Isn't it amazing Post #1

Giving Thanks in Troubled Times

pservelle — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 22:56:35 EST

Giving Thanks in Troubled TimesPosted 11/24/2008 7:00 PM PST on MyDesert.com

Our super-charged holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas, are upon us once again. More than at any other time of the year, we sense our souls awakening. Our hearts turn in equal part to dreams and memories; to miracles and despair.

In America, we have developed a habit of measuring our seasonal goodwill by the thickness of our wallets. This season will test equally our generosity, our spirit and our audacity.

Will we summon the wisdom to lift ourselves up and accept the challenges that push at every door? Will we choose to recognize ourselves in our neighbors? Will we take pride in our accomplishments and work harder to improve our short-comings? Will we acknowledge that sharing success is equally important to individual achievement?

It is no illusion that this holiday season will have gravely dark clouds hanging over it. But let all of us also see that a new dawn is just over the horizon. As our souls awaken now, let us reflect on the kind of America we seek and pledge to work to make it happen. May your blessings be large and may peace be with you.

Obama Imperative

pservelle — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:37:33 EST

YES WE DID and now the Obama ImperativePosted 11/5/2008 8:39 AM PST on MyDesert.com

It is a glorious new day. A day to celebrate and give thanks. Once again we can stand tall and be proud. Bask in the promise and the opportunities. And, then, we must remember to roll up your sleeves, for much remains to be done and hard work lies ahead. This is the Obama Imperative.

More than 60 million voters, Democrats, Independents and Republicans have created a mandate for fundamental change in how America is governed. This is a mandate that demands an end to grid lock and mindless partisanship and a beginning of cooperative politics that puts country before party and solutions before slogans.

The Obama Imperative is to govern as if average Americans matter. Nowhere is the urgency greater than with us and our neighbors all across the country. Millions of average Americans are "upside-down" in their homes and buried in credit card debt. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the government is on the hook for more than TWO TRILLION DOLLARS to bail out banks, financial institutions and Wall Street. A relief package for average Americans deserves as much.

The Obama Imperative is to NOT ACCEPT the argument that the explosion of the deficit and the national debt (caused by the Wall Street bail-out) means we cannot afford to help our neighbors. We cannot afford not to. No issue confronting President-elect Obama is more important than helping neighbors get back on their feet.

Yesterday Americans took responsibility for electing their President; tomorrow Americans must take responsibility for helping him govern.

WHY OBAMA

pservelle — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:11:09 EST

WHY OBAMAPosted 11/3/2008 6:43 AM PST on MyDesert.com

I became a supporter of Barack for President in February 2007 and have worked to help that happen. Whether it was 21 months ago when it was "Obama who?" or just yesterday, people ask me the same thing. "Why do I support him?" My answer has always been, "Because he is just like me."

It matters not that I am white and he is black. Or I am old and he is young. Or he is physically fit and I have Parkinsons. What does matter is we share the same essential American values of equal justice and opportunity for each and everyone of us.These values are what make America unique. Throughout our history as a nation, they have been fought for and now constitute the basic inheritance of every American.

What ever the differences among us, be it our economic circumstance, our faith, our ethnicity or the details that differ between myself and Obama, equal justice and opportunity our the right of every American.

I believe that these values are at the core of Barack Obama. He believes, as I do, that we are our brother's keeper. That equal justice denied to one is justice denied to all. He believes, as do I, that it is up to all of us to be peace keepers. He believes, as I do, that all children are the supreme gift of the Almighty. And that all children have, as their birth-right, the opportunity to pursue their own impossible dreams.

I support Obama for President because he has demonstrated, by his choice to follow his own path, a steadfast commitment to working to protect and promote these essentially American values. His choice of vocation and commitment to family, to me, speaks volumns as to the kind of values he holds dear.

I believe in turning points that determine history. Over the great waves of history, people and leaders have found in each other the power to alter course. This is one of those times. As one people, we know that now is such a time. As a leader, Barack Obama has made us aware that this our time. With hope, prayers, hard work and our enduring commitment to equal justice and opportunity for all, we will again see greatness in the making.

Barack, an Independent with backing of Democrats

pservelle — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 17:44:31 EDT

Although listed as a Democrat on the ballot, Obama will be, more accurately, elected as an independent with Democratic backing. And, for the country as a whole, this is, indeed, a very good thing.

As an independent with backing from Democrats, Obama will not be stuck with rubber-stamping the "wish-list" of any particular special interest group, whatever their political party affiliation. Instead, Barack will be able to bring together new coalitions with new approaches to address those matters that most urgently need new answers.

This independence will be re-inforced by the size of Obama's mandate. By capturing the vast majority of Democrats, the bulk of the independents, and even moderate Republicans, Barack is likely to receive more than 50% of the popular vote, something that Bill Clinton was unable to do in either of his winning elections.

With the historic low favorability ratings of the current congress, members of the new congress will likely give a "honey-moon" to the popular new President.

Expect Obama to have many "cross-over" faces to also reinforce that this is a "non-partisan", put the country before politics type of administration.

Look for the point person on the most crucial of all issues, dealing with the economy, to be Paul Volker, 81, former FED chairman under Reagan. Not exactly, a young, radical type. Just another, well-informed, deliberate and strong at the helm kind of guy. Seems that Barack favors this type of dedicated public servant; no matter their age or party affiliation. I think that, once again, that's a good thing.

Economic crisis worsens as focus remains on trying to push a string

pservelle — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 21:11:24 EDT

Economic crisis worsens as focus remains on trying to push a stringPosted 10/10/2008 5:09 PM PDT on MyDesert.com

I'll will repeat what I said three weeks ago. Providing immediate liquidity to families across America will do more good, more quickly and more fairly than anything now being considered.

It is more and more understood that the world economies, including our own, teater at the edge of financial meltdown and global depression. And yet, official attention from world leaders remains fixated on trying to push a string. They keep trying to do more of the same that has already proven to be ineffective. Attention is locked, lazer-like on financial markets; yet those markets are not responding to the various incentives being proferred. Why?

Because there are two potentially devastating problems and the proposed remedies are directed to only one of them. The potential global depression has been, and continues to be under recogized. It is now ready to overwhelm any financial meltdown prevention move attempted. Lenders will continue to be unresponsive to moves to give them more ability to lend without action that also makes potential borrowers more credit worthy. Therein lies the trouble with trying to push a string. As the real economy worsens, the average borrower is likely to become more risky.

Households need to be RELIEVED of their debt obligations in order to make the purchases that will fuel economic activity. The most immediate, effective and needed relief would be to stop foreclosures prosecutions, place a moratorium on mortgage payments and begin re-negotiating interest rate reductions.

Failure to provide immediate debt relief to households will not only make financial remedies impotent but wil almost certainly lead to a global depression. And, as was witnessed this week, the clock is ticking.

No to Bail-out

pservelle — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 12:32:27 EDT

Real Leadership: A No Vote on the Bail-out PlanPosted 9/29/2008 7:48 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

Politics has indeed gotten in the way of real leadership. Both parties are choosing to avoid our real problems by hiding behind empty claims that no bail-out will cause economic calamity. Nothing could be further from the truth. A bail-out is about the only action that will guarantee the calamity that is warned about.

The bail-out will be a trillion dollar demonstration of just how unrepresentative the major political parties have become. Both Republicans and Democrats are hostage to big money interests and, folks, that does not include us. Clever deception about how a bail-out will rescue Main Street is the just the latest chapter in an on-going attack on true participatory democracy.

The passage of the bail-out will insure that there will be insufficient resources left to combat the free fall in the real economy where you and I live.

The real economy and the Wall Street economy could not be more different. The Wall Street economy deals in paper assets NOT tied to anything in the real economy. The paper assets of Wall Street are NOT tied to mortgages that are backed by houses. That link was severed. This created two assets out of one; one was still connected to mortgages backed by houses and the other asset was not. It is this second paper "asset" that was bundles, sold and inflated in "value". This non-backed asset was sold to foreigners and home grown speculators. This non-backed asset is the one that Americans will be saddled with by the bail-out.

In the real economy, four million real homes that once housed real people are foreclosed or in foreclosure. The bail-out plan provides an "opportunity" to adjust the terms of some mortgages but no help for those already out of their former homes.

In the real economy, unemployment is high and growing in every new report. This growth is due to falling sales that will not be addressed at all by the bail-out. Retail sales drive our consumer driven economy. There will be no seasonal sales rescue this year because the economy is in a growing recession.

A bail-out of any kind is actually pouring water INTO a sinking ship; this is not a useful strategy.

Ask your local congress person and your local congress wanna be person if they favor this torpedo?

This Wall Street bail-out has become bipartisan but that's the problem.

Wall Street bail-out is wrong answer to wrong crisis

pservelle — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:13:32 EDT

Dear Senator Obama,

Please do not be stampeeded and don't be bamboozeled either. The financial sky over Wall Street is not falling and let those who caused this mess stew in their own mess.

You did not allow scare tactics, false information and rush to act pressures to fool you into supporting the move into Iraq.

Lead the way again in bringing real solutions to the real financial crisis; the one that is, and has been, festering on Main Streets across the entire country.

Take the hundreds of billions of tax payer dollars and put them to work in towns and cities that desperately need the help.

Average American families have a liquidity problem; they need cash and they need it now.

Urge your congressional colleagues to take a deep breath, and point out the dangers of once again being railroaded to act too hastily.

Get them focused on coming up with common sense solutions for the common good.

The crisis began in housing and the solutions will be found there as well.

If a bail-out is appropriate, let it be a bail-out of my street, your street and our neighbors street, too.

McCain is no regulator

pservelle — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:25:42 EDT

McCain: a de-regulator in a regulator's clothing; the ultimate flip-flopPosted 9/17/2008 9:04 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

We've all seen variations in this dance before. Find out what voters are thinking and then cast yourself in that image.

Voters support the right to choose, never mind your voting record of 100% in favor of right to life, you too can say you support a woman's right to choose.

Voters support pulling troops out of Iraq, and you are on record, over and over again, of deploying more troops into Irag, no matter, just say you too are in favor of pulling troops out sometime in the future.

Now that Wall Street, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, AIG, Banks, the stock market and the whole financial industry is in full collapse because of de-regulation efforts spear headed by your old and still crony, just say, the fundamentals of the economy are strong and say how you have always been for selective regulation of cheats and worse on Wall Street.

Then cross your fingers and hope that the media continues to ignore your record and instead continue your free ride because of your POW days.

Then, to close the deal, lie like hell.

Keating-Five McCain

pservelle — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 12:57:42 EDT

Fundamentals of football isn't about the Coach, players or opponentsPosted 9/16/2008 9:20 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

Someone needs to remind "Keating-Five" McCain not to mix his meds with his evening cocktails; it causes him to say things that are just plain stupid.

Among business people, economists and others who talk about economic fundamentals, no one, I repeat, no one would be talking about the hard-working nature of the American labor force because that is a given.

What they would be examining is things like the balance of trade, the rate of inflation, the level of unemployment, the national debt, etc.

So on the day that all of these economic fundamentals are falling off a cliff for someone to say they are "sound" is outrageous and foolish and wrong.

About the only thing that I would believe from "Keating-Five" McCain is when he says he knows absolutely nothing about the economy. He doesn't know how many homes he owns for that matter. Who do you think does his tax return? His wife Cindy?

He is now going to throw that de-regulator buddy of his Phil Gramm under-the-train and claim that we need to "regulate" what friend Phil "de-regulated". If you can believe this you can probably believe that Palin would make a great quarterback in the NFL because she has been known to throw a football around with her kids.

Republicans in the Twin Cities are a sad and sorry lot

pservelle — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 22:18:44 EDT

Republicans in the Twin Cities are a sad and sorry lotPosted 9/2/2008 6:57 PM PDT on MyDesert.com

With the Fat Cats of the Grand Old Party staying away and sitting on their check books, the group that is left to carry on the convention does not look like the rest of the country. Those in attendance do not look hopeful, do not look optimistic, do not look enthusiastic and do not look like winners.

They do look like the party's over. They look tired. They look defeated. They look befuddled. Dare I say, they look old. They are deflated.

Before the Democrats start dancing in the streets of New Orleans, they may want to do their own reality check. Last I looked, Obama was not bringing out the old Clinton gang and playbook.

Obama, McCain, Palen are hardly the products of party politics. Alaska has more independents than either the Democrats or Republicans. The role of independents is the sleeping giant of this election cycle. It will not go away. More and more, independents will drastically change the face of electoral politics in America. You want to be part of it? Go independent.

What have political parties done for you lately?

pservelle — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:53:55 EDT

Posted 8/26/2008 1:05 PM PDT on MyDesert.com

What have political parties done for you lately?

Did you know that the little box you checked on your federal income tax return is providing 4,000 of your unknown Democratic friends a $17,000,000 party in Denver this week. Don't worry, another 4,000 unkown Republicans will get their own $17,000,000 from the same taxpayer wallet.

With that kind of money, you would think they must have done something special for us taxpayers. But they haven't.

You see, everything the parties do these days is for their own pockets.

They do want to choose the next President for you. They want to promote platforms that promote their interests.

They want to restrict having more than two choices for most offices on your election ballot.

Have you been feeling that the two major parties are not looking out for you. You are not alone. Registered voters are fleeing the two parties in ever increasing numbers.

You want to know the real change voters want to see? They want to get rid of the strangle-hold that parties have on who we can pick to be President.

The Parties have succeeded in bringing grid-lock so nothing gets done in Washington.

The parties offer no differences on economic problems because they both feed at the same trough.

The parties should really enjoy their parties this year; these binges are about to become things of the past. And, justly so, in my opinion.

post script

POST PARTY POLITICS – The 2008 Presidential Election

The winner will be determined, not by party politics, but by independent voters who will measure the candidates against a new measuring stick. No longer will party platforms and promises be decisive. It will be the collective judgment of all Americans, not just Democrats or Republicans, as to character, perspective, judgment and values of the candidates that will produce our choice to be the next President. In a participatory democracy, it should not be otherwise.

Parties out of the loop this time

pservelle — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 20:04:19 EDT

After years of locking out non-Party folks from meaningful participation in choosing our Presidents, the shoe is definitely on the other foot this year.

Stalwarts from both parties had the wrong horse in the primaries and now are facing the reality that they are not the key players this time around

The election this time is between a non-Republican, Republican nominee and a non-Democrat, Democratic nominee.

Old guard Party types are left with empty threats of voting for the other Party's nominee or staying home. Traditionally, this type of grumbling came from Independents. And, except for an occasional spoiler role, the rantings of Independents never effected the outcome.

So, to, will the attempts by Party regulars to influence the outcome. They can keep someone from winning but they can not call the shots on selecting the winner.

Forget the polls showing a close race. The non-sense by the old time Party regulars on both sides will cancel each other out. The non-Democrat, Democrats are too disciplined and too organized to come up short. The non-Republican, Republicans are nothing but talk.

Outcome: land-slide in favor of the non-Democrat, Democrat, Barack Obama.

VP long shot

pservelle — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:53:23 EDT

Surprise VP pick for ObamaPosted 8/21/2008 8:41 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

You can stop reading right now unless the minutia of politics is your addiction of choice. Because only political-holics would find this the least bit interesting.

I still feel like their is still going to be a surprize cat jumping out of the bag on the VP choice.

Money on Joe B. of course. But the long shot winner will be...drum roll please...Jack Reed.

Take that and a $5 bill to Starbucks and you get a latte of your choice.

If Hillary gets the nod...call me an ambulance!

Latitude with Platitudes

pservelle — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 21:29:44 EDT

Latitude with Platitudes

Now that Joe Biden is starting to be “unwrapped” as Obama’s VP still un-announced, but anointed running mate, select media types will dredge up speech pilfering charges against him.To get out in front of this story, I observe the following.

No politician with national name recognition (or wants such recognition) writes everything they say. (I know Agnes, I was shocked to here that, too.)So, let’s not try to establish the parentage of an idea. It is hard enough trying to discern if they believe what they are reading.Here are some words that someone would like to see Obama speak. I agree with the sentiment expressed by these words. If Barack wants to speak them, fine; if not, that’s is also okay, because I have already repeated them myself.

The best expressed words, no matter by whom, will always be repeated; so forget about who said what first.

