Appalachian Rain: Cleansing Blog

Will The REAL Sarah Palin Stand Up?

Julie Hensley — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 23:36:32 EDT

Granted, I didn't do a count but I am struck with how little Sarah Palin spoke about Sarah Palin. Let's see, I learned the names of her kids and her husband's career, union membership and hobbies - all info I already had. Oh, I found out that Hockey Moms and Pitbulls differ it their use of lipstick.

So what did Sarah focus on? Obama. Wow, we are all being fooled thinking he's a saviour and the wise folks in Minneapolis know he's the anti-Christ.

I guess McCain has his Pitbull. She was wildly sarcastic and took every potshot she could as well as telling more lies and distortions than I could keep up with.

We Have Awakened A Sleeping Giant...

Julie Hensley — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 23:08:55 EDT

There is a legend that the Emperor of Japan spoke words similar to those of the title of this blog when he was told that the attack on Pearl Harbor did not result in the destruction of the US fleet. That, in fact, none of the aircraft carriers were destroyed.

I think that a similar event could take place in Virginia and perhaps even specifically in Southwest Virginia with this election. It's obvious that the Obama campaign is taking us VERY seriously. Far more seriously than I've ever seen a national campaign in any Southern state I've lived in (and I've lived in NC, VA, TN and TX through several Presidential elections).

Everyone in SW Virginia needs to know that we have a paid campaign staffer mobilizing and organizing the campaign in every county. For Lee and Wise County, we look to Adam Malle. He's a remarkable guy, gregarious, smart and funny... and plenty savvy. He's working hard to get everyone on board and active in whatever capacity they are most inclined and able.

I encourage everyone to look him up on MBO or email him at awm16@hotmail.com.

He's already organized DNC Convention House Parties all over the two counties, so be sure to check with him and come to the one most convenient for you. We are also - nearly - ready to open the campaign headquarters in Big Stone Gap (just need to get the phone lines installed).

At UVA Wise, Adam organized a voter registration drive and there are plenty of other activities planned from manning the HQ to having tables/booths at other events as well as door to door canvassing, phone banking and a letter to the editor campaign starting asap and leading up to the election.

Get excited, make room on your calendar and contact Adam to get in on the action!

Campaigning On The Homefront....

Julie Hensley — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:32:20 EDT

Wow, it's been over a month since I've been active on the site. But that doesn't mean I've not been active for the campaign.

We've been phonebanking locally, and had a voter registration booth at the local University Convocation this week. We're also - almost - ready to open the local campaign office (having trouble getting the phone company to hook up the phone lines correctly).

Still some stuff I've learned.

1) First thing to do is to seek out Obama supporters and get them involved as volunteers.

2) When you find them, find out what they are willing to do. Door to Door canvassing is what the campaign is emphasizing but if you have someone who adamantly won't do it - don't overlook giving them options like organizing a letter writing campaign to the local papers, phonebanking, manning the campaign headquarters, or helping at events (like a table at local festivals, fairs and voter registration).

3) If you live in a very "red" area, like I do... be sure to keep your voter registration efforts targeted to locations that likely Obama supporters would frequent, like Colleges/Universities (for us the local community college isn't a very good destination for all that it should be since most of the students there are benefitting from programs instituted by Democrats.. oh well).

4) In the process of identifying interested volunteers, be sure to create a network via email or phone tree so that they can all be notified of upcoming events, news, etc. as it's breaking.

5) Don't depend on the campaign to provide merchandise. A strong supporter will often purchase an order of buttons, yard signs, bumper stickers, etc. that you can either sell, give away or give in exchange for a donation to help with exposure and still keep generating new merchandise to offer.

6) Check with your local library about their inventory of Obama's books. Our local library had a long waiting list so we purchased several copies from half.com and donated them. Getting your friends and family to pass around their copies to other folks is highly effective too.

7) Wear Obama gear everywhere you can... it is a great facilitator (more so than a bumper sticker or yard sign) to get people to talk to you.

8) Be innovative... we have a local business who has given us permission to pain an Obama sign on the blank wall of their location! Everyone driving by will see it... and it will demonstrate a much greater level of enthusiasm than simply yard signs because of the time and effort involved.

9) Host events like yard sales, spaghetti suppers or a booth at a flea or farmer's market with all proceeds or profits going to the campaign effort.

10) Have phone bankers ask if the people they are calling are registered voters and if the person isn't, they can offer to stop by with a voter registration application. Obviously this works with local callers and is a great way to develop a relationship with the local voters as well as helping build the confidence of a phone banker to do door to door canvasing.

11) For those who can't or won't do phone banking or door to door canvasing - they can write letters to the editor as well as postcards to their neighbors. For $.28 the post office will sell postcards including the postage. Handrwriting a personal, specific to your area, message of support and encouragement can be another consideration for those who are still undecided. And it's another point of the personal aspect of his campaign that people will talk about.

Mostly we want to try to reach enough people so that at work one person might comment that they had someone visit their home over the weekend and others comment that they too heard from the local campaign by phone, mail, in person, etc. It helps people realize how important they are and how important this election is that such effort is being made to reach out to them particularly in areas that have not been considered 'battlegrounds' before.

DAGNAB those Tax and Spend Liberals....

Julie Hensley — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 07:40:49 EDT

Great article from NYT (posted here on MSNBC) analyzing the stance of both candidates on TAXES.

Certainly content that will help with those voters MOST concerned about the economy!

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25133125/#storyContinued

Memories, Memorabilia and Bristol Virginia's Town Hall Meeting

Julie Hensley — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 08:21:09 EDT

In the months and years that follow, with all that President Obama will go through, I doubt he will remember much at all about the Town Hall meeting at Bristol Tennessee. As many times as he's given that stump speech standing next to locally praised congressmen and senators, I wonder that he will remember it was the event he did with Congressman Boucher and Senatorial-hopeful (former governor) Mark Warner. Perhaps he will, it came on the heels among the very first of events after his capturing the nomination. For me, that's ok. It doesn't matter.

I'm not someone who scrapbooks or even has photo albums. A little over a year ago I had a housefire that destroyed what memorabilia I had of friends, family and my beloved dogs. Every trophy, ribbon and win photo from a pretty successful 15 years in dog shows was destroyed in a matter of hours. I don't grieve for that stuff - then again, had I not lost loved ones in the fire maybe I would.

In any case, I share all this because I have an Obama button collection. I took an old frame and covered it and began.. thus far, it is buttons I've come across in far and sundry places online - campaign stores, eBay.. so no memory associated except for the satisfaction of seeing it grow.

This past Thursday I was a Volunteer at the Town Hall Meeting in Bristol. The staff organizer - with my volunteering - placed me in the group that seated VIP guests. Why? Well I would guess but my bet is cause I have the look of a Hillary supporter. Middle aged, white and without my girlish figure.

It was a great day. I was gratified to see everyone that came to see him. I was thrilled at how supportive everyone was. I wish the day had not been so hot or tickets so desired however because I am pretty sure that he only spoke to the 'choir' live. The people in there were a determined bunch. Many waited FAR too long in the heat to get in because they got there early to help insure their seats.

At the beginning of that day, I was given a small card stock weight square maybe 5x5 inches. I pinned it on, it identified me as a Volunteer and above it showed the characteristic "CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN". I know many people would see that and think - ah, the Obama motto. He's change we can believe in. Well no, I put that on and realized that it identified ME as that change. We are the change we have been waiting for. That is WHY we can believe in it. How can we doubt ourselves? If we did would we have any reason to expect better of anyone else.

I'm glad that McCain wants to be a Leader We Can Believe In. Anyone who runs for President should uphold some ideals of a country. But I think it's clear - even in that motto - that McCain missed the point. The pundits want to believe it's about 'change', 'hope' and similar buzzwords. That we are inspired by sound bites.

I am sure that is the case for some people who watch this race on the periphery, only catching the occasional editorialized new commentary. But for those who hang on the words of Obama himself or McCain or even previously, Clinton - we know the difference is NOT rhetoric. It's empowerment.

I think Clinton may have figured out what Obama was offering but too late to effectively jump on that bandwagon. Early on however, she would use the collective "What we have to do" at the beginning of a sentence and then finish with how hard "I will work for you" or how "I will get it done". McCain - the tough Military guy - still wants to run this country like a General. Well I didn't enlist. I'm not much for blindly following orders. I appreciate the value it gives our military when people can, and I won't even debate that it is the best way to do it (not cause I think it is but because I probably don't know enough about it to really do the topic justice) - but our country is NOT an army. In fact, aggression has become too much our first and only tool in addressing our concerns internationally - at least as a FIRST response.

In any event, my 'badge' from the Town Hall meeting is now in my button collection. It's the poorest example of them being just a flimsy piece of something little more than paper. I know that there are likely 100,000 of them printed so it may also be the most common. But it is my proudest, it is associated with a first for me.. the first time I saw a President of the United States in the flesh. The fact that he came to my backyard is equally incredible to me.

Like I said, I'm not a scrapbooker or someone much for pictures...but I'd certainly encourage all of us to keep a bit of memorabilia regarding the campaign... yea, yea it might be worth something someday. Or, someday, you might get to sit down with Barack Obama and use it to remind him of the details of a campaign stop he made that has slipped him memory among all the other stops that preceded and succeeded it.

