I've Been Tearin' Up the Railroad

I can't believe groups like the Adirondack Recreational Trail Advocates exist. Once you tear out train tracks, they don't come back. As a frequent train rider, I am wholeheartedly against a proposal to turn the former New York Central Railroad Adirondack Branch into a rail trail. I would be thrilled to one day see a daily rail service from Lake Placid to New York City. To "amputate" the line would be in my eyes, destroy what could be possibly be a great way to get to and from the Adirondack. How did we become so anti-rail in this country? Then again, I think they should tear out the Harlem Valley Rail Trail and put the tracks back in.

But then again I believe that we should treat rail corridors like we do the Interstate highway system: state DOTs own the right of ways but railroads run tracks and run the trains themselves. We see rail corridors as private enterprises, a mentality that I hope changes soon. And it has. In California, a high speed rail corridor is being built from LA to San Francisco through Bakersfield and Fresno. States like Vermont and Illinois are spending stimulus money on improving trip times.

And don't give me the whole "New York is broke" excuse. If we could reform state government, we'd have plenty of money for this sort of thing.

How about this? A rail with trail. In places where there is enough right of way, a bike and walking trail could be put a safe distance from the tracks. Trains used to run from Ottawa to New York City on those tracks. I can understand why people want to tear out train tracks for bike trails, but railroad right-of-way is really an infrastructure asset, and we need more of that.

Sasha's Commentary for August 28, 2013: Some Stuffs

The summer is almost over...and I am the least happy about it! I need more time to achieve goals!

Miley Cyrus's strip show at the MTV Video Music Awards is still getting attention. And of course, it's the Parent's Television Council that is putting on the whole show. Irony? Billy Ray Cyrus is on the advisory board for the PTC, so I'm wondering if he's going to have to resign thanks to his daughter's shenanigans. Miley herself took the whole thing in stride, and thus I now have license to start comparing Miley to Katy Perry and Lady GaGa. And what is so great about Robin Thicke? Just seems like another Eminem in the making, sans the hard rap.

Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas have separated. I am actually not surprised. Their relationship recently has hit some rough patches and there's a twenty five year age gap between the two. All relationships in the public eye go through rough patches, it's the price of fame.

This one's brief: I hope that this little thing between Sheldon and Penny isn't the end of the Big Bang Theory as we know it. Amy Fowler is one of my favorite characters on the show, and Mayim Bialik is one of my favorite actresses. 

Albany is losing it's only international flights-to Toronto! Then again, I think only international airports that handle international flights should get the designation. How's this for a new name for Albany International Airport: Greater Capital Region Airport. Here's something I could see: Porter serving Toronto with a single daily flight. 

Tech boom adding new stores to the region? I would like to believe that Albany is suited to becoming the next Silicon Valley. Albany has the potential, the drive, the 

Today is the fiftieth anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, which is the exact title of the march where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his "I Have A Dream" speech and while web browsing, I encountered a speech that he gave back in late 1967, months before his death, entitled "The Domestic Impact of the War in America". It relates to comments made by Michael Reagan about the recent move The Butler. The quote is in reference to Ronald Reagan, who surprisingly came in third place for the 1968 Republican nomination for President. Contrary to what the Republicans would like to believe, King was not a Republican.

When a Hollywood performer, lacking distinction even as an actor can become a leading war hawk candidate for the Presidency, only the irrationalities induced by a war psychosis can explain such a melancholy turn of events.

 Michael Reagan's response to the movie?

"There you go again, Hollywood...you’ve taken a great story about a real person and real events and twisted it into a bunch of lies. You took the true story of Eugene Allen, the White House butler who served eight presidents from 1952 to 1986, and turned it into a clichéd 'message movie."

Nothing from his younger brother Ron though.

In other news, Bill de Blasio is in the lead for the Democratic nomination for mayor.



 

A response to my own blog entry: Dating and general relationship misconceptions among Aspies

For many years now I have had a feeling of inadequacy as a person. Much of this is a result of being sheltered all through middle school and not being accepted by my peers for the first half of high school. It seemed that no matter what, I struggled to make friends and every time I tried to ask a girl out, it ended in failure.

One of the tragedies of all of this is that I was never taught how to ask a girl out,and because of that I was never able to appropriately approach girls, and often found myself making a fool out of myself. And I was probably fairly gullible in high school too, well, not so much in the second half of high school.

And where has this put me? As I've mentioned, I can count on one finger how many girlfriends I've had. I've had people call me not only gay (which in itself isn't derogatory), but derogatory terms.

Lately, I've had a feeling that it might be too late for me to end up with a girl, as I don't like the idea of online dating (although I've considered it) and going to bars (because I don't drink). If anything, I'm seriously considering going back to school just to keep me occupied.

I should note: I probably have a TON of misconceptions and incorrect information on dating and relationships. It comes with Asperger's, I'm pretty sure. Like:

-How often people in high school and college date
-How to ask a girl out and get a "yes" answer
-Are most dating relationships lifelong?