"Over the past year, Barack Obama has called emphatically for "change" in the United States, and on a range of issues he has offered (especially on his website) detailed analyses of the specific policies he would pursue as president. But many Americans still need to hear what would be the most enduring values of Obama's America. As one who confidently believes Barack Obama is the best choice for our nation, here is part of what I would like to hear him say in his acceptance speech:

It is time for change in America. But what do I mean by change? I mean a change back to "the better angels of our nature." I mean a change back to an America in which citizens once again ask "what they can do for their country." I mean a change back to an America that once again stands for the highest ideals of human civilization. I mean a change back to an America that inspires our own citizens and our friends throughout the world with our national purpose, our national values, and our national conduct. It is time for change in America. It is time to reaffirm once again that in our nation the government "shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech," "the right of the people to be secure . . . against unreasonable searches and seizures shall not be violated," no person shall "be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law," "no person shall be denied the equal protection of the laws," and the government does not inflict "cruel and unusual punishments" upon any person.

These are the fundamental truths, the elemental commitments, of our American constitutional system. They define the essential core of our society and our history. It is to attain these liberties that huddled masses yearn to be free; it was to guarantee these freedoms that the Framers of the Declaration of Independence pledged to each other their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor; it was to protect these rights that Americans have fought and died to free the slave, make the world safe for democracy, and unyoke the world from the tyrannies of fascism, communism, and radical Islam.Sadly, in the last eight years we have lost sight of these freedoms, as we have fallen into an abyss of unrestrained government surveillance, brutal methods of interrogation, secret detentions, and secret prisons.

We have lost our way as the world's beacon of justice. We must change in order to relight that beacon for ourselves, for the international community, and for our posterity. We must also change in order to reaffirm that we are one nation. We are not red states and blue states, we are not blacks and whites, we are not Christians and Muslims, we are not the rich and the poor, we are not the straights and the gays -- we are Americans all. Each of us is precious, each of us is a valued member of our American family.

And we are a family, a family that cares for -- that must care for -- one another. Our most fundamental responsibility is to treat others as we would have them treat us. Because we are a great nation and a great people, we must be a family in which we cherish every American's worth and nurture every American's potential. That is not a Democratic idea. That is not a Republican idea. That is the American idea. It is the idea that informed the leadership of Abraham Lincoln, Woodrow Wilson, Theodore Roosevelt, John Kennedy, and Franklin Roosevelt. It demands that our government not only protect the interests of the rich and powerful, but also care for the meek, the oppressed, and the disadvantaged.

That is what a family is, and that is what America is, and must be once again.This principle of a national American community, with justice for all, will drive my economic policies, my health care policies, my environmental policies, my foreign policies, my tax policies and my judicial appointments.

We must change in order to recapture the best of our nation, the best of our history -- a history that freed the slaves, granted women the right to vote, ended racial segregation, guaranteed religious liberty, and enacted laws to protect the rights of children, the elderly, and the disabled. Ours is a nation built on a spirit of empathy - on a capacity to see into the hearts of our fellow citizens and to understand what drives them, what sustains them, what makes them different, and ultimately what makes them human. We need to change in order once again to be the America that aspires for what is best for all Americans, that reaches out a hand to those in need, that respects our most fundamental freedoms. As the descendents of those bold and optimistic men who mutually pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor to one another more than two centuries ago, we can do no less today.

You see, Bill, it is not about you

pservelle — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 10:12:19 EDT

Bill, this is not about you; or even about you know whoPosted 8/17/2008 7:00 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

See the thing is, Mr. Clinton ... it is not about you. This is what you cannot seem to grasp. This is about a country in turmoil ... a country in real danger of losing its way. This is about us plain old Americans ... we the little people, (who do not think you are a racist). We are working here. We are trying to elect a leader who can chart a new course, a way out of this national hell. We are coming together we pesky little people, Yellow dogs, Blue Dogs and Indies are linking arms with Obamacans. Folks of every color, creed, and religious persuasion are standing together in this election because we know the jig is up, because we know that our very survival may depend upon it. We are prepared to compromise and most of us are willing to sacrifice time, money, and even our beloved identity politics.

And where are you in all of this? Bill Clinton the once great leader of the free world is whining about being misunderstood. You are sitting on the pity pot and pitching a big ol' pout. You are standing up for yourself and yourself alone when so many are down. Do you really want to be the guy who put his ego before the good of the people he once cared deeply about? The guy who blocked the light because it did not shine brightly enough in his direction?

Mr. President, you are missing the point. You are not the problem, nor are you the solution. Your hurt feelings are not a matter of national concern. There are folks out there who cannot afford to take their kid to a doctor. There are folks out there who are being forced to choose between gas and food. There are folks out there who are heartsick about our government's actions both at home and abroad. People are suffering, people are outraged, and this person is sick of you behaving like a petulant child.

Excerpted from post by Beth Broderick at Huffington Post today.

Spoiled, childish and, as always, self-centered

pservelle — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 23:50:21 EDT

Spoiled, childish and, as always, self-centered; you've got to give it to the Clintons and their loyal supporters.

“By putting her name in nomination, you're putting people on the spot,” said former delegate counter Matt Seyfang, adding a second potential drawback: “Having a roll call ... just chews into your broadcast time.”

But hey, anything to keep the Hillbillies happy. Never mind that this distracting circus in the side ring is taking it's toll and is allowing McCain to find his footing and pulling closer to Obama. Just have to keep the lil' women of the party happy.

One hopes that after the partying ends and the hang-overs last past November that they won't have to face their regrets. Will they then wake up and realize they never could hold their liqour.

Local Presentation

pservelle — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 09:59:56 EDT

Right u[ to election night I will continue to travel through-out the 45th CD (Riverside to Salton Sea and all in between) on behalf of Barack.

I have begun contacting schools, service clubs and other organizations that meet on a regular basis to advise them of my multi-media speaking engagement tour.

Titled, Participatory Democracy and the 2008 Presidential Election.

THE PRESENTATION(Timed for about 40 min.); A/V equipment: screen and projector for laptop; presentation is free.

Although I am a volunteer for Barack Obama, and will gladly answer questions about him, his campaign and his position on issues, the focus of the presentation is on the importance of being part of this historic election and the equally important need to engage in “participatory democracy”.

If you know of a Group that might be interested in a guest speaker, contact me at: psgkservelle@earthink.net for additional information including an out-line for my presentation.

Those in "harms way" support, financially, Obama

pservelle — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 08:55:46 EDT

Those in "harms way" support, financially, ObamaPosted 8/16/2008 5:38 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

According to an analysis of campaign contributions by the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics, Democrat Barack Obama has received nearly six times as much money from troops deployed overseas at the time of their contributions than has Republican John McCain, and the fiercely anti-war Ron Paul, though he suspended his campaign for the Republican nomination months ago, has received more than four times McCain's haul.

Despite McCain's status as a decorated veteran and a historically Republican bent among the military, members of the armed services overall -- whether stationed overseas or at home -- are also favoring Obama with their campaign contributions in 2008, by a $55,000 margin. Although 59 percent of federal contributions by military personnel has gone to Republicans this cycle, of money from the military to the presumed presidential nominees, 57 percent has gone to Obama.

Supporters of Obama now include: active military, mainstream Christians, independents. Add to these all the regular Demo groups and you have nearly all of the American heart-land. Geez, if I had, in February 2007, only put my money where my mouth is!

Old face, new member

pservelle — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:55:28 EDT

For many of you, I am a familar name from other Obama Groups. I am among the most active bloggers nation-wide among Obama Groups. There is a limit of 10 Groups you can be a member of at one time.

Today I revised my Group of ten. I have posted 225 blogs since February 2007. I hope you find them to be timely and engaging.

If not already a friend, please request me to be your; I have 300 mostly in the 45th Congressional District; from Riverside - to the west; to Salton Sea - on the east; and all in between; add Temecula, Murrieta, Hemet etc)

We now want Barack to have a mandate to govern; we want not just to win; we want to win big?

Show me the money...peddling influuence in politics

pservelle — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:00:40 EDT

Show me the money...peddling influuence in politicsPosted 8/15/2008 6:35 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

Is there anything that is agreed to more than "in politics, money talks; and lots of money, shouts"? I stand with the majority on this one. But even here, I am beginning to see the dawning of a new day.

Let me begin with a rhetorical question (are there any other kind).

Does it make any difference in the final analysis, if 2,000,000 give $100 (equals $200,000,000) or if 100 give $2,000,000 (equals $200,000,000)?

I say that influence is being purchased in either case; but I would much rather take my chances with the 2,000,000 folks who forked over $100 each.

That is a major reason why I support Barack Obama.

Yesterday, the Obama campaign announced that it had reached this mind-boggling mile-stone. 2,000,000 registered Americans have given on average $100 to be major share holders in America's future. I like, no, I really like the sound of that!

Clintons forthcoming? Are you kidding me?

pservelle — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:25:09 EDT

If that forthcoming couple of Democratic politics say soPosted 8/12/2008 6:53 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

News of marital infidelity and spousal cover-up is the bedrock of successful Presidential campaigns for Democratic tickets is the latest bromide offered up by the Clinton folks.

This revelation is apparently based on their first hand experience. Also based, I guess, on that first hand experience, is their absolute confidence that their base supporters will believe anything that Bubba and the Misses tell them.

Like how their efforts to undermine the Obama campaign is good for America. Or, that being behind means you are now free to change the rules. Or how electing their good friend McCain is better for our future than electing someone without true roots in this country. Or if we had known sooner the truth about that other couple of Presidential wannabees the Edwards, they (the Hillbillies) would be the nominee of the Party. Or, ______ you fill in the blank.

Question is, how long will your age and your sex blind and excuse you from acknowledging the truth about this couple?

WITH FRIENDS LIKE THESE

pservelle — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 16:48:52 EDT

Clinton told to portray Obama as foreign By MIKE ALLEN | 8/10/08 12:47 AM EST Text Size: Mark Penn, the top campaign strategist for Hillary Rodham Clinton's campaign, advised her to portray Barack Obama as having a “limited” connection “to basic American values and culture,” according to a forthcoming article in The Atlantic.

The magazine reports Penn suggested getting much rougher with Obama in a memo on March 30, after her crucial wins in Texas and Ohio: “Does anyone believe that it is possible to win the nomination without, over these next two months, raising all these issues on him? ... Won’t a single tape of [the Reverend Jeremiah] Wright going off on America with Obama sitting there be a game ender?”

Atlantic Senior Editor Joshua Green writes that major decisions during her campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination would be put off for weeks until suddenly Clinton “would erupt, driving her staff to panic and misfire.”

Green reports that on a staff conference call in January where Clinton received “little response” or “silence” to several of her suggestions for how to recover from the Iowa loss and do better in New Hampshire, “Clinton began to grow angry, according to a participant’s notes,” Green recounts. “‘This has been a very instructive call, talking to myself,’ she snapped, and hung up.”

The eight-page blockbuster, “The Front-Runner’s Fall,” draws on internal memos, e-mails and meeting notes to reveal what the magazine’s September issue calls “the backstabbing and conflicting strategies that produced an epic meltdown.”

Penn, the presidential campaign’s chief strategist, wrote in a memo to Clinton excerpted in the article: “I cannot imagine America electing a president during a time of war who is not at his center fundamentally American in his thinking and in his values.”

A key take-away from the article is that Clinton received a lot of accurate advice, including from Penn. He wrote a remarkably prescient memo in March 2007 about the importance of appealing to what he called “the Invisible Americans,” specifically “WOMEN, LOWER AND MIDDLE CLASS VOTERS” — exactly the groups that helped Clinton beat Obama in key states nearly a year later.

But no one synthesized and acted on the good advice.

“The anger and toxic obsessions overwhelmed even the most reserved Beltway wise men,” Green writes. “[H]er advisers couldn’t execute strategy; they routinely attacked and undermined each other, and Clinton never forced a resolution. ... [S]he never behaved like a chief executive, and her own staff proved to be her Achilles’ heel.

“What is clear from the internal documents is that Clinton’s loss derived not from any specific decision she made but rather from the preponderance of the many she did not make.”

Geoffrey Garin, a well-known Democratic pollster who helped direct the campaign’s strategy team for Clinton’s presidential campaign during its final two months, wrote in a memo to at least 10 top campaign aides that he wanted to stop “end runs” around communications director Howard Wolfson.

“I don’t mean to be an ***hole, but ... changes to important statements and other critical campaign communications simply have to go through Howard,” Garin wrote on April 12. “Howard is the person who is ultimately responsibility for making sure that we deliver our messages the right way, and I hope everyone will support and respect him in that role.”

Robert Barnett, the superlawyer and longtime Clinton adviser, e-mailed about 20 Clinton aides on March 6, with the subject line “STOP IT !!!!”: “This circular firing squad that is occurring is unattractive, unprofessional, unconscionable and unacceptable. ... After this campaign is over, there will be plenty of time to access blame or claim credit.”

Another part of that e-mail was quoted in The New York Times in a June article by Peter Baker and Jim Rutenberg. Clinton told to portray Obama as foreign By MIKE ALLEN | 8/10/08 12:47 AM EST Text Size: Page 2The Penn memo suggesting that the campaign target Obama’s “lack of American roots” said in part: “All of these articles about his boyhood in Indonesia and his life in Hawaii are geared towards showing his background is diverse, multicultural and putting that in a new light.

“Save it for 2050. ... Every speech should contain the line you were born in the middle of America American to the middle class in the middle of the last century. And talk about the basic bargain as about the deeply American values you grew up with, learned as a child and that drive you today. Values of fairness, compassion, responsibility, giving back

“Let’s explicitly own ‘American’ in our programs, the speeches and the values. He doesn’t. Make this a new American Century, the American Strategic Energy Fund. Let’s use our logo to make some flags we can give out. Let’s add flag symbols to the backgrounds.”

That last paragraph was paraphrased in the New York Times article.

Other highlights:

• Of all the materials The Atlantic received, the first mention of delegate counts came in a memo that senior adviser Harold Ickes sent out just 12 days before the Iowa primary, after the campaign had nearly run out of money campaigning in Iowa, where Clinton would finish third. He predicted, correctly, as it turned out:

“Assuming after Iowa and New Hampshire the presidential nominating contest narrows to two competitive candidates who remain locked in a highly contested election through 5 February, the focus of the campaign will shift to the delegate count.” But the campaign, Green notes, had already ceased polling in states they didn’t expect to win, so it had a limited ability to narrow the margins in states that favored Obama.

• Green reports that on Feb. 11, the day that Clinton finally replaced campaign manager Patti Solis Doyle with Maggie Williams, Wolfson aide Phil Singer cursed out first Wolfson, then Policy Director and Solis Doyle ally Neera Tanden, yelling: “[Expletive] you and the whole [expletive] cabal” before climbing on a chair, berating the entire staff and leaving.

The same day, Washington Post Managing Editor Phillip Bennett wrote Williams to complain Singer had spread rumors about one of his reporters. Williams eventually saw the letter after Wolfson intercepted it, and Singer left for a week. On his return, Green reports that Wolfson explained to a colleague, “When the house is on fire, it’s better to have a psychotic fireman than no fireman at all.”

• Green writes: “The internal discord over whether to attack Obama led some of her own staff to spin reporters to try to downplay the significance of her criticisms. The result for Clinton was the worst of both worlds: The conflicting message exacerbated her reputation for negativity without affording her whatever benefits a sustained attack might have yielded.”

• The famous 3 a.m. ad, written by Penn and approved by Clinton, almost didn’t run: “In the days leading up to Ohio and Texas, the campaign kept arguing over whether to air the [3 a.m.] ad. With the deadline looming, Bill Clinton, speaking from a cell phone as his plane sat on a runway, led a conference call on Thursday, Feb. 28, in which he had both sides present their case. As his plane was about to lift off, it was Bill Clinton — not Hillary — who issued the decisive order: ‘Let’s go with it.’ ”

• “On Feb. 25, a pair of Clinton advisers began sending a series of increasingly urgent memos, which were given to me by a recipient sympathetic to Solis Doyle as a way of illustrating that strategic mistakes continued even after her dismissal [announced Feb. 10]. The first memo, from Philippe Reines and Andrew Shapiro, worried that Clinton’s anticipated wins in Texas and Ohio on March 4 would not meaningfully narrow Obama’s delegate lead — a fact sure to sap momentum once the initial excitement of victory passed.”