Giving Clinton Her Moment

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:13:06 EDT

PLEASE!!! Watch what you post and blog - content glorying in Obama's win and Hillary's defeat. Items gushing about how inadequate, unpresidential, etc. Hillary might be is JUST THE THING to insure that OBAMA will lose this fall. Do you have any idea how incendiary this is to the Clinton camp???? Do you really think you can afford to drop kick their votes?Clinton is Presidential - if anything she is FAR better prepared in many ways to deal with McCain as an opponent than Obama. Think of the positive campaign Obama wants to run and how the Republicans will (and have already) conducted themselves. Think of what happened to Kerry when he took the 'high road'. He got Swift Boated. Clinton - with her approach is far better able to deal with McCain. I am an Obama supporter because I want it different...but to undermine Clinton only means you are willing to lose the war for the sake of the battle. Obama hasn't won anything yet. Clinton Supporters have a rather squeued view of things indeed.. they overlook that Obama has not exploited Clinton's weaknesses (and the Republicans would) but we are biased as well. We are underestimating and overlooking the 'weaknesses' that will be exploited heavily in the next few months.We need to unite as Democrats. Clinton's supporters are heartbroken. They are proud of a feisty, tough candidate ... one that they are confident is the better choice. Is it so hard for you to empathize? In Obama's glory of being the presumptive nominee - do we need to gloat? Or can we recognize that Clinton is as much a trailblazer as Obama?

Giving Clinton Her Moment

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:12:11 EDT

Giving Clinton Her Moment....

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:11:19 EDT

Giving Clinton Her Moment...

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:10:39 EDT

Giving Clinton Her Moment

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:10:10 EDT

Giving Clinton Her Moment....

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:09:32 EDT

Giving Clinton Her Moment

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:08:59 EDT

Giving Clinton Her Moment...

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:08:23 EDT

Giving Clinton Her Moment....

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:07:49 EDT

Giving Clinton Her Moment....

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:07:03 EDT

Giving Clinton Her Moment...

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:05:15 EDT

PLEASE!!!Watch what you post and blog - content glorying in Obama's win and Hillary's defeat. Items gushing about how inadequate, unpresidential, etc. Hillary might be is JUST THE THING to insure that OBAMA will lose this fall.Do you have any idea how incendiary this is to the Clinton camp???? Do you really think you can afford to drop kick their votes?Clinton is Presidential - if anything she is FAR better prepared in many ways to deal with McCain as an opponent than Obama. Think of the positive campaign Obama wants to run and how the Republicans will (and have already) conducted themselves. Think of what happened to Kerry when he took the 'high road'. He got Swift Boated. Clinton - with her approach is far better able to deal with McCain.I am an Obama supporter because I want it different...but to undermine Clinton only means you are willing to lose the war for the sake of the battle.Obama hasn't won anything yet.Clinton Supporters have a rather squeued view of things indeed.. they overlook that Obama has not exploited Clinton's weaknesses (and the Republicans would) but we are biased as well. We are underestimating and overlooking the 'weaknesses' that will be exploited heavily in the next few months.We need to unite as Democrats. Clinton's supporters are heartbroken. They are proud of a feisty, tough candidate ... one that they are confident is the better choice. Is it so hard for you to empathize? In Obama's glory of being the presumptive nominee - do we need to gloat? Or can we recognize that Clinton is as much a trailblazer as Obama?

Are You Losing the War in Favor of Gloating Over Victory of a Battle?

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:03:26 EDT

Hold Your Horses!!! Hillary is NOT Conceding Tonight...

Julie Hensley — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 11:32:56 EDT

Terry McAuliffe has gone on record saying that AP report is flat dead wrong.

Please people... it's time to let this go. Obama has won and we need to focus on the General Election. Our distraction with the Clinton campaign does two things..

1) distracts us from what we can be doing NOW (namely preparing for our campaign activities to help with the election in November) - Obama hasn't WON anything yet!

2) Enrages the Clinton supporters... and everytime we do that they dig in their heels deeper (don't think so? go to the HillaryClinton.com site and check out the comments on the blogs).

Clinton supporters are at least as passionate as we are. They've given their time, their spirit, money and energy. They've lost their voices at rallies. They've supported an exceptional candidate for President and NOW they are certain that the one winning the nomination has been treated as a 'favorite' and that not only is he not worthy but that he won't win the General Election.

Are they right?

Every moment we spend in distraction and taking pot shots at Hillary makes it far more likely that they are.

Do not mistake... we know the 'weaknesses' of our candidate. We also know his strengths and both sides of this campaign (the Obama supporters and the Clinton supporters) have a tendency to see and post only their one view.

Yes, Obama has proven capabilities and intelligence. He does not have foreign policy or military experience. He has an African heritage. He's had problems with his church. His patriotism has been questioned. The merit of these issues varies. Clinton, no one on the planet knows politics as usual better than Clinton and she's more than capable of fighting the Republicans on their terms. A dirty campaign will put Obama at a disadvantage since he's promised a new brand of politics. Hillary of course, has a remarkable history - good and bad- that hasn't come out during the campaign for the Democratic nomination because Obama won't exploit it - but the Republicans would. We'd hear all about the fraud suit against her, her lying to the public during her husband's Monica and Paula issues, her 'misstatements' overstating her foreign experience regarding Ireland and Bosnia, etc.

This should be an easy slide into the White House for the Democrats this year. It simply won't be because of this battle.

The more we feel the need to 'gloat' or glory in the success of Obama the more we insure he will not be President. Consider carefully if it is a price you wish to pay.

I know I don't.

Do not allow yourself to underestimate the reasons people have for supporting her. Don't underestimate the reasons people have for questioning Obama's credibility or suitability as a candidate. Please.

Did You Work Harder on the Campaign When Things were Tough?

Julie Hensley — Mon, 26 May 2008 10:39:50 EDT

Right now it seems many people are taking a big break. We've earned it, of course. At the same time, while we strive to get our head's around focusing on McCain rather than Clinton we also need to keep up the pressure.

Obama is focusing on the fall election with appearances in important states but we still want to give him that push into the nomination that will only come through significant wins in the remaining primary states.

Please, continue with the calls and offsite blogging. Write to SuperDelegates and newspapers and other locations that can have an impact. Continue to donate and get involved with your local group to find out about their plans for organizing for the Fall Election campaign.

It may be time for a break, let's not make it into a stall.

IF Saturday Night Live WAS Pro-Clinton - Those Days Seem Over....

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 15:26:17 EDT

I have to admit... I feel sorry for the Clinton Supporters. Having Hillary totally slammed like this..

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/05/11/saturday-night-lives-mess_n_101177.html

Granted as an Obama supporter I was laughing and thinking "Good grief, I cannot believe they did that..." but there is ALOT of truth to it!

SNL all OVER Hillary...

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 15:23:33 EDT

I have to admit... I feel sorry for the Clinton Supporters. Having Hillary totally slammed like this..

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/05/11/saturday-night-lives-mess_n_101177.html

Granted as an Obama supporter I was laughing and thinking "Good grief, I cannot believe they did that..." but there is ALOT of truth to it!

Three a Day Til Election A Day - A Path To The White House for Obama ... instead of inaugurating President McCain in 2009

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:44:16 EDT

A new challenge... THREE A DAY TO ELECTION DAY.. when you consider that the recommended daily allowance of fruits and vegetables is five - agreeing to talk to three people a day about Barack Obama seems a minimal goal to say the least.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

This event looks to each of us to build a cumulative effect between now and November. Simply make the goal to speak to three DIFFERENT people everyday about your support of Barack Obama. Your aren't counting those you convert - just those you speak to.

You might consider using the phone banking system to reach three different people. Or take advantage of Obama gear (like buttons and stickers) to help people approach you. Maybe you will just make a special point to pick up the phone or send an email to friends, co-workers and others you go to church or enjoy a hobby with.

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

Of course, talking to folks on my.barackobama.com doesn't really count ... unless maybe you are turning them on to the challenge. Talking to 30 people in one day doesn't mean you can ignore the challenge for the next 10 days either. Every morning when you wake up, this challenge has to be as regular as brushing your teeth.

The goal is three conversations. Three opportunities for you to share with someone specific information about Barack Obama so a one way communication (seeing your Obama gear, posting a blog or a comment) doesn't accomplish it.

If you read this and go, wow! Three different people... I don't know if I can be in touch with that many different people! YOU are the one we need most, because if you are that insulated the odds are that the people around you probably are to.

Consider using the phone bank system on www.my.barackobama.com . If that idea sounds a bit ambitious, come join the group Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army first.. as a way to get advice and support before you pick up that phone. http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/BaracksInspiredPhoneBankArmy

How you do it isn't the critical part. The critical part is that each of us has to be aware that this Election will be won on the ground and between now and November each of us can canvas everyday. Three A Day Til Election Day.

It's about 200 days to Election Day. If each of us committed and achieved our goal, each of us would speak to at least 600 people. Think about that impact and how close past elections have been.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

The Election - What are you willing to do to prevent President McCain being inaugurated in 2009?