And my own problems:

-My own shortcomings with my sexuality (I AM NOT implying that I'm gay.) How about this? They give guys pills to boost their sex drive, so how about me getting injections of oxytocin to improve my quality of life?
-Paraphrasing a crush: "I've done a lot of things I lot of things I’d never thought I could do." Finish college before I turned 22, or even graduate? Check. Participate in a conference on high speed rail? Check. Speak publicly about my autism in front of groups of people? Check. Drive by myself for nine hours? Check. Be in a romantic relationship? Check. There's of course a bit I still have to do, but we've turned growing up and maturing into a race that overwhelms people like me.
-I'm a latecommer in a lot of things. I only became potty-trained when I was three. I was a late talker. I was in the fourth grade when I learned to tie my shoes. But in some cases, I've been overwhelmingly successful. I passed my driver's test on the first try. I never wet the bed after being potty trained.
-I fear my future spouse will have a greater sexual history than me, not to mention her being my only sexual partner (somehow, I find that degrading to my self-worth). Okay, a better way of saying it would be awkward. I need someone on my own wavelength.

Has anyone here been in the same boat or is in the same boat I am in? 

Sasha's Commentary for August 27, 2013: A World of Discombabulation

As we close out the end of summer season, I just want to wish the collegiate/high school class(es) of 2017 my best as you start your journeys, the class(es) of 2014 a great last year of high school/undergrad/grad school. The world is definitely a crazy place, and here's some enlightening examples.

Let me be frank: this would be a good opportunity for Scott Walker to repair the relationship with Democrats by taking the high speed trains out of mothballs, and working with Illinois to expand service on the Hiawatha line. And it's not a bad idea either, especially with the fact that those trainsets are going to waste. Note to Wisconsin: don't elect power-hungry like Scott Walker. He's the kind of person who appears to like to give everyone the shaft. And Wisconsin residents shouldn't have to wait years for decent rail service. It is kind of penny wise and dollar foolish. The programs Republicans like to cut do little to reduce the deficit. And rail ridership is up across the nation. Youngsters don't like driving.

Yahoo's changed their logo, or are they going Google? Changing your branding is risky business.

Meanwhile, in the same city where Carly Fleischmann is celebrated, same metropolitan area, some eugenist, "pissed off mother" had some really nasty things to say. Let me be clear: autistic individuals have the same right to life, liberty, property and the pursuit of happiness as neurotypicals do. It's wrong of anybody to stop that. And while we're still on the pissing off topic, how many states does Rick Perry intend to piss off? Wendy Davis, please get elected governor! As I mentioned in an earlier post, Rick Perry is on a mission to bring as much business to Texas.

Daily sex for an entire year? I'll be lucky if I have sex 365 times in my ENTIRE LIFE! Are you trying to get pregnant? Well, this looks like the way to do it!

Everyone might want to and likes to bash New York City, but it isn't a bad place to live. People walk everywhere, energy use per capita is low as hell, the water is clean (and let's keep it that way, Governor Cuomo!), and in general, the quality of life in New York is wonderful. It's just a healthy place to live, physically and spiritually. Texas could learn a LOT from New York City.

No lie, Star Hughes is pretty. I read a little of her blog, she's a 21 with an MBA. I seriously wonder if she ever had time for anything. She's traveled quite a bit though.I would have done anything to have been an executive by the time I turned 21. I just lack the energy required for that sort of ambition. Or at least the mental stamina. Lately, I've been realizing that for all these years I've had some unrealistic ambitions? I still don't know what the heck to do with my life.

 I have made no secret of my support for Bill de Blasio. Although John Liu has good points (legalizing pot, healthcare issues), de Blasio believes in bringing the city together and he comes off as populist, while Christine Quinn seems to be on a power trip. I understand why the Times would endorse Quinn over de Blasio. de Blasio isn't part of the NYC political elite, despite being the third or fourth most powerful man in city government. However, it was a close race for the endorsement. And his kids go to public schools in New York City. Private school education at the K-12 level is alienating in some regards, and I no matter what will send my kids to public school. de Blasio's position on being against stop and frisk also is something I like, or at least making it more racially fair so that all New Yorkers are targeted equally (I see him eventually doing away with it). We live in an era of mistrust, and we need to cultivate a positive environment that allows for trust. I've rode the New York City subways at 2AM. I am not afraid of doing so again.

I found out my ex-girlfriend has a Twitter page. I hope all is well by her. I regret having gone nuts that semester we broke up, but I had some family issues.

I wish I were asexual, as it would make aspects of my life less complex. But I desire a wife and a family of my own, so nope. As someone with autism, relationships and persuasive speech are uphill challenges. I can count on one hand how many girls I've been romantically involved with. Yes, one hand. I might need to get Huffington Post's magazine to look at the article.

On another front, this has not been a good summer in the dating department. A total drought, and at least three girls I've had a crush on have entered relationships. Ugh. I sometimes wonder if I will ever find that special someone. While I am of course happy for all these individuals, I am also jealous.

