ON MY MIND: The official blog of Edward Otto Zielke

And the most beautiful girl is...

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 04:58:00 +0000

Our niece Alex Jordyn of course. My cousin Scott took this amazing shot of her at his son's graduation party. She almost looks like a porcelain doll and her eyes came out so blue. Loving it!!!

We are excited that she is also going to be a big sister to her brother who is due in November. Along with a new nephew, we are expecting our other niece, Julia Ann next month.

Life's good.

The Light in the Piazza at SOPAC

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:40:00 +0000

Daily from July 10, 2009 until July 19, 2009, 8:00pm

South Orange Performing Arts Center1 Trenchard Pl, South Orange, NJ

Where: South Orange Performing Arts Center,
1 Trenchard Pl, South Orange, NJ 07079
Date: Daily from July 10, 2009 until July 19, 2009
Time: 8:00pm
Ticket Prices: General Admission-$20/Senior Citizens $18/Children and Students $15
(There may be an additional processing fee for on line and phone orders)

Appearing in the Light in the Piazza are Gabrielle Visser of Morristown, Pia Vanderstreet and Danielle Christine Pennisi of Cedar Grove, Ben Rosenbach of Springfield, Sarah O’Sullivan of Livingston, Eddie Egan of Cranford, Charlotte Tucci of Verona, Edward Otto Zielke of East Hanover, Thad Zjawin of Kearny , Jan Carden, Ann Hirsch, Christian Quiles and Stan Shapiro of West Orange, Zach Wobensmith of Long Island City, NY and Vanessa Francis of Astoria, NY

The Light in the Piazza is directed by Leslie Potashner of Morristown, Elissa Errick of West Orange is Assistant Director, John Medlovitz of Montclair Stage Manages and Tamara Cashour of New York City is Musical Director.

For on-line ticket orders, click here. For ticket questions or phone reservations, contact SOPAC at 973-313-ARTS(2787). For general information call 973-666-1191 or visit http://www.batteryfactorytheater.org/

Memories of Michael and Farrah

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 11:35:00 +0000

Michael Jackson AND Farrah Fawcett both dead. Shocking about Michael, but sad about Farrah. I am sure there is going to be so much news coverage about these two over the next weeks, with lots of speculations and controversies as most celebrities get when they pass.

I can not help but think about my memories of when I first was introduced to both of these icons. I was out in California in the late 70's attending my cousin's bar mitzvah in Encino. Ironically, my family lived not to far from the Jackson estate and had encounters with members of the family. I believe Janet at one time was over the house playing. For the festivities, my aunt and uncle rented a juke box and on it were several songs from Michael's first album "Off The Wall". I remember how much the songs "Rock With You" and "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" were buzzing in my head the rest of my stay. From then on, I was a fan.

My summer childhood days were spent in Ortley Beach, NJ. Mostly, we enjoyed going to the boardwalk and trying to win all sorts of crap, as I latter came to realize. I was around 6 or 7 when I happened to notice all the teenagers wearing a picture of this woman. Blond hair, with her head arched back, big radiant smile and rack the size of Montana. Finally weeks later, I happened to catch an episode of Charlie's Angels and there she was, Farrah Fawcett. Which reminds me, I need to purchase both Michael's first album and a vintage Farrah t-shirt. That would be HOT wot wear and listen to this summer.

Thanks for the memories MJJ and FF. May they both rest in peace.

I dedicate this post to my friend Cherrece, who was THE biggest fan of Michael Jackson. Stay strong girl!

The juggling act

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:14:00 +0000

So as many of you may know, my partner's step-father Hal Zinn passed away on Monday. He lived to be 97 years old. Last week, his son flew him and Mark's mother up from Florida to his home in Rhinebeck, NY. He went very peacefully in his sleep and was surrounded by all of his family. Yesterday was the funeral. Right away, I was offered up to be one of the pall bearers. Now many of you may not know this, but I HATE doing that. On top of it, it was a graveside Jewish funeral, so of course, the whole lowering of the casket and shoveling dirt does not sit well with me either. But we managed to get through it. We got to meet Hal's granddaughter from Bali - a very worldly and interesting person. She even has a pet monkey, LOL!