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:42:40 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

It's about 200 days to Election Day. If each of us committed and achieved our goal, each of us would speak to at least 600 people. Think about that impact and how close past elections have been.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

How Much Would An Obama Presidency Mean To You, Me, Those Around You?

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:40:18 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

It's about 200 days to Election Day. If each of us committed and achieved our goal, each of us would speak to at least 600 people. Think about that impact and how close past elections have been.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Your Chance To Have MAJOR Impact On The General Election...

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:38:51 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

It's about 200 days to Election Day. If each of us committed and achieved our goal, each of us would speak to at least 600 people. Think about that impact and how close past elections have been.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Getting Obama In The White House - The Big Picture

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:36:54 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

It's about 200 days to Election Day. If each of us committed and achieved our goal, each of us would speak to at least 600 people. Think about that impact and how close past elections have been.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Achieving the Goal: Obama As The President and Commander in Chief

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:34:16 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

It's about 200 days to Election Day. If each of us committed and achieved our goal, each of us would speak to at least 600 people. Think about that impact and how close past elections have been.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Three A Day Til Election Day - Are You Up To It?

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:32:52 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

It's about 200 days to Election Day. If each of us committed and achieved our goal, each of us would speak to at least 600 people. Think about that impact and how close past elections have been.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Do You Want Senator Obama to Become PRESIDENT Obama?

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:31:20 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

It's about 200 days to Election Day. If each of us committed and achieved our goal, each of us would speak to at least 600 people. Think about that impact and how close past elections have been.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

How Many Days Til Election Day?

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:30:06 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

It's about 200 days to Election Day. If each of us committed and achieved our goal, each of us would speak to at least 600 people. Think about that impact and how close past elections have been.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

What Are You Willing To Do For This Campaign?

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:27:46 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

The Grassroots Challenge Anyone Can Accomplish

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:26:37 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Who Knows That YOU Support Obama

Julie Hensley — Sun, 11 May 2008 07:23:36 EDT

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

Nothing hardcore. Just a conversation. No major point to make, just give these folks the heads' up that you support Obama and are willing to answer their questions or help them with concerns.

If YOU don't do it. Who will? http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4wzh

New Dance Steps- or shifting the focus to the General Election, McCain and more...

Julie Hensley — Sat, 10 May 2008 07:01:21 EDT

Well folks, we're in a better place than we expected. Despite all the chatter of a month or so ago, it looks like this will not go to the convention for the choice of a nominee.

It's easy, at first glance, to get excited about that, but keep in mind that of the last 3 candidates in the race for President that Obama has the least face/name recognition. Sure we can't imagine someone not being familiar with him ... but plenty are not!

So now, while Hillary is in death throes we need to do two things.

1) Shift focus to McCain. All the work we do looking for news, reading the books, blogs and chatter about Hillary we need to shift to McCain to help the campaign. Yes, I know, right now it's hard to let go of Hillary - could she still do something? No. If Obama wins the nomination now it would be because of something catastrophic that happened to the Obama campaign not because of something Hillary could feasibly do (how many kitchen sinks ARE there??).

2) Campaign even HARDER! With Obama declared the presumptive nominee - media attention will fall of tremendously. Some will say it's a good thing and perhaps in some ways it is but with that things like voter registration and turn out will likely drop off too (partly cause people feel it's decided). We need to stem that as much as possible. With every new democratic voter registered we are increasing Obama's chances in the fall. With every Independent who really gets to know Obama, we increase his chances in the fall. NOW is the time to get in front of these people. They will want to take a hiatus in the Summer from the discussion and there just isn't enough time in the Fall to get in front of all of them with our grassroots campaigning (phone calls, canvassing, etc.) so now, really bear down on those remaining contests!

Please,.... keeping blogging but shift from stuff about Hillary to educating us about McCain. Give us talking points. Drop the concern with Hillary's finances, lawsuit, comments. She's no more than a gnat now and will soon be shifting her tone as she gives up the race and supports Obama herself.

Is Obama YOUR Nominee?

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 21:03:06 EDT

Daily Kos has reported that Obama intends to declare himself the nominee on May 20. Aside from the fact that the Kos has been quite reliable, this makes alot of sense coming off what should be an impressive win in Oregon and the end of Hillary Clinton's chances to catch up with Obama even if she were to win every remaining pledged delegate.

So what will you do? Crack a beer and say "At last." ? Give a war whoop in your car startling people on the sidewalks?

Why don' t you... in the next couple days get about 6 inches of ribbon(s). It can be three pieces - one red and one white and one blue or perhaps just one ribbon with all three colors on it. When you hear that Obama is the nominee on May 20 (or whenever it is announced) put it on. Just a pin and a twist like the AIDS or breast cancer ribbons will make it attractive and eye-catching. When people ask about it, you can say - "This is in support of OUR - mine and Barack Obama's nomination for President. My candidate recognizes that there are not red states and blue states but rather the United States." or whatever variation you like.

If you think this show of support is valid, please pass this message on.

Permission to crosspost and forward.

Will You Celebrate When Obama Is Declared The Nominee?

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 21:01:12 EDT

So what will you do? Crack a beer and say "At last." ? Give a war whoop in your car startling people on the sidewalks?

If you think this show of support is valid, please pass this message on.

Permission to crosspost and forward.

Are You Glad Obama Is The Nominee?

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:59:09 EDT

So what will you do? Crack a beer and say "At last." ? Give a war whoop in your car startling people on the sidewalks?

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Tie One On For Obama...

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:58:01 EDT

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How Inspired Will YOu Be When He Is The Nominee?

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:57:04 EDT

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Are You Ready to Take This Country Back?

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:55:47 EDT

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Red, White and Blue... and Proud of It, Too...

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:54:37 EDT

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Celebrating The 2008 Democratic Nominee for President of the United States

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:53:14 EDT

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Are You In A Red State or a Blue State or in a United State for Obama?

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:51:34 EDT

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Tie One On For Obama....

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:49:48 EDT

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When Obama is the Nominee...?

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:48:39 EDT

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What Will YOU Do When Obama Is Declared The Democratic Nominee?

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:47:49 EDT

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May 20 - A BLUE LETTER DAY - Obama Declares Victory in the Democratic Nomination

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 08:26:58 EDT

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/5/8/21827/08460/25/511536

The Daily Kos is reporting (see the very last, parting comment of the blog post above) that the Obama camp is planning on declaring victory on May 20.

If so, it's an interesting and bold move unless Hillary is poised (just post WV but before KY to concede) and she may very well be. While it's presumed she'd win Kentucky, she's broke.

Can I suggest that we all keep a red, white and blue ribbon (whether it is one ribbon with all three colors or three ribbons - one of each color pinned together) handy and pin it on when we hear of the announcement? Sort of a solidarity and celebratory commemoration of how far Barack's campaign has come? It's all three colors to indicate that we are NOT blue states and red states but that we have a nominee for the United States of America.

May 20 - Obama Declares Victory in the Race for the Democratic Nomination

Julie Hensley — Thu, 08 May 2008 07:46:39 EDT

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/5/8/21827/08460/25/511536

The Daily Kos is reporting (see the very last, parting comment of the blog post above) that the Obama camp is planning on declaring victory on May 20.

If so, it's an interesting and bold move unless Hillary is poised (just post WV but before KY to concede) and she may very well be. While it's presumed she'd win Kentucky, she's broke.

We REALLY need to win Kentucky if so. Would look pretty icky for our candidate to lose to someone no longer in the race even if they have only been out of a day or two!

Good Morning! Ready for Kentucky and West Virginia?

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 08:03:43 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Now though, we have to focus on Kentucky and West Virginia. Neither of which are exactly the demographics of our candidate. West Virginia has already been conceded by Axelrod BUT that doesn't mean we don't scrabble for every vote we can get now. It's one less vote in theory, we would have to fight for in the Fall. So going there and canvassing or phone banking have to be among the first priorities. Please do something TODAY to assist the Obama campaign in both of those states - make a donation, make a call, canvas.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

On to the White House, People!

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 08:02:55 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

Now... it's May 7... and alot left to be done.....

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 08:02:07 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

Kentucky, West Virginia and the White House...

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 08:01:06 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

Next Steps...

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 08:00:19 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

What's Next??

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 07:58:40 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

Whoo Hoo... ok,nuf' celebrating... what do we do now??

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 07:58:04 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

What Are YOU Gonna Do Now?

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 07:56:19 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

Time for Kentucky and West Virginia

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 07:55:39 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

Now we look to WV and KY and the Fall!!!

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 07:54:59 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

It's Time...

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 07:54:10 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

It's Time..

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 07:53:32 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

Jon Stewart and Hillary Clinton: Lost Respect for the Voters...

Julie Hensley — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 07:40:12 EDT

I heard this video was no longer online and as I'd not seen it before I was ecstatic when someone provided the link below:

http://www.indecision2008.com/video/index.jhtml?videoId=166850

Be sure to share!

The Value of Inspiration to a President Leading a Country During Crisis...

Julie Hensley — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:21:14 EDT

Ok, this bitch4obama (my title on another blog I have... after Tina Fey did her SNL skit and Hillary started lying I realized I needed to reclaim 'the term') just realized the necessary ingredient to a great Presidency.

Bet you are on the edge of your seat, aren't you?

