Very excited to see the debut of the Post-Gazette's first female opinion blog, Ms. Mon's Salon.  She'll be blogging daily so pull up a seat and hold on ...

Our friend and LGBTQ ally Kevin Acklin is coming out as a Democrat and running for committee.

Acklin says his party change reflects a mix of pragamatism and political philosophy. Echoing critiques he made in 2009, he says that he's found himself increasingly at odds with the GOP -- largely because of its hardline position on social issues like equality for LGBT citizens. And he's found Democrats to be more accepting.

Well, let's hope he doesn't become too entrenched in the Democrat party handline position on issues like equality for LGBT citizens.  This ain't Philly, Kevin. 

Bruce Kraus is out on the street doing the dirty work.  Someone has to and I sure wish we could get some of this "roll up the sleeves and get stuff done" energy going on over here in my neck of the woods. I just got off the phone with 311 yet again about the cars/drugs/etc at the house down the street.