• "They proposed that Clinton, from a position of strength immediately after her wins, challenge Obama to accept Michigan and Florida revotes. Such a move ‘preempts Obama’s reiteration on March 5 that they are still up 100-plus delegates and that we can’t win,’ they noted. ‘The press will love the rematch, like Rocky II.”

Bill & Hillary, get off the field

pservelle — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 15:42:37 EDT

So, Senator Hillary Clinton says in a video that her supporters need a “catharsis” at the Democratic convention…. and presto! Bill Clinton finally gets his speaking role.

Anyone think there was a connection between Mrs. Clinton’s mild musings of disruptive action at the convention and the sudden appearance of a speaking slot for Bill?
Maybe not. But a role for Bill is surely part of what Hillary has wanted.

How does this impact the 45th CD?
Local Democrat loyalist are nearly all current Clinton supporters who care more about her than electing Barack. They and similar Party loyalist are seriously undermining Obama's chances in the fall. Why?

Because they think that coming in second is worth something. I remind them that electoral politics is a zero-sum game; that is, some one wins (Obama did) and some loses (Clinton did); so either switch jerseys or get off the field.

We shall over come

pservelle — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 03:28:11 EDT

Bubba" Jefferson Clinton on the Prowl Posted 8/7/2008 11:19 PM PDT on MyDesert.com

"Bubba" Jefferson Clinton is the embodied spirit of the Good, the Bad and the Ugly of the Democratic Party.

Seldom in our history has such huge potential been so totally thwarted by human weakness. A heart and mind that, if used with total commitment to our highest aspirations, could have carved out an earned spot among our most revered political giants was instead laid to waste by the intrusion of the banal aspects of our common denominators.

So to the Party of Lincoln and Roosevelt; the people's Party that was nothing if not the conscious of America. A Party that embodied the treasured principles of a free society has little resemblance to it's former self; but has become ordinary in the values it chooses to pursue and promote.

It was not Americans like me who re-treated; but rather we were abandoned by those who could have led us and challenged us to "not see things as they are, but to see things as they could be". Barack Obama has sought our help, yours and mine, to take up the challenge that has for too long, laid un-raised along the road's edge. Funny thing; as more of us lift up the chllenge, the challenge actually begins to raise us up as well. And, as long predicted, together, as one people united,We shall Over-come one day.

for the record

pservelle — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 23:42:02 EDT

Innuendo, half-truths, tongue-in-cheek, “spin”, misleading, and other ways of mudding the water.Political campaign license allows for many ways of keeping voters off balance and there-by easier to persuade. Let me try to set the record straight(er).

Rumor: I am an Independent candidate for President.

My response: I hadn’t really given it any thought until yesterdays email. If I am drafted, I don’t see how I can refuse.

Rumor: I am being considered as a running mate with Barack.

My response: As a 65 year old white male I could bring that balance to the ticket.

Rumor: My as yet unfinished book draft is receiving considerable “buzz”.

My response: Hoping for a September launch.

Rumor: I am expected to be among the first dozen Independents to be elected to the House of Representatives.

My response: It now appears to be a reasonable supposition.

Rumor: With a ranking on myBarackObama in the top 1/10th of 1 % I will be offered a Cabinet position.

My Response: I have already served in the Assistant Secretary for Education and I was bored to tears. I would decline any Cabinet position.

Rumor: Is it true that I was once registered as a Democrat?

My response: I was young and foolish; it was thirty years ago. Further, I won the Democratic primary and lost to David Dreier in the general.

Diminishing role for Parties

pservelle — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 04:21:33 EDT

Latest voter registration news is awful for Republicans and not much better for
Democrats

As many of you know, I was a post-doc at the Washington, DC-based “think tank” the
Brookings Institution. A senior-fellow there has just released some registration
numbers that do not bode well for the Republicans nor for the Democrats.

Year to year changes are common place; however trends reported here extend over
four years. Republican registration is in free fall and is accelerating. There electoral
chances are dismay.

The Democrats, are not in a celebratory mood however. They are likely to remain
in second place in registration ranking.

Leaping to the front of the pack and growing exponentionally are the independent
registrants. They are on their way to being ½ of all voters in the next election
cycle (2010). Look for a flood gate to burst open with independent candidates emerging
at all levels.

The Parties are in the process of reaping what they have sewn.
They sought and now have a virtual strangle hold on elections at all levels.

If you signed up with one of them, for 1600 signatures or dollars you could enter
their primaries. You would six months in the first half of the to build name I.D.
and after securing the nomination another six months to raise money.

If you don’t join a party, you cannot join the election in the spring. Where Party
candidates have six months to gather 1600
Signatures, Independents are given six WEEKS to collect 16 THOUSAND Signatures.
And Independents are NOT PERMITTED to gathering Signatures in any PUBLIC building;
not in schools or colleges, not in PUBLIC libraries or in City Halls or anywhere
else.

In the November election in the 45th congressional district, 3 out of 10 likely
voters will be Republicans who have a Republican choice.

3 out of 10 likely voters will be Democrats who have a Democrat choice. 4 of 10
likely voters will be “independents” but they will not have an “independent” choice.
Go figure.

Maybe not this time, but the times, they are a changing.

And, you can count on me to be there when they do.

There are no limits to your Dreams

pservelle — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 16:59:51 EDT

The Congress? The White House? What else?

Paul,

How is it going? A friend just sent me a link to this website, and you are all over it, is this really you? www.News3Online.com

cheers,

Madeline

Ashamed and embarrassed

pservelle — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 02:01:31 EDT

Ashamed and embarrassed by my overly acerbic tongue I just returned from seeing the new Kevin Costner movie, “Swing Vote”. For all of us political junkies it was wonderful. It did, however, touch an open nerve. In a closing scene, Costner’s character admits to be embarrassed by his lack of interest and participation in democracy.

My own embarrassment stems from a different character flaw. I have addressed this flaw before (see my Mea Culpa blog of 9/7/07 on MyBarackObama.com). I am ashamed to admit but I have an addiction to using my overly acerbic tongue. Not to put too fine a point on it, my acerbic tongue is, I believe, a product of some deeply held anger. This anger in turn comes from my keen disappointment in our government when it fails to adhere to basic tenets of justice and equal treatment for all.

Whatever the source, I am not proud of my behavior in this regard. Like other addictions, it is always about to break into the open. I am trying to part of an historic event and I have no wish to demean it with unacceptable behavior on my part. I am committed to knocking down this behavior.

Let me begin with extending my public apology to local activists of both major parties. They act out of deep convictions and for me to suggest otherwise is simply unacceptable. The beauty of our participatory democracy is that we may choose to express ourselves in any number of ways. A special apology is offer to the party nominees who truly wish to give back to work for what they believe in.

Going forward, I will attempt to adhere to this tenet: If I can’t find something good to blog about, I will not blog. If you believe that I am doing otherwise, call me on it and remind me of the intentions I am here expressing.

McCain another Sonny Liston

pservelle — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 19:23:24 EDT

Rope-a-dope and sting like a beePosted 8/3/2008 3:59 PM PDT on MyDesert.com All time Heavy weight boxing champ Ali must be very proud. His rope-a-dope style and his sting like a bee jab have been revived and executed expertly by Obama. McCain has .that Sonny Liston like bewildered expression. Like Liston 40 years ago, McCain today looks less like a champion and more like a slow, bumbling over-the-hill ex-champ And like Liston,McCain would do well to toss in the towel, hang'em up and go fishing.

Ms. NoMoBush and Ms NoBooring are silent on major problems

pservelle — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 00:59:27 EDT

Neither of the major party nominees for the CA. 45th congressional district have made any public statements on the plethera of problems confronting the country. Neither has anythink to say about the size of the national debt or the $500 bil deficit; nor anything to say about the subloan mess or the foreclosure numbers, nor about the price of gas or the price of food, or anything about off-shore drilling or the record losses at Ford and GM, or layoffs at Casinos or layoff of government workers, or closing of Mervyns or....why are they hiding and why are they silent, except to blame someone else. Are either familar with the role of leadership in times of crisis; it sure doesn't seem they know or care.

WAKE UP J. B.

pservelle — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 16:21:08 EDT

I visited the official site for Demo J. Bornstein. Clicking on news, I found "recent news". Click on that, I find JUNE 6th. Primary election results. That's it.

From her perspective, since she is the nominee, everything is great.

Wake up and do something else besides pat yourself on the back!

Old Guard undermines "change" message

pservelle — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 11:30:05 EDT

Hillary type old guard Demos undermine "change " messagePosted 8/1/2008 8:02 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

Same old, same old...is the message from the Hillary wing of the Party. And that message will undermine the Barack theme of Change You Can Believe In.

As the Hillary wing shrivels smaller and smaller, they become increasingly shrill. Look no further to see how they put their needs above those of the country. The Hillary wing dominates the Congress and their in-fighting ways have produced a 14 percent favorable rating.

Their counter-parts are all the local Democratic Clubs across America that focus on promoting the special interests of their coalition and "talk chance" but act without it.

Neither the leadership nor the local club members get it. You cannot be in favor of "turning the page" without letting go of the past.

As elections go forward we will witness an acceleration of the registered voters fleeing from the Democratic column to "decline-to-state". I guess you can say that will be one good thing that the old Hillary types accomplished.

A Democrat for Congress in CA 45th CD cannot win

pservelle — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 17:26:09 EDT

It is all very elementary my dear Watson, a Democrat for Congress cannot win.

In a two person contest for the 45th CD, a Democrat cannot win.

If I qualify for the ballot as an Independent, I will win.

The vote total will be:

Servelle (INDEPENDENT)   low to mid 40 percent

Bono (REPUBLICAN)   mid to high 30 percent

Bornstein (DEMOCRAT)   mid to high 20 percent

If I do not qualify for the November ballot, the likely Vote total will be:

Bono (REPUBLICAN)   mid to high 50 percent (she has been winning with low to mid 60 percent)

Bornstein (DEMOCRAT)   mid to high 40 percent.

So the only question is, Are you feeling lucky; well are you, Bub?

45th CD Dream Ticket

pservelle — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 15:45:35 EDT

The latest buzz. Dream ticket for the 45th CD:

Barack Obama for President

Paul Servelle for Congress

Manuel Perez for Assembly

A TEAM for CHANGE that YOU CAN BELIEVE IN

How does one get a seat in Congress

pservelle — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 11:20:27 EDT

Part II of an on-going Series. Reaction to yesterdays post included a comment that I was not being as tuff on M. Bono as I was on J. Bornstein. That's fair; so I have re-titled the series: Mumblings and Bumblings by NoMoBonoBush and NoBooring Either.

Today's post is "How Does One Get a Seat in Congress".

#1. Undoubtedly the easiest way is to marry into it. Spouses of late/former members of congress have a strong and clear advantage. There is the element of entitlement involved. And there is access to money; lots of money.

#2. You can try to buy it. Money works wonders. But tons of money can also back-fire. Access to one's own money and to PAC money can, if you are a major party member, be decisive in the Primary. Ms. J. Bornstein parlayed a $100,000 of her own money with additional money from PACs to gain the Democratic nomination. When the Democratic Party was the "people's party", most registered Democrats did not have an extra $100,000 to put behind their own campaign. But, I guess times change; if not always for the better.

(An aside, while both NoMoBonoBush and NoBooring can use their own money, even if I had it, and I don't, as an Independent I cannot just sit down at the poker table and buy in to get stacks and stacks of chips. Not unless I pay people to sign my nomination papers; but, then again I don't think that is legal.)

#3. And, then, there is the Smith-Barney approach; you can earn it, one signature at a time. Talking signatures, we now have opened doors at 4 Malls across the District. Want to sign up to help collect signatures, contact me at: psgkservelle@earthlink.net.

Does anyone still believe that Congress is not for Sale?

WHAT HOUSING BILL?

pservelle — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 11:21:13 EDT

Untold Billions to bail-out Giants of Financial Industry; so why do they call it a Housing BillPosted 7/30/2008 8:03 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

This guy has it nailed.

"The untold billions to bail out these so-called to-big-to-fail financial companies is ridiculous."

A Housing Bill? Calling it "cotton candy" doesn't make it any more nutritious.

Today the U.S. deficit stands at $500 billion; and that DOES NOT include this bail-out.

If you don't wish to get wet, better get back. I would suggest booking the next moon shuttle.

And, what do Ms. M. Bono-Mack and Ms. J. Boorstein have to say? They don't need to give up working on their vacation tans, they can just email us something. Even if it just tells us who they blame!

Are you governed by your registration or by your beliefs

pservelle — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 21:33:26 EDT

Obama by registration is a Democrat; Obama by principle is an Independent. How about you?

My guess is that those of you who joined an Obama Group way back in 2007, were inspired by his beliefs not by his party membership. I suspect that those who joined a Group since June 2008 might have a few who are more governed by party. I am attempting to reach those who are governed by their beliefs.

The large Obama message is not to support Democrats as some would have you believe. No the large message from Barack is to think for yourself and support what you believe in.

As an Independent candidate for Congress I encourage you to listen to Barack. Keep an open mind and learn all you can. You do not need to commit to me right now.I simply seek your support to give people like yourselves another choice on the November ballot. Consider all three: Rep., Dem., and Independent. That will be the time to decide.

You will not have an Independent choice if I do not get on the ballot. I do not get on the ballot without your signature, your help and your support. Thank you for putting up with me.

It's starting to look like a horse-race

pservelle — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 21:17:35 EDT

Get ready to hang onto your hats; it's beginning to look like horse-race after all

Barriers coming down, as another door opens. Earlier today it was the Westfield Mall in Palm Desert that allowed us inside to collect signatures; we start tomorrow.

Late today we got a "come inside" from the Promenade in Temecula. We will collect signatures there as well.

It is the phrase "non-commercial expressive activity" that is letting us in.

Look for more open doors tomorrow.

If you are near either Mall and can give us an hour or two contact me at: www.servelleforcongress08.com or at: psgkservelle@earthlink.net and we can get you on the coverage schedules.

If you are among those looking to earn one of the 10 round-trip plane trips to Denver to be present at Obama's historic acceptance speech or looking to earn the lodging voucher or looking to get one of the Servelle for Congress "grassroots" t-shirt or just wish to be part of history in the making, all signatures you collect at any Servelle for Congress Table will be credited to you. These opportunities are available on a first come, first on schedule basis.

One more thing. I want to thank all of you who have sent me emails of support and encouragement. Your comments fuel my soul and I am very gratiful for your support.

To Critics and Naysayers

pservelle — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:26:32 EDT

Critics and naysayers, where did both of you go?Posted 7/29/2008 12:56 PM PDT on MyDesert.com

(To the theme of TV's "Rawhide" for all you old guys like me)

"Crumbling, crumbling, crumbling...keep those barries tumbling..."

Like the Berlin Wall, it's go-en to come down...a new day of political freedom is dawning.

No not just for me, Wanda. For all of us. We are beginning to find our voice; and it is no longer going to be edited by the out-of-touch political establishment. As pre-seen by MLK. we are going to be "...free at last, free at last, thank God almighty, we are free at last".

With freedom, of course, comes responsibility. You can't say you support what I'm doing and then sit back and feel all rightous. You gotta "STAND UP" and be part of now; OUR TIME, yours, mine and those next door, IS NOW.

As the wise turtle in Kung Fu Panda reminded the Panda, "yesterday is history, tomorrow is mystery and today a gift we call the present". We got a huge "present" today. A place is now ours for expressing our belief that it is "time to turn the page".

Together, you, me and our neighbors we can deliver "change we can believe in".

Schedule some time at the Mall; bring the kids, and show them that you do more than talk about their future; that you are going to "be part of history in the making".

Resistence to what we are doing is crumbling and falling away

pservelle — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:23:43 EDT

Major "break-thru" on signature gathering front; Westfield Shopping Mall lets us inPosted 7/29/2008 11:04 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

Come and gettem' all you signature collecting go getters. Starting tomorrow and continuing to the deadline fo submitting signatures to the County we will have a Table (provided by the Mall) INSIDE by the entrance to JC Pennys.