Well, it's the ability to inspire. Take a moment and consider every President that is considered great - by you and society. Their programs and accomplishments were likely powerful and maybe even revolutionary but they only way they got them all done was because they were propelled by the people. The people that they had influenced and inspired.

The Greatest Generation was inspired by FDR. During a struggle out of the Depression and into WWII, they listened to this trusted advisor via fireside chats and embraced his suggestions. Congress was not always so agreeable and it was the demands and expectation of the people that ultimately got alot of his early programs through. When he asked women to work. They did. When he asked men to go to war, they did. When he asked the people at home to grow Victory Gardens they did. His efforts were so inspirational that the posters and images of the era have now become part of the icons of our patriotism Uncle Sam saying "I Want You" and Rosie the Riveter displaying her bicep..

Washington, Father of a Country, but only because his inspiration and leadership propelled a rag tag, sick, ill-fed, ill-equipped and out numbered force to victory on the battlefield against the country that may have been the greatest military force on the planet at the time.

Lincoln, unlike his predecessor Buchanan (probably the most experienced and most 'qualified' man ever elected to the office also the President until recently anyway, considered the worst President in the history of our country), did not possess an illustrious resume' of experience or a career around people who knew how to get things done in Washington. He surrounded himself with a cabinet of those who had opposed him in his campaign to President and yet, he inspired them and lead them. His lack of experience did not stand in his way as he quickly learned on the job, making some mistakes but only once. He self-deprecating manner charmed the soldiers who met him and his words inspired everyone. Today, as a result, we are the United States of America and our social conscience is free of the stain of racial slavery since. His ability to unite disparity became evident as his cabinet and their effectiveness almost instantly dissolved upon his assasination. Reconstruction did not proceed as Lincoln planned and the following two Administrations were plagued with infighting and corruption.

John F. Kennedy was faced with several crises including the Cuban Missile Crisis. His mistakes with Vietnam might not have been as apparent if he had lived to fulfill whatever his intent may have been. Based on the ubiquitious quality and resonance of his quotes even today, there is little question that the charming young Catholic (people at the time doubted a Catholic, much less a Yankee could be elected just as they doubt a black man or woman could be elected now) Senator (and we have very very few Presidents that were Senators we prefer to elect Governors) from Massachusetts inspired us. How could we question that? The most common reference to his administration was Camelot.

So what does this mean? All we need is inspiration and challenge. It could be that simple. What if even an otherwise mediocre candidate for President was inspirational? Perhaps in the face of challenge and hope, people followed their inspiring leader and thus together lifted themselves, their effort and that Administration to greatness.

It seems far to simple a recipe... and yet, our worst Presidents number among those who were accomplished, educated men of great advantage who did not inspire. Perhaps the weakest Administration is one that has an apathetic or hopeless population to lead?

No doubt, some would argue for the inclusion of other Presidents - Teddy Roosevelt (he's on Mount Rushmore after all) as is Jefferson, and perhaps they were inspirational and the crises they led the country through just pale relative to others. Certainly most would agree that Teddy was colorful and charming, presuming you weren't his enemy! Reagan, Clinton and Jackson might also be included by some, but while they were charming and effective at campaigning there is little evidence that the inspired the kind of activity in the population during their Administration that the ones we use as examples uphold. Perhaps it was simply a matter of opportunity, without serious challenge to peace, prosperity and sovreignty, maybe the population doesn't even listen closely enough to the rambling of Washington to be inspired.

Regardless, I think all would agree that these times present a myriad and magnitude of challenge that may not have been faced since the founding of our country. Never have so many stood to lose so much because of the decisions made in Washington. Never before has inspirational leadership, the kind of leadership that will compel people to be part of the change been so critical. I will continue in the vein that I think all would agree that the only nominee possessing that level of inspirational ability to cross racial, ethnic, gender lines to unite our nation as a community is Barack Obama. Yes, I am sure that Clinton and McCain inspire their supporters but even so, those supporters are not propelling their campaigns with the energy, joy and fire that Obama commands.

Waking Up to Our Dreams...

Julie Hensley — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 23:01:14 EDT

It's possible that losses in places like Pennsylvania and Ohio and Texas are partially the result of racism by some people, indeed. But more critically.. the good folks of Ohio and Pennsylvania and Texas are loyal and the Clintons' have been courting them for about 20 years now. It's not easy for the young upstart (Barack) to convince people he's more reliable than the Clintons' who have been good to them for that long. Remember what the media has said? That both Bill and Hillary have made frequent trips to those states before, during and after their time in DC. Now tell me, do you think it's just for the shopping and fine restaurants?

No, my bet is that Hillary's run in 2008 was likely considered and made into a goal before the run for a second term in '96. As a result, they have carefully nurtured favors and relationships with people who would be beholding to them (remember how outraged they were with Richardson?) he was theirs bought and paid for by the Secretary post he had) and obvious supporting Super Delegates, as well as relationships with the big money... why do you think the entire world thought she was the unchallenged nominee before the first primary? She seemed unstoppable with a mighty war chest but at least as valuable a rolodex of those that owed her favors. Why do you think she was so cocky that she didn't plan for a campaign after Super Tuesday? The one thing no reasonable person would do is call her stupid.

The question is NOT why can't Barack close the deal... it's why hasn't she? And the answer to that is US. WE - the people who are SICK of the way they do things - WE are the ones who have said NOT THIS TIME. The question becomes.. do we MEAN it enough? Do we mean it enough to keep fighting even though by nature we aren't fighters? Do we mean it enough to pour our hearts and souls into it knowing that on November 5, 2008 we could feel worse than we did in November 2004?

Hillary is now employing more of Barack's grassroots methods. She's raised about $10,000,000 online since her win was announced last night. She's establishing a stronger grassroots presence.

So, what can we do? Well get smarter for one. Learn how to take the issues people worry about - race and lapel pins and Jeremiah Wright and couch their answers with substantive information about Barack's life and career and policy positions.

For example - when the flag pin thing comes up I'd offer something like... Senator Obama's patriotism has run so deep that he felt the pin was an outward manifestation without real merit while our troops fought a needless war in Iraq. So he decided not to wear a pin until he could bring them home. This shines as another example of his patriotism when placed in the context of his love for this country as the ONLY place in the world that someone like him could have such a career. He's proud of having led the entire Senate chamber in the pledge of allegiance numerous times and he offers the most comprehensive plan for restoring benefits to our Veterans. You know, his book, Audacity of Hope does an incredible job of illuminating his passion, patriotism and thoughtful nature in addressing such important issues.

Part two would be to harvest EVERY Barack Supporter! Don't let any of them off the hook. When you meet (in person, via phone, online) anyone who says they support Barack certainly make friends, exchange contact info and then encourage them to get involved. Make sure they know of various opportunities and resources, invite them to the more social opportunities (debate watching parties, meet and greets), offer them Obama gear (sign, bumper sticker, tshirt). Encourage them to share their copy of his books with people they know. Encourage THEM to get the Obama Supporters THEY KNOW involved.

We probably have a million or more involved in ways other than just donating. What if EACH of us just got ONE more person involved this week? and then what if the 2 million of us got one more person involved next week? And what if each of us then gave 20 minutes a day to the campaign...mindblowing ain't it?

It's not that hard, just don't rush off the phone when you are phonebanking and you reach someone who says they are already for Obama. Have an extensive list of how you can suggest they might help.

On MBO consider 'farming' by visiting other profiles particularly looking for folks with lowish point totals and invite them to be a friend and then discuss stuff that is going on - ask them if they've done any of it, encourage them to join groups, help them navigate the site, etc. That is the value of this networking site to the campaign!!

It's not going to get easier people. The easy times are done. The gilding on our candidate is looking a bit worn to many people and he's taken some hits - no doubt about it. We can debate the point of whether he fielded these issues well or not...but ultimately we are where we are and he's the same candidate we fell in love with and this is the same campaign that WE own! I AM BARACK OBAMA and so are YOU. So take it personally to the point that it makes you focus and constantly look for GOOD questions to ask yourself... questions like:

1) How can I help the campaign more effectively?

2) Is there a demographic I can reach and make an impact with? How?

3) Who do I know that would support Obama if they knew him better?

By contrast, questions that don't offer that substantive passion and energy (and can be counterproductive) would be ...

1) Why didn't he win X?

2) Why did commentator B say Z?

3) Will I ever get my comment first on the site blog?

4) Why did Barack say A instead of B?

5)How evil is Hillary? How evil are Hillary supporters? Where can I find proof of how evil Hillary is? OMG what did Hillary do now?

Well let's just say that if Hillary is in the question it's probably not a helpful question for the campaign - unless you happen to have pics of that lesbian tryst of hers (sorry that was a funny for those so dedicated that they read this far).

You get it. Now go forth and multiply! <G>

Caution - This Blog Contains the Use of One ADULT Term

Julie Hensley — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 21:06:56 EDT

Please be warned AGAIN that there is an adult term in this blog so it's not intended for those under the age of consent (for all that they probably hear alot worse in their favorite video game).

Why The Presumptive Democratic Nominee (Obama) Can't Put It (Hillary) Away

Julie Hensley — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:58:51 EDT

I think lots of people are missing exactly WHAT is going on here.