I'm also jealous of this guy: Simon Cowell. I know he's got what I don't have, but still. He'll always be a jerk, even if fatherhood mellows him out. His personality is too combative, and unlike me, he's always combative, or so it seems.

UPDATE: The Onion might be more accurate than Chris Matthews on things: they got Miley Cyrus's career right.

And finally, I am so close to finishing my novel, but I'm also as lost as can be. If anyone wants to help, I would appreciate it. Especially people who have an interest in autistic fiction.

I give up on this individual entry. I might edit it as needed.

Sheldon Silver's Flights of Fancy

Unless he is like me and LOVES flying and tries to whenever he can, Sheldon Silver is DEFINITELY illogical.

The New York Post gives the Assembly Speaker a nice lashing, noting the ridiculousness of the flights. The man makes $121,000 as Speaker, and probably more with investments. He should be able to buy his own plane ticket, and not put it on the taxpayer's tab. Of course,

There's also faster ways too. I went on US Airways and got a price of $482 for a flight leaving September 15th (Sunday) and coming back on September 20th (Friday). This was a flexible coach fare. Only a few of the flights had first class. And flying on United, which is about the same price? Out of the question!

On the other hand, taking Amtrak's train numbers 241 and 236, in BUSINESS no less, costed a grand total of, yes, $126.00. And since Amtrak's owned by the feds, you don't pay tax on your fare. And faster too! No having to cross a congested bridge or hop on the LIE to get to LaGuardia, and much more comfortable than a cramped jump jet. Having traveled in business on Amtrak between Albany-Rensselaer and NYC, the business seats which occupy half of the cafe cars are nicer than the business seats on the Northeast Corridor trains. The ones on the Empire Service run are  Nice to see our speaker has no concept of common sense. It doesn't make sense to fly. Heck, my uncle, who isn't much of a train traveler, finds Amtrak more convenient than flying out of Newark, at least for travel up and down the Northeast Corridor.

Here's US Airways (which I hope doesn't swallow up American) :

 

And here's Amtrak:

 

Quite a price and time difference, right? I guess Speaker Silver's travel options are a reflection on the state's dysfunctional legislature as a whole. Speaker Silver should retire come next election.

*Yes, the Post is a liberal rag, but regardless, on that topic, they made a good point.

The (Eventual) Last Call for the Cosmopolitans

Metro-North, as a railroad, has done exactly what it was supposed to do: bring reliable, frequent, comfortable service to Hudson Valley and Connecticut residents.

What it hasn't done: done it in a flamboyant manner. Sure, we have, nice, comfortable, reliable trains, but they have not much character. The things that do have character are the passengers who ride them (hipsters need not apply, for the most part). If Metro-North were to expand its network, that'd be cool, but right now MNRR is like a grad student with no direction: and direction is something it needs. Add stations where there are none, not infill stations. Bring service to Northern Dutchess, if not Albany. Restore the Upper Harlem to Chatham, where there's not even bus service to NYC. (Where there's room, have the rail trail).

The M2/M4/M6 railcars, less known by their nicknames, the Cosmopolitans, were built between the early 1970s and early/mid 1990s. The design had some drawbacks, most of them noticeable during the dead of winter. The weird thing? They don't seem forty years old to me.

But for the love of something, please keep the bar cars! It's a shame that the LIRR and most of Metro-North has gotten rid of them, because they're a great way to unwind, and a novelty, a tradition. In fact, if Amtrak wanted to restore food service between NY and Albany, I'd say introduce a snack car in the style of a bar car: snacks and beverages, nothing more. But if CDOT (Connecticut DOT) and Metro-North are not going to replace the bar cars as a way to make the trains sober, I can understand. YouTube is loaded with drunk NYC metro area commuters displaying mediocre behavior. And why does a bar car cost $80 million?

But then again, although I don't drink, I do want to see the drinking age lowered. Let's also teach youth that you don't need to drink to be cool. And as for the old rail cars? How about this idea? Throw the Cosmopolitans a really cool retirement party. A last call, like at a bar, both as a goodbye but recognizing the moving pubs.

Are autistics more destructive/hard on stuff?

I've been wondering that too.

Sometime this weekend or next week, I will have to buy new shoelaces and new insoles for my shoes if I want to keep wearing them. I have worn them so much that the insoles have skid marks in them. And I walk very heavily, something I'm not sure if I can help. But in general I notice things with me wear out a little faster: for instance, my jeans and shorts are unwearable in a shorter period than others. Could it be related to motor skill issues?

The same thing goes for computers. I rested my bottom right arm (left if facing me) on my MacBook Pro. For the last year I used it, using the optical drive was a pain for any disk I put in scratched. I still have it, but it's pretty much retired. And no, I'm not scrapping, junking or giving it away.

Do any of my other autie/Aspie friends and followers have the same problem?

My endorsement of legalizing gambling outright in New York

The legalization of gambling in New York has always been a sticky topic (morality, New Jersey), but New York needs gambling.