A few weeks ago, the managers from Crate & Barrel asked me to come and work a day or two a week during the summer. I said sure and started last Sunday there. The extra money will come in handy, that is if I don't buy anything while I work there. Most of the same people were there, and I managed to pick up how to work the register again.

And just when I thought life could not get more complicated, I was offered a role in The Light in the Piazza with Battery Factory Theater. I am such a sucker when I am asked. I always hate to turn something down. With these events and all the weddings, showers, births and parties to come this summer, life is definitely going to be a juggling act.

Vote YES New York

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 17:52:00 +0000

On the heels of our major win in New Hampshire last week, New York's marriage equality bill is about to come up for a vote in the state Senate. This is a huge opportunity. New York's population is nearly the size of Australia's – with over 19 million people.

The bill's fate hinges on a few undecided state senators. And the debate is only intensifying, with control of the state Senate swapping hands in a major upset yesterday. The new majority leader is a supporter of marriage equality, but it's clearer than ever that this bill could very well pass or fail by a single vote. So we're coming to you.

The Human Rights Campaign has been laying the groundwork for this vote for months and are now working around the clock, running nightly phone banks, canvassing door-to-door, collecting hundreds of hand written letters and more.

Please reach out to every single New Yorker you know. Every email and phone call from a New York state resident can help tip the scales, and your contact list is key.

Cathy's day

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 11:58:00 +0000

We had a blast yesterday at Noelle & Brian's house, celebrating Cathy's retirement. Lots of good food, drinks and hysterical conversation. I never have been sooooo sober and laughed so hard in my life.

Catty Pearl's Retirement

Another state to get married in!

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:15:00 +0000

From NYTimes - by Abby Goodnaugh:

The New Hampshire Legislature approved revisions to a same-sex marriage bill today. If Gov. John Lynch signs the measure into law, the state will become the fifth in New England and the sixth nationally to allow same-sex marriage.

Lawmakers have been working on the bill for months; gay-rights supporters hope the latest changes will ensure it becomes law. The changes further emphasize that by legalizing gay marriage, the state will not impinge on the religious freedom of those who do not believe in it. Mr. Lynch, a Democrat, has indicated he approves of the latest revisions.

As originally passed, the bill exempted members of the clergy from having to perform same-sex weddings. At the request of Governor Lynch, the Legislature amended the bill to make clearer that religious opponents of same-sex marriage would not have to participate in ceremonies celebrating it. But the House narrowly rejected that language on May 20, and legislative leaders appointed a conference committee to negotiate more palatable changes.

The changes include a sentence that states, “Each religious organization, association, or society has exclusive control over its own religious doctrine, policy, teachings and beliefs regarding who may marry within their faith."

Almost 5 months old

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Wed, 20 May 2009 10:17:00 +0000

Because my job cut off accounts to outside blogging, my updates have become less frequent. But I promised myself to make more time on the weekends to share what is on my mind. With that being said, I just shot this video of the girls this morning. Annie will be 5 months old on the 24th and is still having a grand ole time playing with her big sister Ethel-Louise.

Enjoy...

It Happened!!!

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:45:00 +0000

Maine Becomes Fifth State to Legalize Marriage Equality for Same-Sex Couples

Maine's Governor John Baldacci acted immediately to sign marriage equality legislation into law following its passage by the state legislature. Congratulations to Maine for joining Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa and Vermont in providing equality for same-sex couples and their families.

Here's Baldacci's full statement:

I have followed closely the debate on this issue. I have listened to both sides, as they have presented their arguments during the public hearing and on the floor of the Maine Senate and the House of Representatives. I have read many of the notes and letters sent to my office, and I have weighed my decision carefully. I did not come to this decision lightly or in haste.

I appreciate the tone brought to this debate by both sides of the issue. This is an emotional issue that touches deeply many of our most important ideals and traditions. There are good, earnest and honest people on both sides of the question.