Bring or get your own nomination papers and start signing people up. Contact me at: psgkservelle@earthlink.net and/or at: www.servelleforcongress08.com if you want to schedule some time at the Table. Only two collectors are permitted at any one time. Reserve your time with me. It is "first come, first to be scheduled'. You want to go to Denver, this is an excellent opportunity.

The resistance to what we are doing is crumbling and falling away. 15,000 signatures in 10 days? YES WE CAN.

Stay tuned for more mega-locations.

And, truth shall set you free

pservelle — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:36:21 EDT

And, truth shall set you freePosted 7/29/2008 7:03 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

False claims and abusive assertions by members of the old guard practitionaire of partisan politics have been rejected by the Obama campaign.

My faith in the Obama campaign's commitment to "turning the page" on the partisan politics of the past has never, not once, wavered. I actually believe that the "truth shall set you free". And, you already know that I believe in miracles.

It is sad, but at some level understandable, that a few members of the old guard don't wish to relinquish there monopoly on promoting what they believe. But in so doing that violate the basic tenet of true democracy, freedom of opinion. They are entitled to theirs (and to promoting it) but the rest of us are equally entitled to ours and to promoting of ours as well.

Further, it is a shame that Ms. M. Bono-Mack and Ms. J. Boorstein have chosen not to speak out on the need to hear out all sides. Their refusal to defend this basic freedom of expression is indicative of why Americans across the country are changing their voting registration from partisan politics to independent and decline to state. The parties have commited a fatal error of judgment. By placing their narrow self-interests as a party above the common interest of alll Americans they have sealed their demise.

Thanks be to the power you believe in, Barack Obama will be our next President. In the next off year election of 2010, look for there to be a torrent of independents defeating the old guard politicians at all levels of government. That will be just the beginning of bringing America back to the people it represents. Let freedom ring!

Disgruntled with partisan politics

pservelle — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 22:04:12 EDT

Listen up all of you who are disgruntled with partisan politicsPosted 7/28/2008 5:27 PM PDT on MyDesert.com

Hear all that re-muzzled snickering? That's the old guard of both parties nudging one another about how stupid the rest of us are for letting them pick our representative in Congress.

And, the new quiet you hear isn't any accident. The queen elephant and wan-ta-be queen donkey have passed down the edict to "shut up" about this independent guy. You know, don't draw attention to the deal the queen ladies have going. They want to sit on the ball and run out the clock. After all, he has what, something like ten days to collect ten thousand signatures. Even for the math-challenged, they can see that is 1000 signatures A DAY. lol

Improable, perhaps. Impossible, no.

Perhaps it's time we start pulling out all the stops. "I know, let's put on a play to get the signatures we need." Well, may be not all the stops.

But, if instead of just being disgruntled, what if you put some of your disgruntleness to work.

That's it, get yourself over to the kids computer and enter: www.servelleforcongress08.com or just mail an email to: psgkservelle@earthlink.net.

Download (okay, have the kids do it for you) the nomination papers. You, Henry, sign first and then hand-it over to the little misses. That's two signatures. Let the misses pass it around to the whole crew of hers. You know, the ones you refer to at the holidays, as freeloaders. Maybe you can even get Tom and Harry down at the neighborhood joint to do something besides complain about everything. Heck, Henry, you're turning into one of them hippie activist. But don't worry, I won't spill the beans.

Interest and Support accelerate folowing week-end dust up

pservelle — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 10:07:38 EDT

What began as a flurry of negative emails erupted into the open this week-end as partisan Party regulars tried to damp down the increasingly visible attempt to have an Independent candidate placed on the November ballot.

As the Indendent candidate, and long time (since Feb. 2007) Barack Obama volunteer, I am under attack by the old guards of both Parties. Why are the two Parties in the 45th CD running so scared?

Because placing a third choice on the November ballot would open the 45th CD to becoming a real race with real choices. Ms. M. Bono-Mack (the Republican's choice) and Ms J. Boorstein (the Democat's choice) by their silence on the issue apparently endorse locking the playing field before other teams can even try-out.

Given the manner in which the deck is already stacked against Independents (i.e, no preliminary contest to generate much needed media attention; the requirement to collect thousands of signatures in the dog-days of summer; and blocking the doors to all public buildings to the collecting of signatures, to name a few.) it is both surprising and unsettling to, in addition, be under attack.

Although the Democratic old guard would like you to believe otherwise, this has nothing to do with Barack's Presidential campaign. He will carry the 45th CD. he will carry CA. and he will be elected our next President. All of that is true and will continue to be true whether there are 2 or 3 names on the November ballot for congress in the 45th CD.

In November, voters in the 45th will be roughly grouped into three factions: about 1/3rd Democrat, 1/3rd Republican and 1/3rd decline to state and others. The followers of Ms. M. Bono-Mack and Ms. J. Boorstein would rather not allow the third who are neither Republican nor Democrat have their own candidate. No need to be a brain surgeon to figure out why.

No competition for the two Parties

pservelle — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 01:26:35 EDT

The silence from the campaigns of Ms. Bono-Mack (Republican’s choice) and Ms. J. Bornstein (Democrat’s choice) is deafening.

One must assume, from their silence, that Ms. Bono and Ms. Bornstein like having the November ballot all to themselves. It may be that they privately feel that they have pulled the wool over the eyes of 2/3rd of the voters in the 45th CD who don’t support their individual candidacies.

Something less than 1/3 of voters favor the Democrat, and something less than 1/3 favor the Republican. Which means that somewhat more than 2/3rd do not favor either one. But, hey, why should either of them care. They each have money and the old guard behind them.

Apparently, to them, “time for change” and “turning the page” are just rhetoric.

Let's try and shed just a little light. This is not about Obama.

pservelle — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 22:02:05 EDT

pservelle wrote: Finally, some of the folks against giving ALL voters in the 45th CD a choice in November are coming out of hiding. That's a start. These Party types would rather that they choose for all the rest of us. One choice Republican. One choice Democrat. What choice is there for the large and growing number who are tired of partisan politics. Perhaps more than a third of those voting in November don't want either a Democrat or a Republican. What are they to do about who represents them in Congress?

Let's try and shed just a little light. This is not about Obama. EGudman thinks I only blog on myBarackObama and therefore am, in his words, preaching to the congregation and not doing anything to promote Obama.

The archives here at TDS tell a different story. But as I said it is no longer about Obama. He will carry the 45th CD, he will carry CA. and he will carry America.

So what is all the fury about?

It is about how many choices for Congress will there be on the November ballot. The Republicans have chosen; the Democrats have chosen. And, now both want to close the door to anyone else. Doesn't sound right to me; how does it sound to you.

Maybe we should here from Mary Bono Mack and Julie Bornstein on this. What number of choices do they favor? Is leaving up to 1/3 of the voters with no first choice right?

One more thing. Why didn't I start my campaign a long time ago? There is NO PRIMARY OPTION for Independent. Only Parties can have primaries and the media exposure that comes with it.

Independents must wait until the dog-days of summer to start collecting thousands of signatures. As I have pointed out many times before collecting signatures is not permitted inside of any public buildings. Who do you think made up these rules? And, why? And collecting signatures is not permitted on private property either. That leaves what exactly?

Against this kind of stacked deck, one wouldn't think that my chances are very good. So why are the Parties getting so nervous?

Old guard goes negative

pservelle — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 17:19:20 EDT

Old guard Democratic Party members continue to undermine effort to place Independent candidate on November ballot In Politics, as in middle-of-the-night “act now for only $19.95” offers, claims and guarantees are a dime-a-dozen.Recognition of this truth is all but universal. This explains why the average Joe/Jill (or Jose/Marie) will greatly discount anything they are promised by either mid-night commercials or by any politician.I don’t know much about mid-night commercials (And, if you call right now and I mean within the next 30 seconds we will give you the world absolutely free and 100% guaranteed!) but they must make money or no one use this stupid approach.Now, politics I do know. Can be boiled down to this: make any promise to the voter and make any charge against the opponent. After the election, if you lose no one will care. If you win, no one remember what was promised and what false claims were made against the loser.It’s a beautiful thing; not. But right now, it is all we have.

Here is a sample of the old guard Democrats at work.

This from:

Ruthee Goldkorn

63rd A.D. Vice Chair, Riverside County Democratic Central Committee

You sir are an abomination and an embarrassment and I don't just mean to the Party. There is no special election, there is no emergency and the accusations you have made are unfounded, unsubstianted, false and out right lies.

Your antics are ridiculous and your tactics are bordering on illegal. Your stealing the mailing list of parents at the school for political use IS illegal and the fact that you did not know this is verification that you have no idea how to behave. You are lucky your kids were not expelled for your antics.

Ms. Goldkorn’s note speaks volumes and requires no response.

And, this from:

Ed Gubman

Self-designated Obama campaign leader in the Coachella Valley

According to myBarackObama.com, Gubman has 1,268 points and is in 4,713th place. Same source, has Servelle with 7,400 + points and is in the top 400.

The Obama campaign in the Desert, like the national Obama campaign, supports the endorsed Democratic candidate for California's 45th CD, Julie Bornstein.

NOT TRUE Mr. Gubman. The Obama campaign has made it quiet clear that in contests that include an Obama Independent, the Barack campaign would remain neutral. Apparently you do not want the truth because the truth will not take you where you want to go.

What this little “dust up” so clearly demonstrates is that political Parties always put their own interests above all else. Sad, but, true.

On time for quiet reflection

pservelle — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 12:37:37 EDT

However you worship (or not), regular, quiet reflection is a good thingPosted 7/27/2008 9:06 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

If we could have anything, what would it be. Think about it. Would it be a thing? House, boat, car, wide-screen TV. Or less tangible; rich, famous, celebrity? Or universal; end to wars, peace on earth. That was the question being posed at my place of refuge, St. Theresa Catholic Church in Palm Springs. Me, still with sand in my eyes from the sandman, I chose wisely; I said nothing, I just listened.

The answer: look with-in. Kind of easy to hate trick questions like this when you are still half-asleep.

But okay; that was why I got up in the first place...some quiet reflection. So here goes.

I would like to be a better person. (I can hear all the loud groans; but if you think this is easy, why don't you try it!)

A better person; let's see. How about being more forgiving? I admit it. I have very thin skin and a very sharp tongue. Not the best combination if you would like to be a better person.

Case in point; my politics. Having a very thin skin and a very sharp tongue can, and frequently has led me away from being a better person.

Does this mean I must choose: politics or a better person. Jeez, I hope not. (Always looking for a way to have it both ways aren't you Paul?) Will turning the other cheek allow me to do both? I promise to give it a try.

Special election for CA. 45th CD

pservelle — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 07:40:32 EDT

Special Election for 45th Congressional District to be held on August 8, 2008. This election will determine whether there will be two or three names on the ballot for the 45th congressional seat in the U.S. Congress in November.*

Two names are assured and already promised to be on the ballot. These names represent the two major Parties; one for the Republicans (that would be our bride, M. Bono-Mack) and one for the Democrats (a non-Barack supporter; a recipient of PAC money and nearly $100,000 of self-financing and, in general, fairly typical of your average Democratic Club pick). Both ladies are dues-paying, Party-above-all types; which is okay if you like that sort of thing.

Not yet invited to the party is someone without a Party. Huh?The third name has no Party to reserve him a Table at the dance. No Party; no Table! He has no Party because he chose none. He is a registered “decline-to-state” independent. You probably all have at least one relative (typically an Uncle) who knows exactly what’s wrong with this country and knows exactly what to do about it.In this election on August 8, your Uncle is Paul Servelle, an Independent, decline-to-state, candidate for Congress. Unlike your Uncle, Paul does not know all the answers (although he can guess with the best of them) but he knows how to listen.

But, truth-be-known, he is quite the Dreamer. Shoot, way back in February 2007 he was known to regularly to tell anyone at St. Theresa School (where his two kids attend school) that America was embarking on a journey of historic importance with the candidacy of Barack Obama. Almost all of the kids at St. Theresa “got” the message; and nearly none of the adults. The parents complained when Paul used the school directory to promote Obama. The kids joined the web site for Barack created by their class-mate, Paul’s son.

Paul then transformed himself into an oracle proclaiming the coming of Barack. From the street corner, to the senior center, from the front porch to the blog pages of the NY Times and the Washington Post, Paul appeared to be every where. But, seemly forever, it was “Obama who”? Was anyone out there in cyberspace listening, or were they only interested in what they were saying?Besides admitting to being a Dreamer, Paul is a very tenacious Doer.

In the fall of 2007, TV’s talking-heads started chattering Presidential politics and how the Republican nomination was up for grabs while the Clintons had the lock on the Democratic nomination. (Talking-heads are just that; heads that talk. Not whole people, just their heads. The one exception being the late Tim Russert; Tim was always connected to his body & his soul & his family.)By the first of the year, the Presidential primaries hadn’t even started and they were already over. Strategies had been determined long before and now needed only time to be played out.And, now is now.

All the non-Obama types are trying to catch up to the Obama cruise ship so that can say they are manning the sails.The ship, however, is over-flowing with new, young Dreamers and Doers (first-time voters), and older, more travel-weary independents. Neither particularly keen on giving up their hard-earned seats to some rag tag johnnie-come-late-to-the-cause types. By the way, don’t let Paul’s 65 year old whiskers fool you; he’s not too old to have learned a few new tricks on the internet.He even became a blogger (No grandpa, I didn’t say he was a “logger”).Paul realized that the internet was much, much more than an online cash-cow. It has become the new “town square” where neighbors from thousands-of-miles-apart get together to bounce opinions back-‘n-forth.

Paul has even added his own wrinkle; he doesn’t want your money (and nowhere has he asked for it). He wants only for you to help him and Barack return America to it’s rightful owners, “We the People”.Paul has a very public record of his opinions. Visit: www.servelleforcongress08.com (no cost for construction were incurred; but probably violates some child labor laws as it was constructed by a minor; his 14 year old son.)

You may also be interested in blogs written at the online version of the Desert Sun at: http://www.mydesert.com where Paul is a community blogger who has the screen name: pservelle.

For all you Obama-maniacs, visit:http://mybarackobama.com/page/community/blog/pservelle

Paul really needs your vote BEFORE August 8, 2008.There is still that little matter of 15,000 signatures in less than two weeks.MORE on that next time.

*(The CA. 45th CD extends from Riverside in the west to the Salton Sea in the east, and every city in between.)

What passed today is definitely NOT A HOUSING BILL

pservelle — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 19:43:04 EDT

The U.S. Senate working on Saturday is a real tip-off; you should know by now that the government is pulling another fast one on us. Using the oldest trick in the book, Congress and the President join to do something to us, not for us.

The Senate, the House and the President on the same page...better clutch your wallet. Okay we all know that special interests control both Parties in the Congress as well as they control the Bush family. So when we get "all of them to agree" you know it's Katie-bar-the-door. Sunday talk shows will be a full out chatter about the passage of a Housing Bill.

What was passed was anything but about housing. Here is the trick that is used time and time again. Call it something that all Americans need and want, give them a bone, and then steal us blind!

THIS BILL IS A BAILOUT OF THE RICHEST OF THE RICH. It takes care of the creme-de-la-creme of the financial speculators on Wall Street. The LTCM types; the Bears Stern types;the IndyMac types and the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac types and every other major financial institution who played fast and loose will get whole with this bill.

Don't be fooled America; it is "time for a change". Throw the bums of both parties out in November.

This and that as I travel the 45th Congressional District

pservelle — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 18:31:50 EDT

This and that as I travel the 45th Congressional DistrictPosted 7/26/2008 11:52 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

Hard on my car and harder on my body,yes, but my travels have been rewarding. The people along the way have been the best part.

Sitting out in the heat in front of the COD/PD library, I was hot, tired and exhausted. Many would walk by and look the other way so as to not make eye contact. Then a well-dressed woman passed me on her way from the library to her car. And, by she went without a word exchanged. Only to re-appear in a matter of minutes with an ice cold bottle of water. "You look like you could use this." With that she handed me the cold water and without further words but for my "thanks so much", she turned and headed back to her car.

Then, out of nowhere, this morning as I was headed to my assigned space at the COD/Street Fair, two teenagers ask if I needed help setting up my Table. I did and so they did. Two nicer young men would be hard to find.