Although the state, even Upstate itself, is divided, it's not a luxury for gambling and casinos to come to New York. It's a necessity. Sullivan County, located right near New York City (about 100 miles away, in many places less), has been suffering a serious economic decline since the late 1960s. Signs of it were apparent even about the time Woodstock happened.

There are optimistic signs, like the inchworm return of bungalows as summer co-ops, but the only way Sullivan County will make a true comeback is if gambling is legalized. The Concord and Grossinger's both need to be rebuilt to allow a new generation of New Yorkers to enjoy the beauty of a Catskill summer. Sure, you don't get the palm trees and sandy beaches in the Catskills, but you get comfortable weather and easy access to New York City, if you need to interrupt your vacation briefly. Upstate New York needs the tourist money that casinos provide. And for my downstate friends: don't you want Upstate to be able to stand economically on its own two feet? And casinos also bring other goodies too: entertainment, good dining, and opportunities for business conventions (many of these casinos also have conference rooms). Most importantly, for Republicans who buy into the trickle down theory, legalizing gambling will lead to the restoration of the village downtowns across New York State. In my opinion, legalization is a no-brainer. And you will, no matter what, have gambling addicts.

So, on election day (November 5th), go to the polls and vote yes on legalizing gambling in New York.

ALSO: I have a message to the Hasidics who come to the Catskills: please share, especially when it comes to the road. I don't want to run over anyone.

2013: Something's Shaping Up to be A Decent Year

On New Year's Day, I didn't think 2013 would bring some good cheer. But eight and a half months into the year, things are looking up. It turns out that autism and varsity cheerleading, albeit rare, exist, in fact, a little more common than I thought (proving that my novel is possible in real life), I was able to attend the ASPEN conference this year, the move to Ferndale will happen, and I'm getting all the closer to publishing my novel. I might have a future career as an autism activist and I've realized that the sky is my limit. There are still people I haven't met that I've heard of that I so badly want to meet.

And the world around me is also showing to be doing well this year. The Republicans have alienated themselves almost as bad as I can alienate a girl, through railroading in some of the most oppressive laws our nation has ever seen. The Democrats? Half of them are fighting President Obama's intrusive spying programs. However, the Democrats this summer have fared better than the Republicans, who haven't mentioned something on the mind of almost every American: jobs. Texas by 2015 might have a woman for governor.

There's a couple of other things I can't remember that are shaping 2013 to be a good year. Part of that might be that I email people, I hear back and the people I write to value what I have to say. The difficulties I have faced this year I believe will help to make 2014 a blockbuster year for me, the year I become a new leader in the autism community. If there's someone making the best of a bad situation, it's most likely me.

Are teenagers today too sexually active?

...or maybe this is just my Michael Moore moment (the "popular" author and filmmaker notes that his first time wasn't until he was thirty-two, something I'd like to beat). But as someone who is involuntarily abstinent, just like the majority of high functioning autistics, it bothers me that teens are so easily led to have sex. Partially because I'm selfish, I'd love to preach abstinence, but at the same time, kids will be kids. Also, I'm in favor of lowering the New York state age of consent to 16 from 17, of course, with limitations. Most cases it would be 17, but in many, 16 would apply (especially amongst high schoolers). But allowing high schoolers to sleep over? Except for one girl, every girl I've gone out with for the most part has had parents who didn't want me to spend the night. And, in at least one case (thanks to having a girlfriend in the same college I went to), I got away with it. I think sleepovers among teenagers in love is not a new thing: heck, my older stepbrother, if I recall correctly, at one point lived with his girlfriend and her parents, and she was I think a college freshman and still living at home, that or a recent high school graduate.

The articles themselves did not really apply to me because I didn't have girlfriends until I was in college, and I haven't had one since (probably God's way of telling me to go back to school maybe?).
If I had a daughter and she wanted to have her boyfriend for a sleepover, I probably would beg that they not have sex, but nonetheless, insist that if they do, it would be protected (safe) and preferably when said daughter's parents were asleep! That being said, teenagers can and will have platonic sleep overs. Look at me and my ex-girlfriend C. She and I definitely went behind her parent's backs, and I'm proud of it. Her dad never really liked me anyways, and it tends to be that moms love me more. The first girl I ever kissed had a dad who really dug me, but then again, he reminded me of the dad of a (now former) friend of my brother's.

I guess if I were a parent, and I hope to be one day, by some miracle of God, I would prefer that my kid and his/her significant other had sex at home where I could supply condoms. In general though, the idea of promoting safe sex as a parent makes me queasy. Traditionally, parents of teens are supposed to ground their kids if they are caught having sex.