In the past, I opposed gay marriage while supporting the idea of civil unions. I have come to believe that this is a question of fairness and of equal protection under the law, and that a civil union is not equal to civil marriage.

Article I in the Maine Constitution states that 'no person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law, nor be denied the equal protection of the laws, nor be denied the enjoyment of that person's civil rights or be discriminated against.'

This new law does not force any religion to recognize a marriage that falls outside of its beliefs. It does not require the church to perform any ceremony with which it disagrees. Instead, it reaffirms the separation of Church and State," Governor Baldacci said. It guarantees that Maine citizens will be treated equally under Maine's civil marriage laws, and that is the responsibility of government. Even as I sign this important legislation into law, I recognize that this may not be the final word. Just as the Maine Constitution demands that all people are treated equally under the law, it also guarantees that the ultimate political power in the State belongs to the people.

While the good and just people of Maine may determine this issue, my responsibility is to uphold the Constitution and do, as best as possible, what is right. I believe that signing this legislation is the right thing to do.

Possibly another victory?

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Wed, 06 May 2009 17:44:00 +0000

Maine lawmakers OK gay marriage; governor on fence...

The Maine Legislature has given final approval to gay marriage and sent the bill to an undecided governor. The Senate voted for the bill on Wednesday but not by enough votes to override a veto. Gov. John Baldacci (bahl-DAH'-chee) has 10 days to decide whether to sign it.

The bill would make Maine the fifth state to allow gay marriage. Voters could still overturn the law in a referendum even if the governor signs it.

Four states currently allow same-sex marriages. Connecticut, Massachusetts and Iowa have been ordered by the courts to do so, and Connecticut has enacted a law codifying a court ruling. Vermont passed a gay marriage law in April over the governor's objection.

The bill passed the House Tuesday by a margin of 89 to 58. Wednesday morning, the Senate passed the bill with a vote of 21 to 13. Voters could still overturn the law in a referendum.

What will we do...

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 20:25:00 +0000

Bea Arthur, who memorably played Dorothy on "The Golden Girls," has died. She was 86. Arthur passed away at her home on Saturday. She was battling cancer.

Arthur, known for her comedic chops and distinctive voice, won Emmys for “The Golden Girls” and “Maude.” She also captured a Tony Award acting on the stage in the musical “Mame.”

Thank you for being a friend Bea! What will we do without you. I think it says it all.

Another VICTORY!!!

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:33:00 +0000

Vermont Legalizes Gay Marriage

Vt. House and Senate have voted to override the governor's veto of the same-sex marriage bill-- legalizing gay marriage in Vermont.

The Vt. Senate voted to override the governor's veto of the same-sex marriage bill. This morning, the Senate voted 23 to 5 to override that veto. Two senators were absent and Washington County Republican Bill Doyle who had initially supported same sex, this time voted to sustain the veto.

The Vt. House voted around 11 a.m. to override the veto. The vote was 100-49. 100 votes were needed. Rep. Sonny Audette of South Burlington did not vote. It wasn't clear whether he intended to vote to override. Audette opposed gay marriage but also opposed the governor's early announcement of a veto as "interference."

Governor Jim Douglas, R-Vermont, promptly vetoed the bill when it was delivered to his desk last night-- as promised.

Another niece!

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 18:16:00 +0000

We just found out my brother Jason and sister-in-law Maria are expecting a girl in August. Another niece to start spoiling. I am pretty sure that they will be naming her Julia, which is kind of neat since it was also my great-grandmother's name. I never imagined my brother actually having a daughter, but I am sure he is going to be a great dad to her.

So the grand total so far between Mark and I: 4 nieces and 3 nephews.

What a difference

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:18:00 +0000

So this last week I have really been incorporating more potassium into my diet, and I can already feel the difference. I am starting to feel more and more like my old self again, which is such a relief. Although all of the bananas I have been eating has made me feel like a monkey. I made an appointment with the doctor that took over my former doctor's practice a few months ago. I figured that this would be the perfect time to run blood work on me to see if all of my levels are on target. Once I get back from Florida in a few weeks, I will be going.

