Generation Obama - Atlanta

How To Rebuild Health Care Without Spending More Money

apinstein — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 12:04:49 EST

The US Health Care system is a complete mess. Whether you have great coverage, no coverage, or somewhere in the middle, you aren't getting the most for your money, and the main reason is that the Health Care market is simply designed wrong.

Let's take a look at how Health Care works today, and examine why this causes the problems we see every day, like spiraling costs and lack of access.

Over 90% of those with health insurance do not directly pay for their insurance premiums.
Those with insurance rarely pay more than an insignificant portion of individual procedures through co-pays.
Nearly 70% of those with insurance get it through work.
Most plans have onerous restrictions on pre-existing conditions.
Insurance premiums are not taxable, but only for those that get insurance through work.

The net result of these main facts about the current health care market include:

Consumers of health care have no idea about the true cost of care, nor do they care. Thus, there is no market mechanism that keeps prices competitive.
The core idea of insurance for insurance holders to be protected from a loss that they cannot bear individually. It should not protect you from any loss (ie spending), only from a large loss that you could not bear on your own. Since most insurance plans require very little out-of-pocket expense on the part of policy holders, they are not incentivized to minimize the use of insurance.
Since insurers are not required to cover pre-existing conditions, the marketplace has generally adopted a no-pre-existing-condition coverage policy. Thus, for anyone that has a health issue, it makes it nearly impossible to change jobs. This is bad for the economy (people don't move to the positions where they can be the most productive), and bad for the individual, as they cannot leverage the market to improve their salary.
For small businesses and independent contractors, health care is particularly expensive because it is difficult to get good coverage at a reasonable price, and typically unless there are 5+ people in your business, you cannot get a group plan, meaning you cannot pay your premiums tax-free.

Barack Obama Inaugural Bus Trip From: Atlanta - To: Washington D.C.

INAUGURAL from Union City, GA — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 00:20:17 EST

Event Name:Barack Obama Inaugural Bus TripDescription:Come and experience history in the making as you bear witness to Senator Barack Obama give his historic inauguration speech when he takes office as the first black president of the United States of America on Tuesday, January 20, 2009. Register for the event at www.event-ology.com

Congratulations, Mr. President!

Tammy — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 23:17:51 EST

Thanks to everyone who helped make this day a reality!

Military Deployment Inside America???

Tammy — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 14:05:23 EDT

Regardless of your party affiliation, I am asking everyone to stop a moment and think about the things you love that make this country great. I bet after you think a while, it all boils down to being able to live your live making your own choices and live what we think of as a normal life free of fear for making those choices: whether to be religious and how, having any kind of conversation with anyone, whether or not to own a gun, what kind of job you want, where you want to live, the kind of job or career you have, etc.

Let freedom ring again thoughout our great United States! For the last several years, we have been ruled by an administration that has instilled fear in us in order to rule us, an administration that has degraded the liberties guaranteed in our Constitution. Living in fear is not a free life and is instead a weakening of our great democratic republic. I ask you to contact your representatives and add your voice to mine. Say to them we want freedom, not fear, and demand they act to protect our freedoms. I share the below with you not to inspire fear, but instead to inspire patriotism.

I have recently heard some very disturbing news. On October 1st, what is sometimes called the Bush Brigade (brigade = 3000 - 4000 soldiers) was deployed somewhere inside the United States. this brigade reports directly to the president. In any other administration, I would give this action the benefit of the doubt. But our current president has shown that he has repeatedly been willing to lie to us and take illegal actions. Below is an excerpt from Naomi Wolfe's article on Huffington Post yesterday:

"First, the founding generation set a bright line to keep military from policing our streets in 1807 because they knew from their own experience how easily military forces -- King George's -- could subdue civilian society. The First Brigade is Bush's force: they are not answerable to Congress or to the Governors of states: they are answerable to the Commander in Chief. In an Alternet posting, I interviewed Air Force Colonel (retired) David Antoon who noted that the troops must obey the president, even if he asks them to arrest Congress or fire on civilians or attack media outlets. If they do not obey orders, he notes, they face five years in
prison.

We should not have to remind ourselves that these scenarios are unlikely to understand that this power is dangerous. Antoon himself calls the deployment 'ominous.' Troops on our streets makes us something less than a democracy: one definition of a police state is when a leader sends his own military units into civilian streets. Meanwhile the civilian policing of citizens is becoming more brutal. Hundreds of preemptive arrests took place in St Paul, dozens of journalists were arrested."

It is supposed to be illegal for these troops to enforce civil laws, but the president put a signing statement on the law that basically says he's going to ignore that portion of the law (found what I think is a conspiracy site after following a few links in the articles above, but the text quoted is directly from law documents). I'm not saying he has already used these troops, but the potential is there based on his disregard for personal liberties thus far:

"The use of U.S. troops in law enforcment duties is a complete violation of the Posse Comitatus Act and the Insurrection Act, which substantially limit the powers of the federal government to use the military for law enforcement unless under precise and extreme circumstances.

Section 1385 of the Posse Comitatus Act states, “Whoever, except in cases and under circumstances expressly authorized by the Constitution or Act of Congress, willfully uses any part of the Army or the Air Force as a posse comitatus or otherwise to execute the laws shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than two years, or both.”