In general, if I had a 16-year-old and said 16-year-old wanted his/her boyfriend/girlfriend to sleep over, I would allow it, but I would also be playing diplomat with his/her boyfriend's/girlfriend's parent. Said parents would know, and if they weren't comfortable with it (and/or I wasn't), it would be a no go. Remember, they might be your kid's in-laws one day. In general though: I would allow it, but I would lay down rules that might convince the lovebirds out of it. If I had a kid I could trust and I trusted their significant other, maybe. But leave two teenagers in love in a room by themselves, and immorality happens. Nina Lorez Collins, took a gamble in her case and ended up helping her daughter's boyfriend be a stronger and independent person. But it appears Collins was smart about it too. Set guidelines and limits. 

Here's my comparison: in general teenage sexual activity is like having a overpowered sports car with no dashboard, no power steering, no power brakes, pretty much a car I'd be afraid to drive, no less own. Something for you teens: how about celebrating your 18th birthday by making that your first time instead of doing at a younger age and spending your entire life regretting it. And there's statistics to back it up: teenagers who are sexually active make less than those who have sex later on, at least that's what I heard at one point, but I could be wrong. If I'm right, IT SHOULD MEAN that with the rate I'm going that I should be filthy rich by the time I'm 40.

NYC ranked 4th for WHAT?

PIZZA? No way! That's absurd. We are not number four. There's a bias: I don't they included pizzerias, where most in the Tri-state area get their pizza.

If I am not mistaken, no states have more Italian-Americans than New York and New Jersey. Our governor in New York? Grandson of Italian immigrants, if I am not mistaken. Italian-Americans have shaped New York and the surrounding region deeply.

"More Women Are Taking Their Husbands’ Last Names — Sort Of"

This morning I woke up to the somewhat unsettling news: more women are taking their husband's last names than they did in the 1990s. Did the Bush presidency roll back woman's lib?

For years I have never found it "usual" for women taking their husband's last name. Whatever woman I marry is not my property; she's my partner, an individual. Men don't change their names, so why should women? Except for the obvious biological differences and inflexible societal gender roles, I see women equal to men. I believe a woman can do just about anything a man can. Personally, I would beg my wife to keep her name. I do not see marriage as this "supernatural institution", but an institution of a partnership, based on mutual trust, love, and getting into crazy situations. Maybe marriage is stronger, thanks to our generation redefining it. If what autistic individuals can do is being redefined, many other things can too. The way I look at it is that marriage shouldn't be that you take another identity. You shouldn't have to.

Now I'm not saying to not do it, but it's not my cup of tea. I think my mom keeping her name when she married my dad did damage. And in her three marriages, she has in some form kept her maiden name. Then again, I guess I'm also in favor of having your daughter have her mother's maiden name as her last.

I'm just not with these guys on marriage. Heritage Foundation, go home. They also believe that when you're married, children are supposed to be conceived and born. Some married couples don't want kids. Heck, if I'm childless by the time I'm 30, I'll be somewhat saddened. I want my kids to see my successes, not be born after them. And although there's work to be done, 7 out of 10 millennials support marriage equality. Notice how I didn't say "same-sex marriage". I bet you in states like New York, that number is closer to 9 out of 10. Almost everyone I know in my group of friends, even the conservative ones who voted for Romney, didn't vote for the former Massachusetts governor because of his social views. They voted for him because they objected to the economic and legal views of the Obama administration.

By the way folks: can anyone tell me of any instances where a girl has tracked down, and I mean like, literally saw the guy she liked, found out who he was, and the two ended up married?

Marriage proposal etiquette

Engagements are best kept as private affairs, not fancy things at baseball games. The young lady who was being proposed to must have felt like she had the spotlight on her, and honestly, something tells me. At the same time, this video has been considered by some to be a hoax.

My dream engagement proposal would be both me and my partner (the will-be bride) in pajamas just relaxing, putzing around whoever's residence we happen to be at, and pop the question right out of the blue. In fact, the surprise part is one thing this particular article mentions. Also, if the bride's parents aren't in favor, oh well. Sorry, but when you marry someone, you marry their family as well. There are definitely ethics and smarts involved in trying to marry someone. And then there's the Sasha way. How to find out the ring size of your bride-to-be? Measure her finger while she's asleep. Or maybe not. I'm not sure how that would work, especially if you have a partner who is a light sleeper or the fact it might just be plain creepy.

And guess what: proposing at a sports event is on that list. Now this is a bad way to break off a relationship! And after the fact of marriage, don't pressure a couple into having children. Then again, you might be racing against a biological clock.

Just my $.02 on the subject.

Sasha's commentary for August 8, 2013: Wealthy Developmentally Disabled Individuals and Crack Baby Basketball

The Village Voice reports on really interesting topics and this particular one on the seven-figure trust funds for individuals had me stunned. Of course you don't want to leave your kids with JPMorgan Chase. Bad idea. Unless you're purposely trying to p'oe a judge, don't do it. Have a back-up plan for your back-up plan in your will.
Judge Kristen Booth Glen has at least, a heart:

"Whether there is a cure for his autism or not, the question is: Are there things that could make his life more pleasurable or fulfilling? If somebody took him out to the movies once a week, or somebody took him out to lunch, or what he really likes to do is watch football—I don't know. There's always something that could make people happier, and I don't think you could know that without really visiting him and knowing what's going on."