Speaking of Florida, we are again heading down in April for Passover. I really want to bring both dogs, but the cost to have them in the cabin with us is totally outrageous! $125 dollars a pet each way - insane. So we may either have to leave one behind, which I would hate to do. I want Mark's family to see Annie, but Ethel is more comfortable on the plane at this point. Annie maybe too young to travel, so I might end up having to leave her with someone. Also, I am going to have to come home early from the trip due to some work related projects. I may be able to swing going to Easter dinner with my family if I can make a Saturday flight. Traveling on Easter will probably cost more. I need to do some investigating tonight when I get home.

On a side note - Happy birthday cousin Noelle!!!! We are hoping you are having a fabulous time on your vacation.

OH!!! and how could I forget. TODAY WE FIND OUT THE SEX OF MARIA AND JASON'S BABY!!! Stay tuned....

Another birthday

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 02:35:00 +0000

Well it was another day to reflect on the day I was born. I certainly have had quite a struggle as some of you may know. But there were some happy moments. Besides waiting for the arrival of my brother Jason's baby to arrive in August, I found out today that my sister Lauren is also expecting in November. Two more babies to spoil - I guess I am going to need a second job to buy all the clothes and toys. And of course, adopting Ann Margaret, our little Maltipoo. She is still quite a handful, but always a joy to come home to her, Ethel-Louise and Winifred.

So now I am 39. One more year close to 40 - YIKES. I am thinking that I want to do something different in my life. Not about looking for another job, I like it there. I want to try something new this year. Maybe something in the arts, or something totally different like take up yoga or even - and do not laugh - start attending church. So many possibilities, but I am in no rush to decide. Right now, I will just concentrate on myself.

In other news, I discovered that my potassium level was extremely low. I was feeling faint and went to the doctor to found out that my blood pressure was 90/50 - not good. I took some potassium pills and it helped some, but I need to start adding things into my diet that raise the blood pressure. Bananas of course, but also things like whole grain cereal, dried fruit, orange juice, lima beans (yuck) and a few other things I can't remember. Looks like as I get older, my health is becoming something I need to focus on.

Bonding

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 18:45:00 +0000

It is nice to see Ethel-Louise with Annie these days. Yesterday, she let Annie just site right next to her on the coach and enjoyed themselves. Today I had them out in the snow, only Annie decided that the mud would be more fun. So I ended up giving Annie her first bath. It was rather easy because she is small and fit nicely in the bathroom sink. Now she is warming up by cuddling next to Ethel.

I love these moments!

End the lies!

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:50:00 +0000

This morning, before the California Supreme Court, Ken Starr will argue for the forcible divorce of 18,000 loving same-sex couples who married before Proposition 8 passed.

Starr has said the marriage ban should stand because of the state's role in protecting the welfare of children. The hypocrisy of "protecting" children by divorcing their parents is unconscionable. Yet this is just one in a parade of outrageous lies by right-wing extremists.

So HRC is launching a new campaign to expose this dishonest fear-mongering against equality – to counteract the lies with respectful dialogue and grassroots action.

Sign the first petition at EndtheLies.org – Tell Ken Starr to stop using lies about child "welfare" to divorce loving parents.

A bawdy review

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 17:54:00 +0000

At last Sunday's performance of Bawdy Babes, we had a woman review us for the localsource.com - a local paper that covers the Essex County area of New Jersey. Overall, it was a positive review. "So if you need to lift your spirits with a laugh, go see The Bawdy babes of Broadway at SOPAC." A few of the musical references and who sang what were a bit incorrect, but the point got across. I am glad this time, the used a full cast photo rather than singling out one of us. The last time a local paper reviewed us, they used a picture of Linda, saying that it was me - lol.

We perform today at 3pm, so if you are not doing anything and are around the South Orange area, come by and see us on our final show at SOPAC. Enjoy the review...