Under the John Warner Defense Authorization Act, signed by President Bush on October 17, 2006, the law was changed to state, “The President may employ the armed forces to restore public order in any State of the United States the President determines hinders the execution of laws or deprives people of a right, privilege, immunity, or protection named in the Constitution and secured by law or opposes or obstructs the execution of the laws of the United States or impedes the course of justice under those laws.”

However, these changes were repealed in their entirety by HR 4986: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008, reverting back to the original state of the Insurrection Act of 1807. Despite this repeal, President Bush attached a signing statement saying that he did not feel bound by the repeal.

The original text of the Insurrection Act severely limits the power of the President to deploy troops within the United States.

For troops to be deployed, a condition has to exist that, '(1) So hinders the execution of the laws of that State, and of the United States within the State, that any part or class of its people is deprived of a right, privilege, immunity, or protection named in the Constitution and secured by law, and the constituted authorities of that State are unable, fail, or refuse to protect that right, privilege, or immunity, or to give that protection; or (2) opposes or obstructs the execution of the laws of the United States or impedes the course of justice under those laws. In any situation covered by clause (1), the State shall be considered to have denied the equal protection of the laws secured by the Constitution.'”

Again, I share this information not to cause panic or fear. I have faith in our people and our democracy, and we can choose to make a difference. Please support our lawful government, and contact your representatives.

McCain campaign tactics In a single word: Contrafalsy

Tammy — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 21:18:02 EDT

Contrafalsy: a false controversy created to distract people from the more important issues at hand.

With the smears being laid thicker than usual by the McCain/Palin campaign in recent days, I had to coin a new term for them. And it's something that sadly, the McCain campaign might even proud of... Their VP candidate has become an expert at contrafalsy in record time.

Ayers and tonight's debate

Tammy — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 12:29:28 EDT

Saw a lovely comment on MSNBC's First Read today that I just had to share:

Tonight is Barack Obama's chance to put the Bill Ayers distraction to rest. Even though candidates are "not supposed to ask each other direct questions" he can put McCain on the spot. Character issues will surely come up, and Obama can pivot to: "Senator McCain, weeks ago your campaign clearly implied that I called your running mate a pig when I used a common expression to describe your policies that you often used yourself. After creating quite an uproar, when later asked directly, you admitted that you didn't think I was referring to your running mate that way. Now she is going on and on about my Chicago neighbor who is very involved in education today but did some things I've described as despicable 40 years ago. So I ask you tonight to look me in the eye and tell me whether you think I share the beliefs that caused Bill Ayers to do what he did back when I was 8 years old." Make the Old Man put up or shut up.

Negative campaigning is an act of desperation and it won't work on the undecided voters who hold our future in their hands.

Obama/Biden '08

Tackman San Diego, CA (Sent Tuesday, October 07, 2008 9:50 AM)

Registering out of state students in Georgia “YES YOU CAN”

Dexter "Emory U MBA" Porter Feb 5th Political Director, GA Obama for America — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 18:34:21 EDT

This has truly been a wonders experience helping to turn this state blue but I would be remiss if I didn’t point out something that something has gotten under my skin since April 2007. That being the complete misinformation given to Georgia students centered on voter registration status and permanent residency status.

I have witnessed firsthand that school administrators, teachers and even financial aid councilors from Georgia HBCU’s practically don’t seem to grasp there is legally a difference between voter status and permanent residency status when related to Pell grants and out of state scholarship requirements.

Surprise, there is a difference and Surprise, many of these school administrators, teachers and even financial aid councilors while they have good intentions have been some of the key persons that have hampered our voter drive operations by encouraging their out of state students not to register to vote in Georgia for fear of losing out of state Pell Grants, Loans and Scholarships.

Despite even the efforts of the Georgia Republican Secretary of State, putting out information to the contrary these persons continue to fill the heads of American future brain trust with nonsense, for example out of state students honor at Atlanta’s Clark Atlanta University being told if they registered to vote in Georgia they would lose their presidential scholarships because they had to be registered in New York State.

Or my favorite one, a school financial aid councilor informed a group of Delaware students registering to vote in Georgia and not the state they are from is a felony. Now these are the men and women we Americans have entrusted with the future brain trust and they can’t even get this simple fact straight how are they going to prepare them for the workforce?

Tomfoolery at its best.

The Language of Leadership

Tammy — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 03:16:39 EDT

Deanie Mills makes some interesting observations about the qualities of fictional and factual leaders Huggington Post today:

"The seriousness of our situation has forced the media narrative to reflect reality for the first time, maybe, in a decade or more. The language of leadership is changing in a way that expresses that.

This is a moment in our history that will tell the true tale of our national character. Will we continue to indulge our weakness for mythology, or will we step up to who we really are as a people? We are made of much sterner stuff than it has seemed in recent years. Our politics has been dominated by the silly and the surreal, but those days are over.

That is not, as Obama says, who we are.

We are still the same people who struggled to settle a brutal new land, who fought against an occupying army for our independence, who bled and died to preserve the union and end slavery, who rode to the rescue of our allies in two terrible world wars, and who led the world in space-age innovation and crackling creativity.

We don't need fake heroes anymore. We are our own heroes. We've had enough drama and theatrics, and we know it. We're ready for a real leader, and we're ready to do our part to help save ourselves.

That is who we are. Not who the myth-makers pretend we are."