And the dry humor of the library volunteer who helped me logon to the computer at the awsome Hemet library.

Special mention must go to "Precious", that's her name, who at a service station in Moreno Valley provided me with directions to the Moreno Valley library. And with such a wonderful persona and upbeat personality, you instantly knew how perfectly her parents had named her.

And, then there was John Bender, the political editor at the Press-Enterprise coming down to meet with me, unannounced, late afternoon on Friday.

At the Promenade in Temecula, a nice young woman explained to me all about "non-commercial expressive activity".

The dedicated and polite young volunteers working for Green Peace and its "Project Hot Seat" were up-lifting and re-assuring.

And finally all of those who came up to talk with me about my Independent candidacy for Congress. Not all signed; not all agreed; but all of whom wished the best for America.

To each, I wish to extend my sincere thanks for visiting with me. Knowingly or not, you represent participatory democracy at its best.

It's time to take down the Table at the Street Fair. It is also time to get back in the car and continue this unlikely journey.

Earn plane tickets and lodging to see Barack in Denver

pservelle — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 18:15:39 EDT

Chance to earn plane ticket to hear Obama sparks interestPosted 7/26/2008 1:47 PM PDT on MyDesert.com

It has only been about twelve hours since the opportunity to earn round-trip ticket to Denver to attend Barack's acceptance speech was posted. The nomination papers for collecting signatures became available at: www.servelleforcongress08.com at mid-night.

There are 10 round-trip tickets to be earned. Details on web site. Since tickets to attend the speech are free, getting there is major issue. The plane tickets could take care of that. Those wishing to earn the plane tickets will have until August 7, 2008 to collect enough signatures to earn the plane tickets.

The response to "Earn Plane Tickets" has encouraged another incentive to collect signatures.

The latest earning opportunity is for one night's lodging in Denver during the the acceptance speech. This opportunity is "Earn Denver Lodging" and a voucher for lodging can be earned by EVERYONE who collects 500 signatures by August 1st will get a voucher for one nights lodging. These 500 signatures will also count toward earning the round-trip plane tickets.

See web site for more details.

Why not identify who you are and who you support

pservelle — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 20:24:53 EDT

All my cards are on the table. Who I am. What I am doing. And my commitment to Barack Obama. I send posts to Groups in and near the CA 45th CD (Riverside to Salton Sea and everthing in between). My ballot designation will be "volunteer for Obama".

Does the Democratic nominee in the CA 45th CD endorse your effort; if so, she should step forward; if not, why are you trying to block me from the ballot. Every thing I do and every where I go, I promote Barack first.

If you are proud of your effort, why go to myBarackObama with your false claims and misleading alllegations; don't you think that they will check the record? When did the Party nominee come out in support of Barack. In 2007? Early in 2008?

Who has a better chance to defeat Republican incumbent Mary Bono Mack? Isn't that the important question? The Party nominee who, on her web site, lists the same, tired Party officials. Does she reflect the desire to "turn the page"?

Who can better appeal to all those voters, those representing one-third of all registered voters, who are, like me, "decline to state" independents?

Who represents the audacity of Hope? I am 65 years old, with Parkinsons, and my daughter turns 10 on Monday; my son turns 14 next month. I told them 18 months ago that I would do all I could to elect Barack President and to help make this country something they could be proud to call their country.

I explained to my daughter that she needs to wait until August 8, 2008 when signatures get turned in before she and I can really celebrate her birthday. My son created the site www.servelleforcongress08.com I am proud of them both. I believe that are also proud of me for what I am doing.

First the Denver Group and now this

pservelle — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 19:54:21 EDT

With all due respect, I am both a long time and active Obama supporter; I have been awarded more than 7,300 points on myBarackObama site since I began in Feb. 2007.

I am now an Independent candidate for Congress in the CA. 45th CD and my ballot designation is "Volunteer for Obama".

I post to Groups located in the CA 45th CD and use it to provide up-dates. Area Democratic clubs were early Hillary supporters and now wish to promote one of their own and are trying to undermine my long-standing ongoing commitment to Mr. Obama.

I find it impossible to believe that the Senator would approve of their tactics to keep me off the ballot.

I intend to post this exchange on myBarackObama site.

Paul Servelle

-----Original Message-----
From: "My.BarackObama Team"
Sent: Jul 25, 2008 12:59 PM
To: psgkservelle@earthlink.net
Subject: Your MyBO Listservs

Sir:

We appreciate your involvement on My.BarackObama. However, we have received complaints concerning your unsolicited listserv message that has been sent numerous times to many groups. I wanted to let you know that you may only email a maximum of ten groups and the message must be relevant to each specific group. It is important that we respect our other users and do not overwhelm them with e-mail.

Thank you so much for your understanding and cooperation.

Justin
Obama for America

Ideas for places to collect signatures in the 45thCD

pservelle — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 04:12:08 EDT

Places to collect signatures: some ideas; not a complete list.

Malls: check w/ Mall management; see if they have a community access spot that you can schedule to use

Malls in 45th:
Promenade in Temecula;
Hemet Valley Mall in Hemet;
Mall at Towngate in Moreno Valley;
Riverside plaza in Riverside;
Galleria at Tyler in Riverside
Westfield Shopping Center in Palm Desert
The River in Rancho Mirage
Fashion Mall in Indio

Street Fairs and Swap meets

Plan ahead; find out who to talk to; get ideas from myBarackObama.com; search nearby events
COD Street Fair on week-ends in Palm Desert
Street Fair on Thursday evening in Palm Springs

College Campuses
Check with college officials; usually someone from Student Activities
COD in Palm Desert and satellite in Indio
Riverside CC both main in Riverside and Moreno Valley satellite
Mt. SAC in San Jacinto

TRADE SCHOOLS

Trade Schools and Continuation Schools

CET - Riverside / Coachella / Temecula

Maric College - Riverside / Palm Springs

Sage College, Moreno Valley

Libraries

in every community (Riverside, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, Temecula, Hemet, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indio, Coachella
They won’t let you in but you are allowed to set up if you maintain a distance of about 100 ft from the entrance.

I can also provide you with some signs and other items if you contact me.

I intend to do the Street Fair at COD, this week-end and next; if you want to work there let me know. I will also look at days for community access at Promenade if you want to work there let me know.

email me at: psgkservelle@earthlink.net

EARN ROUND-TRIP PLANE TICKET TO DENVER

pservelle — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:05:43 EDT

EARN ROUND-TRIP PLANE TICKET TO DENVER

WHY NOT BECOME PART OF HISTORY IN THE MAKING?YES YOU CAN

WANT TO ATTEND BARACK’S ACCEPTANCE SPEECH?YES YOU CAN

WANT FREE ROUND-TRIP PLANE TICKET TO DENVER?YES YOU CAN

WANT TO CONTROL YOUR OWN CHANCES TO WIN?YES YOU CAN

HERE IS “THE FINE-PRINT”: · THERE ARE “10 ROUND-TRIP” PLANE TICKETS TO DENVER.· THERE ARE “2 WAYS” TO EARN A TICKET AND BECOME PART OF HISTORY IN THE MAKING.

HERE’S THE DEAL:BEGINNING AT MID-NIGHT, FRIDAY, JULY 25, 2008 and CONTINUING UNTIL MID-NIGHT WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2008 (THAT IS “13” TWENTY-FOUR HOUR DAYS), YOU EARN ONE OF THE TICKETS:

if you collect 1,300 signatures on a SERVELLE for CONGRESS nomination petition. One hundred signatures a day for 13 days, you get a round-trip plane ticket to Denver; end of story.

YOU MAY EARN ONE OF THE TICKETS, IF FEWER THAN 10 PEOPLE COLLECT 1,300 SIGNATURES EACH. THE REMAINING TICKETS WILL BE AWARDED FOR THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF SIGNATURES BELOW 1,300. (Example, 7 people turn in 1,300; three tickets remain to be earned for less than 1,300. Say, one person collects 1,100 signatures; they would get one of the three available. Maybe, someone else turns in 950; they earn one of the two remaining. And, someone collects 795; they earn the remaining ticket.)

Further, it is anticipated that in case more than 10 people turn in at least 1,300, that additional round-trip plane tickets will be made available.

A COPY of the nomination petition will be available for downloading at: www.servelleforcongress08.com at mid-night on Friday night.

SO, ladies & gentlemen, geeks and non-geeks alike, START YOUR COMPUTERS.SEE YOU IN DENVER!!!!

The Campaign Trail Doesn't Need to be Lonely

pservelle — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 10:13:28 EDT

The Campaign Trail Doesn't Need to be LonelyPosted 7/24/2008 6:32 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

Can't interest either of the kids in spending 12 hours in the car without really going anywhere, so it's me and highway. At least until I stop for awhile.

Try bringing up politics when it is 100+ degrees, and folks are not only hot but also bothered. As Rodney Dangerfield might say, "I just don't get any respect".

I've learned that it goes a lot easier, and is much more revealing, to keep my ears open and my mouth shut. Here is what I heard and saw yesterday.

On the campus of Riverside Community College, it appeared, on first glance, to be business as usual; not much that different from 1961 when I began my college career at San Mateo Community College (south of San Francisco about 30 miles). Then, as today, you are not just a student, you also have a low paying job and family responsibilities. Not a lot of fun; no frat parties here. But these multi-purpose students at RCC still have time to wonder about this old white guy with all this Barack Obama stuff. Cautious but interested would describe the looks I get. Soon a brave (I think it is "bravado") soul will engage me with a "what'sup?" Not long there after, I hear story, after story, after story about how excited they are about Barack. But it is in their body language that I really hear their story. You see, it is the same language that my body spoke back in 1961. JFK was "our" President then and when he challenged us on going to the moon and joining the Peace Corp, we didn't hesitate; we wanted to know, "Where do I sign-up?"

more on my not lonely, but always hot and sometimes dusty campaign trail next time.

I already know that you believe in miracles

pservelle — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 00:33:52 EDT

The faith that you have put in Obama and his campaign is note-worthy. You have joined with him in e xpressing your own audacity of hope and belief that Our Time Is Now.

I am asking you to "double-down" on hope and that our time is now. I have volunteered for Barack since Feb. 15, 2007 and on his MyBarckObama site I have been awarded more than 7,300 points for my on going efforts on his behalf.

Now I am an Independent candidate for the CA 45th CD (Riverside on the west and the Salton Sea on the east with Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley in between.). I am challenging both Mary Bono and the Democratic nominee.

With your help, there will be three names on the November ballot: Republican, Democrat and Independent.

To help me continue to help Barack, please visit: www.servelleforcongress08.com

and contact me at: psgkservelle@earthlink.net

I look forward to working with you and helping Barack on to the White House in November.

A '29 Depression-style collapse is more than possible

pservelle — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 13:33:33 EDT

Collapse like '29 can't happen today...want to betPosted 7/23/2008 10:20 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

ps... there are now constraints in place that another 1930's style depression and collaspe of the financial/banking system can't happen unless...

Buck deserves an answer. Here is mine.

Buck, with all do respect, I have studied economics for 50+ years, have a Ph.D and Post-Doc in economics. Your faith that things were corrected after the depression of '29 is lauable but factually incorrect.

What was put in place in the FDR period have been almost entirely undone by the "free market types" from Milton Friedman to Phil Graham to Alan Greenspan.

Who empowered the FED to bail out Bears Sterns? And any day will do the same for Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Those who warned of the collapse in '29 were called "chicken-little, the sky is falling"-types.

But that didn't keep the sky from falling, did it?

TAKE YOUR MONEY AND RUN

pservelle — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:21:42 EDT

Just so you can't say, why didn't you tell me

All major banks and other financial institutions (Thrifts, Credit Unions etc) are experiencing unsustainable losses YOU should think seriously about taking all extra cash out and stashing it. (You are not getting any interest to speak of, are you?)

Forget about the government deposit guarantees like the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The guarantee will become worthless. Think about taking out: Savings earmarked for college. I would also take out from any savings you might have where ever it is, regular savings, credit union, IRA etc. Any funds not immediately necessary for paying bills .I would put just enough cash in to the bank just prior to paying a particular bill to cover the check.

Some night soon, we will all go to bed and get up in the morning to learn our bank has closed and, then, it will be too late to withdraw. This is not a joke. Have a nice day.

Dream Ticket on Display

pservelle — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 23:52:59 EDT

Dream Ticket on DisplayPosted 7/22/2008 8:18 PM PDT on MyDesert.com Getting ready for their premier in Denver next month, the Dream Ticket is having it's out-of-town run in the Middle East. That would be the Obama/Reed ticket for all of you non-political types. The rave reviews are just beginning to pour in; but it is already a hit. Call them the non-drama team. Self-assured, smart, dedicated, well-spoken to be sure. But it is their steadfast demeanor that will be our lasting impression. These are two Americans who will re-assure where re-assurance is so dearly needed. If you look and listen very carefully you will glimpse a brighter future that lies just ahead for each of us.

Push Back Time

pservelle — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:17:33 EDT

PUSH BACK TIME

There have heard audible grumblings along this line. “Hey, who does this guy Servelle think he is. He is using the Obama network to promote his own campaign for Congress. He can’t do that. We Democrats have already chosen our candidate for Congress.”

Let’s break this down.

BEFORE Obama became the nominee, who was supporting Barack? The local Democratic establishment stood shoulder-to-shoulder for almost anybody but Obama. The area Democratic clubs and office holders were lined-up early-and-often for Hillary.The early backers of Obama (I signed on to My.BarackObama.com in middle February of 2007.) were independents, new voters and disgruntled Democrats and Republicans. Although I am registered decline to state I spent every day, seven days a week, blogging for Obama. At MyBarackObama volunteers are awarded points for various activities and while more than 500,000 volunteers have earned some points, I am in the top 400 most active volunteers and have been awarded over 7,200 points for my work on Obama’s behalf.

AFTER Barack became the nominee, the Party regulars started to make a variety of claims. One claim is, the Party’s nominee for Congress is supported by the Obama campaign. This is, put plainly, wishful thinking and a transparent attempt to cash in on the “Time for a Change” mood of the electorate.

Data from Voter registrars is clear; voters are moving away from Party affiliation and are registering decline to state/independents.As Barack has noted all along, the Obama campaign is ABOUT US. It is about putting Party affiliation ASIDE and joining together in search of common ground.As an Independent for Congress, I continue without reservation my support and endorsement of Barack Obama for President of our country. I also, commit to searching for common ground, identifying the common good and using my common sense.

If you believe in Barack as I do, I ask for your help in getting on the November ballot. And, know that Barack would never favor REDUCING our ballot choices.

The Good, the Bad, the Ugly and the Beautiful

pservelle — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 02:12:33 EDT

Now all the criminals in their coats and their ties
Are free to drink martinis and watch the sun rise
While Rubin sits like Buddha in a ten-foot cell
An innocent man in a living hell.
When I'm gone don't wonder where I be.
Just say that I trusted in God and that Christ was in me.
Say He defeated the devil, He was God's chosen Son
And that there ain't no man righteous, no not one.

The Good, the Bad, the Ugly and the BeautifulI know that I changed the title to include “the beautiful”. It seems more even to me to have two positive and two negative characteristics.

The GOOD

This campaign was officially launched one week ago. It is using techniques that proved so successful in gaining the Democratic nomination for Barack Obama. The key elements of the Obama approach include:First is the very heavy reliance on interactive internet connection between the campaign volunteers and the campaign.And, second, is the heavy reliance on non-party activists.And, third, is the reliance on small contributions from many givers.This Independent campaign for Congress utilizes the same model: interactive internet + non-party activists + small contributions from many givers.

To gather the large number of signatures required, a large number of supporters are pledging to collect a few signatures each. Thus, instead of tables set up at a few busy places, a lot of petitions are being passed around within a relatively small number of people.This strategy is “go after the low hanging fruit first”; instead of going after a lot of people that you don’t know, you go after those you already know.It is easier to volunteer if what you are asked to do make’s some sense.

The BAD

When I have attempted to go after “cold call’s”, that is strangers in neutral places, it hasn’t been easy. It led me to post this blog.