Now, I and the autism community probably aren't one for her using the words "cure" and "autism" in the same sentence. Nonetheless, the story itself has a ton of twists and turns. It has a happy ending, but it's a shame that Judge Glen had to play the role of a family court judge.

I also sort of have to agree with Mayor Bloomberg. Pension costs are drowning governments across the United States, especially as people live longer. That being said, I plan to work until I'm at least 90, but slow down after 70, as in possibly work part time. However, I do believe that there are limits to how much you can tighten pensions. You put in forty years, you deserve retirement. I think we should have single payer retirement system, a la fancy Social Security. Would it ever happen? Nope.

Anyone remember the wave of scandals that have hit the NCAA? The NCAA is in my opinion, of course, as bad as the College Board. But the recent scandal makes many of the past ones trivial. In general, the way the NCAA works is DYSFUNCTIONAL. Imaginary football players. How low! The whole thing reminds me that the NCAA has alterior motives and its own best interests at heart. So does Eric Cartman from South Park.

I'm not sure what the rules are on blabbing to your aunt and uncle that your cousin (their kid) is pregnant. But I have to agree with the posters: this one you stay out of. And why doesn't a 23 year old in the Albany area have their license (then again, this could be anywhere)? My advice: bite the bullet. That being said, there are a lot of sexually active adults without their license.

National Underwear Day made it into the Village Voice. Cool!

And finally, I remembered the film I saw with Cayla, the only one that we saw in a theatre. It was Just Go with It.

National Undies Day....yes, there IS such a thing

Yesterday, I ventured into the concrete jungles of New York City to check out the National Underwear Day Festivities.

The adventure began even before the bus pulled into the Port Authority Bus Terminal. A older woman (maybe my mom's age) was walking her dog and tripped and fell. I didn't see her fall, I saw her on the ground, helped her up while some other passer-by's called 911. The woman wasn't seriously injured, but more shaken up. Really shaken up. We tried seeing how to get this woman home, but she was reluctant to speak to her daughter, and I found out why.

I flagged down a traffic cop and he called a backup and when the backup came (sans ambulance), he asked one question to the lady.

"Have you been drinking ma'm?"

She nodded, and then it all made sense. I should have suspected it myself. Oh well. This is in general why I don't drink to begin with: I have slightly impaired senses already and I don't want to ruin that even further. The officer asked me where I was living (staying) and I was on my way into the city.

After sitting in traffic for an hour, I arrived at the terminal and made my way to Times Square. The turnout for the event wasn't as big as expected: you have to be crazy to be out in public with your underwear. I'm not sure if they broke the world record or not. Hmm, gives me an idea for a mass gathering of auties and Aspies. Furthermore, Z100 was sponsoring the event, and I come from the school of thought that Z100 and WHUD are both EVIL. They ruin everything they touch. No wonder I dislike Celine Dion. Besides the point, here are some pictures:

Also, before I go, I need to make a public service announcement: our loving cats are plotting to kill us. I love my cat no matter what though. She's loyal, even when I'm not.

A Tale of Two Internet Addresses

Either it's me over-analyzing or a good point here.

No political party should have a .com as a generic top-level domain (see Wikipedia on the issue). .com stands for "commercial" while .org is for an "organization"

The Democrats website is www.democrats.org while the Republican Party has theirs appropriately www.gop.com. Interesting, isn't it?

Just some $.02 on the subject.

A little memo from Sasha

By the way, I'm glad to see people are now reading my blog. Also folks, feel free to comment on my stuff as well. If I'm wrong, let me know.

Also, keep in mind, all of what I write is MY own opinion, but I might also share someone's opinion as well. The views shared on this blog are mine and this blog is independent of any organization and past/future employers.

My response to "Dating on the Autism Spectrum"

The Atlantic somehow managed to make my day a little bit duller with their article on autism and dating, published this very morning. Here is my response and critical feedback.

The article is not only well-written, but as someone with autism, I do agree with the points brought up. I agree with writer Emily Shire that autism research has neglected the adults with the spectrum, something a novel I am working on is trying to address.

A bar isn't my idea place for a first date, but the dim lighting does promote an intimate and cozy environment. Although I am very affectionate and enjoy hugs and kisses (in fact one ex told me I was a better kisser than her ex), many auties are sensory sensitive, and that does extend to human contact. But there are some things I do understand. Flirting is one, although I suck at it and sometimes I truly can't tell if a girl is flirting at me.

There is, however, truth to what Alex Plank is saying. The confidence trick has not specifically worked in the past for dating, but in general, it has me with pathways that could have lead to dating. For me, it was being more relaxed and sadly, being in the right place at the right time. When I had an interest in D.A., I could tell by the way she was flirting at me as we were chatting. With A.E, it was through her tone of voice on the phone (she was a go-between at one point between myself and her older brother who is my best of best friends). For C.A, it was a matter of a guess. We started chatting and it escalated from there. In fact, I had some gut feeling and sense that she might of liked me even before we started fully talking.