Georgia Team Obama stop with the misinformation on Voting

Dexter "Emory U MBA" Porter Feb 5th Political Director, GA Obama for America — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 18:15:12 EDT

Georgia state law says that "No person shall solicit votes in any manner or by any means or method, nor shall any person distribute any campaign literature, newspaper, booklet, pamphlet, card, sign, or any other written or printed matter of any kind, nor shall any person conduct any exit poll or public opinion poll with voters on any primary or election day: (1) Within 150 feet of the outer edge of any building within which a polling place is established; (2)Within any polling place; or (3) Within 25 feet of any voter standing in line to vote at any polling place." [Source: Official Code of Georgia Annotated 21-2-414(a)]

More specifically, the Georgia Secretary of State's office advises voters that "No person may campaign; distribute literature of written or printed matter of any kind; wear campaign buttons, signs, pins, stickers, T-shirts, etc.; circulate petitions; or perform similar activities within 150 feet of the building in which a polling place is located."

What The People Are Searching For

Tammy — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:54:39 EDT

My hat's off to Carrie Dan of NBC and National Journal for an article that explored an angle of politics I hadn't thought to wonder about... what are people really searching for about the candidates? Carrie Dan was emulating Russert in her let the facts tell the tale approach to this article. Thank you, Carrie Dann, for such a refreshingly professional piece of journalism!

The facts she reports present a very interesting narrative of the recent campaign season. See below for an excerpt...

"Fact versus Fiction
Yet web users' sometimes perverse pursuits provide an unfair picture of the legitimate issues and even bold questions sometimes asked of search engines' sophisticated logarithms.

During the week of September 13, for example, as America's economic underpinnings were starting to become un-pinned, the term "Obama view on economy" clocked in as one of the "fastest moving" (aka increasingly popular) searches driving traffic to Obama's website.

Last week, "John McCain Spain" debuted at number 10 on the list of "John McCain" search terms after the senator offered an unexpected answer to a Spanish-language radio host who asked if he would agree to meet with Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Zapatero. (McCain's unusually cool response led some to wonder if the candidate confused Zapatero with the leader of another country.)

The vast majority of searches for each candidate's name appear to be exploratory in nature, with general terms like "John McCain issues" or "Joe Biden info" acting as portals for information for users starting from scratch to learn more about the White House nominees.

Biographical information is also in high demand, particularly for Barack Obama, whose mother, father, sister, and wife are also all popular subjects for searches. Almost 20% of the top 100 search terms for Obama in the past month were ones seeking information on his age, family, and upbringing.

But interestingly, Obama is the only one of the four nominees for whom "affair" is not a popular search.

Hitwise data for the same time period showed that web users wondered feverishly about the extramarital exploits of Palin (rank No. 7 on her search term list), McCain (No. 29), and to a lesser extent Biden (No. 294). Web users also appear to be fascinated with McCain's first wife, whom he divorced after an overlapping courtship of the much younger Cindy McCain."

The real reason for the debate gambit?

Tammy — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 10:05:45 EDT

Just saw this posted:

Breaking News from Big Eddie:
McCain Camp insiders say Palin "clueless"
Capitol Hill sources are telling me that senior McCain people
are more than concerned about Palin. The campaign has held
a mock debate and a mock press conference; both are being described as "disastrous." One senior McCain aide was quoted as saying, "What are we going to do?" The McCain people want to move this first debate to some later, undetermined date, possibly never. People on the inside are saying the Alaska Governor is "clueless."

Here's the site: http://www.bigeddieradio.com/

I don't know about you, but I've thought for a while that Palin didn't have near the experience even in campaigning to be vice president. As a woman, I'm insulted that McCain chose Palin when there were ever so many more experienced Republican women that could have been selected.

So, if what I've shown above is true, the McCain debate gambit seems to make much more sense... pospone the first presidential debate to the time for the vp debate, and then whoops... so sorry we can't find a date that works for the VP debate and Palin gets her get out of debate free card.

Your thoughts?

Guess Who?

Carl — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:13:27 EDT

Lets play a game of Guess Who! Won't we be blessed to have him behind the controls?

A 72 year old senator who is widely regarded as an expert on foreign policy however was caught on tape stating that Al Qaeda (Sunni) regularly crosses the border into Iran (Shia) to receive weapons training [ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6GBdyws5YU ] and that the hotbed of terrorist activity takes place along the Iraq/Pakistan border. [ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NC0Y7zMcn_4 ] He also constantly makes references to the country of Czechoslovakia even though it has not existed since 1993 [ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IW-yr3UYr_w ] and during a recent radio interview seemed to imply that Spain was part Latin America instead of Europe and the Prime Minister of that country is a potential adversary to the United States even though they were part of the Coalition of the Willing and at one time had troops fighting in Iraq.

[ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYF_wopmViY ]

We can't take the low road

Tammy — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 09:35:03 EDT

I just wrote a letter to the Obama campaign thanking them for their hard work on behalf of our candidate but asking them to be careful with their choices in advertising during the rest of the campaign.

What prompted this was an inaccurate Spanish language advertisement that I saw today. In the ad, it equated Rush Limbaugh's immigration policy with John McCain's. Now I'm not at all a John McCain fan, but I have to speak the truth here: Their policies are completely different, so different that it was why Limbaugh didn't initially support John McCain. To equate the two is a distortion of the facts, and honestly, I'm disappointed to see this tactic used by our campaign.

John McCain and his campaign have made too many blunders, lies and memory lapses for our campaign to need to use McCain's tactics of lies, distortion and taking things out of context. For once, the mainstream media has finally started calling McCain on his lies and distortions, so I asked the Obama campaign to please make sure the media don't have a reason to call us on the same carpet.