Where is Freedom of Speech ALLOWED
Friday July 18, 2008For all the lip service given to the principle of free speech, when you try to exercise it you often encounter resistance in the most surprising places. Public places are almost impossible places to practice Free Speech. Try to gather signatures on a petition that is issued by the county registrar of voters and permits the gathering of signatures in lieu of paying a filing fee to place a name on the ballot. When asked, the following said NO: US Post Offices; CITY Libraries, schools, Recreation Centers, and all other City building including City Halls. Throw in non-profits like private schools and all Churches and what is left for public discourse. Very little. So, I am left to exercise my free speech where I can. When, under Events Today, I say NEAR some public places you may have to look in the bushes, but I will be there, somewhere. You see it isn't always easy to exercise Participatory Democracy. Remember the American revolution?
-Paul

And, thisPaulMy Rosa Parks Moment
Saturday July 19, 2008MY “ROSA PARKS” MOMENT Let me begin by saying that some of my best friends are librarians. And let me further go on record as one who believes that the PUBLIC library is perhaps the single greatest achievement of civilized people. And let me further attest to the fact that me and my children are believers in the magic power of books and where they are kept for all to witness their wonder. So I gain no pleasure in bringing the following charges against my own neighborhood PUBLIC libraries. Nonetheless, I must do so. One would, would they not, expect that our PUBLIC libraries to have a keen interest in free access to ideas. And further to have a belief that freedom of expression and assembly are cornerstones of our democracy. I have recently requested and been given from the Riverside County Registrar of Voters a “Petition-In-Lieu of filing fee”. By gathering signatures from registered voters in this District, I can earn the right to have my name placed on the November ballot as a third candidate for Congress in this District; one Republican, one Democrat and me as an Independent. But I need to gather signatures in a very small time frame; from early July through early August. And the signatures gathered are quite a large number; about 10,000. Surely, PUBLIC libraries would be able to accommodate a request of this kind; and to provide a small space inside. Uniformly, PUBLIC libraries say that such an activity is NOT permitted inside. I am told I must be at least 100 ft away from the front door. No matter if this places me in direct 100 degree + conditions. And, further, even from this spot open to the weather, I am warned to NOT engage in any conversation unless approached by someone with a question. This struck me as miles from protecting and promoting freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of expression as one might have expected. But today I allowed myself to be so mistreated. But tomorrow will be another day, and a different story. I am 65 years old and I cannot safely tolerate the heat. I have Parkinson and two middle school children; and I am not about to lay aside my belief in participatory democracy. Tomorrow morning I will set up my card table inside Palm Desert PUBLIC library and I will gather signatures on my Petition. And, if I am free to do so, I will set up my card table inside Palm Springs PUBLIC library in the afternoon. In both places, I will be respectful and quiet as I go about gathering signatures. I will, however, resist being forced to cease by gathering inside and I will not accept an outdoor location. I have no desire to be confrontational; nor do I intend to surrender by rights.
-Paul

The UGLY

The foreclosed homes, the up-side down mortgages, the loss of jobs, the high and increasing cost of everything are all part of a very ugly picture for far too many Americans. A fellow blogger put it this way: Is it not now true, not since the Great Depression have there been so many aspects of the national economy heading in the wrong direction, at one time? Lead by the crash of the housing market and spurred on by runaway fast rising oil prices and thus gasoline costs and the attendant fast rising costs of everything else deliverable, we have surely gone well beyond Recession and are teetering on economic disaster. Yet still our top leadership hints it wants us to expand our wars in the middle east in a vein attempt to control the oil fields of the world, the sources of black gold that have been raped already by the excesses of civilization and about to be massacred further by the needs of burgeoning third world and emerging world giant economies, without the so-called "restraints" of current leading countries. And from this debacle, a surprising few sit on their billions in profits while the majority are hurting, or are about to be slammed into a wall of debt and homelessness or worse, may die.

The BEAUTIFUL

For me, the BEAUTIFUL, are those I love. There is my son, who moves on to PSHS this fall. When not honing his “board” skills, he is sharpening his computer design skills. He designed and wrote the program to create the web site for this campaign. And there is my little girl, turning 10 years old in one week. An actor, singer and dancer, she lives for the stage.

Led me to post this blog:No politics in this post; hard to believe, but true nonethelessPosted 7/20/2008 11:42 AM PDT on MyDesert.com On Friday and Saturday night, I had about as much fun as a Dad can have. The Palm Canyon Theater conducts a summer theater camp for area aspiring thespians.My young (soon to be 10 year-old) Ms.Diva just completed this year's camp; her second summer.The magic that the PCT produces in five weeks is something to behold. Truly wonderful in every way.You want laughs, there were a ton; most of them intentional and created by the whole ensemble.You want talent, the cast had it up to here, and then some. You want singing, dancing, strutting, and full cast musical numbers, it was present in bushels-full measure.My hat is off to everyone: the PCT, teachers, helpers, and cast.Special tip of the hat to that soon to be 10 year-old diva of mine: you were a scene-stealer to me. (Now, Dad, what are you getting all teary-eyed about; you're going to embarrass her!)

Independent Candidate for Congress

pservelle — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 21:09:55 EDT

WILL YOU HELP

PUT ME ON THE NOVEMBER BALLOT?

WHO AM I?

I am an INDEPENDENT CHOICE FOR CONGRESS

VOTE

PAUL SERVELLE

an Independent Candidate for Congress

I AM IN FAVOR OF

FINDING COMMON GROUND, IDENTIFYING THE COMMON GOOD and USING COMMON SENSE

I support & endorse Barack Obama for President of the United States of America

Step by step: Gathering signatures

pservelle — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 12:09:01 EDT

Everyone likes the idea of gathering signatures at home. Here is step-by-step how to do it. To download Petition, go to: www.servelleforcongress08.com Scroll to bottom of Welcome box. Double click on petition 1. Copy and paste on to new page and print that page. Repeat to copy, paste and print petition 2. You now have hard copies, front and back, of the official “Petition-In-Lieu of Filing Fee” from Riverside County Registrar of Voters. What you need to know about gathering signatures on the Petitions. WHO & WHERE can you find people to sign?Start where you live. Are there other voters in your house? How about: at school; at work; at church; next door; across the street.Be realistic! If you only have two signers, get them to sign and have the petition ready for pick up. ABOUT those who sign the Petition.They must be registered to vote in 45thCD which is everything between Moreno Valley and the Salton Sea.By signing they DO NOT need to vote for me but they will be supporting additional candidate on the ballot. To sign the Petition takes as little as 10 seconds. They do NOT need to prove who they are. All signatures on the petitions will be checked before any signatures are validated. They must sign in pen. ABOUT me if those signing want to know.I am an Independent candidate for US Congress in California District 45. I support and endorse Barack Obama for President. What to do with Petitions with signatures.When I need to have them back: They will be picked up from you this Tuesday & Wednesday, July 22 & 23.(This pick up process will be done every Tuesday/Wednesday through the first week in August.) When do you complete the side with Circulator information?Last thing the circulator should do BEFORE the Petitions are picked up. Who can be a Circulator?Any one who is registered in the 45th congressional district is eligible.(District includes all cities in Coachella Valley plus cities near Hemet plus Moreno Valley plus Murrieta plus Temecula.) IF you still have questionsCall: (760) 567 5222Or emailpsgkservelle@earthlink.net

Gathering signatures at home and in the neighborhood

pservelle — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 04:41:40 EDT

To download Petition, go to www.servelleforcongress08'com

Scroll to botton of welcome box; one at a time,double click on Petition 1. then copy on to clean page and then print that page. Repeat on Petition 2.

Once you have hard copies of front and back, start gathering signatures. Read under "news" about what you need to know.

All that is needed is: print signature; sign signature, street address and City, State & zip code

Use pen and gather additional signatures; if needed, print additional Petitions.

Referring too feedback box, send note that you have names to be turned in.

Will collect petitions tuesday evening and wednesday morning.

Do not mail. give directly to someone with the Servelle lcampaign.

Helping from the comfort of home

pservelle — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 15:56:00 EDT

Want to help gather signatures for my petition from the comforts of your own home?

It is easy. To get one signature, or five, or ten (if you feed lots of relatives :-)

Go to: www.servelleforcongress08.com See Welcome box. See Petition 1 and Petition 2.

Click on and you have the official petition; print both sides. Signers must be registered in 45th. (For more details on how to get signatures, look at box on web site called News and scroll to entry on how and what of signers.

Let me know, see Feedback box on web site, you have one or more signatures and I will arrange to have them picked up at your door.

What could be easier? Now, CAN YOU HELP

Paul Servelle

Independent Candidate for Congress in the CA 45th CD

My "Rosa Parks" Moment

pservelle — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 02:34:57 EDT

MY “ROSA PARKS” MOMENTLet me begin by saying that some of my best friends are librarians. And let me further go on record as one who believes that the PUBLIC library is perhaps the single greatest achievement of civilized people.And let me further attest to the fact that me and my children are believers in the magic power of books and where they are kept for all to witness their wonder.So I gain no pleasure in bringing the following charges against my own neighborhood PUBLIC libraries. Nonetheless, I must do so.One would, would they not, expect that our PUBLIC libraries to have a keen interest in free access to ideas. And further to have a belief that freedom of expression and assembly are cornerstones of our democracy.I have recently requested and been given from the Riverside County Registrar of Voters a “Petition-In-Lieu of filing fee”. By gathering signatures from registered voters in this District, I can earn the right to have my name placed on the November ballot as a third candidate for Congress in this District; one Republican, one Democrat and me as an Independent.But I need to gather signatures in a very small time frame; from early July through early August. And the signatures gathered are quite a large number; about 10,000.Surely, PUBLIC libraries would be able to accommodate a request of this kind; and to provide a small space inside. Uniformly, PUBLIC libraries say that such an activity is NOT permitted inside. I am told I must be at least 100 ft away from the front door. No matter if this places me in direct 100 degree + conditions. And, further, even from this spot open to the weather, I am warned to NOT engage in any conversation unless approached by someone with a question.This struck me as miles from protecting and promoting freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of expression as one might have expected.But today I allowed myself to be so mistreated. But tomorrow will be another day, and a different story.I am 65 years old and I cannot safely tolerate the heat. I have Parkinson and two middle school children; and I am not about to lay aside my belief in participatory democracy.Tomorrow morning I will set up my card table inside Palm Desert PUBLIC library and I will gather signatures on my Petition. And, if I am free to do so, I will set up my card table inside Palm Springs PUBLIC library in the afternoon. In both places, I will be respectful and quiet as I go about gathering signatures. I will, however, resist being forced to cease by gathering inside and I will not accept an outdoor location.I have no desire to be confrontational; nor do I intend to surrender by rights.

Where is Freedom of Speech ALLOWED?

pservelle — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:20:10 EDT

Where is Freedom of Speech ALLOWED
Friday July 18, 2008

For all the lip service given to the principle of free speech, when you try to exercise it you often encounter resistance in the most surprising places. Public places are almost impossible places to practice Free Speech. Try to gather signatures on a petition that is issued by the county registrar of voters and permits the gathering of signatures in lieu of paying a filing fee to place a name on the ballot. When asked, the following said NO: US Post Offices; CITY Libraries, schools, Recreation Centers, and all other City building including City Halls. Throw in non-profits like private schools and all Churches and what is left for public discourse. Very little. So, I am left to exercise my free speech where I can. When, under Events Today, I say NEAR some public places you may have to look in the bushes, but I will be there, somewhere. You see it isn't always easy to exercise Participatory Democracy. Remember the American revolution?
-Paul
For more go to: www.servelleforcongress08.com

The Bush-Clinton Legacy on the Economy

pservelle — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 09:39:54 EDT

The purpose of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act -- co-authored by Gramm, passed in 1999 by a Republican-controlled Congress and signed by President Bill Clinton -- was to liberate the banks, stockbrokers and insurance companies from restraints imposed on their activities more than seven decades ago. It was legislation that the financial community, which contributed heavily to Gramm's campaigns in the previous five years, desperately wanted and obviously has abused. So why now bail these institutions out?

Hows about some "tough love" for those bankers suddenly in trouble? You know, the sink-or-swim approach of "welfare reform" that Gramm and Clinton applied to poor people to end their addiction to government handouts. Or, perhaps a heavy dose of "faith-based" personal responsibility initiatives to get those knaves who messed up our entire housing market back on the straight and narrow. Sounds ridiculous I know, because nothing but the bleeding-heart, big-government, throw-money-at-the-problem approach will do when it comes to salvaging corrupt corporations.

That is the real legacy of what has been ballyhooed as the "Reagan Revolution," which Clinton went along with, but which found its full flowering in the administration of George W. Bush. The bookends of the Bush years are the Enron debacle and the federal bailout of bankers drunk on their own greed. And no two people in this country are more responsible for enabling this sordid behavior than the power couple Phil and Wendy Gramm.

Enron, lest we forget, was their baby. Then-Sen. Gramm sponsored the Commodity Futures Modernization Act of 2000, which allowed Enron's scamming to happen. As Ken Lay, who was chair of Gramm's election finance committee, put it quite candidly when asked for the secret of Enron's success, "basically, we are entering or in markets that are deregulating or have recently deregulated."

Wish I had said this. It sums up what I think about "our" major Parties, twiddle dee and twiddle dum.

Another Improbable Journey

pservelle — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:27:30 EDT

Another Improbable Journey
Thursday July 17, 2008
From my initial blog-post on my.barackobama.com, (February 15, 2007), "Indeed, this My.BarackObama.com thing is truly amazing. The hunger, the thirst to be part of something worthy, something bigger and more important than any of us is enormous. A year before the first primaries, and it feels like the last few hours before the general election. The excitement, the all-but-manic level of campaign activity, it's both wonderful and unreal. For now, all I can say is, hang on, join in and enjoy." From the very beginning, Barack urges each of us to take ownership of the campaign he represented. I contributed 1,000+ hours blogging on behalf of our campaign; his and ours. I want to continue the journey; not only the one that will lead to an Obama White House on January 21, 2009 but my own personal journey of helping to bring back the America we all love. I will , with your help and prayers, be elected to the US Congress as an "independent" representative from the CA 45th CD.
-Paul

Can you help in the 45th CD

pservelle — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:52:43 EDT

Can you help to gather signatures to place my name on the Nov. ballot. I need your help NOW!

I am registered decline to state in CA and I am an independent candidate for the 45th Congressional District. I am challenging both the Republican incumbent, Mary Bono Mack and the Democratic nominee.

The vast majority of families and individuals within the District have more in common than not. They struggled to get into entry level homes that were priced in the high $300s and low $400s while their service industries salaries could not support the payments. Foreclosures, up-side down, were results that were predictable.

These families are hugely at risk. They care not about Party labels but care deely about housing, feeding, clothing and educating their children.

They are ready to "turn the page" to find solutions that will work and that will be fair.

I want to help them do just that.

I NEED TONS of signatures by early Aug. that is 3 weeks

Let me know and I can e-mail you the one page Petition. Then, gather signatures. Signers are NOT commtting to support me. They are supporting adding another choice to the ballot. You sign, your friends and family; co-workers, everybody you come into contact with.

Can you HELP

Obama backer will run as independent congressional candidate in CA

pservelle — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 16:53:29 EDT

My name is Paul Servelle. MyBarackObama.com was started in Feb. 15, 2007. According to my dashboard I have accumulated over 7,000 points in support of his candidacy.

The 45th CD has been a truly safe seat for Republicans but much has changed. Sitting at the center of the District is Palm Springs, once a seasonal/recreational home for the money class. Palm Springs is surrounded by cities with more conventional and diverse populations. To the east are several cities with significant hispanic majorities. Across the district are cities with significant black , white and asian minorities.

These families are hugely at risk. They care not about Party labels but care deely about housing, feeding, clothing and educating their children.

They are ready to "turn the page" to find solutions that will work and that will be fair.

I want to help them do just that.

If you , also, want to help them, send me a friend request and I will send you additional information on my independent campaign.

Some advice you did't ask for

pservelle — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 10:44:46 EDT

Memo to Barack:

It's in the bag if you don't screw it up.

Surely someone around you has noticed that recently you have been moving against the tide.

I applaud going against the crowd if the crowd is heading in the wrong direction.

The crowd is increasingly seeing the light and is headed toward it.

You showed them the way; that is understood, acknowledged and appreciated.

My advice to you: Over the next several months take a rest and replenish yourself.

