Kriseman, Heller pull council endorsement over anti-gay remarks

Democratic state Reps. Richard Kriseman and Bill Heller of St. Petersburg have yanked their endorsements of St. Petersburg City Council candidate Gershom Faulkner (pictured) following comments Faulkner made to a gay and lesbian political group that were seen as homophobic.

Faulkner, a Democrat running for the nonpartisan council in District 7, told members of the Pinellas Stonewall Democrats at a candidate interview last month that being gay was a "choice,''and that he could "not support the gay lifestyle'' because of his religious beliefs, according to people who attended the meeting.

"We were taken aback by his responses,'' said Rick Boylan, the president of the Pinellas gay and lesbian rights group. "Here’s a Democrat, and we’re getting answers that seem like he’s a right-wing Republican.''

When reached by The Buzz, Faulker did not dispute Boylan's recollection of the meeting (Faulkner also said he supports a proposed ban on gay marriages and opposes adoption rights for same-sex partners). However, he said he did say then, and maintained on Wednesday, that he is willing to learn more about gay rights issues and open to changing his opinions.

"I'm not drawing a line in the sand and saying I can't work with you," said Faulkner, 36, the director of outreach for U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Tampa. "A lot of my beliefs are religious beliefs. But I also believe in being fair and hearing both sides. My religious beliefs won’t hamper that."

Faulkner, an ex-Marine who is running against local neighborhood association president Wengay Newton, is running for the City Council seat being vacated by Rene Flowers.

UPDATE From Wednesday's story:

Wengay Newton: "I've been through discrimination. I think that persecution is wrong. If there's something wrong, that's between them and God and not between me as a candidate and them as a person."

Rick Kriseman: "I still believe that Gershom's the best candidate. I think he'll make a good council member. I'm with him on the majority of issues. But his stances on these issues trouble me."

Bill Heller:  "I cannot appreciate any kind of discrimination against any kind of group."

Comments

Its sad that someone is going to remove their endorsement over religious beliefs.

[Lee]

I am glad to see there are indeed politicians willing to pull endorsements. The government is to be in support of ALL people. It is not a church, religious beliefs should not influence how government is run.

[Bill]

I'm glad to see people willing to stand up to politicians who think their religious beliefs give them the right to make public policy based upon those beliefs.

"Here’s a Democrat, and we’re getting answers that seem like he’s a right-wing Republican.''

Rick, get a clue. The black community in general, and the black religious crowd specifically, are NOT supportive of the GLBT community. This has nothing to do with the (D) after anyone's name, but more with where they are on Sunday morning. And if you don't understand the power of the Sunday morning pull within the black community, you've been living under a rock.

Didn't you think it was funny when the Black churches joined the Reps in condemning gay marriage? You didn't notice the lack of support from the black community? You may be surprised Rick, but if so, you just haven't been paying attention.

[Frank]

Please call Kathy Castor's office today and ask why Gershom Faulkner is the Director of Outreach for her office. I support Kathy Castor and am beyond puzzled as to why someone like him is not simply a member of her staff but a DIRECTOR of an important position.

at least he is honest -

funny how people scream that one's religious preference should not interefere with public policy - but have no problem advocating a pro-gay public policy agenda.

Hey Rick Boylan,

The "usual" answers you get from Democrats are pandering to you for votes. At least Faulkner was honest on where he stands.

You think Hillary gives 2 $hits about gay issues? It just makes a nice photo op for campaign ads in the Village

[The Monolith]

2:29, the prominent faces on anti-gay ballot initiatives across the country are almost exclusively white. If you've got a beef with the black community, air it, but don't generalize an entire community based on this knucklehead. You can point to countless white politicians/clergy who detest gays and lesbians, but I doubt you would ask, Why is it the white community hates gays so?

[Susan S]

2:29pm,
Back in the old days, I bet a lot of people felt the same way about civil rights for blacks. I'm surprised Gershom isn't more sympathetic to to discrimination when it comes to other minorities.

And this has everything to do with having a "D" by his name. Our party is the party of tolerance.

2:44 interesting.

But, I'll offer you an alternative perspective. I am an Episcopalian, and have been watching the worldwide debate on admittance of gay clergy into the church.

Many American diocese are threatening to leave the traditional Canterbury-based vhurch which has allowed gay clergy...

In favor of the dioceses in Africa and Latin America, who oppose gay clergy and ministry.

Susan S,

If you're party is so tolerant, why is one of your sitting US Senators a former member of the Klan?

Just goes to show how intolerant democrats have become. What a shame.

2:47 - Key word is "former." Byrd has since apologized for his past decisions.

Funny thing is that current members of the Klan's successor (CCC - Council of Conservative Citizens) are members of the Republican Party. (Trent Lott, #2 in the Senate GOP, and MS Governor Haley Barbour, are the highest ranking example.)

[Robert]

I think the whole point is missing in these posts. The district that Gershom would be representing is St. Pete's heaviest gay & lesbian district -- a place where people have put their blood, sweat, and tears into houses, stores, development. It's where the largest gay pride event in the southeast is held.

If this man will only represent the people in his district with whom his religious convictions agree, then he needs to weed out the adulterers, the divorced, the criminal, and so on. We would not tolerate that. But from these comments, we give him a wide berth to discriminate against those he is suppose to represent just because his religion tells him they're sinners.

Heh, we're all sinners. Who's left to represent, Gershom?

has Teddy Kennedy ever apologized for vehicular homicide?

has the Democratic Party ever apologized for seceding from the union? dropping the a-bomb? waging war in Vietnam? any other anti-liberal activities it has perpetuated over the decades?

Jimmy Carter is an anti-semite. where's his apology?

[Susan S]

3:08pm,
That is absurd. Just because Jimmy Carter supports fair treatment of the Palestinians, that doesn't make him an anti-Semite.

02:47 PM
the key word is "former"
all of the GOP are Klan lovers

Adam and Times folks:

Why did you sit on this for so long? This is pretty old news. Also, you only call a person an ex-Marine if they were other-than-honorably discharged. In all other circumstances, the person is a "former Marine."

funny, because I seem to remember it was a GOP president who used the naitonal guard to enforce the brown v board ruling

Maybe Gershom should stick to preaching instead of public service.