I am a passionate supporter of Barack Obama in part because of his promise to run a different kind of campaign, and I think the general public is beginning to see that Barack is focused on the issues, while McCain is focused on saying whatever he can that he thinks will get him elected.

So Obama campaign, let's continue what Barack has been doing this week on the campaign trail: staying focused on the important issues to all Americans and at the same time calling McCain on his lies or lapses. As you see, we have plenty to choose from: fundamentals of the economy are strong, Palin and her earmarks, Sunni/Shia confusion, Obama raising taxes, againat AIG bailout then for it, etc. These and the very many others are the reason John McCain doesn't have the judgment to be a good president.

We don't need to use John McCain's tactics against him... His own words will work just fine.

If you feel as I do, please contact our Obama campaign and share your views with them and ask your friends to do the same. Thanks and have a wonderful day!

More on McCain's Lies

Tammy — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 12:17:57 EDT

I stumbled upon this post at The Seferm Post that is also calling out McCain on his lies:

"If McCain were a blogger, he would have had to retract by now. But he's running for president of the United States, so he can say anything, lie about anything and not have to answer for it. Yesterday, John McCain lied on national television about something that no one disputes in the public record.

He was challenged by the only serious journalists on television right now - the hosts of 'The View' - about the large number of pork barrel earmarks Sarah Palin sought and secured as governor of Alaska, including the "Bridge to Nowhere" that Palin and McCain lied about and are still lying about in public. Here was his clear and irrefutable statement:

Palin's comments came after McCain sat for a feisty grilling on ABC's "The View," where he claimed erroneously that his running mate hadn't sought money for such pet projects. "Not as governor she didn't," McCain said, ignoring the record.

It has now been a day since McCain lied this explicitly in public. And he hasn't yet retracted his lie. This AP piece is dated as of this afternoon. Why not?"

I join him in asking why not. Why has there not been a widespread demand for a retraction from McCain?

Why is McCain still not being grilled on why he has continually confused Shia and Sunni groups in Iraq?

Those are but a few of McCain's mistakes. Why is he not be held accountable for them?

Blizzard of Lies

Tammy — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 13:45:52 EDT

Paul Krugman, thanks for calling a spade a spade in your op-ed in the NY Times today.

I sincerely hope the Obama campaign takes his words to heart and finds a way to really share this viewpoint... that is, that the way someone campaigns can give you insight into how they will govern. Below is an excerpt:

"...how a politician campaigns tells you a lot about how he or she would govern.

I’m not talking about the theory, often advanced as a defense of horse-race political reporting, that the skills needed to run a winning campaign are the same as those needed to run the country. The contrast between the Bush political team’s ruthless effectiveness and the heckuva job done by the Bush administration is living, breathing, bumbling, and, in the case of the emerging Interior Department scandal, coke-snorting and bed-hopping proof to the contrary.

I’m talking, instead, about the relationship between the character of a campaign and that of the administration that follows. Thus, the deceptive and dishonest 2000 Bush-Cheney campaign provided an all-too-revealing preview of things to come. In fact, my early suspicion that we were being misled about the threat from Iraq came from the way the political tactics being used to sell the war resembled the tactics that had earlier been used to sell the Bush tax cuts.

And now the team that hopes to form the next administration is running a campaign that makes Bush-Cheney 2000 look like something out of a civics class. What does that say about how that team would run the country?

What it says, I’d argue, is that the Obama campaign is wrong to suggest that a McCain-Palin administration would just be a continuation of Bush-Cheney. If the way John McCain and Sarah Palin are campaigning is any indication, it would be much, much worse."

I wholeheartedly agree with Krugman's hypothesis that McCain/Palin would be much worse than what we've seen the last 7 years.

If Biden read the blogs...

Sean in ATL — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:29:25 EDT

If Joe (and others) only read the blogs, they'd come across the occassional good idea (yes, I'm self praising :-P )

On the stump, he needs to drive home 1 MAJOR point with the "continuation of a Bush 3rd term" argument.....you ready Joe? Here's your zinger....this will get you some front page cover...in the arguement that McCain/Palin don't represent real change, list out all the things that they stand with the Bush administration on...top it off with the direct quote of McCain bragging about his 90% voting record with Bush on Fox News...and sum it up with the homerun zinger:

Insanity:Doing the same thing and expecting a different result

Your welcome, Joe :)

Countdown to McCain on COUNTDOWN

Sean in ATL — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:43:21 EDT

We simply can't keep losing the media battles....I want to call to action everyone to push and spread the word that there should be a Countdown timer set for McCain to appear on Countdown w/ Keith Olberman on MSNBC. Now that Barack has given in to O'Reilly (and helping legitimize him...which is a joke, alone) - Keith should demand the same of McCain and call him out for every single day that he does not appear. How does McCain claim to cross party lines when it's Obama appearing on O'Reilly but we can't find "Mr Maverick" on Countdown?

Someone get this to those people in the know....we must not continue to lose these media battles time and time again. McCain shouldn't get a free ride.

