Chris Matthews and Barney Frank Spar over DNC Marriage Equality Plank - WATCH

Chris actually had some great points

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Gore Vidal is Dead

He was one of the greats.

Full of vigor and brass

He was never quiet

Never settled for less

Watch one of his greatest moments when he battled William Buckley the 1968 Democratic convention


His discussion about Ben-Hur


Gore was one of the best writers out there. He challenged millions and opened doors to so many stories.

Please google Gore and learn about him

Happy Birthday Ray

 August 1st birthday
candles add heat
to the Texas inferno of
good wishes, cheer, and love
that burn for you

 happiness and health
can't ask for much more
well, maybe treats to cover
multi-sports - scuba, hunting
baseball - big score

let's celebrate the day
week, month, and year
cake baked, dinner I'll cook
Ray, you're Olympic gold
in my book

Happy Birthday, Ray!!!!           

note - pics taken in Clearwater, FL where life was cool, fresh, and relaxing. Temps in Texas on August 1st expected to hit 108 F.  Dinner might just be ice cream.