Initially I had hopes that Gershom- a young guy- would be a leader in a different mold. God knows, the black community needs strong leaders and role models. But now I feel that he is just another politician, someone who will just walk in same footsteps of lackluster petty politics, making stupid mistakes, calculating he has nothing to lose by bashing gay people for their lifestyle. It's utterly disappointing and dispiriting to see a young person so misinformed and so close minded.

How exactly has Gershom tried to make amends to the gay community? Any letters, calls, meetings, apologies, actions? I have not heard a thing. How exactly has he demonstrated that he has reached out and that he has listened to anyone?

being gay is a bedroom choice, just as copulating with animals is a choice.

3:28 - Then you've haven't been listening.

[Susan S]

3:27pm,
The GOP of Brown vs. Board of Education is not the GOP of 2007.

3:51pm,
Your ignorance is astounding. Perhaps you should ask your gay friends and relatives if they enjoy being compared to "copulating animals."

and it was Dem Govs who used the state police to prohibit AA students from entering school

What idiot goes to the Stonewall Dems and says that? Really, his judgment and instincts say far worse things about him as a leader than about what he actually said.

Maybe it's time to re-think your little "Democrat" or "Right-wing Republican" labels...

Susan: "3:27pm,
The GOP of Brown vs. Board of Education is not the GOP of 2007"

SAYS WHO?? YOU????

Isn't that the very height of arrogance, conceit and self-importance?

[L. Ranger]

Hey, I got a great idea that would solve all this aingst over religion and politics. Only let athiests run for public office. if anyone has any moral convictions based on any religion then deny them the right to freely express their opinions in a public venue. If they disagree with such issues as whether or not homosexuallity is a personal choice or something else then they should be immediatly arrested for crimes against humanity. Man what a great country we would have then! A govt that answers to no higher authority than itself, no moral standards other than ones each individual sets for him or herself, the right to do whatever feels good for you regardless of how it affects others and the power to put anyone who disagress you in jail as a hatemonger. Sure sounds like utopia to me.....
To bad these ideas violate every thing our constituion stands for and would result in our countries total collaspe.... Imagin that

And it was a GOP President who finally pulled us out of the Democrat quagmire called Vietnam...

L. Ranger: there is nothing wrong with Religion. Moral convictions are good. They are the foundation of a person's life. However, when these things are used as an excuse to denigrate, discriminate or generally "put down" another person's lifestyle they lose their legitimacy. Then they become the tool of opression.

Being gay is not a choice. Being a religious bigot is.

3:19 really? What about tthe Klansman, Senator Byrd - a D if evet there was one.

Religion has nothing to do with this controversy. It is just about one man who does not feel gays are his equals.

How sad!. Faulkner and his ilk don't realize that in another day, the white gay might have been in the front of the bus while he stood in the back.

didnt some dimbulb racist say essentially the same thing about the races living together and going to school with each other, o, about fifty years ago!

HONESTLY!!

exactly how STUPID do some people have to be to believe that crap????

seems to me that some folks "religious beliefs" made it open season on balck folks not too long ago, didnt they?

[hoshi]

I am sorry that they pulled their endorsements but I am proud to be a fellow Christian sister with similar beliefs to someone who is so bold for God. The gay rights movement preaches tolerance and understanding but it is only as long as we are the tolerant and understanding of their cause. They are not tolerant of our christian beliefs at all. I am fortunate to have a gay friend who is very respectful of my spiritual makeup and never pressures me to feel any other way. Keep on keeping on and please do not buckle under the pressure. We need you as a Christian brother more than we need you as a butt kissing politican who doesn't even care about the American citizen.

[Matt]

First, it is a CHOICE. Secondly, because a candidate cannot personally support the homosexual and lesbian lifestyle should not disqualify them from public service. It seems those who want him to want him to support a "special interest"??

I know this is going to shock the living crap out of you folks. But there are a whole lot of Christians, who just happen to be Democrats. To yank your “Big Tent, All-inclusive, Democratic support” because he doesn’t “believe” in the gay lifestyle is as hypocritical as any Right-wing Republicans actions to date.

Attacking people – because they disagree with your pro-homosexuality views – is no different that Bush asserting that those who disagree with his Iraq policy are un-American.

Why don’t you ask him if he supports strong “Anti-Discrimination Laws”… you freaking morons? That’s the real issue.

"It is not a church, religious beliefs should not influence how government is run."

Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't most of the people who came to the new world come because of freedom of religion? So good or bad, religion does influence how government as well as life is run!

[Bill]

Being Gay isn't a choice?

Soon we'll say criminality isn't a choice. That's not equating criminality and homesexuality, it's only pointing to behavior. I also think human reproduction is a choice.

I can understand not supporting the gay lifestyle because it's unproductive, I also see no reason to support selfish heterosexuals who are too concerned about their own well-being to bother to reproduce.

these comments are considered "anti-gay"? geez - the gay folks are a little sensitive.

since someone's "gayness" drives their politics why is it so bad for a religious person to express their religious and political views - once again the left shutting down ideas they don't like.

Susan S, my gay friends, relatives, and colleagues have a collection of gay porn that would make barney frank blush. I would defend my gay friends from abuse and their right to do as they wish in their bedrooms but would never defend their wishes to institutionalize gay marriage for they have demonstrated to me that it is a sexual choice.
max h.

[Gina]

Oh no. He dared to touch the sacred cow(gays). He must perish now.

Had some gay candidate made some anti-Christian comment no one would have blinked an eye.

The Hypersensitive gay mafia are truly a whiny bunch.

*rolls eyes*

Being Gay isn't a choice?

That's not what Ellen Degeneris says. She pissed the entire LPGABLTX club off when she openly stated that "she trid both sexes and CHOSE to be gay"

I use to be gay, but I quit because it was a pain in the a**.

[Publius]

Well 4:29 and others, you are correct that most of the people who came to the new world of America were escaping religious intolerance. However you are missing the key concept.

They were escaping INTOLERENCE.

They didn’t come here because they could not practice christianity in their homes in Europe. They came here because they could not practice their particular brand of christianity.

The key word that you, along with the rest of the intolerant so-called christian right, need to focus on is FREEDOM. That is what makes this country great. Look it up in the dictionary, you may learn something.

