen this violation of our 1st amendment rights from them before…..expression falls under freedom of speech…The Nazi anti-gays actually advocate that Gay people are not allowed to use the image of the rainbow & I have been told that I am no even allowed to use the world rainbow at all. 1) because I’m Gay…& 2) because I’m not “Christian”…….so not only are they violating our freedom of religion but our freedom of speech/expression as well….
NOM is nothing but a Fascist Theocratic Extremist group attempting to control every aspect of our lives & are destroying American Freedom…. > I ….Ronnie
187.
Ronnie | September 29, 2010 at 3:57 pm
lol…typo….I have been told that I am not allowed to use the word (not world) rainbow…… : / …Ronnie
188.
AndrewPDX | September 29, 2010 at 3:59 pm
I would have said NOM is nothing but a Fascist Theocratic Extremist Hate group attempting to control every aspect of
oureveryone’s lives & are destroying American Freedom.Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
Andrew
189.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 4:01 pm
So they xristianists are going to also demand that the Quechua people in Peru quit using their rainbow flags?
190.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 4:02 pm
I would add Fringe Group to your list.
191.
Bob | September 29, 2010 at 5:33 pm
Ronnie it really is the world’s rainbow, and just like the one in the sky everyone gets to see it. and remember, we are everywhere, just like our flag, the rainbow people are alive everywhere, It’s so appropriate to claim that as our sign, cause it really empahsizes the misuse of the symbol by CINO’S
192.
fiona64 | September 29, 2010 at 4:12 pm
According to their Tweetstream, they’ve (where “they” = Louis, apparently — Hola, Louis!) set up a new site supporting Christine O’Donnell.
Whackjobs of a feather, I guess …
Love,
Fiona
193.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 4:22 pm
That just figures. Little Miss “masturbation is adultery” and “abstinence education actually works” O’Donnell is one of the biggest whackjobs I have ever heard of, well maybe excepting that AG in Michigan.
194.
Rhie | September 29, 2010 at 6:07 pm
Oh dear. See, there is this thing called the First Amendment that guarantees freedom of speech. If a person or company does something a person or group doesn’t like, that person or group can tell whomever they want, as loud as the want, wherever they want.
195.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother of a wonderful son who just happens to be gay | September 29, 2010 at 5:05 pm
Well, after assuring me that they were going to be at the park in Alameda, they were a no-show. Evidently they did drive around the east side of Alameda (park they listed is on the extreme west side). There was a union group waiting to show that they were not backing Carly. Dave P was also there. So we chatted for a bit. He has a picture of us and a picture of the union group that he said he would try to post. All in all, I had an interesting day, actually fun day. Loved getting to meet Arisha and Phyllis and Ed and Dave. I do not envy Phyllis, Arisha, and Anthony having to follow behind the bus to be sure they go to the same place. I really think it is about driving around and these people think people seeing the bus will be influenced to vote their values and vote for Carly.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother
196.
Gregory in Salt Lake City | September 29, 2010 at 6:23 pm
Thank you for effort and report!
197.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother of a wonderful son who just happens to be gay | September 29, 2010 at 5:13 pm
Now to promote that Oct. 15 gathering again. My son is going to see if he can get discount tickets for the group. I need to give him a head count by Oct. 8. This is BATS Improv at the Bayfront Theater in the Fort Mason Center. Show time is 8 pm and the box office opens at 7:3c. There is a concession area (they call it the BATS cafe) that serves coffee, soft drinks, flavored water, water, beer, sometimes wine, candy, cookies, and chips. All on the expensive side, but hey, they are a non-profit and have to raise funds.
My son has suggested Liverpool Lil’s for after the show.
Please let me know if you can make it. e-mail is sheryl.beckett@gmail.com
Looking forward to meeting all who can came.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother
198.
Dpeck | September 29, 2010 at 5:53 pm
Hi all,
OK, my report about the Alameda “event” on the BUSted tour:
First – I took some pictures and I can send them here to P8TT if folks are interested. Anybody know where I should send them?
OK, Alameda – I got there a little early and drove around the complex. No sign of anyone anywhere. Some of the pictures give you a good idea of just how desolate this mothballed military base really is. It would make a great location for some kind of post-apocalyptic sci-fi movie.
Driving back to the main entrance, I spotted a large van and a couple of cars with about 20 people total. I asked if they were here for the NOM bus event. They looked confused and said no, they were here for a Fiorina event. I explained that this was the same event, but they had never heard of NOM.
I explained what NOM was and that I was there to protest them, and they told me they were from a local union for long-term health care workers and they were all there to protest Fiorina’s awful anti-imigration policy! They all had signs in spanish that said (basically ) “Fiorina supports discrimination!” etc.