Hillary Clinton is not just another candidate that can't seem to go away.
Never (that means not ever at all) in the history of this country has there been someone like her
challenging the presumptive nominee at this point (and don't mistake
anything, the math makes it that Obama is the presumptive nominee). The closest thing to this would be something like a former President not running for a second term and then coming back later to run again while still in favor with the Party and the country. That is exactly where Hillary was last fall. Just think about it - the media called her coronated and ordained and presumptive nominee before the first primary had been held! They weren't just jumping to conclusions they were looking at her resources and while her war chest was impressive, that wasn't the greatest thing in her arsenal.

First off, as a First Lady she developed connections with the power
structure of the Democratic Party in EVERY state and was particularly
vigilant about 'earning favors' in those states that she would need in her
Presidential bid. Many, many endorsements that she's received were 'earned'
long before she announced her run for the White House.

Second, even if she hadn't done all this - think of the power her husband
wields in this regard. The favors he can call in, the careers he started in those eight years and favors he did.

Third, now, stepping away from the 'machine', consider the people who don't
pay too much attention to politics but remember the Clinton years and that
things were 'good'. They aren't watching the campaign too much now (and
those that are are still able to vote for Hillary even when they think she
is badly behaved because they believe she will bring their jobs back - check
out MSNBC exit polls 67% say Hillary is too negative). But these people are
voting 'bird in the hand' being the valuable option. They consider that
what they KNOW about Hillary is worth more than what they 'guess' about the
new guy.

So, in MANY ways, Obama is defeating a former President. Imagine the
potential if a one term President sat back 4 years and then decided to run.
The hoopla early on would be formidable. The name recognition... the people
who were supporters while they were in the White House and garnered favors
would show up in droves. Think about THAT. If you listen to the tape where
Clinton is giving the MSNBC reporter a tough time about what he said on WHYY
listen to the woman in the background trying to get Clinton's attention.
She's carrying on about something she did for him while he was in the White
House! And yet, despite a complete lack of this, Obama outdraws at his
rallys.

No... what we are doing is historic. Defeating a candidate with the power
of a Hillary Clinton is likely unheard of. Why do you think it was so often
a given that the VP would be the nominee? Because the power of the
President was behind him and that power would deliver unprecedented numbers of endorsements
and help. This is the closest thing - and even it's not the same
thing -defeating a VP candidate - to what Obama is doing. Why isn't it the
same? Because the VP wouldn't be likely to bring the former President into
office with them and while in the WH the former President wouldn't be
actively doing alot to help the VP be elected. With that said, it's very
likely looking at it now (and not illegal) that alot of that social activity
in the White House during the Clinton years was to earn the favors they are
pulling on right now. Why do you think they call people like Richardson -
Judas? They feel like they earned his endorsement a long time ago.

However, the reality? I suspect that the powers of the Democratic party are relieved that Hillary is not the nominee. Her nest is the Democratic party. The Clintons are Mr. and Mrs. Democratic Party and have been for about 20 years now but outside of that club, the votes for Mrs. Clinton are few and far between. Unlike Obama she would claim very few Independents or Republican cross-overs. So her handicaps are evident in a general election but well hidden in a closed primary (which Pennsylvania was).

Regardless of the fact that Obama is leading, do no mistake that politically our campaign is David against a truly mighty Goliath. In fact, I think there are powerful Washington Insiders who have not slept well since this turn over happened. Politically they want to pooh-pooh that Obama is anything but another politician but the reality says that the people are taking the country back. An unknown like Obama shouldn't be propelled like this and go independent of the machine's self-made powerhouse of a candidate. Why do you think Hillary is in such shock?

WHY ARE THEY SAYING HILLARY WON BY 10? SHE WON BY 8.5% (at 99% returns in)

Julie Hensley — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:47:02 EDT

http://www.electionreturns.state.pa.us/

Very short blog... go look at the page of official Pennsylvania results. They are the ones indicating that it was a single digit victory..

So when does the reporting get honest, I mean, accurate?

Pennsylvania will be CRAZY this fall...

Julie Hensley — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 01:27:36 EDT

I don't even care who the nominees are... just look at the info.

The Democratic Primary currently showing Hillary winning by 8.6% - check the PA Elections site

http://www.electionreturns.state.pa.us/ is simple next to the other things to consider.

First, Independents couldn't vote in this primary so we have NO idea what they think. Now as to the Republicans...

With Huckabee and Paul out of the race (but still on the ballot) but not campaigning, they still, together, claimed over 27% of the vote! That is huge! Will those folks sit out the Fall election? Will they return to the fold and vote Republican? Might some swing Democrat?

So when you hear someone saying Obama can't carry Pennsylvania in the fall... be sure to explain to them (once you get done laughing) why that is a preposterous assumption!

Making Sense of Pennsylvania and BEYOND.... an analysis and analogy to help the anxious and feeble minded...

Julie Hensley — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:03:31 EDT

Yes, I know - Obama lost PA by 10 points. OUCH. Right? Nope. Less than 3 weeks ago he was down 26%. Let that soak in.

If the race had been run then and he lost by 26points now that would be a problem but even that wouldn't be the end of the world. Why? As Pelosi (one of the most powerful Democrats in the world) said - this is a contest decided by the pledged delegates who represent the votes of the people.

This is the DEMOCRATIC party - their nominee must be selected by a Democratic process otherwise ALL their jobs are in jeopardy.And now, Hillary's win simply is not enough. She can't catch Barack in the Delegate count well not unless she wins ALL and EACH remaining primary by at least a margin of 80-20. That includes North Carolina - which is pretty much in Obama's win column and Indiana is presently a dead heat - hard to pull 80-20 out of that.

Sure, she's gotten good mileage with her 'he can't win the big states'; 'he can't close the deal' stuff but what does it mean? Not much except that it makes many Obama supporters anxious (needlessly) and the feeble minded Hillary supporter gloats (foolishly)...so want to put it in context?

Consider a sporting event, like baseball or football. Can't get more American than baseball but in this baseball game there is a limited number of runs (delegates)and the Obama Raiders are playing the Hillary Hucksters.

At the end of the 8th Inning there aren't enough remaining available runs for the Hucksters to catch up. Sure, in the REAL world, the losing team would just call it a loss and wrap it up...but just so everyone gets their moneys worth on those ticket prices... the Raiders and Hucksters agree to play the remaining inning.

So no matter how stupendous that 9th inning or 4th quarter is... at the end, the score will be Raiders 1800 and Hucksters 1750 (at the best). You can be amazed at that last powerful effort but it's still a loss for the Hucksters by every democratic and sporting rule in the land.That is where we are now people. THAT is the reality. So next time you hear a spin that is placed so that Hillary can justify playing in the last inning or so that MSM can keep the chaos going to increase readership or website visits or television audience... remember - it's smoke and mirrors.

Oh, those mighty SD? Well, they are protecting their jobs. They aren't so much worried about retaliation from Hillary if they endorse Barack (which is where they pretty much know they are going to do at this point) but they are concerned about their jobs. Virtually all of them are well connected in the Democratic party either by appointment or elected office - and they want to be able to be elected in the future. Now if you lived in an area that went oh... 75% for Obama in your primary - that sounds solid don't it? - except that you would be pissing off that 25% that supported Hillary wouldn't you? How many elected officials can afford to annoy if not down right tick off 25% of their base? Let's just be fair - none. So they wait for a clear nominee to emerge so that they don't have to tick those people off.It's all in order... it's just covered with a bit of dust and smoke right now.

What If THIS Is The Best of All Possible Scenarios???

Julie Hensley — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 22:43:49 EDT

What IF... bear with me for a minute... what IF this chaos is for the best? Ok... go to www.msnbc.com and find any content on the homepage about McCain. You won't. None. And today was the Republican Primary in PA as well.So, once the dust is settled.. it's just BORING to most people and they tune it out. Which is OK if you are Hillary Clinton or John McCain - a name that has been a known quantity in the Political Spectrum for 20 years or more. Everyone "knows" that Hillary is a fighter and McCain is a maverick... right?But what do people know about Obama?Let that sink in. Most people hadn't even heard of him until he put in for the nomination last February and even after that he was under the radar til his win in Iowa. After that, he sort of shared the spotlight with 60% to Hillary (still the presumptive ordained nominee) and Edwards. It wasn't til after Super Tuesday that he really made people wake up and take notice.Yes, he's had several GREAT speeches and wrote two incredible books. How many people have read those books? Heard the speeches?He needs this exposure. I know it's hard to watch Hillary take her best shot day after day...but it's not anything that Rush and Karl and Ann and all the other little Republican peons won't be doing soon. The 527s are mobilizing and will be striving to SwiftBoat Obama just as they did Kerry.So, let's cling to our faith and our hard work... I think this could very well ALL be for the best in the end, even those the tension is palpable and it seems hard. But even as Pelosi said, the nomination HAS to go to the candidate with the most pledged delegates and there is little doubt that is Obama. Additionally, if the Democratic party somehow found a way for Hillary to get around that - can you imagine the anarchy? I doubt any Democrat would feel secure in their next re-election bid (which is exactly the cause of the 'undeclared superdelegates right now - they are worried about pissing off part of their constituency).