Barack Morning Buzz - 9-8-08

Barack Daily Buzz - Victory2008.net — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 08:39:40 EDT

Barack Morning Buzz-9-8-08
On to Victory in November

(1) Obama and McCain Have Big Economic Differences
Martin Crutsinger-Associated Press
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080908/ap_on_el_pr/candidates_economy_3

(2) Obama Rolls Up His Sleeves and Hits Hard
Carrie Budoff Brown-Politico
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0908/13212.html

(3) Obama and McCain Face 60 Day Sprint to Persuade Undecided Voters
Wayne Slater and Emily Ramshaw-Dallas Morning News
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/politics/national/stories/090708dnmetprezrace.4ed4f808.html

(4) Obama and Bill Clinton to Hold Summit
John H. Broder-New York Times-The Caucus
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/09/07/obama-and-bill-clinton-to-hold-summit/

(5) Obama's Own Small Town Values
Melissa Harris-Lacewell-Chicago Tribune
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-oped0908hydesep08,0,6463044.story

(6) On Talk Circuit, Obama and McCain Highlight Economy
Jeff Zeleny-International Herald Tribune
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/09/07/america/08campaign.php

(7) Obama and McCain Says Fannie and Freddie Takeover Needed
Reuters
http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSN0737516220080908

(8) Anti-War Obama Says He Once Considered Military Career
Andrew Malcolm-Los Angeles Times-Top of the Ticket
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2008/09/obama-soldier-i.html

(9) Obama vs. McCain as Change Agents
Christian Science Monitor-Editorial Board
http://www.csmonitor.com/2008/0908/p08s01-comv.html

(10) Same Destination But Different Routes for Candidates
Richard S. Dunham-Houston Chronicle
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5987851.html

On The Nation’s Open Letter to Obama

Jay Garrano — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 12:54:41 EDT

(This is an article that was printed in Revolution newspaper (www.revcom.us) the week prior to the DNC. I think it's still relevant, especially for those questioning Obama's vote for the FISA spy bill...what do you all think?)

On The Nation's Open Letter to Obama:
Wishful Thinking and Deadly Self-Deception
by Sunsara Taylor
(www.revcom.us)

The August 18 issue of The Nation magazine published "Change We Can Believe In. An Open Letter to Barack Obama," online at thenation.com.

The letter begins by congratulating Obama and extolling how, through his candidacy, "Hundreds of thousands of young people have entered the political process for the first time, African-American voters have rallied behind [Obama], and many of those alienated from politics-as-usual have been re-engaged."

But they express concern that, "Since your historic victory in the primary, there have been troubling signs that you are moving away from the core commitments shared by many who have supported your campaign, toward a more cautious and centrist stance--including, most notably, your vote for the FISA legislation…"

While making clear that they "recognize that compromise is necessary in any democracy," and "understand that the pressures brought to bear on those seeking the highest office are intense," they advise Obama, "Retreating from the stands that have been the signature of your campaign will weaken the movement whose vigorous backing you need in order to win and then deliver the change you have promised."

After listing some of Obama's positions that they like and some that they don't, they pledge: "If you win in November, we will work to support your stands when we agree with you and to challenge them when we don't. We look forward to an ongoing and constructive dialogue with you when you are elected President."

The signatories to this letter are an impressive list of writers and intellectuals, a number of whom are respected tremendously as voices of conscience. But, this letter, and its whole logic and method, is very bad. Whatever their intent, those who put their names on it are wielding their influence to get people to join them in a deadly exercise in self-delusion.

demand EQUAL coverage

Sean in ATL — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 08:28:57 EDT

I wanted to get this out to all you guys who could help in contacting as many people at the networks....we need to push these networks to provide EQUAL coverage during the RNC. Which means, they need to emphesis on Ron Paul's movement of people that will be in St Paul (considerably MUCH larger and organized than the PUMA members that reporters sought to badly). Also, the storyline that McCain couldn't get over his grudge with Romney enough to pick the second most poplar republican out there who has MUCH more knowlege on the economy than Palin. There were 2 very similar storylines during the DNC that the media seemed intent on fabricating and exploiting. We can not allow these same storylines (which are stronger here) to go unreported simply because it doesn't give them the same knee-jerk-ratings-boost that the Hillary story did. Please make every contact you can and blog to everyone you know to help a movement to push the media for EQUAL COVERAGE. Also, it needs to be confirmed by the media how many times exactly did McCain even meet with Palin before he chose her. If the report that it was just ONE time....this seems mighty reckless and needs to be reported as such....wonder when/if that has ever happened before in history....these stories *must* be reported and covered.Please spread the word.Fired up!Ready to go!:)-Sean

Hipp Reactions to Palin

Tammy — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 01:13:04 EDT

I was checking out Huffington tonight and I have to agree with most of the reactions that I saw about the selection of Palin as McCain's VP pick. Honestly, as a woman, I feel insulted that he thinks I would vote for someone just because she's a woman... Especially after the months of McCain complaining about Obama's supposed lack of experience. McCain, whose age is a relevant factor in this election, picked the most inexperienced candidate for VP that has ever been selected in my lifetime. Where's the his vaunted judgment now?

I think Nancy Hipp said it best for me. "Here's our deal, John. We vote for what we feel is best for our families, our communities, our country and our world."

And she's not the only one saying these and other things about Palin. Here's a link to a roundup of commentators opining about the Palin selection.

I have to be honest, though. If she actually remains as his VP selection, I think our Obama/Biden ticket will get a huge boost from all the independents out there who will be nervous about the lack of experience on her part.

Something else I've heard being tossed around the political blogs, especially in First Read comments is that this might be a ploy by McCain to soothe the right wing of the GOP now and sometime after the convention, she'll step aside and McCain will put someone else in the slot. I'm not sure if this is likely, considering that it would highlight a bad judgment on McCain's part. I guess time will tell.