“… being gay was a "choice,'' and that he could "not support the gay lifestyle''

For that; Rick Kriseman and Bill Heller pull their endorsement?

Wasn’t this the same Rick Kriseman that supported Rick “I Hate Gays” Baker lo those many years?

I guess it truly is “All about the quan” for you aye RK?

[Publius]

Any one of you "choice" believers could have some tiny change made in your brain chemestry and you to would be compelled to make that same choice.

Homosexuality is not a choice anymore than your hair color or skin color was when you were born.

I know that some of you faith only people may not get that, but its called science. It's tied to reason. But then again those words do not mean anything to you faith-based folks.

Good call “Publius”… I can’t wait until we give pedophiles the “FREEDOM” to practice their “NON-CHOICE” lifestyle.

I afraid it is YOU, Publius, that has missed the point. Until such time that two gay men or two gay women can conceive “on their own” (and therefore sustain the existence of the species) a child… it is un-natural behavior. Look it up in the Bible. Perhaps it is YOU that will learn something.

This is too easy...

Any one of you "gay" believers could have some tiny change made in your brain chemestry and you to would be compelled to live natural.

Homosexuality is an act of choice, just like your hair color or skin color (suntan) is.

I know that some of you gay people may not get that, but its called natural. It's tied to reason. But then again those words do not mean anything to you gay-based folks.

... idiot

[R. Fix]

People, please stick to the real issues in this article. This is a freedom of speech issue. Mr. Gershom is exercising his constitutional rights to express his beliefs and convictions in a public forum. If you disagree with him then dont vote for him. He said nothing that denies anybody elses rights and neither did he utter any words that could qualify as hate speech.
The only hate and intolerance being perpurtrated here is aimed at Mr. Gershom and is coming from special interest groups that are demanding tolerance but have none for others with a differnt opinion than theirs'.
Our politcal system was set up to keep minority special interest groups from intimidating and ruling over majority concensus. Most of the comments here are a shame and a testament as to how far distant the political system we have today has digressed from the one our founding fathers bled and died for, so that we who are alive today might have the freedom to persue religious beliefs, and the rights to express our beliefs publically without fear of retribution, legal or political.
if any apologies are in order then it should be to Mr. Gershom, not those who are working to strip us of our constitutional rights to bear witness.

let's be clear: some on this blog and i are not condemning homesexuality nor would we tolerate anyone condemning it or even persecuting gays; yet, on the other hand, we accept it as a SEXUAL CHOICE, a SEXUAL OPTION, a particular way of getting off, and NOT in any way related to genetic predisposition or anything innate. there's no science, nor will there ever be, that can demonstrate that being gay is something determined at birth.

[Susan S]

Let's see, so far we have the good "Christians" on the Buzz equating homosexuals with copulating animals and pedophiles. I'm not sure there's any comment I can make that will do this kind of ignorance justice.

susan, so does that mean you'll be quiet for a while?

04:27 PM
Not all christans are Haters, or have their heads stuck up their butts

Oh, you republicans who do protest too much.

Mother's before allowing your children to enter a public restroom, yell: are there any REPUBLICANS IN HERE

[Rhea]

"being gay is a bedroom choice, just as copulating with animals is a choice."

Are you saying you copulate with animals??? EWWWW!!! Do you consider yourself a straight person???

There's also no science that says you have a shred of a brain. There's just the evidence.

Just a side correction: The largest Gay PRIDE is in Atlanta, GA, not St. Pete, FL.
I do agree there ought to be some more tolerance for a group of people who just happen to be a little different than the 'mainstream'!

Correction to above: The largest Gay PRIDE *in the southeast* ... is in Atlanta, GA, not St. Pete, FL.

[Bill]

I see nothing wrong with wanting to play dingle dangle dingle with the personal equipment of a member of your own gender. I think every group should be subject to ridicule. I believe in free expression, even homosextional expression.

Just a little reality check… for those hypocritical and reversed-bigoted Democrats who continue to help build the Republican Party base by acting like complete morons and affirming the R Party’s assertion that we have no freaking plan or clue on what are, and how to, address the real issues that face Americans…

Stating that one does not agree with another’s lifestyle is NOT an indication that one is intolerant.

However, taking a punitive action – whether perceptional in nature or not – against said person for making that statement is most certainly an indication of intolerance.

This was an ignorant move by Kriseman and Heller. Two very well fed, ego-bloated, and vote pandering fools.

A lifestyle is the kind of sofa you buy for your living room. Being gay is a life. Not a choice. Just like being black.

[Zhombre]

Many blacks are culturally and socially very conservative, are devout Christians, and vote reflexively Democratic. It is inevitable they should clash with white affluent liberals of the Democrat party, who are tolerant of all things and any behavior except conservative Christians who actually profess and articulate their faith. It may occur to Mr. Faulkner, that as far as gay issues are concerned, he is expected to be as quiet and loyal as the lawn jockey in the front yard of the estate.

[Chris]

Ha, religion is a sham. People use their beliefs in a fantasy as an excuse to hate others. Go live in the middle east for awhile and see how great living in a "religious society" with godlike morals is. lol

Look up Baynard Ruskin, folks. (Especially you, Faulkner.) He's was the organizer of the March on Washington during the Civil Rights movement. Only it was A. Philip Randolph who was the titular organizer because Baynard's name had to stay out of it. Why? Because he was gay. Ruskin made the choice to hide who he was to further the civil rights movement, but he did it so that future generations would not have to make the same costly choice.

We need leaders who do not cower to racism or homophobia or any form of hate or ignorance, especially in the name of the bible. We need leaders who understand our history, so that we can lead into tomorrow with peace, fairness, and justice for all.

Being gay is a life-choice... and in no way can it be compared to the plight of American Africans… you moron. This is why you idiots continue to lose this battle. Your heads are in the clouds… just like your rears at a Richard Simmons workout session.

Hey Chris, Iran has room for some gays... you ignorant dipsh*t.

[Dave]

Thank you, Reps Heller and Kriseman, though I'm glad Gershom did say he was open to learning directly from GLBT folks what their lives are really like and not misinterepreted religious dogma.