Theory of Politics as per the Clinton Campaign...and how hard the Obama camp could be laughing..

Julie Hensley — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 08:45:55 EDT

Remember those handy dandy delegate calculators all over the Internet? Well granted, they were created so we could figure out who and how a candidate could get to the needed 2,025 but unless you've been under a rock for a few months you realize that no one will without the help of Superdelegates. Still the nature of the DEMOCRATIC party is clearly that of democracy that the 'people' choose the candidate. That is what Nancy Pelosi meant when she said that the state pledged delegates chose the candidate because they were the ones that represented the people's votes.

With that said, it's a nice little trip back to those calculators only now look at what Hillary needs to do to catch Barack. She would have to win EVERY remaining primary contest with 65% of the popular vote or more. EVERY one. For each one that she didn't win by that margin, she would need to then increase the win to 70% or more.

In reality, the nightmare is if she wins a majority or all of the remaining contests without that margin, because then the argument would be made that she'd crippled Obama and he couldn't win in the general - that she had bled off all his support. Then the nightmare of the Democratic Party ripping itself apart trying to decide would become something that could literally, no only end all hopes in the general election but also destroy the party as a whole.

Now is NOT the time for 'early regret'. Now is not the time to worry about this scenario - we can worry and obsess when we are in the midst of it (should it come to that).

Instead, now is the time to WORK. What if every 10 phone calls (even if only to answering machines or wrong numbers) was worth a vote? What if every 4 knocked doors was worth one vote? What if every 10 blogs and comments on other websites was worth a couple votes?

The question then becomes (if you had this data to work with) how many votes will you deliver? Even if we don't know these things... pretend we do!

Been Real... Been Fun... Been Great...

Julie Hensley — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 13:18:44 EDT

I've had the flu and then bronchitis for the last few weeks and have struggled to get the most basic statements across verbally between coughing jags. Now, while I'm still not 100% - I am a bit better and my dialing finger is itching so I am going back to phone banking!

I've enjoyed blogging and commenting and wandering around the site but now that I THINK I am up to it AND cause Pennsylvania is so soon - to be followed in quick succession by Indiana and North Carolina and Kentucky - I am getting back to the phone.

I invite everyone else to do the same and if you need some encouragement or just want to share tips and chat about phone banking - come join us at Barack's Inspired Phone Bank Army. It's a group with a great postive CAN DO attitude!

It Happens EVERY Time

Julie Hensley — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 12:41:15 EDT

Everytime there is a blip, a misstep, a crisis, this blog goes crazy with people who are irate, anxious, furious, indignant, defensive... and the list goes on.

Don't get me wrong, this is a fine place for venting and certainly when people are as dedicated as Obama supporters there are times when emotions are going to run high. Still, does it only exacerbate our energy poured into the non-productive worry when we continuously read blogs and write blogs about it? Watching and reading and listening to every painful MSM bit of news and then writing about it here, it's got a ripple effect.

The person that writes it gets to relive and really consider the experience that upset them so much. People who didn't even see the irritating program now get to vicariously hear about it and get all worked up. Now the effect has been increased exponentially and more people are walking around upset and wringing their hands instead of making calls, writing letters to the editor, going to another site to blog, or any of the other things they could be doing to help the campaign.

Please consider this when not only posting but reading the blogs. We've gone through alot of crap and I guarantee there will be more. Turn off the TV, radio and put the newspaper aside - don't let this get to you - it will pass, believe it or not.

Keep Positive.

The Strange Twistings of th.e Political Twist..

Julie Hensley — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 14:09:19 EDT

I'm envisioning a new youtube video of Hillary and Barack and John dancing to a classic Chubby Checker tune.

The maelstrom touched off by Barack Obama - the fact that he just breathes seems to bother some - has been under the surface since, maybe, Iowa? Who was this guy who should NOT be a serious candidate... I mean look at him, as the Principal said in a teenage movie of the 80s when confronted with a Native American leading man in the high school play (a leading man who had to kiss a very WASP American girl) "that boy is not of the American persuasion". Everyone who knew anything knew this wasn't going anywhere. I mean, didn't Jesse Jackson prove that a black candidate for President was a joke? Even the African Americans knew better than to vote for an African American candidate. No way the white man would let him win.

So what happened? Sure the bigots are still sitting on the sidelines lobbing grenades in between scratching their heads. Or are they?

Today my father (if you've read my earliest blogs..... and my inspiration for getting involved in this campaign you'll know the details) commented that he was going to vote for Obama. Now, he's been saying he's undecided since the beginning. He didn't even vote in the primary cause he couldn't decide and, oh yea, he says he's independent but he's voted Republican when he has voted since I can remember.

He said that Obama made him realize that he was voting on just abortion and gun control because those were the only issues he felt he could make politicians accountable that all the stuff about jobs and taxes had been lies so many times that he just tuned it out. Their position on Abortion and Gun Rights were the only thing he believed anymore and that was just cause the sobs (he said it not me) knew they wouldn't be re-elected if they didn't uphold their position on those issues.

He said that wasn't fair to his kids or anyone else's and it wasn't fair to grandkids, etc. He said that Obama was correct - him and everyone he knew was bitter.

Oh, and he laughed along with Wolf Blitzer and John Cafferty when they made fun of McCain and Clinton - the FATCATS - for calling Obama 'elitist'.

Will he actually vote that way come November? Well if you knew my daddy, you'd know he's not one for changing his mind.

CNN has Barack's BACK!

Julie Hensley — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 12:19:57 EDT

Yes, I mean that in a good way! If you feel the teensy tiniest bit down about the "bitter" remarks and how some people are taking them... well, I thought I was fine with it and believed it would be a positive before it was over and now. WOW!

I couldn't have scripted this better and I can write a heck of a script.

Watch ALL of it... it just gets better and better.. before it's over - I SWEAR - they are ALL laughing (not chuckling - laughing) at Hillary and McCain!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4G8dRMofHNs

Turning the Tide...

Julie Hensley — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 09:38:29 EDT

Your comments to blogs can HELP with this recent issue over Obama's statements in San Francisco.

Go to http://grassrootspa.com/?p=1793#comment-8564

And comment!! Then do searches and find other blogs particularly in Pennsylvania - search on blog pennsylvania election to find some. Post those links so others can post comments.

If we get out and post our views to these blogs it will help inform and persuade others.

Feel free to crosspost this info.

Obama and Heschel...

Julie Hensley — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 08:55:04 EDT

Abraham Heschel is best remembered as a beloved Jewish scholar of much renown as well as, perhaps, the loudest opponent to the Vietnam War. I can only imagine what he might offer in light of things today.

Below, I am excerpting an anecdote from a speech he gave in 1938 entitled the Meaning of this Hour.

You can read the entire essay/speech at http://www.bj.org/selected_readings/meaning_of_this_hour.html.

We have failed to fight for right, for justice, for goodness as a result we must fight against wrong, against injustice, against evil. WE have failed to offer sacrifices on the altar of peace; thus we offered sacrifices on the altar of war. A tale is told of a band of mountain climbers. Without guides, they struck recklessly into the wilderness. Suddenly a rocky ledge gave way beneath their feet and they tumbled headlong into a dismal pit. In the darkness of the pit they recovered from their shock only to find themselves set up by a nest of angry snakes. For each snake the desperate ones slew, ten more seemed to lash out in its place. Strangely enough, one man stood aside from the fight. When the indignant voices of his struggling companions reproached him for not fighting, he called back: "If we remain here, we shall be dead before the snakes. I am searching for a way of escape from this pit, for all of us."

In reading the blogs last night, about people who were bitter and had given up on government to help them. I realized that Obama meant that people turned to the ISSUES of gun ownership and religion as their voting points because they couldn't rely on government to protect their lives so they had to limit their voting to those issues. They'd been lied to so often, what was the point in voting for the candidate that promised jobs or "no new taxes". They weren't successful and always had excuses for it.. but now, gun rights and abortion by contrast those issues were easy to track and didn't allow for excuse.

We talk about how Obama has a new way of approaching the problem and terms like paradigm shift are mentioned. That is exactly what Abraham Heschel's Meaning of the Hour is about. It's about someone who assesses that the obvious way of 'attacking' the problem is not a solution. But that doesn't mean they don't suffer for their insight.

Can Obama get us out of the snake pit? I don't know... but unlike those who are willing to stay and keep fighting the snakes the same old way, he's definitely going to be looking for a way out. This is true whether you consider the 'snakes' to be the Iraq War, the economy, global warming, race issues, gender issues, LGBT issues, etc. Clearly more than one of these is at a crossroads and if we don't find another approach to the problem "we will all be dead before the snakes."

Chris Matthews and Tim Russert April 10, 2008

Julie Hensley — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:51:47 EDT

For the most part, I find Chris and Tim to be very insightful... and yesterday they were discussing possible VP running mates for Obama.

They had some fun talking about HRC in the position (whether she wanted it, whether Barack would want her) and then Tim wondered about Bloomberg and what he would bring to the economic question of this campaign.