Good night and Good Luck everyone!

Good thoughts for Barack

Tammy — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:19:24 EDT

I am thankful that Barack is safe. After reading about the arrest of people who were planning to hurt him, my thoughts focused on how many of us there are that are sending prayers, happy thoughts, good wishes, etc.. to the Obama family. I can't help but think that somehow, we all have made a difference.

If you're interested in sending your own good thoughts, or doing something kind in Barack's name, please take a moment and join this event. Together, we can and will make a difference.

Thank You Hillary!

Tammy — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:04:54 EDT

I can't thank Hillary enough for that warm and authentic speech tonight at the convention. To quote Keith O., she hit the ball out of the park. I hoped this would be the way her speech went, and I was not at all disappointed. Hillary, I'm proud of you, your achievements, and your support. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

"Inside the Tent" at the Democratic Convention

Barack Daily Buzz - Victory2008.net — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 23:12:55 EDT

"Inside the Tent" at the Democratic Convention

It is no longer just about the candidate's speech and the key speakers. This year's coverage of the Democratic Convention will feature the opinions of the delegates and attendees as Reuters, the global news and information company sends cameras "Inside the Tent" to the convention floor and on Denver streets.

Intended to capture the moments often missed by traditional media, the "Inside the Tent" project is providing video cameras to non-traditional journalists such as bloggers allowing these "folks on the floor" to collect the stories and opinions of delegates, the ordinary citizens closest to the action at the convention.

One of these freelance journalists headed for the convention is national grassroots Obama organizer Michael A. Collins. Political activist, author and world traveler, Collins is a founding member of www.Victory2008.net, a grassroots independent organization dedicated to the election of Barack Obama to the presidency of the United States. Collins has been involved with the Obama campaign since 2006 collecting donations and working as a volunteer.

Collins says "Launched in October 2006, my website www.Victory2008.net is the longest running grassroots Obama website online."

To contact Michael, email srimichael@aol.com.

Fabulous Oppo Ad on McCain

Tammy — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:57:58 EDT

I just saw the most wonderful ad about how McCain and Bush are linked. No dirty negative campaigning, just simply stating approval ratings and showing that while the American public has become increasingly disenchanted with GWB, McCain, himself, has increased his support of him over the exact same period. I love the graph on this ad. It shows the disconnect that McCain has with Americans with such clarity!

Obama Scrapbook

Tammy — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:55:49 EDT

Everyone you know should see this site...

Obama Scrapbook site

Please share this site with others, especially if you know somone who may feel they don't know Obama or they don't think he is American enough. It really clears up a lot of misconceptions with some great visual proof.

Thanks and have a great day!

Obama IS like a rock star!!

Mark For Obama — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 14:25:53 EDT

Dear Senator McCain,

I would like to thank you for running that attack ad against Obama. You have angered a lot of youth in this country. But at the same time, you gave him more exposure by comparing him to 2 celebrities. Obama is getting the star treatment. There is a reason for that, Mr. McCain. Who's the next celebrity on the block you want to compare Obama with? Thanks to your silly attack ad, we have even more youth now participating in Obama's campaign. We gained another 30% of youth volunteers here in our Atlanta office. Thanks McCain! Now that's something to smile about!!! :)

Obama State HQ Opening - August 2, 2008

Ayalah — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 13:17:48 EDT

Here is a snippet of what we heard during the opening ceremonies for the Barack Obama Georgia State Headquarters. Even if you don't live in Georgia, I encourage you to listen. I hope that you forward this email to those who have not been involved to inspire them to action. If each of us just register two people, and one of those people vote for Barack Obama, we can change this country. Yes We Can!

Featured speakers: David Adelman, John Lewis.

Transcript of video:
John Lewis, August 2, 2008 at the GA HQ Obama Grand Opening (paraphrased):

"I was in Las Vegas and it was very warm there ... last weekend... campaigning for Barack Obama . It may be hot now, but if we win on November the 4, it will be cool. Now, each and everyone of us must go out and do what we must do and register the unregistered, organized the unorganized, not just here in Fulton County, here in Atlanta, but throughout the state of Georgia. This is our moment, this is our moment! ... We are more than lucky, we are very blessed to live at this time. As I said last weekend some of my friends, some of my colleagues, some of my brothers and sisters, died for the right to vote. You won't be beaten, you won't get arrested, you wont go to jail .... There too many unregistered voters in Fulton County, in Dekalb County, in Clayton County, in Cobb County and throughout this state. So let's get out there and push and pull and we can do it; and when we elect Barack Obama the next President of the United State, he will look out for all of us and no one, but no one, will be left out or left behind."

Will the Britney-Paris-Obama Ad hurt McCain??

Mark For Obama — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 13:07:20 EDT

Well, here we go again. Just when you think the two presidential candidates were going to have a clean campaign, McCain goes in his bag of tricks and run an attack on Obama. I could understand McCain if he was just running an ads on Obama's politics, but including Brittney and Paris in a politial ad that the celebrities themselves didn't approve of? I wonder which celebrity is next? Will Smith? Now isn't Will suppose to "popular" and "cool" too? So much for the "clean" brand McCain was trying to portray. So here's the question? Is that ad an attack againt our youth? And more important, will this ad hurt him in November? All answers are welcome. :)

Beautiful Unity Story

Tammy — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 16:42:22 EDT

I saw this post by a reader of MSNBC's First Read blog was stunned by its beautiful sentiment. Here's to you and your family Kevin B.!