Come January we the people will be depending on you to be fully rested and again be ready to lead.

A blogger-mouth for Obama

pservelle — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 09:51:19 EDT

I am now forced to admit it; somewhere over the past year and a half, I turned into a real blogger-mouth. In the course of a Google search last evening, I discovered that my blog user name "pservelle" name appears in 1,260 times. For someone with a self-image of being a Gary Cooper type man of few words, this came as quite a shock. Admittedly most entries I looked at were my comments on the blogs of others but still that's a lot of opinionating.

As a relentless force for the candidacy of Barack Obama, I began my blogging in the spring of 2007. I posted my blogs using a kind of "shot-gun" criteria; I posted where I could. I soon focused my posting on two sites; at MyDesert and here at MyBarackObama.

Last fall, based on a level of activity rating maintained at MyBarackObama, I was listed in the top 50 of the 10,000 Obama supporters who had their own MyBarackObama sites. I have posted more than 300 blog posts; nearly one a day.

At MyDesert, my posts were heavy in the 2nd half of '07 and started up again last month. There have been around 100 posts combined over the two periods.

Suffice to say, politics is my passion.

Please Barack, select a "no-name" for VP

pservelle — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:52:25 EDT

Instead of looking for a woman or a military type or a non-threatening white male or someone to otherwise "shore-up" his ticket, Obama will be better served by choosing some "no-name" to fill the slot. My reasoning for this recommendation is that Obama is headed to a very big win and the only possible impact of a strong VP choice would be to upset the dynamics already in place and doing exceedingly well, thank you very much. Or, as the saying goes, if it ain't broken, don't try to fix it. Despite the early chatter about various groups being a problem if not represented on the ticket, Obama alone is doing quite nicely. Don't spoil the alcemy by adding to the formula an ingredient they could cause the whole thing to go "boom". If it were permitted, I would have Barack forego naming a VP altogether.

"All bubbles must pop", Common Sense Capitalism, the 21st Centuury and Us

pservelle — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 15:59:04 EDT

It's the 21st century and it is time for all of us to grow up. But, we can do it; we faced up to the fact that the earth is round and that Santa Clause only exists in the better part of our nature. So recognizing that "what goes up-must also come down" is an indisputable fact is within our power to accept and deal with.

In a recent post, I call this the "all bubbles must pop" reality when applied to the Stock Market. As we enter the 21st century, collectively we seen to believe that Wall Street is the one remaining exception to the rule. But, alas, we must accept the reality that Wall Street is not immune.

When we were young and our parents wanted us to grow up and accept the notion that life is not always a bowl of cherries they would urge us to use our "common sense". Thus, common sense has come to be seen as pointing out limits to "wishful thinking". I am urging we use our collective common sense to create a new economic paradigm. I call this new paradigm Common Sense Capitalism (or CSC). Instead of the false choice between unfettered, free market classical capitalism and government interventionist socialism, I recommend that we take our parents advice and use our common sense even when we think about the economy. Thus, Common Sense Capitalism is a grown up view of economic possibilities that can stand tall along side honest work for honest pay as the basic tenets of a just approach to economic well being appropriate to the realities of the 21st century.

Obama vs. McCain is only the "side-show"; What really matters is...

pservelle — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:56:30 EDT

There have been only a handful of times in it's 200+ years of existence that America as a country has been on the ropes. And, now as then, what really mattters is not the current main bout (now bewteen Obama & McCain); it is the battle of ideas among the American electorate that will ultimately decide America's fate.

Politicians, present and past, have winning as their over-riding goal. To expect otherwise is to be surpriised that birds need to fly. To win is ultimately a mattter of getting more vote (or electoral votes) than anyone else. How that goal is pursued is strategy. But the actual outcome is decided by the collective action, or inaction, of registered voters. Registered voters: may decline to vote; may be mislead; may support the unsuccessful candidate; may support the winner; and, may even influence the debate over policies.

What really matters, however, is what Americans collectively, whether registered or not, do about shaping government policies BETWEEN elections. This is the true meaning of participatory democracy.

In 1972, the anti-war candidate for President was overwhemingly defeated by the stay-the-course candidate. Yet, before the next election, Americans collectively ended the war. In 2008, more than three-quarters of Americans believe the country is moving in the wrong direction. It is not surprising that both candidates are for change. After the election, the winning candidate will either seek change or have it imposed upon him by what Americans collectively demand; i.e., bringing the troops home; helping Americans keep their homes; end price gouging at the pumps by the oil barons; bring stability to food prices; close the gap between the haves and have nots; re-install necessary over-sight to monopoly like industries like energy, like banking; like finance and others. For as has been said before, "if you don't understand, than get out of the way, for the times, they are changing".

You're kidding, right?

pservelle — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 20:59:35 EDT

Trotting out folks of any age to help elect Obama President is okay with me as long as they have some fresh ideas. I must, however, agree with those who are underwhelmed with this group of foreign policy advisors. Can someone please tell me when Hamilton and Madeline last had a new take on foreign policy? Change we can believe in, Not!

Common Sense Capitalism

pservelle — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:01:58 EDT

Americans need a new economic paradigm. What both major political parties offer up as solutions that will get us back on track to our collective economic well-being are, in fact, little more than empty rhetoric suited to the campaign trail but not for real problem solving action. Bromides about more –or-less programs to help the poor, lower-or-increase taxes on the rich, more-or-less regulation of business will do precious little to correct the economic morass that surrounds us. In a quick fix nation, doing something that will immediately fix the economy is problematic for quick fixes is not where long term solutions reside. OK folks, here’s the problem with the economy (or at least an important part). Putting aside speculation on the weather, perhaps the most talked about and least understood topic of discussion among ordinary Americans is the economy. One’s perspective is a direct reflection of one’s circumstance. A recession is when your neighbor is unemployed; a depression is when you are! Consumer confidence data attempts to track changes in the level of anxiety about which direction the economy is headed; anxiety increases as the economy heads south. Here-in-lays the real trouble; increasing anxiety generates behaviors that cause the economy to go further south. Of course, if the number of unemployed in the neighborhood increases, other area homeowners are the first to notice. Cosmetic yard maintenance is the first sign. Economic anxiety heightens along with weeds left unattended. Beyond the axiom, “in the long run we are all dead” offered up by John Maynard Keynes to push back on the free market hero Adam Smith’s all purpose defense of “laissez-faire” that in the long run the economy will always return to equilibrium, there is a corollary (actually I’m creating it right now) which argues that “all bubbles must pop”. Although most Americans have, as kids, experienced the truth and consequence of this corollary (when their largest ever bubble-gum bubble exploded and left their entire head and hair covered in bubble-gum fragments), by adulthood they gleefully assume, incorrectly, that “all bubbles must pop” is a kid thing like chicken-pox. Wrong. Let us count the ways. The crash of ’29; the S & L debacle; the dot.com pop; the housing fiasco; and, coming to your favorite service station this summer, the oil burst. All of these thrillers brought to you by the “you are in good hands folks” at the Wall Street Stock Market. A new economic paradigm for America needs to be rooted in what I will call, Common Sense Capitalism (or CSC for short-hand). The first tenet of this CSC paradigm is the fundamental recognition that a “run up” on Wall Street is an “alarm bell” and not a signal to celebrate. Let me be as clear as possible on this. I believe in the Stock Market. I believe it is essential as a source of financing for new ventures. I believe it can provide an excellent barometer of economic conditions both domestically and internationally. However, the interpretation of the data needs to reflect the new paradigm. In the medical field, blood-letting is no longer the favored treatment for a patient’s illness. A soaring temperature is a “code blue” signal. So to, the Dow must be re-interpreted; the temp. will surely spike…question is will the patient live.

We can never have enough "Dads"

pservelle — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 15:55:36 EDT

Posted 6/15/2008 7:47 AM PDT on MyDesert.com

There are fathers and, then, there are "Dads". While it is possible to have too many fathers in the world, seems to me there are never enough Dads. Fatherhood is a biological desgnation. Dad is a man's highest honor and is an earned and awarded designation. Cool thing is, there is no need to be perfect to become a Dad; typically, trying is the only requirement.

I am one of the fortunate ones. My father was a Dad as well. And, though not perfect, he earned, in spades, the designation. He was at the dinner table everynight with my Mom, two sisters and me. That alone would lhave been enough. He attended whatever school thing was happening. He took us camping; not once or twice but many, many times. He behaved like a Dad!

Funny thing is, you have one father but you can have many Dads or none. I was blessed with many. My Uncle Tony, my Uncle John, the senior Bill Jones, the senior Louis Zacherl, to name a few. When it comes to Dads, I am a very rich son.

My friends are without exception all great Dads; great because being a Dad to their kids is their first priority. It has been my greatest gift to father four children. Two of my children were with me so briefly more than thirty years ago before being called home by the Father of us all. In the blink of an eye that we were together, I gave everything to being their Dad.

Now I am the Dad of a soon to be 10 year old girl and soon to be 14 year old son. For me, everyday is Dads Day.

I believe with every once of my being that most of the ills facing our country and the world could be vastly eased if there more men grown up enough to put in the time, efffort and desire to warrant being called "Dad".

The '60s & Now: the same but different

pservelle — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 10:05:06 EDT

I graduated college from S.F. State in 1965 and I have been an Obama volunteer for the past 15 mo. I was raised in a racially mixed neighborhood and attended racially mixed schools. I marched against the Vietnam War. I witnessed the riots and the assassinations. The political and economic landscape of the '60s and now are in many ways the same. But, I believe are also fundamentally different. It is fairly easy see how much is the same. Unpopular wars, the racial divide, the haves and the have nots, an unresponsive government and the generational divide. The differences: First, the wars. Then eveyone had to choose sides and shut down dialogue between the two sides. Now, there is one-side with the dialogue over how quickly to get our men and women home. The racial divide is coming to the ballot box and not to the streets. The have nots are a growing majority who work everyday to earn less and pay more. There is growing recognition that if you want a responsive government you must participate in your governing. The young are doing more and protesting less. The biggest difference I see is being for something rather than against something. It is building vs. tearing down. They both can feel good, but we can take pride in building.

McCain= History; Obama=Making History

pservelle — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 12:11:28 EDT

I've decided to change my bumper sticker; after 15 months my old one is pretty worn. Hand-made, the old one was simple (as stickers usually are). An American flag followed by a hand-written "Barack Obama '08". My new one will also be hand-written, have the same American flag and will now read: "McCain=History; Obama=Making History". If you see it, wave your whole hand and not just a finger; I'll wave back.

"Independent " Democrat

pservelle — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 14:06:37 EST

Two diametrically opposite forces are at work in 21st Century American Presidential politics. The first is the strangle hold that the two major political parties have on determining who will be President. And, the second is that a large and growing pool of voters believe that neither of the major parties represent their interests. The implications of these opposing forces are profound for a participatory democracy like our own.

To date, the stronger of the two forces has been the political parties. They have won the Presidency despite the fact that they do not represent a governing majority. For the past twenty-five years (post President Reagan),
the "winning" party represents a minority of voters. And, once elected,
represent a "declining" minority. The parties have controlled who "wins" but are unable to "govern".

This inability of the parties to govern should not be surprising. The parties have become a home for special interests; the interest of the country and of the majority of voters are a second order consideration.

The second force, the one propelled by voters who feel that the parties do not address their needs and those of common concerns is, if numbers are the judge, growing with each presidential election. The main way these neglected voters express themselves is by "not" declaring for either party and instead opt to be identified as "independents" or, perhaps more accurately, "decline to state".

In the primaries of both parties this year there has been a visible increase in the number of primary voters identifying themselves as independents.
The party rules, however, continue to "herd" independents into one slot of the other. McCain, the once independent, becomes the Republican nominee. Obama's "different kind of Democrat" must court and cater to "superdelegates" (the real party insiders) to have a chance at the nomination. As the nominees of the two parties, how can we expect them
"not" to "toe the line"?

Problem is, America cannot afford politics as usual. So, what options are their?

As daily readers of the DesertSun, who follow politics, know, I have been supporting Obama since last February. What you may not know is that I am registered "decline to state" independent. I recommend that Sen. Obama immediately make a major announcement declaring that he is commited to an "independent" agenda; and, if nominated will "not" necessarily support the Party platform. Further, he should urge that in the remaining primaries/caucuses that those who want "independence" to be the guiding principle of the Party, to vote for him. If they want the Party rules to prevail, then vote for Hilary.

This would represnt the kind of "Change that I can believe in."

Barack Obama-Maria Shriver: A Ticket for the 21st Century

pservelle — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 13:13:50 EST

Americans across the country are coming together for the promise of what they wish and know America can become; a nation united by the common good that is greater than any of our differences.

Obama represents the first half of that promise. A Vice President that can provide the other half is necessary to complete the promise.

Maria Shriver is worthy and capable of being that person.

Think about it.

DECLINE TO STATE VOTERS

pservelle — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 22:37:54 EST

California election laws permit Decline to State (i.e., independent voters)to vote in the primary. HOWEVER, there is an essential step if those DTS wish to vote for of the Democratic candidates for President. The often over-looked step is that a Democratic BALLOT must be requested. Failing to request a Democratic ballot will result in the DTS voter being given a ballot WITHOUT a place to vote in the Presidential Primary. There will be a very large number of DTS voters showing up next Tuesday. They WILL NOT be asked if they wish a specific ballot...they MUST ASK for one. If you are a DTS, tell your friends that if they want a voice in choosing their next President, they MUST REQUEST a Democratic BALLOT. Finally, tell them OBAMA needs them to do this or else they may end up with you know who!

A Winning Combination

pservelle — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 10:56:43 EST

A winning combination: equal parts "Hope", "Organization", "Effort" and "Patience". Applicable to goals of every kind, personal and communal. Just ask Barack Obama.

He applied this winning combination to his own life and he is now showing the rest of us how to apply it at home and in our communities.

Tonight, in Iowa, we will see how it works in politics too!

Tip of my hat to National Obama Campaign Team

pservelle — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 18:20:53 EST

You guys (and that includes gals) are doing a terrific job. Your game plan and execution are un-matched. The teaming of the best candidate (by far), the best campaign (bar none) and the greatest volunteers is, to put it plainly, a winning combination. Recognizing much heavy lifting remains, it sure feels good to see that together we will succeed. I, for one, am humbled to realize that we are about to achieve something historic.

It is up to each of us

pservelle — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 20:24:50 EDT

To paraphrase WC Fields: I'm not really interested in joining any group that would allow me to be a member.

Since I hired me as CEO of Obama 45th, I can, and do now fire me.

WANT REAL CHANGE...START DOING SOMETHING YOURSELF...BE YOU...SPEAK FROM YOUR HEART...become part of the solution...don't let others tell you about you...YOU ARE AS WISE AS THE PERSON NEXT TO YOU IN THE CHECK-OUT LINE...WE all have RIGHTS...but let's do it the old fashion way...everyone has the Right to express opinions; everyone has the RIGHT to meet with anyone they wish...everyone has but ONE VOTE....don't settle for a "split decision" let it be by over-whelming points on every judges score card...."LADIES...and GENTLEMEN...BY UNANIMOUS DECISIONS...the next President of the United States of America is....?

All Americans R 4 Barack Obama

We've changed our name but not our mission. The name change reflects more accurately what our goal is for the presidential campaign for Barack Obama. This Group is not about partisan politics; this Group's primary focus is how can all of us come together for the common good.

The ultimate goal of the "All Americans R 4 Barack Obama" Group is to transcend party labels and petty party politics. Our common problems are too large for any one group, alone, to fix. We must recognize and give alliance to the belief, as so profoundly articulated by one of the least experienced of all of our U.S. Presidents, Abraham Lincoln.

Quoting the 16th President during the Civil War of the 1860s, "...that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain--that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom--and that, government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth" from his address at Gettysburg.

Barack Obama is the "Abraham Lincoln" of our time. And, our time is now. We can pick ourselves up, brush off our excuses, and join together with our neighbors, not as strangers but as fellow American. Fellow Americans who are willing to work together to pursue our shared hopes and dreams. That someday we will come together as one people and together we will climb to the mountain top from where all of us can marvel at the sight of the Promise Land. No it won't be easy but together the journey itself will bless us all.