We then noticed a guy in a white SUV parked nearby, talking on a cel phone. And a guy walking around near the SUV with a very large camera. The guy on the cel phone came over to us and told us the bus would be late, but was on the way. I assumed that he was some sort of ‘advance team’ for the BUSted tour, but we then discovered that he was from a different union and he was ALSO there to protest the tour, and the person he was talking to on the phone was his co-worker who was following the tour bus, not unlike own intrepid team of Trackers! So every single person there was a protester, except the guy with the camera who turned out to be from an Oakland newspaper.
While we continued to wait I got my picture taken with our new friends from the health care union, waving my marriage equality sign. I also filled them in on a lot of the dirt about NOM and some of their shameful shenanigans regarding Prop 8, and from the previous FAIL tour, and they seemed pretty interested.
Then we got word from the guy with the phone that the bus had totally missed the route to our location and they were now hopelessy lost several miles south. About that time, a woman with a big smile drove up and started talking with us about the tour. It was Sheryl, our fabulous Mormon mom! More pictures, and she filled us in on her adventures earlier in the day at the previous, uh, “event”.
By now, it was more than an hour past the start time for the “event” and we finally heard that the bus was back on the freeway, heading further south, away from us and toward the next stop in San Jose. So Alameda was yet another no-show
Which was a bit disappointing because I’m sure it would have been reeeeally fun to greet them with a group comprised of 100% protesters, but it was still pretty darn rewarding. A suggestion – if anyone here gets a chance to actually meet up with other P8TTers, do it! It will make your day. ( Hi Sheryl!! )
199.
Lesbians Love Boies | September 29, 2010 at 5:58 pm
Vivid recount Dpeck. Sorry they failed … again! Seriously, they can’t use this as a write-off!
200.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 6:03 pm
Yes, they can LLB. They don’t have to collect supporters at these stops; they only have to produce the fuel receipts.
201.
Ann S. | September 29, 2010 at 5:59 pm
Dpeck, you and Sheryl are awesome. Thanks to both of you for reporting on these (non)events.
You are both hereby awarded badges for Persistence and Making New Friends.
Wear them with Pride, along with Dpeck’s badge for Bringing the Correct Equipment and Sheryl’s for Excellent Use of Natural Camouflage.
You both rock!
202.
Kathleen | September 29, 2010 at 6:02 pm
You all rock!
I’m going to try to make it to the Tuesday rally in East L.A. Any TTs thinking of going?
203.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 6:18 pm
What an opportunity – protesting NOM with Kathleen. Any of you in that region who don’t snap up this offer are fools, simply fools. I’ll bet she could even be talked into reading aloud that delicious Cravit amicus to all the gathered Trackies after the rally. Damn, I want to go! Ok …. how many hours drive would that be each way??? My rigs get better mileage than that abominable bus, at least….. hmmm.
204.
Dpeck | September 29, 2010 at 8:56 pm
Oh that WOULD be awesome. You go, Kathleen!
After what I saw today in Alameda, I have to wonder why NOM thought it was a good idea to pander to hispanic voters while teamed up with Fiorina, who has a reputation as being anti-immigration. And this could be really interesting when they get to East L.A.
I also wonder if NOM’s idea of East L.A. hispanic culture is a stop at Olvera Street to buy souvenier sombreros.
205.
Kate | September 29, 2010 at 6:02 pm
Another edge-of-my-seat report! Thank you, dpeck for Alameda Part 2. I love love love it that the union folks were there and that other groups are starting to get (shall we say) wind of this “tour.” I am beginning to think that the advance vehicle goes and scouts out the terrain — unless they see a bunch of hate signs or Carly signs, they call the bus to tell them to just drive on. Can hardly wait to see the pix. Be sure to idenitfy everyone for us. (Although I’ll likely recognize Sheryl by her Mormon Mom forehead tatoo.)
206.
Gregory in Salt Lake City | September 29, 2010 at 6:26 pm
Love the report Dpeck! I especially liked:
“I also filled them in on a lot of the dirt about NOM and some of their shameful shenanigans regarding Prop 8, and from the previous FAIL tour, and they seemed pretty interested.”
Thanks again for 2x’s effort!
207.
Dpeck | September 29, 2010 at 7:46 pm
I just emailed this site and sent some photos of the Alameda “event”.
208. Family Values = Dead Teens | PrestonGrant.com | September 29, 2010 at 6:27 pm
[…] Organization for Marriage’s anti-gay hate bus visited the Jelly Belly factory today! Reports here and here! It just makes me miss The Gipper and those earlier years of the Culture Wars when the gay […]
209.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother of a wonderful son who just happens to be gay | September 29, 2010 at 9:11 pm
Wonder if that photographer for the Oakland paper will report the non event. Was it the Oakland Tribune, Dave?
I wish I could join in the Southern Calif. events but alas, even though I have the time, unemployment means I don’t have the finances.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother
210.
Dpeck | September 29, 2010 at 9:25 pm
Hi Sheryl!
I didn’t hear it directly from the photographer, but the Union guy said the photographer was from the Oakland Tribune.