Someday we'll look back and see that we were quibbling about this instead of working together. And that will be after Child's Park gets gentrified to a lily white hue, or when we realize the county didn't have a hurricane recovery plan to insure that that midtown and child's park don't go to way of the 9th ward in New Orleans. No, we're just gonna quibble about the bible and hate each other with anonymous quips.

A great big "AMEN!" to Chris!

"Golly wiz there Beaver. There aint no Santa Claus. Aint no Easter Bunny. Aint no Tooth Fairy either. However we all know that some guy who was the son of a virgin was killed on some chunks of wood and then disapeared from earth only to come back and visit for a bit and some day he will drop out of the sky and destroy all those who aint smart enough to believe in him being the son of god and god and the spirit of god all at the same time. Come on Beav, every dolt knows that."

HAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAA!!!

You religiots who can't except the fact that this is it, you get this life and when your done, your done, make me laugh.

HAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAA!!!

A great big "AMEN!" to Chris!

"Golly wiz there Beaver. There aint no Santa Claus. Aint no Easter Bunny. Aint no Tooth Fairy either. However we all know that some guy who was the son of a virgin was killed on some chunks of wood and then disapeared from earth only to come back and visit for a bit and some day he will drop out of the sky and destroy all those who aint smart enough to believe in him being the son of god and god and the spirit of god all at the same time. Come on Beav, every dolt knows that."

HAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAA!!!

You religiots who can't except the fact that this is it, you get this life and when your done, your done, make me laugh.

HAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAA!!!

[Zhombre]

Are you done yet? Go take a nap in the dirt.

6:39 & 6:45,

Don't forget your sunblock and tube-o-lube... I hear it gets very hot in hell for you butt-pirates.

Your tombstone should have just enough room for three additional letters.

[Honker]

I've always wondered about this... You know when a straight guy gets a scent from a woman he gets, you know, interested. Now does this mean when a fella picks up the scent of a poot he starts to pant?

#1. Since when has it been proven that being gay is anything but a choice?

#2. I thought the democrats were the party of "tolerance". Is that only tolerance for those that agree with the party line views?

#3. Kriseman and Heller have esentially demonstrated to their constituents that they represent those that practice and/or support the gay lifestyle OVER those that practice religion.

I certainly do not endorse Faulkner but it is because of his politics not his personal religious views; I applaud him. Sorry folks, but I do respect somebody that walks the walk rather than just saying whatever it is that everyone wants to hear.

I think it is sad that it has become popular to bash the church goers. What does it say about our country when it is okay to make fun of and mock those that belive in the Bible and try to live moral lives yet it is a hate crime to say anything that offends those that practice perversion.

Imagine in this country, the land of the free, democracy for everyone, religious freedom, freedom to not be religious, God bless America and all the great patriotic things we believe in, that we could say to the Gay community, you don't have a right to adopt a child because our or my personal religious belief says no. What if that child was a relative and the gay person was the only living relative that child had? I may agree that a man and a woman make a marriage, but I also know I live in the land of freedom and equal rights for all. I do not want governemnt making religious or moral beliefs for me and my family. I wonder if Bob Allen, or Foley or Senator Craigs morals are the ones that should be dictated to me and my family. They imposed certain moral beliefs on others that they did not practice. The point is this is a free country, how can you pick and chose who gets freedom and liberty? Are only certain people allowed the protections of the Constitution?

I guess some people feel you cannot have a Constitution if they wnat to promote only their religion.

Sad that simply stating that "It's against my religious beliefs." is all you need to be automatically be labeled a gay-hating homophobe.

I guess the homos have an "If you're not for us, you're totally against us," attitude and dare anyone to to not buy into it."

These rumprangers and tonguelashers have a lot of power, and don't forget that almighty Gay Card that they can whip out and play against you.

[Dan]

Finally a person who won't abandon his religious beliefs to get into office. What is he supposed to do, forget God and endorse what he believes to be immoral? As a black man, I wish I were in his district because I would drum up every possible vote for this man. Whoever said being a black Democrat automatically means you have to support something the bible says is sin?

[Dan]

Finally a person who won't abandon his religious beliefs to get into office. What is he supposed to do, forget God and endorse what he believes to be immoral? As a black man, I wish I were in his district because I would drum up every possible vote for this man. Whoever said being a black Democrat automatically means you have to support something the bible says is sin?

Someone who aspires to elected office should be wiser.

Whoever said being a black Democrat automatically means anything other than a Democrat who happens to be black?

This is why we lose... LABELS, LABELS, LABELS... Ohhhh... love me, I'm special, I'm black, I'm gay, I'm Hispanic, I'm female... and if you're not... YOU SUCK! But vote for us, because we love everybody.

It's fu*king pathetic...

[mike]

What's astounding - and frightening - is the reaction to what he said. The guy made a simple statement - I believe it's a choice and I'm not able to support it. That's all he said. This reaction is exactly what Republicans oppose. It's not the freedom to be gay and live your life, but the insistence that you embrace homosexuality as a perfectly normal alternative.

[Jehosephat]

I think being gay/homo is a great idea.

Every single human being on earth should participate immediatly.

Then in around 100, 110 years or so, all humans will be extinct due to non-procreation. No babies are made if you are a "true" gay/homo.

It's like being a "true" vegetarian. Some people say they are vegans, yet eat dairy products, etc. Some people say they are gay/homo, yet yearn for artificial insemination to be a "faux" mother.

Then, and only then, will mother earth be saved from destruction.

No global warming.
No red meat carnivores.
No fur coats.
No pollution.
No illegal wars.

Earths problems solved in one easy step, and in only 100 years!(assuming the babies born today will live to about that, but most dead at 75 or so.)

"a perfectly normal alternative" is riding the bus instead of driving a Hummer... not doing the nasty L7.

But Jehosephat... where would these freaks be without a meat whistle.

Because it should be repeated...

Just a little reality check… for those hypocritical and reversed-bigoted Democrats who continue to help build the Republican Party base by acting like complete morons and affirming the R Party’s assertion that we have no freaking plan or clue on what are, and how to, address the real issues that face Americans…

Stating that one does not agree with another’s lifestyle is NOT an indication that one is intolerant.