Superstar circa 1990

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:41:00 +0000

As I was surfing the web today, I happened to find the personal website of Ernest W. Iannaccone which contains photos from Jersey City State College's 1990 musical production of Jesus Christ Superstar. I did find myself in one of the 1st act ensemble pictures - before I changed into King Herod for the 2nd act.

The picture attached shows me about center. While looking at the rest of the pictures, all the cast names started coming back: Mike, John, Dave, Candi, A.J., Johnny R, Gabe, Hokie, Liz, Kathy D., Robin, Hillary, Lisa, B. Dexter, Bruce, Steve C. - I am sure I am forgetting a hell of a lot more.

I can not believe that was just about 20 years ago. Enjoy fellow cast members...

Video: What's going on at home

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:43:00 +0000

Once again, Annie Margaret and Ethel-Louise were at each other. In a good way of course. These girls can not get enough of each other. Now all I need is Winifred to join in on the fun. But knowing her, she will take her own sweet time before she joins these two in a game of wrestle.

Enjoy the long video - and sorry my carpet is such a mess. Annie really likes tearing up her toys, so rather than clean it up myself, I'll leave it to the cleaning service coming this week.

Note: You can hear Annie growling around 3:20.

Ok, so I caved...

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:26:00 +0000

As I mentioned last month, I decided to delete Facebook and MySpace. So I was really surprised when Facebook reinstated my account without my permission. I thought I was going to delete it again, but after I thought about it, it is a great tool to stay in contact with everyone that basically has crossed your path. So I am keeping it open for now, but I need to resist being on the site all day. So I am limiting my email notifications so I am not tempted to be logging so often. Also I took the account off of my main cell phone, but kept it on my blackberry - for now.

A bawdy weekend

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:44:00 +0000

We finished the first weekend of shows for Bawdy Babes. Despite Sunday's low attendance, we performed really well. We had a reporter come on Sunday - now this is the same one who reviewed us for Dog Sees God who did not give me such a favorable review. If I can recall, she stated that I appeared to be "uncomfortable" in the beginning, but got better as the show went on. Funny that she mentioned that, because it was how I was directed to be in the first few scenes. I managed to convince her so much, she thought me as the actor really was. We will see what she thinks about this show - I am sure she can not say "uncomfortable" for this performance.

Leslie and I were very surprised to see our friend Kathy in the audience. I worked with Kathy in college on various productions and even managed to do 1776 at WOTUTS with her when the company first began. She reminded me that she was the first to do drag in the company with her portrayal of Benjamin Franklin. It was nice to sit with her afterwards and reminisce about college again. I hope to see her more often.

Besides Kathy, I had my friends Kelly, David and his girlfriend Christina come to the Saturday night show. Kelly bought me a very nice arrangement of flowers, which we added to the set for the show. It was nice to come in on Sunday and have the room smell of lilies.

In regards to the new puppy Annie: She has been such a pleasure. Annie is loving her crate and even goes in when she is tired. Ethel and Annie love playing with each other. Ethel does a funny thing with rolling on her back, on top of Annie. She has even become a bit more gentle with Annie, so she does not hurt her. Wini is coming around slowly - she does not dart from the room when the puppy comes in. I am sure in a few weeks, they will all be adjusted enough that I will not have to worry so much.

Video: This morning

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:59:00 +0000

The new "sisters" decided to have a little fun with each other. Unfortunately, Ethel-Louise does not know her own strength and gets too rough with our little Annie Margaret. Still it nice to see Ethel take some time to play with the new baby puppy.

More of Annie

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:30:00 +0000

Some more video and posts of our newest puppy, Ann Margaret a.k.a. Annie. She had a great first day and went right to sleep. Now the potty training begins, what fun!

Ann-Margaret
a.k.a. Annie

Video: An addition to the family

noreply@blogger.com (EOZ) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 21:57:00 +0000

So after a few weeks of investigating and researching on the Internet, I was able to find the newest member to our family...