But I can’t imagine that they would actually mention any of this in the paper. I mean, there was literally nothing to report.
211.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother of a wonderful son who just happens to be gay | September 29, 2010 at 11:50 pm
Ah, for them to report that the “Vote Your Values” bus tour in support of Carly Fiorina no showed at its advertised rally stop in Alameda could be negative publicity for her is what I was thinking. And it could be especially negative if it was mentioned that the union people were there to protest her anti-immigration policies.
Just thinking.
And, it was great meeting you today. Looking forward to seeing you again on Oct. 15.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother
212.
Sagesse | September 29, 2010 at 9:12 pm
Mullen Restates Hope For DADT Repeal: We’re Asking Members To ‘Basically Lie’
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/09/29/mullen-restates-hope-for-_n_743281.html?utm_source=DailyBrief&utm_campaign=092910&utm_medium=email&utm_content=NewsEntry
213.
RebeccaRGB | September 29, 2010 at 10:42 pm
While we’re waiting for the report from P8TT, I thought I’d post a more detailed account of what I experienced at the Fuller Park stop in Napa.
I arrived in Fuller Park around 10:10, twenty minutes before the time posted on the Vota tus Valores site. There were a handful of Barbara Boxer supporters standing in the middle of the park. More supporters trickled in as 10:30 came and went. I counted 27 people, including me. Someone received a text message saying that VtV had been kicked out of the Jelly Belly Factory. It was 10:40 when the organizer for the protest announced they’ll only wait ten more minutes. Then we moved from the center of the park to near the street. A white van pulled up and someone told us the bus was coming, but it was running late.
The bus came around 10:50. The bus driver waved to us as he drove by (Hi Thomas!). They parked the bus on the northwest corner of the park. The P8TT van was in front of them. The VtV staff came out and tried to start a speech about Carly Fiorina, starting with something about “intolerance is unamerican.” All the Boxer supporters drowned them out with calls of Jobs! Jobs! Jobs! and Get Out of Napa!. I yelled Gay Marriage! Gay Marriage! Gay Marriage! while I held up my “God Loves Gays” sign.
I heard someone yell “you’re wasting your time!” and I yelled back “nobody’s showing up to your bus tour and you say we’re the ones wasting our time?!” (Though I must admit I have no idea whether the person yelling that was with us or with them.)
Arisha approached me and asked me for an interview, which of course I accepted! She asked me who I am and why I was there. I said I am Rebecca, I am here because of the Prop 8 Trial Tracker, and like they said, intolerance is unamerican, and I’m here to show them what tolerance really is! She thanked me and then started talking to some of the other people. I heard her tell someone about NOMTourTracker.com. Just before she left I told her I post here as RebeccaRGB. I told her it was great meeting her! The VtV and P8TT people got back into their bus and van respectively to leave for the next stop.
The Boxer supporters started singing, Na na na na, na na na na, hey hey hey, goodbye! We saw the bus turn the corner, go around the park, and go back the opposite way it came.
All the other signs were Boxer-related. One girl had a sign saying “Boxer rocks my socks!”
My sign said:
GOD L♥VES GAYS
DIOS AMA a los GAYS
Matthew 19:12 Isaiah 56:4-5
1 Samuel 16:7 Acts 8:26-39
Acts 10:34 Galatians 3:28
I had been up the night before downloading bible apps onto my iPod and Droid and bookmarking these and the “clobber passages,” just in case I had to use them. But I didn’t. :)
214.
RebeccaRGB | September 30, 2010 at 12:29 am
Pictures of the action in Napa:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2087536&id=1099101456
215.
Kate | September 30, 2010 at 8:07 am
Can you check this link, Rebecca? I can’t get it to work.
216.
Kate | September 30, 2010 at 8:06 am
Rebecca — Such a great report! Yay Rebecca, Yay Boxer supporters! I am SO envious of the fun you’re all having.
217.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother of a wonderful son who just happens to be gay | September 29, 2010 at 11:56 pm
I love that “intolerance is unAmerican.” Wow, if NOM had anything to do with that speech, they have just called themselves unAmerican because they are a very intolerant organization. Tolerant people don’t go around trying to take away or not give rights to other people.
Where do you live Rebecca, given thought to coming to the P8TT gathering on Oct. 15.
Sheryl, Mormon Mother (who is now shamelessly promoting this event every time she posts)
218.
RebeccaRGB | September 30, 2010 at 12:23 am
I’m in Napa. I have no means of transportation other than the bus system, though. Where is this gathering?
219. Day 3 on NOM’s California tour: Vota Tus Valores gets more than they bargained for « Prop 8 Trial Tracker | September 30, 2010 at 7:01 am
[…] #12, at the Jelly Belly factory in Fairfield, was covered yesterday here. Meanwhile, watch below where Alfonso says in response to the question “where are all your […]