They pointed out that the Obama x Clinton ticket (or reverse) could not beat McCain x Rice. Now I know that part of that is a certain excitement over just hearing a 'new name' and that Condi is certainly not someone who brings alot to McCain (other than playing the gender and race card). Her association with the War and Bush would NOT be an asset since McCain HAS to distance himself from Bush (which I would consider a miracle but that's me).

I think my point of concern is how little attention people are paying to the concerns of National Security. There is NO other issue that will create as strong a knee jerk reaction as National Security. I feel I have little reason for concern... certainly the advisors are far more clever than I in seeing this... that little more than a Terror Alert late in October would send voters racing to McCain if they didn't see depth and 'security' on the Democratic ticket. On the other hand, in 2004 the Democrats got broadsided when Rove got the marriage amendment on the state ballot in November and so drove loads of conservatives to the polls - who then voted for Bush while they were at it.

McCain is not a domestic policy warrior and needs to choose a running mate that is, but I think his desire to choose a 'clone' of himself (someone who would carry on his Presidency were he to be unable to finish) will prevent him from doing that.

By the by, did everyone know that Barack Obama is the ONLY Presidential candidate whose spouse is not a Professional Paid Lobbyist?

To think most people don't like the idea of how much access lobbyists have... can't have much more than that, can you?

Wow! Philadelphia Daily News - HOW HILLARY LOST MY VOTE by BabyBoomer Mom Clinton Supporter

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 12:27:39 EDT

If this tide picks up steam... look for a blowout win for Obama on April 22.

This woman supports Clinton but realizes that the party is over for the Clinton campaign and that she needs to support Obama to avoid the McCain Presidency. The author is Ann Rosen Spector - a psychologist and adjunct Professoer at Rutgers-Camden.

http://www.philly.com/dailynews/opinion/17414309.html

Read it and Share it! In the Philadelphia Daily News! Now we just need to have the sister piece published in Pittsburgh!

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetoro (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 12:02:51 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetoro (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 12:01:56 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetoro (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 12:01:00 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetoro (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:59:51 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetero (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:58:42 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetero (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:57:41 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetero (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:56:27 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetero (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:55:29 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetero (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:54:30 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetero (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:53:30 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetero (you know her as Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:52:29 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Time Magazine Cover: Profile of Ann Soetero (you know her are Barack's Mom)

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:51:28 EDT

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1729524-1,00.html

Great timing. Time's cover story is a profile of Barack Obama's mother.

You want to read this and share it.

Pennsylvania, Catholics and Barack Obama...

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:46:53 EDT

This mix of concern strikes me as slightly comic. After all, the (so it seems) most popular Catholic in office today is Patrick Murphy of Pennsylvania and he endorsed Barack Obama some time ago.

Maybe that endorsement was just announced a bit prematurely and is now 'old news' when it could be more beneficial. Perhaps we need to help wake it up.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post_group/ObamaHQ/CJDn

At that destination you can read, in the words of Patrick Murphy, why he endorses and supports Barack Obama. It's as glowing and enthusiastic as any endorsement I've heard. Certainly any of us who blog, phone bank or are involved with the effort to help Senator Obama - most recently in Pennsylvania - need to be familiar with this and perhaps quick to refer to it or email the link to those that need to see it.

After we've got that done, we should take a few moments to sit back and reflect. When was the last candidate able to garner such glowing endorsements from Catholics, Jewish Rabbis (who are their neighbors), African Americans... and more, all while not particularly belonging to any of those groups (as Keyes pointed out - he is not of African American slave ancestry - sorry just having a bit of fun there)? When was the last time that someone was accused of being Muslim and then got the support of such a wide range of groups and minorities?

There is a unity to his campaign. Yes, I KNOW some would endorse him because he is the leader now, but WHY is he the leader? He's leading because he has successfully united individuals and 'small groups'. At the beginning of this campaign he was FAR from the obvious choice of unions or Jews or Catholics or even African Americans. Remember when they published articles about the challenge he faced in wrestling the African American vote from Hillary?

If you know someone that has been under a rock and doesn't see this tide... someone who is distracted by Hillary's claims or attack ads or dismayed at how much money Obama has... help them remember this. They will trust it because they remember it.

Penn and Pennsylvania Lobbys..

Julie Hensley — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:36:23 EDT

I found this piece in a great blog site...I invite EVERYONE to go to this site and post comments to the listed blogs. It's clearly the destination of many folks in Pennsylvania who are still wading through the muck and determining who to vote for.

The site itself is http://keystonepolitics.blogspot.com and it has plenty of bloggers who are active about events of the Presidential primary season. It's the easiest site to post comments on I've ever seen.. and yet the comments are generally very insightful.

The specific blog I am referring to in the subject above is linked below. Check it out. According to this, the timing for the Penn faux pas of working with the Colombia Free Trade Agreement could NOT have been worse. Apparently Pennsylvania may be even more anti-NAFTA than Ohio (check out the blogs and comments to see where I get this). I am a bit surprised that more hasn't been said as a result...not even sure what that means..but check it out and be SURE to comment!

http://www.keystonepolitics.com/story/elections/2008elections/penn-ouster-may-have-had-pa-union-connection#comment-49855

Barack Obama and the Jewish Question - as per the Obamas' neighbor....

Julie Hensley — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 17:12:35 EDT

Even if your are a political junkie that has discounted the impact of the "Jewish" vote. Even if you aren't African-American, or regardless, if you've forgotten the part that Jewish-Americans played in the Civil Rights movement. Even if you don't feel that you have room in your periphery to juggle the 'Jewish' question relative to this campaign... I'd REALLY like to encourage you to read this.

http://thejewishweek.com/viewArticle/c55_a5420/Editorial__Opinion/Opinion.html

Rabbi Wolf speaks from the point of view of a neighbor and perhaps a neighbor with a special awareness of a specific group of people but he is clear minded and not only appreciates that Obama is a candidate for all people (not just a MidWestern candidate or an African American candidate or a male candidate or a heterosexual candidate). While his essay is written to reassure the Jewish population that Obama has their concerns firmly in his view, it's also clear that the Rabbi strives to encourage every reader to look beyond their constraints and perspective of what the issues are to a more global point of view. A point of view that includes the succinct awareness that Israel's security will never be assured as long as the Palestinians are frightened and oppressed.

An important read whether you are a student of sociology, politics or want to know more about Obama.

The Inspirational Katie Hunter...

Julie Hensley — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 21:14:02 EDT

Karen Hussein Hunter (you can look up her profile with that) has a daughter - 6 years old and as charming a pistol as you'd ever care to see, she even made a video available on YouTube with "her best speech" about Obama. You'd be charmed if you saw it even if you didn't read the rest of this...

Well, a few days ago, Katie was very sick and rushed to the hospital where she was diagnosed with bacterial periotinitis (if I have it right - that is the infection and swelling of the abdominal wall, in addition to being life threatening it's very painful). She underwent surgery but is still in a bit of a holding pattern.

Even so, as Katie woke up from surgery she asked her Mom about the results of the caucus (they are in Washington).

A bunch of us are doing what little we can, checking in, saying prayers, sending good energy, etc.

And inspired by Katie's video, I wondered if there were others out there that might be interested in helping with another project. An Art, Music, Literary exhibit inspired by Obama with projects done by kids between the ages of 6-18.

Granted, my first thought would have been to have the lower limit be something more like 9, but after seeing Katie's video... well I've even seen a cute video with a 2 year old.

Anyway, does the idea encourage or inspire anyone? I thought we could even work to have pieces sent to different field offices for display during the campaign (art) and literary stuff could be published in newspapers or blogs. Music and videos clearly have a great place for exposure online.

We could even figure out a way to have it be a fundraiser for Obama by 'charging' for entries but the money being sent as donations... and our young artists could have 'multiple' sponsors.

I think the idea has legs... and more importantly the energy and enthusiasm of Katie Hunter encouraging us on.

Oh... don't read this last bit if you don't want to cry.....

Fundraising for the Dog Loving Business with the Obama supporting owner!

Julie Hensley — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 13:29:27 EDT

This is a bit novel... but I don't see a problem with it.

My website www.DigitalDog.com is something I've sought to use to help the campaign in an unobtrusive way (let's face it - people come there to find out about dogs not Presidents - with not smart comments about the relationship between the two thank you! <G>).

Anyway, it has occurred to me that I can help Obama supporters (whom I'd love to help) while helping Obama. I will donate advertising on my site to those who make a donation.

So if you, or someone you know has a pet related business that would benefit from advertising in front of dog lovers - and DigitalDog's rates are VERY VERY low I promise (as little as $5 per month) - then you can use your 'marketing' dollars to support Barack.

Basically, I'd help you find a placement and rate that suits your needs and there would be an Insertion Order that you would receive a 'paid' notated copy of once your 'donation' was recorded on my fundraising page. You'd then receive the advertising. Just as normal only instead of 'paying' DigitalDog - you'd donate.

Yep, I'll donate 100% of the proceeds (not just the profit after overhead) to the campaign. So do not confuse this with any sort of commercial promotion. It's not.

If you know someone with any sort of online presence (eBay store, Yahoo store, amazon store, or their own website) that wants to get in front of pet lovers (guess those people buy stuff other than dog stuff too) or on a website with a solid Google PR of 5 - and they want to support Obama, suggest that they contact me either via this website or at julieh@digitaldog.com. Be sure that they tell me that they are taking advantage of this... depending on response I may have to limit it to the first 10 to take advantage of it.