And I happen to agree with the statement that "some women with autism may ultimately have an edge in the dating world", as in general women are programmed to be social creatures by nature and . At the same time, maybe some of us on the autism spectrum might have moreso a social processing disorder than full-blown high functioning autism. The key to success on the autism spectrum in dating is in general to socialize. Another thing brought up is the belief that auties can't lie. We can, but only little white ones and big ones we just don't touch. I agree with John Elder Robison on that auties can have feelings and strong ones at them. "A constant complaint among the individuals interviewed for this piece is the misconception that people with autism can't express love or care for others." Hogwash. We can. I did for almost three months, and if things had worked out, it would have been a lifetime. I would have had to find a way to come to terms with the fact that the person I would have been spending the rest of my life with was more sexually experienced than I am, which is almost non-existent. That's been a big issue with me: someone who is technically a virgin trying to accept the fact that he might have only one, if lucky, two sexual partners through his life. I posed a question on WrongPlanet recently: can auties understand and engage in causal sex? For me, it's something I can't quite grasp, especially for someone who can't "pick up chicks" even if his life depended on it. Lack of confidence on my part? Maybe. That's something I should speak to a therapist about.

For me of course? I will not give up on dating, even if it means having to make the money to fly out as far west as California to meet a date. Distance is not a factor for me, it's the quality and compatibility that is. Building romantic relationships is for me one of the hardest things I'll ever do in my life. I might find it easier to run for public office, but I am up for almost any challenge, and I can't see myself not married, even if. And I'll sum up my opinion: well written and right on. For adults with autism, dating is a huge challenge.

I might have a follow-up to this blog entry at a later date.

Sasha's commentary for August 5, 2013: Obama vs Putin and Other Stuff

From the NPR:

U.S.-Russia relations hit a new low this week, when Moscow ignored U.S. requests and gave temporary asylum to a man who leaked classified documents on U.S. government surveillance programs. 

My response? Good! Obama has started to become more and more his own worst enemy. I think history will judge him to be a middle-of-the-road president: the president who was able to get Osama, started to get the ball rolling on health care reform, scaled back our military presence in the Middle East, and transitioned America to a changing world. But why he has surrounded himself with idiots is beyond me. (Scroll down on my views on Russia)

At the same time, he's done some reckless things too. Buddying up to Larry Summers is the LAST THING you do. Summers should be tried for fraud and maybe even treason, as the deregulation he pushed damaged the economy. I'm letting President Clinton off the hook to an extent because anyone with a law degree still could have been gullible enough to sign such legislation into law.

According to the New York Times (which has a new interface for reading web articles and I don't like it), the Catskill bungalow colonies are making a comeback. Some people are questioning the authenticity of the revitalization. I'm not. It could be a blink-and-you'll-miss-it blip on the "hipster radar" but I also do see a revitalization for the area. Airfares are becoming more expensive (even with low cost airlines) and there's nothing like a short drive to escape the summer heat. And we're seeing a return in general to environmentally-friendly vacationing.

And plus, I'm not sure how affordable a vacation in Florida is. Disneyworld is overrated (especially with the LINES), but I believe a vacation in the Catskills is tradition.

Once again, the sanctity of life has made it's ways into the New York Times (looking at maternal ethics (or in their words, "End of Life, At Birth", something NO parent should have to endure, although personally I'd like to know if I'm bound to pass onto my potential children anything other than autism [I hope not] so I hope Obamacare covers genetics testing. That's preventive care in my book), and the comparison of abortion rights in other countries (it appears Canada's are the most liberal in the world, tied with the Chinese). Don't count the Russians, they're what I like to call a developmentally delayed society. Also, using the Kennedy kids is a bad example: I don't think Jackie O. was healthy enough for bearing children, at least as a smoker. Or maybe she was, but JFK's "stuff" was bad. That being said, JFK could have had some STD's, which could have put Jackie and whatever child she might have been carrying in danger. A lesson to be learned here: ant healthy pregnancies? Easy, stay away from stress, and don't do any recreational drugs whatsoever (yes, booze and tobacco count!).

"...who cranked babies out like rabbits." There's a quote for the ages.Yes, Ethel and RFK had eleven kids, one of whom was born after RFK's death. Rory Kennedy has had it the worst: never having met her father, her wedding which was postponed after one of the guests had a plane crash (JFK Jr.) and the death of two siblings. If it had been me, I'd be institutionalized by now. My respect goes out to the youngest RFK child. At least I had a little over thirteen years with my dad, even if some of those years were an outright nightmare.

The mainstream media covered Benghazi, it was the conservative media that over-hyped it. Yes, mistakes were made and sadly four Americans paid a price they should not have needed to be paid. But we've learned. Heck, my mom has learned from her experiences with me: she's a better parent for it. The oldest child always has it rough.