However, taking a punitive action – whether perceptional in nature or not – against said person for making that statement is most certainly an indication of intolerance.

This was an ignorant move by Kriseman and Heller. Two very well fed, ego-bloated, and vote pandering fools.

[Bobby Sue]

Why do they call you a homophobe if you aren't afraid of homos, like if you just hate them?

The better measure to take as to how Faulkner might perform as a Council Member is to take a look at his vision for our community, and his ability to achieve it. Gershom wants to work towards a truly seemless community. And we know we certainly don’t have that now. I believe he can get us moving towards that seemless community. I don’t know that it is necessary for him to attend the Gay Pride festival to make that happen.

This whole sequence of events started the night before the Stonewall Democrats meeting. At a CONA candidate forum, all the City Council candidates were asked if they would attend the St. Pete Pride Festival. Several said they would probably be out of town - whenever the festival was held. Some, including Faulkner’s opponent, said they would attend. And some said they would not attend.

Gershom Faulkner answered that he would not attend, but that he would fight any effort to discriminate against gays. That’s right. He said he would fight any efforts to discriminate against gays. All that has gotten lost in the ensuing noise about his appearance at the Stonewall Dems meeting the following night.

There are plenty of Democratic office holders who can lead the charge for gay rights. Gershom Faulkner does not have to be one of them to still be a better choice for Council.

[Jehosephat]

I think being gay/homo is a great idea.

Every single human being on earth should participate immediatly.

Then in around 100, 110 years or so, all humans will be extinct due to non-procreation. No babies are made if you are a "true" gay/homo.

It's like being a "true" vegetarian. Some people say they are vegans, yet eat dairy products, etc. Some people say they are gay/homo, yet yearn for artificial insemination to be a "faux" mother.

Then, and only then, will mother earth be saved from destruction.

No global warming.
No red meat carnivores.
No fur coats.
No pollution.
No illegal wars.

Earths problems solved in one easy step, and in only 100 years!(assuming the babies born today will live to about that, but most dead at 75 or so.)

[gary]

jehosephat........you are right.

why would any self respecting man hating lesbian want even a drop of man juice in her to have a baby?

unless she was a faux lesbian and not hardcore.

Being gay is a CHOICE.
ALL gays are either girls who were fugly and rejected by boys and made a choice.
Or strippers who hate men and just take their money and pretend they are gay for emotional reasons.
Or were skinny pimple faced boys who were rejected by cheerleaders and fell for the easy way out.
Or a few other reasons.
Gay is not the natural way.
Gay guys act like pussssies.
Gay girls act and look like rosie or kd lang.

Gershom is a great guy, but he is completely wrong-headed on this one.

[josh]

"Gershom is a great guy, but he is completely wrong-headed on this one."

He said "Wrong-Headed" as in gay guys getting the right head.

Poor choice of language gay advocate.

[bill]

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LOL. I don't know about anyone else, but I sure don't plan on living THAT long!

Homosexuality has spanned centuries and continents, 9:21.

I think it is important to note that gay people contribute greatly to our city and community. All of us know someone worthy and is a part of our lives who happens to be gay. There are also many gay people of faith. There is no need to go out your way to offend us, judge us, or come up with your own hatched scientific views of nature vs. nurture.

We need to count on leaders to be above the fray and aspire to the best of the community--blacks, gays, poor, wealthy, elderly, you have it... We don't need dividers. I pray Gershom learns and grows from this fracas and emerges a more thoughtful leader. I don't want to hear his comments on religion and lifestyles anymore than I want to hear a gay person pander to me just because I am gay. I am not one dimensional, but I do have high expectations of people who aspire to represent me and make decisions for the city.

[bill]

that was in regards to the Child's park gentrification comment.

[Bob Mattiko]

It really is an interesting social phenomenon - the posted responses to articles on this and other newspaper websites. I must say that some of the responses here scare the hell out of me. Take the posting about gay guys acting like pussies...what crack in the pavement did that poster crawl out of. Hard to believe that this is 2007 with the ignorance, bigotry and hatred spewed by local "citizens". I have to hope these are posted by a minoity of small minded people and is not the general consensus. I feel it is important we call these "folks" out on their hurtful/irrational comments if only to show that reason and kindness are the norm.

Mattiko.....

if your gay guy who cries alot then your a pusssy.

don't try to defend it.

[Jehosephat]

Bobby Mattiko

http://www.zoominfo.com/search/PersonDetail.aspx?PersonID=1063427107

[Jehosephat]

Bobby Mattiko

http://www.avsouth.com/success_company.html

[Jehosephat]

I think being gay/homo is a great idea.

Every single human being on earth should participate immediatly.

Then in around 100, 110 years or so, all humans will be extinct due to non-procreation. No babies are made if you are a "true" gay/homo.

It's like being a "true" vegetarian. Some people say they are vegans, yet eat dairy products, etc. Some people say they are gay/homo, yet yearn for artificial insemination to be a "faux" mother.

Then, and only then, will mother earth be saved from destruction.

No global warming.
No red meat carnivores.
No fur coats.
No pollution.
No illegal wars.

Earths problems solved in one easy step, and in only 100 years!(assuming the babies born today will live to about that, but most dead at 75 or so.)

[Carl]

Jehosephat: You are indeed a moron, but you and the rest of the world may start seriously wishing you had embraced God's plan to harness overpopulation of the earth by making some people homosexual. You'll all wish you had acted more kindly toward homosexuality when overpopulation leads us to a drinking water crisis in the next 20 years, among other disasters.

[Bob Mattiko]

In the spirit of practicnig what you preach, I do regret using negative comments in my previous post. Though I do stand by my feelings, statements such as "small minded" certainly don't help in encouraging kindness.

Give gays their own planet. . .see how many generation go by before they're all dead.

Ya see, there's that whole, inability to reproduce thing, you know, that ability you need to sustain a population?

The homo lifestyle doesn't advocate life. When it comes to gay mean, it simply advocates banging as many guys in the men's room or the public park, or the local gloryhole as possible. It's a vile, immoral, disgusting lifestyle and they deserve whatever bad things that go along with it.

Gays serve one purpose: they keep the KY-Jelly and Enema kits industries in business and thriving.