A girl has to eat after all! <G>

Obama and Franklin

Julie Hensley — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 11:22:23 EDT

When the Declaration of Independent was written, the gentlemen involved did not underestimate their endeavor. They knew that many of them would not survive this stand. Indeed during the Revolutionary War, those that signed the document were especially targeted by the English. Their homes destroyed and if they or their families survived they were separated by the four winds and in many cases never saw each other again.

Still, some moments of hope were recorded. Once the signing was complete, Franklin stood and commented on a painting in the room. It showed a brilliant sun on the horizon. He said he'd often pondered whether it was a painting of a sunrise or a sunset.... he was now sure it was of a sunrise.

I've felt similarly looking at the 'embossed' logo on these webpages, the one with the Obama logo as the sun in a field and the eagle above. I've wondered if the eagle was landing or just taking to flight.

Perahps I've been slow to come to this understanding, some might say they've known that eagle was taking to flight since the keynote of 2004 or since February 2007. For my part, I am sure of it now, that eagle is taking to flight again. There is still hope that the USA can be the country the founding fathers intended.

Your Personal Fundraising Goal

Julie Hensley — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 11:10:36 EDT

So you set up a personal fundraising page. Now what? What does that page even mean? Is that what you hope to give prior to the election in November? Do you have hopes of actually fundraising... do you know what that means? Best of intentions are great but can often lead to inactivity. Take me for example.. I have some no how but haven't done alot myself as of yet.

So knowing ain't enough either... you have to DO IT (which was the precept behind Martin Luther leaving the Catholic church and starting the entire Protestant faith). Anyway...

Posting here is charming and encourages other committed Obama supporters to throw a few bucks in your bucket but I think we all know it probably doesn't change the final tally much. Let's face it, everyone in here is going to give what they can give in any event regardless of which button they click to do it. So the real 'gold' is OUT there. But how to find it?

Find some cute kids and dogs ... put the kids in Obama tshirts and get some good pictures. People LOVE pictures of kids and animals. Put them in your blogs, website, everywhere you promote your fundraising.

Do you have a blog on any other website or any other website in general? Will you be able to post about your fundraising? either placing a button on the page or in your blog? or links? Consider going to other forums and posting and placing a link to your fundraising page on those posts. Look for sites that offer a link exchange and do that with your profile and/or fundraising page.

Put a link to your profile and fundraising page (a linke for each) in your signature line of your email or even more dramatically as the FIRST line of your emails.

Offer to do something as a service or outrageous to get donations... perhaps a day of trash pick up, or wear an outrageous costume on a street corner (can be for laughs or somehow educational), purchase inexpensive Obama gear (like buttons, bumper stickers) and give one with everyone donation of $10 or more. Pull on a talent - pledge to write and sing an Obama song at an open mike night if you generate $X in donations or offer to create a letter for each donor to use in sending to newspapers, etc. for every donation over $20 (or whatever).

Organize an event - yard sale, bake sale, concert, community festival, art show, craft show, picnic, pool party, pet show - can be as simple or involved as you want - and let everyone know the proceeds are for Obama's campaign.

To get the word out for such events, stay low tech and local - flyers, business cards on bulletin boards, as well as the online stuff.

Join groups on my.barackobama.com to help find others interested in helping and participating in more ambitious events.

You don't have to do it ALL. Pick and choose or brainstorm for your own ideas.

Would you please pass the paradigm shift please? This country needs some.

Julie Hensley — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 09:18:04 EDT

Sorry. Paradigm shift is dramatic and likely painful. I probably shouldn't imply that it's like passing the pepper (does anyone use salt anymore?) at dinner.

I was contemplating US history and I wonder that there has been a true shift since probably the Industrial Revolution - essentially not during the conscious lifetime of anyone alive today. Certainly the most elderly would have been alive during the Industrial Revolution but their consciousness wouldn't have pre-dated it so they aren't really aware of the shift itself.

We've had an opportunity for other paradigm shifts like before or during or after the Civil Rights movement but as a society we didn't take advantage of it. It simply became a 'rule' that was followed not embraced. But perhaps I am being a bit unfair, even this paradigm shift will not be embraced by all. Too many still are in denial about many of the problems facing this world and specifically our country whether we are talking about energy consumption, the environment, our place in the world.

It's time to dig in - Pennsylvania is a great opportunity for us to help others in making the inevitable clear to Hillary. So make phone calls, blog or write letters to the editor - do something to make a difference in PA in these last two weeks. And with it, we can give Howard Dean, Nancy Pelosi, Al Gore, John Edwards and perhaps even Bill Clinton (despite how loopy he's been I think he's more realistic about this than HRC) the tools to show Hillary that it's time to step back and preserve her future.

But to do that - we have to help Obama convincingly win Pennsylvania.

Cold Civil War - ending 2008

Julie Hensley — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 08:58:49 EDT

As historians look back it seems possible to me that they will view this last decade as a Civil War of sorts. As social change merged into a strident polarization of political parties and philosophical/religious views and clashed at the ballot box. The tactics of the Winning side will be seen as a clear indication of all out War against those that opposed them regardless of the fact that the opposition was brothers and fellow citizen-voters of the USA, much as the nature of any Civil War. The weapons were of a thermo-nuclear variety like "Swiftboat" or simple psychological - by undermining the 'enemy's' morale with suggestions of a lack of patriotism and general twisting of the truth.

It's time to end the war. Because you see, the other side can never 'win' the war. Their philosophy is so paranoid that they will always fight the war to the utter destruction of that which they say they are fighting for.

Time to end it.

Two weeks to a major battle. Two weeks to an opportunity to clean up one messy element and then face the true obstacle to a better country and world.

Now is the time to dig in. Now there is still time to write letters to the editor (incredibly valuable) to newspapers in Pennsylvania suggesting that people recognize that something better is indeed possible and as Obama has pointed out nothing can stand against 1,000,000 voices. Don't know about you, but I don't intend to go mute after this election. Not only will Obama be held accountable but so will my Congresspersons - how about yours?

But for now - Pennsylvania deserves our attention. Letters to the editor, blogs in their websites, phone calls, NOW is the time, not April 20.

I have bronchitis and a very hoarse voice... I'm still calling. It seems to work to my advantage - people REALLY pause to see how dedicated I am to call in 'this shape'.

It's War. It is possibly the most peaceful, empowering war anyone has ever been part of in the history of the world to date, but it is war. We cannot settle for 2nd place this time.

Veterans' of an Old War for a New Age...

Julie Hensley — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 08:46:34 EDT

The Earth, perhaps even the Universe, is demanding a paradigm shift. It's not simply that we are killing our planet although that may be the most tangible manifestation. There's is also the question of how Western capitalism flies in the face of the most fundamental tenets of Christianity (and every major spiritual truth) in consuming the resources of the planet.

Perhaps I've just been reading too much about non-violence lately, and watching too much about MLK, but I've learned so much. Non-violence is not martyrdom or passive. It's not submissive. It's a realization of fundamental truths involved in the creation of a method that is more powerful than the sword. Look at the results - all major, consistent non-violent movements have been successful.

No, I realize that Barack Obama is NOT the agent of Non-Violence but he is the agent of a major paradigm shift in how we view other people and that is the first step. Non-violence requires the realization that to harm another diminishes each of us in so many ways. That is something many Veterans' of Vietnam brought home with them and could not escape.

I never thought of myself as racist but I was inside. I 'felt' different when I saw or greeted someone who was black and I think the black people around me knew it. Maybe I strived to overcompensate but now, reading all the stuff I'm reading - DuBois, MLK, etc. I realize that something so much better is possible.

I am a 'mutt' my cultural identity has been lost to the point that I only know my grand-parents were a smattering of German, French, Scotch-Irish - and little more. My identity is thus - an American - a gas guzzling, TV watching, sports-addicted mob with little interest except in justifying their way of life. Sorry if I sound so negative but I've noted the similarities between the end of Rome and the US in my lifetime for many years now.

"breath of fresh air", "change", "hope", "restore the USA's place in the world" - I think all these reflect, in a very general way, what I am talking about here. A sense of what an American is, a sense of those early 1900 sensibilities but with desperately needed exultation of all Americans whatever their skin color, eye shape, height, gender, fashion choices, sexual preference, religion.

I think of paintings that I've seen of the late Victorian era with people at 4th of July celebrations and picnics. Almost Idyllic - during Obama's tenure, I'd like to see those pictures repainted with the radical sense of the USA truly being a melting pot. What does melting pot mean? How can you be any closer to someone than to 'melt' with them?

Fundamental to the sense of our society today is the need to be safe. Keep my job safe. Keep my children safe. Keep the country safe. Of course, the error is that safety is an illusion. Rationally we all know that it can be ended by an accident, an illness. Yet, we demand a level of insulation that our elected officials have strived to provide - to the expense of the destruction of virtually every resource we possessed.

As Franklin said "Those who would exchange liberty for security deserve neither."

Today, ponder the new paradigm and your place in it. Ponder all the shifts it would cause if some of these simplest - embracing those that are 'different', appreciating the earth, were to take place.