"What do I tell people when they ask, 'Why do I support Barack Obama for President?'

My wife is from Japan, and every year we take our two children back to visit. When our oldest was only a couple years old, we went to visit my wife's Aunt and Uncle. My wife's father had died when she was only 18, and she did not see her father's side of the family often. Her Aunt was her father's sister, and I had never met her before. Her Uncle had served in WWII, as had my father. When she first told her family she was going to live in America, many told her not to go, but her Uncle was the only one who said "Just don't marry an American." He was a very kind man, and my wife remembers him saying it half jokingly, but there was another part to the story. So when you ask me "Why do I support Barack Obama for President?" I can try to tell you why, but I'd rather show you.

I'd rather you picture my wife bringing me to visit her aunt and uncle in Nagasaki. Imagine her father's sister welcoming me and our 1 year old son into their home. See us all eating around the table, my wife's family and I speaking without understanding much of the words each has spoken, yet laughing and smiling and understanding. Now see her uncle, a gentle man much like my father from Schenectady, NY. When my wife's uncle went away to serve his country he could not have known that when he returned to his home many of his friends and family, much of the home he had known, would be gone forever. Watch as he walks to his favorite chair. See through his eyes. Think what he might be thinking. Hear the room grow quiet as a one year old boy takes short, halting steps across the room. Can you see him now, this child of two people, of two nations, without resentment, fully curious and hopeful, and without any fear? And in that moment a very old man catches a very young boy in his arms, lifts him up, and smiles. His eyes meet my sons, and both the new boy and the old man are caught in a moment of joy. The room could feel it and we all could see it - the peace, the release of fears, the embrace of hope, and the embodiment of change. It was on that day that I knew there was hope for great peace, and that we as people were fully capable of reconciliation.

Barack Obama sees a world of possibilities: for unity of knowledge and unity of labor; for unity of economies and unity of industry; for unity of cultures and unity of traditions; for unity of races and unity of gender; for unity of children and mothers and fathers and families of all kinds; for unity of blacks and whites and Asians and Latinos; for unity of our people in our country, and unity of our people with those from other lands and nations; for unity of Catholic and Jewish and Protestant and Muslim and unity for people of all faiths.

Barack Obama knows well the years that must be traveled for some people to heal old wounds, and he feels deeply their struggles and inner conflicts. Barack Obama knows the loss of family, of place, of home. He cares deeply that this country, and he, should embody both hope and humility. He lives each moment with the knowledge that he must balance the idealism of America with the absolute humility of being American. Barack Obama's humility comes from a deep conviction that if we do not become humble we will be humiliated. He leads with the ambition to act wisely, live usefully and walk humbly under the grace of God. We can learn. We can change. We can heal. Look at my son. Look at Barack Obama. Look inside yourself. We can.

Yes we can.

--
Kevin B

I'm saying it now: President Barack H. Obama, Jr., 2009 - 2017"

Illegal Propaganda

Tammy — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 01:57:59 EDT

Scott McClellan came clean and shared that the White House sends Fox daily talking points. Check out Keith O and Rachel Maddow's discussion here.

Barack Morning Buzz-7-26-08

Barack Daily Buzz - Victory2008.net — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 11:37:22 EDT

Barack Morning Buzz - 7-26-08
On to Victory in November

(1) Obama Exclusive on Meet the Press for the Full Hour Sunday Morning
Tom Brokaw-Meet the Press
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032608/

(2) In London, Obama Meets British Prime Minister Gordon Brown And Former PM Tony Blair
Associated Press
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25858777/

(3) Obama Whirlwind Breezes into UK
BBC News
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/7526979.stm

(4) Three Hours in Paris and Smiles All Around
Jeff Zeleny-New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/26/us/26obama.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y

(5) Kindred Spirit-Sarkovy Gushes over Obama
Lynn Sweet-Chicago Sun-Times
http://blogs.suntimes.com/sweet/2008/07/sarkozy_gushes_over_obama_kind.html

(6) Obama's Popularity as Anti-Bush is Telling
Paul Richter-Los Angeles Times
http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/suncommentary/la-na-bush26-2008jul26,0,3567908.story

(7) Obama Heads Home
Karen Tumulty-TIME
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1826859,00.html

(8) Obama Sees Little Political Benefit from Trip Abroad
Margaret Talev-McClatchy Newspapers
http://news.yahoo.com/s/mcclatchy/20080726/wl_mcclatchy/3001755_1

(9) Obama Berlin Speech
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAhb06Z8N1c

(10) Obama Camp Plays the "Angry Card"
Jake Tapper-ABC News-Political Punch
http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalpunch/2008/07/obama-camp-play.html

(11) Race May Not Decide the Race
Paul West-Chicago Tribune-The Swamp
http://www.swamppolitics.com/news/politics/blog/2008/07/race_may_not_decide_the_race.html

(12) A Media Crush on Obama?
Steve Chapman-Chicago Tribune
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/chi-oped0727chapmanjul27,0,6581531.column

(13) Obama Explains Scrubbed Visit with Wounded Troops in Germany
Jake Tapper-ABC News-Political Punch
http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalpunch/2008/07/obama-explains.html

(14) Obama Considers Female GOP Running Mate-Former Bush Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman
Amie Parnes and Ben Smith-Politico
http://news.aol.com/elections/article/obama-considers-gop-running-mate/101881?icid=100214839x1206267867x1200331373

(15) McCain vs. Obama World
Clarence Page-Chicago Tribune
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/chi-oped0727pagejul27,0,4540624.column

(16) McCain Sharpens Attack on Obama
Michael Kranish-Boston Globe
http://www.boston.com/news/politics/2008/articles/2008/07/26/mccain_sharpens_attack_on_obama/

Young Leader to see Presidential Inauguration!