I like Gershom, but I disagree with him on this issue. And I would encourage him to do what many people of faith who go into public service do -- to remember that you represent people who don't share your faith, and that they are just as entitled to equal protection under the law as anybody else.

[Mario]

Mr. Fauckner needs to read the U.S. Constitution. It gaurantees equal rights for ALL, not just some. All Americans including woman, minorities, elderly, gays, and disabled must be treated equally under law. While individuals have a right to their religius views, they don't have a right to impose their views on a larger society that also has in the Constitution a separation of church and state, especially in Mr. Faulker's case where these views violate our Constitution and are based in radical brainwashing dogma masqurading as religious belief. If God hasn't walked away in disgust for what we humans have done in his name and the name of religion thoughout history, he's now crying w/ head in hands.

[Andrew]

You know I believe that all law makers should not and should be prevented from siding either with groups that are to be defined to be aligned with the Churches as well as the Gay Rights or Animal Rights. Law need to bee dictated and made on the pure simple fact is this right for our community.

To say it is not fair for one to go on their beliefs of their Church Life or their Beliefs within the Gay Community. You cant have one and not the other!

You cant have it one way and say " Hey you cant have representation in another way!" This would be a total disregard of someone's rights. I do feel that we let our personal influences effect the decisions that we make but we need to find a medium when we make laws in our society to fit the bill for everyone not for just one side of the discussion.

For those of you that disagree its your right, but those of you that speak about narrow mindedness you might be doing it yourself!

Personally, I think anyone who posts to this thread is as dumb as a bag of dog $hit . . . wait . . . oops!

[jay]

The better measure to take as to how Faulkner might perform as a Council Member is to take a look at his vision for our community, and his ability to achieve it. Gershom wants to work towards a truly seemless community. And we know we certainly don’t have that now. I believe he can get us moving towards that seemless community. I don’t know that it is necessary for him to attend the Gay Pride festival to make that happen.

This whole sequence of events started the night before the Stonewall Democrats meeting. At a CONA candidate forum, all the City Council candidates were asked if they would attend the St. Pete Pride Festival. Several said they would probably be out of town - whenever the festival was held. Some, including Faulkner’s opponent, said they would attend. And some said they would not attend.

Gershom Faulkner answered that he would not attend, but that he would fight any effort to discriminate against gays. That’s right. He said he would fight any efforts to discriminate against gays. All that has gotten lost in the ensuing noise about his appearance at the Stonewall Dems meeting the following night.

There are plenty of Democratic office holders who can lead the charge for gay rights. Gershom Faulkner does not have to be one of them to still be a better choice for Council.

Please read before making anymore comments!

The man lost my vote because he refuses to represent all persons in his district. Period. He is entitled to his beliefs, I commend him for having them, but that doesn't mean I have to vote for him. So far as I'm concrned that's where the discussion ends.

I am interested in how many people here actually vote in St. Pete - vs. how many like to type like tough guys from the safety of their Pasco County trailer.

[WM]

I am glad that Mr. Faulkner held true to his personal convictions. I would much rather know where a political leader stands, versus having one who pretends to be concerned and have your best interest at heart only to become elected and prostitutes him/herself in the name of position and power. According to a previous post, Mr. Faulkner does not support discrimination against gay and lesbian citizens. He is not in support of in dividuals whom live a gay and lesbian lifestyle. THAT IS HIS CHOICE. WHICH HE HAS EVERY RIGHT TO! It should in no way be measure of his capability to be an effective city council man. For the two political figure who jumped ship, good. Now he knows who is for him and who is against him.

Funny that no-one commented the irony that Faulkner made anti-gay comments and that his opponent's first name is Wengay. Seriously though, after taking a look at his website, I would definitely throw my support behind him. Seems like a good guy.

Just wanted to make it clear that I would support Wengay "Newt" Newton.

[KL]

THE EVENT THAT GERSHOM MADE THOSE COMMENTS AT OCCURED OVER A MONTH AGO. YET, TWO DAYS BEFORE THE PRIMARY THE TIMES CHOSE TO RUN THIS ARTICLE...BASED ON A BY STANDER WHO SUPPOSEDLY ATTENDED THE EVENT......PEOPLE WAKE UP....IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHO GERSHOM IS AND WHAT HE IS ABOUT I SUGGEST YOU VISIT HIS WEB SITE. DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE AND DON'T TRUST EVERYTHING THAT IS PRINTED IN THIS LIBERAL BRED NEWSPAPER. LONG GONE ARE THE DAYS WHEN PAPERS WERE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED AND WHEN JOURNALIST ACTUALLY VERFIED THEIR WORK BEFORE SUBMITTING SOME HEARSAY BIT WHICH AMOUNTS TO NOTHING BUT SENSATIONALISM. SHAME ON THE EDITOR TOO! TWO DAYS BEFORE PRIMARY. THE SPIN DOCTOR CAN NOW LEAVE THE BUILDING HIS LICENSE HAS BEEN REVOKED! DO THE WORDS FAIR AND BALANCED REPORTING RING A BELL.

[Tim]

Go Faulkner, beat the Gay Facists....
They are turning our country into a laughing stock. We used to be head and shoulders above Europe because we were a just and moral people with our laws based on Judaic-Chritian principles, but now we are no better than anyone else. I liked it better when homosexuality was a felony, now we have felons running our society.

[Tim]

Why are people being defined by who they have sex with? Seems like Marxism is taking over this country. :(

[Dr. J]

Dr. Freud once commented:

"People are defined by 2 things. What they look like....and What they do."

He was right on. Think about it.

There is Joe the fat guy.
Do you know Ken the mailman?
Hey, can you believe Tim that gay guy who has anall(sic) sex with men?

Because amidst all the rhetoric and ill-informed comments, it needs repeating, again…

Just a little reality check… for those hypocritical and reversed-bigoted Democrats who continue to help build the Republican Party base by acting like complete morons and affirming the R Party’s assertion that we have no freaking plan or clue on what are, and how to, address the real issues that face Americans…

Stating that one does not agree with another’s lifestyle is NOT an indication that one is intolerant.

However, taking a punitive action – whether perceptional in nature or not – against said person for making that statement is most certainly an indication of intolerance.