In an area with struggles, Ithaca kicks ass. It's also gorgeous (a play on the "gorges"). Do I see a future governor in Svante Myrick? The Ithaca mayor has even compared himself to Obama. Ithaca is an Upstate success story, just like Saratoga County, which resembles California or Colorado than New York.


Why I hate the news: I can spend the entire day away looking at interesting articles.


Note to self: December 2016: with the opening of the Second Avenue Subway, a long-running joke in New York will no longer be a joke, but reality. I hope to be there.

Sasha's commentary for August 1, 2013: A couple of links I found on the Internet

I guess I really need to work on the part of my brain that deals with abstract concepts, because I'm at the concrete stage of development on Piaget's scale in regards to sex. But how the hell do you sleep with the husband you are separated from? Jenn Ford, do us a favor, and reconcile with your husband. It's not "ex" sex, it's being somewhat of a whore. Granted, at least you're honest and have some rationality behind the whole enchilada.

Crushes. Yes, I have them, and at least one of them is a D-list celebrity who was briefly famous for a few weeks*. Another is a violist that I went to college with, and never took a class with (sad face).But it seems there is an explanation why I stalk (sort of) my crushes' Facebook pages (the few I have, it's more than one, some are stronger than others). Well, now there's an explanation for the phenomena of looking aimlessly at people's Facebook profiles. It's got something to do with slot machines.

Larry Summers is rumored to be Obama's choice as the Chairman of the Federal Reserve. POTUS also had some harsh words for the Huffington Post. Summers is someone who doesn't need defending. He's screwed America in more ways than one, heck a college at Harvard couldn't stand him. God, anyone but Summers. My choice would be Robert Reich or Paul Krugman, but feel free to add your own to the mix. I will be writing a letter to Obama mentioning my dismay.

10 birth control myths: even I learned something from this!

Simon Cowell, who seems to hate many things, is expecting his first child with socialite Lauren Silverman. God help us on this one too. Silverman is now facing a divorce-she's married, or at least WAS. Cowell reminds me too much of Charlie Sheen, except Sheen doesn't fool around with married women. I don't mind people having children out of wedlock, heck, I wouldn't mind it myself. I hope to have my first child before I'm married. However, said child's mother would be my fiancée. But what are you doing fooling around with someone's wife. Granted, Silverman is pretty.

In happier news: Tish and Billy Ray Cyrus are getting back together. :-) Just one more reason I support many couples, if not ALL married and soon-to-be married couples getting marriage counseling. For me, it will be mandatory. If your husband's autistic, it's a real good thing to have.

When I'm famous, could I be your red-eye partner, Emma Roberts? (That's an overnight flight, for those of you who don't understand aviation terminology) I don't have a fear of flying, and plus, you're darn pretty. Also, I'd call it a date too. Informal though, to boot.

Chris Christie and Rand Paul are at a verbal war at this point. I'm siding with the New Jersey governor on this one. Superstorm Sandy relief is also an economic booster too. Senator Paul, you don't like anything, do you?

As someone dealing with the conflict of causal sex (and my general immaturity), Glee's Matthew Morrison didn't lose his v-card until he was 21. I'm almost 23, so I don't feel all that bad. But with my luck, it'll be with the woman I spend my life with. Worse, I'll be her like fifth or sixth sexual partner. And that's why I'm so fixated on the whole kabash.

And that's the way it is today. I'm not Walter Cronkite.

*By the way, Alexis Wineman is more than just the first person on the autism spectrum to compete at Miss America, she's quite possibly the first woman with autism to ever compete in ANY beauty pageant. The press really needs to get that one straightened out.

Where honesty is due (TIME Magazine on childfree people)

No, I am not a eugenicist, in fact, eugenics would traditionally have people like myself written off the map. (An article in TIME Magazine does not help my thought processes on the subject either). But I do believe in voluntary population control through humane methods, like allowing people who don't want to have children to be allowed that right and allowing for easy and affordable birth control. It's our planet and we need to take care of it. I believe Planet Earth practices homeostasis.

And plus, modern technology has put people who would do manual labor out of work, so . I am very convinced that population growth has outpaced job creation. I believe across the globe there are less employment opportunities today than thirty years ago. Even with full employment worldwide, thanks to population growth and technology, less people today would be employed. And of course, everyone should have the right to human survival, but that is hard when you need to have employment for those things. If I had one wish, it would be that every person on Earth would be well-fed, had a home and enough clothing. In essence, their basic needs met without having to worry about survival.

Simple: for every person born, ideally an old person should pass on. Then again this is Earth, and Earth is FAR from perfect.

Personally, I want kids, but I also want the satisfaction of knowing that I'm not bringing a child into an overpopulated world. At least being on the autism spectrum gives me the wonderful excuse that I don't have to have more than one kid to be happy. And I've met plenty of happy peers who grew up as only children.

Yes, sometimes what I say can be creepy, but some things are also left best for a blog, where I have room to explain where what might be taken as creepy is just my abstract thinking which with some worlk makes good sense.