May you use Peace as a bridge to the light where all people are valued for what they do and not for how much money they accumulate. May peace be your constant companion.

Keeping Hope ALive

Cuffed and Restrained

pservelle — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 17:56:47 EDT

It is 1am Saturday 10/13 in Palm Springs, CA. I just arrived home. I spent thursday night in Oakland; Istayed at the Airport Hilton. Friday morning I was to meet there with a friend from HS who I hadn't seen in 45 yrs. Without knowing, both of us were volunteers for Barack. We didn't meet at the Hilton in the morning but, thank God he was there at the hospital wher I was finally released at around 5 pm.

I had lost my friend's cell # and on Friday morning had not heard from him. I loaded up my two carry on bags and headed outside to wait for him. It started to sprinkle and there was a nearby Gazebo and ducked in to get out of the rain. Living in PS but having grown up in the S.F. bay area, I missed not having raining days so the Gazebo was perfect; I could stay dry but I also could enjoy the rain. I always bring books and music for the times sure to come when I need to wait. Friday was no exception; for a one night away from home I had maybe a dozen discs and a half dozen books.

I took everything out of my bags and sat them around within reach where a sat on the Gazebo floor. Then it started. I was surprised, because I had alerted several Hilton staffers they i was going to wait in the Gazebo for my friend to call or show up.

The first was one, female security person. "What are you doing?" Staying dry, enjoying the rain and waiting for my friend. "You staying at the Hilton?" I did last night. "Well why don't you get out of the rain and wait in your room?" I'm not in the rain; the Gazebo floor is dry and I like the rain; and indeed it started to rain even ha

TURN THAT MICROPHONE BACK ON…I PAID FOR IT!

pservelle — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 17:05:54 EDT

TURN THAT MICROPHONE BACK ON…I PAID FOR IT! (+) by: pservelleWed Oct 10, 2007 at 13:40:39 PM PDT Isn't it amazing
The Obama Campaign & Movement

TURN THAT MICROPHONE BACK ON…I PAID FOR IT!

Freedom of expression under attack from those who want to "control the microphone".
Strange bed-fellows try to stifle public discussions in public places.

Local governments are united in opposition to permiting public debate and discussions in public places including public buildings. (such as, libraries, community centers, city hall, city counsel chambers; etc) No, I am not joking...loss of freedom of expression undermines the whole idea of participatory democracy. Participatory democracy requires informed citizens who can dialogue with others in their community; but why should they be denied access to public meeting places. (Note to all of you public officials, we are not interested in your excuse, it's the law. Tell what accomodations you will commit to.)

And, what about all these city counsel candidates; whose side are they on?Just maybe if they had public places to discuss issues with concerned citizens, (and I don't mean forums with 30 sec available to talk about our future) maybe they would feel that litering the roadways with name recognition signs would be less important and even foregone.

Controlling the microphone is not limited to city officials; it is also appearing in the blogshere. A self describe progressive web site is leaning on me to post less or...?

We have already loss freedom of expression with the MSM and Fox who only want their version to be seen.

A number of local bloggers and political reporters have been willing to hear me out...of course, to them, Freedom of expression is a big deal. I invite them to go with me when I visit any of our city halls. Freedom of expression is not alive and well here in the 45th CD.

Discuss :: (0 Comments)

Making head-way for Obama in reddest of red districts

pservelle — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 15:59:03 EDT

CA 45th CD is Keeping Hope Alive; please visit: www.WeR4Obama.co.nr (note: NOT.COM) Use Mozilla Firefox for best viewing. Under “Mindset”, we are getting ready to roll out a new feature, called: The Hill/Billy Prairie Home Companion. Here you will be able to add your own Hill/Billy story.

1st entry: Having it at least 3-ways as usual; how to avoid taking a definite position. (soon to be posted)

Thanks be to God, I'm not the only one Keeping Hope Alive

pservelle — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 13:00:06 EDT

gardenbookie (See profile | I'm a fan of gardenbookie)

Now we are engaged in a great (civil) war, testing whether that nation, or any nation, so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war.

The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us ?that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion ?that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain ?that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom ?and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth. (in part - the Gettysburg Address)

It's time for less talk, more action. Nay. It's past time. It's past time for the "united people" of the "united states" to "unite". No partisanship. No right/left wing. No religious bias. No racial lines. No gender lines.

Who wants to start?

Keeping Hope Alive

What is with the Democratic establishment supporting HRC

pservelle — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 12:00:51 EDT

To the charge I am doing a disservice to the Democratic Party: only because the DP is falling lock step behind the Clintons who cannot lead even if they win. When the DP puts Country ahead of self-interest then I will see what they have to say. Until then, I will listen to Barack.

Obama reminded the crowd of United Auto Workers members in Illinois and the crowd in Aiken that he opposed invading Iraq at a time when most other politicians — including chief rivals Hillary Rodham Clinton and John Edwards — supported it. Obama expressed his opposition in the fall of 2002 when he was a state senator and considering a run for the U.S. Senate.

"We need to ask those who voted for that war, 'How could we give the president a check and then be surprised when he decides to cash it?'" Obama told the South Carolina crowd.

when "this war is over, we can finally get back to facing the challenges we face here at home, the challenges you're grappling with every day."

The first-term Illinois senator said the war now costs between $10 billion and $12 billion a month. He noted that President Bush had vetoed a $35 billion measure expanding a children's health program and wants almost $190 billion for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Clinton had criticized him for being willing to meet with leaders in Iran and Venezuela. Clinton claimed "you'll lose a propaganda war" by talking with them, Obama said.

"I am not worried about losing a propaganda battle with some petty tyrant," he said.

He also said there are "folks in al-Qaida who we can't negotiate with. We've got to take them out. I will not hesitate to do what is necessary to protect the United States of America."

WELL, DUH!

pservelle — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 00:22:46 EDT

What candidate for President has the best chance to enlist the largest majority of all Americans to unite behind and to support his/her vision for America?

This is a question for every voter to ask themselves. There is no single right answer. Your opinion and mine are entitled to exist side by side in the public arena. Then, debate/discussion/education/comparisons take place and are essential to participatory democracy.

When someone suggests you are being un-fair, the larger community will by their own voice evaluate and the community will collectively determine is it fair or not. If the larger community decides that you are wrong, you are entitled to try and change their opinion or to accept their collective judgment. If you choose to do the latter, and apology would probably be accepted.

“Those polling categories that presume to define the vast chasm between

Us do not, Obama reminds us, add up to the sum of our concerns or hint at

Where our hearts otherwise intersect.” quote from John Balzar, Los Angeles Times.

when you are wrong, admit it

pservelle — Sun, 07 Oct 2007 11:21:48 EDT

Isn't it amazing The Obama Campaign & Movement The flip side of freedom of expression is

when you are wrong, admit it

MoveOn was wrong and should admit it;

Rush was wrong and should admit it:

President Bush was wrong and should admit it;

Hillary was wrong and should admit it

Local city officials are wrong and should admit it.

People tend to get tired when freedom of expression is used to justify irresponsible behavior. Those of us who believe that freedom of expression is both the heart and soul of a participatory democracy must also remind everyone that with this precious freedom there is a responsibility to take responsibility. When freedom of expression allows you to say anything , admit when you are wrong; apologize for un-intended but real hurt your expression caused; after you have cooled off, re-state your position in a more honest way.

In late Jan. of 2009, we will, I pray, have a newly elected President of the USA. Can any partisan politician lead and be followed by a large majority of Americans? I'm asking...Keep Hope Alive. Visit: www.BarackObama.com and www.WeR4Obama.co.nr

I support Real change not Replay; if that is wrong tell me why and I will admit it.

Hi -

First, let me say that we appreciate your joining the Calitics

community. But, (a) the diaries you're posting don't really have

much to do with California politics, (b) we're extremely cautious

about presidential primary diaries unless there's something REALLY

specific to California, as we've seen other communities turn into

nothing but flame wars on the primary (see, e.g., MyDD), and (c)

posting three or four in quick succession like you've been doing

tends to flood the diary section, crowding out other people's more on-

topic diaries. We'd prefer not to take them down, but it would be

great if you could try to stay more on-topic in future postings.

Thanks again,

Paul, while I appreciate and admire your dedication to Barack Obama, I am not as appreciative of your attacks on the Clintons, as you have done in the past and with this email. We have many members of DOD who are supporting Hillary, as is their right, as well as Richardson, Edwards, Kucinach. I have not received one email from them attacking Obama.....and I know from a couple that I have heard from they do not appreciate your attacking their candidate. Again, I appreciate your admiration of Obama, but I believe you may be doing a disservice to him with the type of email you just sent.

Hi, Paul,

Well, Jeremy's comments are appropos. Calitics is a blog devoted to

California politics. Maybe you should focus on the Calitics calendar

section to highlight local Obama events. You can post national

political stuff on Daily Kos, it's more appropriate for the

presidential race. And like Jeremy notes, if something comes up that

is really specific to California and the Obama campaign, then it's

perfect for Calitics.

Paul, I really do appreciate all your enthusiasm for Obama. I may not

always say it, but I do. It's great. However, I don't think it's all

that productive to channel all that positive enthusiasm into negative

attacks. After all, isn't Obama's campaign supposed to be about hope?

Sorry, but negative attacks on Hillary Clinton and other Democrats do

NOT give me hope. And if we go down this road of negativity, we are

NOT projecting hope, but rather desperation in throwing stinkbombs at

the frontrunner. So please, Paul, keep up the good work for Obama

Keep Hope Alive

pservelle — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 17:53:49 EDT

I beg you to wake up people: the Clintons are too polarizing to govern; and, yes, that are dishonest. Stop treating them with kid gloves: they put themselves first, have convinced the Democratic Party establishment to put the Party before Country, don’t let them get away with it. Renew your commitment to our future and not our past.

This is who I am:

I am 64/w/m; I have 1 wife, 2 young children (13& 9); I receive social security disability because I have Parkinson's. I have donated 1,000+ hrs to Obama and rank in top 50 users of MyBO. I received my Ph.D in Economics from the Claremont Graduate School in Claremont, CA. I taught for a number of years at Whittier College (Nixon's) where I met Geo McGovern; I was awarded a Post Doc at Brookings in Wash. D.C. ; I was staff economist in '77 % '78 for then Sen McGovern. I was the Democratic nominee in the old 33rd CD and lost to David Drier in 1982. I watched Adali Stevenson and Estas Kefauver on TV in '56 when I was 13. I worked for JFK in 1960 when I was a senior at Ravenswood High School in East Palo Alto, CA. One of my best friend's parent were relocated to internment camps because they were believed to be more Japanese than American. I pray to be proven wrong but I fear another Great Depression looming. Don't give me all the old Clinton excuses...seems they did ok at least for themselves. And all you office holders, and special interest groups instead of playing hard-ball with me...just show America how people are going to rally around the Clintons after their election and why people can be expected to behave that way. I lost my first wife and baby daughters to an accident more than 30 years ago...I am fighting for my country, for my two living children and my two other children (who daily give me their blessing to keep doing and keep going) so any thought you might have about me leaving you alone you can forget about. Love your Country...if the Clintons really ldid that would discontinue their campaign.

Sacrifice the Party for the Good of the Country

pservelle — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 17:02:45 EDT

Sacrifice the Party for the Good of the Country…No Way

The functionaries of the Democratic Party, yes that includes Democratic US Senators, Democratic members of the House, Governors and all the way down to local Democratic club officers are united in putting their Party allegiance ahead of their allegiance to what good for the country.

They know, perhaps better than most, that the whole of America is on a collision course with disaster. And they know, perhaps better than most, that the enormity of the problems facing the Country are too large to be addressed by any one segment of the political community; be that Republican, Democrat or other.

Winning is not essential to problem-solving, governance is essential.

Let us look at the political landscape if the Clintons win again. It will look fundamentally less coming together and more grid-locked that when Bill was president.

It is a demonstrable fact that Hillary will be more polarizing than Bill.

And, Bill did not receive a majority either time. In neither of his wins in the General election to become President did he reach 50%.

His inability to bring about real change (or hardly any change really) was blamed on the relentless attacks from the right. Whether this charge is true or not, the record speaks for itself: no health care reform; a punitive and Republican styled welfare reform; signing away American jobs via NAFTA;

failure to head-off further blood-shed in the Middle East and in particular to address genocide against the Kurds; you can add your own examples I know.

But what about the economy stupid! As a card carrying Ph.D. in economics, I must confess that only attention given to weather is there more talk about something over which we have less control. When economic forces are with you, anyone can claim credit and when they blow the other direction, no one takes the blame. This fact remains: when good things happen in the economy, seldom is it due from explicit action and on the isolated times when there appears to have been a connect between explicit policy, the cause and effect are years apart. The huge increase in the deficit during Reagan’s presidency (resulting from the combined “policy” to cut taxes and dramatically increased defense spending) was the real hero for the performance of the economy during the 1990s; Bill can take the credit, which is his way, but he did little of consequence for the economy one way or the other,

For whatever complicated or not reasons, given the chance the Clintons always exaggerate their achievements and minimize their part in failed policy.

Give them counseling but don’t give them the keys to our future.

Beware the wolves in sheep's clothing

pservelle — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 03:29:36 EDT

It should have been a tip-off, duh, the old Trojan horse ploy. In times like these, you need to exercise extra caution when deciding whether to invite someone in.

Take our old friend Hillary of Troy and her declaration, “I am a modern progressive”. Even for the Clinton’s that is a stroke of genius in the annuals of democratic double speak.

For all of you non-card carrying Clintonites, the translation is this. It is found in that section of Clinton double speak that is devoted to taking over the rest of what remains of the real democratic party.

Paraphrasing: our successful, to date, infiltration of the old Democratic Party (I.e. Martin, Bobby, John, FDR, Lincoln) was uncontested because we came in from the right rear. To complete our mission it is essential to infiltrate the party faithful. That means we must take control of the party leadership. As always we will begin by pledging our allegiance.

Next, we must devote every resource to control the democratic primary. We will carry this mission out using SOP. In this instance, let them believe that we are really focused on the General election.

As carried forward by the MSM, the strategy is being executed flawlessly.

Hence this emergency alert warning to all of you who have yet to join the insanity of the “clinton cool-aid brigade”. BEWARE THE WOLVES IN SHEEP’S CLOTHING. Be particularly careful with these all ready infiltrated groups: #1 All Democratic office holders and other senior members of the DLC and local Party regulars. #2 the conveniently unidentified internet advance special forces and all new online Groups claiming some connection to real Progressive forces.

To date, the only link to their true identify is their focus on “winning” as opposed to “governing”.

The only “truth serum” is to ask them to explain how they expect to govern after being elected by less than half of all voters as was the case with the demonstrably more popular Clinton, Bubba. In neither of his wins in the General election to become President did he reach 50%.

failure to head-off further blood-shed in the Middle East and in particular to address genocide against the Kurds; you can add your own examples I know.

For whatever complicated or not reasons, given the chance the Clintons always exaggerate their achievements and minimize their part in failed policy.

Give them counseling but don’t give them the keys to our future.

All Americans R 4 Obama

pservelle — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 20:16:54 EDT

We can pick ourselves up, brush off our excuses, and join together with our neighbors, not as strangers but as fellow Americans who are willing to work together to pursue our shared hopes and dreams. When we come together as one people there will no dream that is impossible to realize. Together we will climb to the mountain top and from there all of us can marvel at the sight of the Promise Land. No it won't be easy but together the journey itself will bless us all.

May you use Peace as a bridge to the light where all people are valued for what they do and not for how much money they accumulate. May peace be your constant companion.

eyes on the prize part II

pservelle — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 09:17:39 EDT

Let's keep our eyes on the prizeBy pservelle - Oct 1st, 2007 at 9:14 am EDTAlso listed in: 10 groups

The 3rd qtr is now history. The Group Challenge was fun and energizing. While the group winners have not yet been identiified, every group that participated is, in my book, a winner; because by becoming engaged, we all helped to expand the base upon which this whole, incredible, amazing, unbelievably campaign lives, grows and glows. I personally feel like I'm more in harmony with the Uniiverse than I have ever been (will you still love me, I am 64). For all of you, my fellow believers in the Obama miracle, thank you for letting me a part of this wonderful community. God bless each of you and may peace be with you always.

Paul from CA 45th CD