This was an ignorant move by Kriseman and Heller. Two very well fed, ego-bloated, and vote pandering fools.

… furthermore, Kriseman’s comments in today’s paper prove he is nothing more than a pandering hypocrite who will kiss the butt of whoever hands him a check.

“"I still believe that Gershom's the best candidate. I think he'll make a good council member," said Kriseman,…”

You have my vote Mr. Faulkner… for the simple reason that you display the most important characteristic I look for in government leadership… honesty.

A lot of frustration and fear all over this thread.

And THAT is the meaning of "homophobic" - FEAR of homosexuals.

...or is it fear of the homosexual in YOU, screaming to get out?

"frustration and fear" is what drives you to the choice of a homosexual lifestyle.

... and this comment of yours...

...or is it fear of the homosexual in YOU, screaming to get out?"

... is exactly why your cause struggles.

You cry for acceptance and demand tolerance… yet you attack those who believe differently and refuse to tolerate their position.

Take a good long look into the mirror of truth, my friend… there you will find the real hypocrite and phobic.

[Reality]

8:39 “"I still believe that Gershom's the best candidate. I think he'll make a good council member," said Kriseman,…”

...curious that those comments were deleted from the print edition of the Times, although Rep Heller's critical comments of Mr. Faulkner, which came AFTER Kriseman's supportive comments, were not deleted.

There isn't a primary in two days, dipwad. The general election is Nov 6. Just goes to show how ill-informed people blogging here are.

Rather divisive representative for an outreach director, Kathy.

11:03 PM
You speaking from experience?

Mack Vines was fired for saying a black suspect held on tightly to a steering wheel with his body "like an orangutain."

The thin skinned atmosphere already existed before these comments, and guess what corner it came from? Hmmm.

I'm sure that's why she hired him.

Interesting dichotomy in reaction and results.

Here we have Faulkner simply saying that he could not support what he called a gay lifestyle because of his religious beliefs.

Then there are Newton’s comments…

“"If there's something wrong, that's between them and God and not between me as a candidate and them as a person."

Yet it is Faulkner who gets hammered, and as 9:36 noted…

“...curious that those comments were deleted from the print edition of the Times, although Rep Heller's critical comments of Mr. Faulkner, which came AFTER Kriseman's supportive comments, were not deleted.

I wonder who’s playing who now? Does it behoove the Times to manipulate the story and feed the fire in St. Pete… hmmmm, me thinks there’s more to the story then we currently know.

[Gretchen]

Wow- the gay-basher were out in full effect yesterday! Unbelievable...

Anyways, can someone please stick to the topic at hand? This isn't about whether being gay is a choice or not. It's about someone running for office to serve ALL people. It's great if he feels that way personally, but he needs to have tolerance for everyone. He should have kept his mouth SHUT!

Yeah, she misses the Rhonda Storms contentious good old days!

I could be wrong and could simply be missing the appeal of having sex in a bathroom airport, but it strikes me that that venue is probably not Larry Craig's preferred place to have sex. Something tells me Larry's not choosing.

[Lee]

It is not possible to be in favor of justice for some people and not be in favor of justice for all people.-MLK,Jr.

First they came for the Jews
and I did not speak out - because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for the communists
and I did not speak out - because I was not a communist.

Then they came for the trade unionists
and I did not speak out - because I was not a trade unionist.

Then they came for me -
and by then there was no one left to speak out for me.

Pastor Martin Niemöller

Often the oppressor goes along unaware of the evil involved in his oppression so long as the oppressed accepts it. MLK,Jr.

Our loyalties must transend our race, our tribe, our class, and our nation; and this means we must develop a world perspective. MLK,Jr.

No social advance rolls in on the wheels of inevitability. It comes through the tireless efforts and persistent work of dedicated individuals. MLK,Jr.

If we don't learn from history we are doomed to repeat it. Is not the same, fight for Civil Rights?

What’s the deal with St. Pete anyway… has it become the gay capital of the nation? Are there any straights living there anymore?

Hey Rick… it’s time for a new slogan! How about…

“Iths A Gay Day In Sthsait Pete!”

Oh, and Gretchen... practice what you preach... SHUT IT!

That’ll bring the family vacationers in droves.

Strike that... reverse it... you know what I mean.

[Lee]

Call on Ken Welch, Frank Peterman, Mary Brown to withdraw their support!

brown@pcsb.org
ktwelch@co.pinellas.fl.us

http://www.myfloridahouse.com/Sections/Representatives/emailrepresentative.aspx?MemberId=4217&SessionId=54

Let Kathy Castor know you're not proud of this choice.
info@castorforcongress.com

Faulkner signed the defense of marriage act petition. Doesn't seem like a Democrat to me. www.knowtheyneighbor.org

Interesting story on the Times manipulation of the print versus internet version. I wonder how many black people in ST. Pete have a computer, internet, and read the Times on-line, versus reading the hard copy on their porch?

I think someone ought to publicly demand an explanation for the two story angles.

10-1 says they claim Kriseman’s comment came after print was in production. Then again, why then… are his comments before Heller’s on the site. Hmmmmmmmm…..

www.knowthyneighbor.org

9:21 You sound like that Skinny pimple faced boy. Somebody really screwed you up badly.

Who cares what people do in their private lives? As long as it is not harming anyone. Isn;t that a Republican philosophy? Doesn't the Constitution apply to all in America? No one wants to answer that question.

[endofourtime]

2:12, The endorsements were removed because of Faulkner's acknowledgment of his discriminatory beliefs. The fact they are religiously based beliefs is secondary but still important. Contrary to the recent Republican pandering to religious believers, the Democrats follow the spirit of the Constitution by rejecting any establishment of religion in American politics.
2:29 The black community is generally against discrimination and intolerance.
2:37 It is not a "pro-gay public policy agenda". It is a public policy of anti-discrimination.
Susan S: Correctomundo. And the people who spew the most hatred are 95% right wing.
2:47 That ex-klan member is ancient, and got started in politics in a time when election to dog-catcher in his state was impossible without the endorsements of bigots. Since '64 and the civil rights act, the Republican party has done a great job of corralling the bigot vote.
4:14 Says everybody. Lincoln freed the slaves, while Trent Lott wishes Strom Thurmond had been President.

Susan S, I'm going to practice my freedom of speech, like your friends at Columbia did. If you say anything negative in response, I'll know you aren't truly for free speech if it doesn't match your point of view.

But here it is...I've seen you in public, and...well...you get it!

11:10 Right on point

10:17, this is hilarious, “Iths A Gay Day In Sthsait Pete!” They let you post from middle school?

just exactly what "gay issues" regularly come before the St. Pete City Council?

certainly not a marraige amendment

You pole-smokers and lapdogs just don’t get it, do you. Any number of lying, vote-pandering, pathetic slimeball politicians will tell you exactly what you want to hear. You’ll toast them with wine, cheese and crackers… you’ll vote for them and rally the skirts and strap-ons to wave their signs…

… but not a single damn one of them can, nor will, do the first freaking thing to advance your agenda.

If you had a sliver of sense in those delusional, confused, and soft craniums of yours… you would have praised Faulkner for being the only one who had the stones to be honest with you… and called the rest “like Kriseman” exactly what they are; hypocritical, lying, self-centered, bloated minions of the system.

1:27, please go back to reading your bible now

[Gretchen]

To my No-named stalker friend: "Iths A Gay Day In Sthsait Pete!”

Oh, and Gretchen... practice what you preach... SHUT IT!"

What is it with you? 1st you hate blacks, now gays? Geez...can you just stick to hating ONE group of people PLEASE!!!!

Everyone on here realizes you're a very sick, lonely, vile waste of human flesh who has pyschological issues. You are pathetic so you always feel the need to put others down by making ignorant comments.

Thanks for being a fan & always referring to me personally. You ALWAYS make my day!!! See you tomorrow on another post sweets!

"Everyone on here realizes you're a very sick, lonely, vile waste of human flesh who has pyschological issues."

Now that's the Gretchen we know as the "all-inclusive", "big tent", "can't we all just get along" kinda loving gal!

Gretchen, you spew more hate and ill-informed rhetoric than anyone on this blog... hense the request to "SHUT IT"

btw, I'm black and gay... moron.

I think Gretchen survived an abortion

Gretchen, who's your daddy?

No seriously, do you know who your daddy is?

[Samm Simpson]

Wengay "Newt" Newton received endorsements from the Pinellas County Police Benevolent Association and the St. Petersburg Assocation of Firefighters. I don't see where that was mentioned anywhere in the article.

[Gretchen]

"btw, I'm black and gay... moron."

Stop lying! Your ignorant *ss ALWAYS PRETENDS to be someone else every time you refer to me. We all know that you are the same person on every "Gretchen" comment. What an idiot! Maybe YOU are my long lost daddy, I wouldn't know b/c you continue hide behind this computer like the ignorant loser you are. Why do you have so much interest in me? I know that not a single day goes by that you don't think about me & I'm flattered. Sorry to break it to you but IM NOT SINGLE!!! LOL

I love the attention you give me, I share you pathetic comments with everyone around & we laugh uncontrollably! I only wish you knew how stupid you sound. Do you think most Americans (white, black, purple) share your views? OF COURSE NOT!!!

If you really want me to believe you- try writing Bob, Tony, Willy on different comments with my name instead of leaving it blank. That'll get me! You dumb *ss redneck! See ya on another blog....

Samm 1:08 - Wengay's brother heads the firefighting union. Wasn't mentioned in the article either.

Gretchen – the extremely frustrated and hypocritical one – says “in her own little multi-cultural and tolerant” way…

“You dumb *ss redneck!”

“What an idiot! Maybe YOU are my long lost daddy”

“…like the ignorant loser you are…”

“I only wish you knew how stupid you sound.”

Now that’s… a weekend “big tent” barbeque I want to hand out at. Hell, all three of us will come.

Love,

Bob, Tony, & Willy

I meant, “hang out at”… now, please… I can’t wait for your next peace-loving response.

Kume-by-yah, my Lord… Kume-by-yah…..

Bigotry, it does a state and a blog good!

[Jennifer]

I have never said this, although I know it has had to of been said before.

One of the largest reasons people volunteered to come to the new land, was for: Religious Freedom. This right-wing lifestyle birthed this nation, with what would of then been, left-wing thought.

Christians, puritans, quakers...you were not free to practice your own religeon (or lack there of). This great nation said that "Government shall make no law pertaining to the freedom to practice one's religeon. I am a 25 y/o christian lesbian who is persecuted daily and refused my freedom of religeon.

I do believe that my 7 year committed monogamos relationship that parallels that of many conservative strait christion couples with 2 exceptions

1. We both have boobies
2. While adhering to the same biblical standards regarding relationships (the relationship of Jesus Christ to the Church) I can't wait with her before surgery, when she was taken to the ER I could not sit with her, she remained alone. I am not able to care for her duties without much difficulty. (Funny though, I wear my ring and tell people she is my sister, and I need no documentation, no more questions, until I plant a big one on her)

I believe that Christians who feel strongly about this should find avenues other than government policy to black this.

Everyone has a right to disagree, but now, you have stepped on my American Rights.

[Reality]

Jennifer,

I appreciate your “sarcastic at points” but very reasonable arguments. It's a nice change from the vitriol I've read thus far.

However, in this lay the problem. The GLBT group, and those that support them, will not advance this cause due to one very “IMPORTANT” factor. That factor is the term “Gay Marriage”. It is a manufacture issue that was created, and titled, this way for a purpose. It is a losing issue as titled.

For the same reason, Rove and company came up with the term “Death Tax” to replace the term “Estate Tax”. They wanted to eliminate the Estate Tax to benefit the wealthy, so they market tested the term “Death Tax”. The majority of people were uncomfortable with the word “death”… therefore; they changed the title and mission accomplished.

If the GLBT community and their supporters can be convinced to stop fighting for “Gay Marriage” and start fighting for “Equal Rights visa vie Civil Unions” … the possibilities of success will quadruple.

Just as we cannot force change on 1000’s of years of culture in the Middle East… we will not be able to force change on 100’s of years of male/female marriage culture here in America.

Forget trying to prove a point… focus on proving your rights as an American citizen.

That’s all I have… good luck.