Ayalah — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:09:56 EDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT:
Media Relations Staff (703) 584-9392
mediarelations@cylc.org

LOCAL YOUNG LEADER READIES FOR HISTORIC INAUGURATION
Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference Inspires Tomorrow's Leaders

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In January 2009, outstanding high school students from across the United States will take part in a truly American Celebration - the Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States. During the five-day program, the Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference (PYIC) will provide scholars with a deeper understanding of the history behind the electoral process and the rich traditions surrounding the presidential inauguration.

"The Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference will provide students with an opportunity to take part in historic events that coincide with the Inauguration of the President of the United States," said Mike Lasday, executive director of the Congressional Youth Leadership Council, the organization that sponsors PYIC. "Something that is really wonderful about so many young people gathering in Washington, D.C. for this event is that it will provide them a chance to become more familiar with and attuned to the president who will govern our country over the next four years. We certainly hope this will inspire the next generation of U.S. leaders."

Inaugural Scholars will have the opportunity to interact with a major presidential candidate, White House officials, congressional staff members, political experts and other VIPs, such as Lance Armstrong. After witnessing the inauguration, scholars will experience the grandeur of the inaugural parade, as the president, vice president and their families make their way down Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol Building to the White House. To further honor and celebrate Inauguration Day, scholars will attend a Black Tie Gala Inaugural Ball.

In addition to participating in inaugural events and festivities, scholars will have the opportunity to explore the numerous historic sites and monuments in our nation's capital, as well as participate in roundtable discussions, debates, and other activities that will help to expand their knowledge of democratic principles and presidential election process.

CYLC is a nonpartisan, independent, educational organization. Since 1985, the Council has inspired more than 200,000 young people to achieve their full leadership potential. Members of the U.S. Congress have joined our commitment by serving on the CYLC honorary Congressional Board of Advisors. In addition, more than 50 embassies participate in the Council's Honorary Board of Embassies.

For additional information, visit us at www.cylc.org/pyic.

###

To learn more about Ellie and her experiences preparing for this historic moment, visit http://ellie.paradiseforalowprice.com/ or http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/PYICFamiliesforObama

Journalists?

Curtis — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 20:32:12 EDT

Mike Scarborough?

Sean Hannity?

Lou Dobbs?

The real true journalist of them all was and will be for TIM the man RUSSERT!

Lou Dobbs is a hypocrit!

Curtis — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 19:08:26 EDT

Ok Lou Dobbs was soooo upset that the media has favored Obama in news stories. He said the media is 'cheerleading for Obama'. He opened his show saying Obama's name over 20 times! Obama IS the story Lou....you can't blame the media for what you do daily! He STARTED his show with news about Obama. laughable!

Energy and Security: Why to Support Robust Space policy

Tammy — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 01:57:50 EDT

Nuclear power would be much more appreciated if we could store the waste without endangering anyone. Instead of riling any of our states or territories, how about we work out a way to send our radioactive waste into space?

Speaking of safety, why don't we try to build a nuclear reactor out in space to beam us the power we need?

Or if looking for something safer yet, let's focus on capturing solar power in space and beaming it directly to Earth?

And as I've mentioned before, mining the asteroids for resources?

And on the Security argument... from a strategic point of view, owning the high ground puts you in a safer position militarily. Space is the ultimate high ground, and the Moon in particular is a very strategic bit of property. We can't let other countries out pace us in the space race, and we must forge ahead and continue to be a leader in space technology and innovation.

An Inside Look - Obama Organizing Fellows Meeting

Obama Organizing (Intown/Downtown/Midtown) Team #3 — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 13:47:06 EDT

By Thomas Kelley - Jul 17th, 2008 at 6:18 pm EDT

Obama Headquarters, Atlanta, GA. - They meet every Monday at 7pm. They come from diverse backgrounds and different parts of the country as well as Georgia. They put their careers, family, friends and their lives on hold. They work not for money but for the movement that has compelled them to give up six weeks of their summer. They are Obama Organizing Fellows from team 3 out of Atlanta, GA.

A glimpse inside an Obama Organizing Fellows meeting is a segmented view of the campaign as a whole. While their individual stories of who they are are unique, the reasons for why they came are distinctly similar; to be a part of something bigger than themselves. While we do not choose history, history does choose us and these Fellows from team 3 are a clear example of carpe diem.

Each week they meet they go through the agenda that is carefully planned to align with their goals of the week. After a brief welcome and introduction, two selected fellows from the team of twelve share "My Story", a two minute background of why and how they came to the campaign. Compelling moments such as these do not happen on a regular basis in life but they do happen once a week in this Fellows meeting.

After sharing the challenges of their choice to give up their lives to affect some change in an adopted community, it is time to get down to business. Discussing strategies to register voters and empowering them with a voice, these fellows also create a volunteer plan. Their goal, to recruit supporters of Senator Obama to help take back their country and build a local grassroots campaign from the bottom up.

Like every great family they don't agree on everything. However, what they do agree on is implementing platform meetings on policy, house parties to recruit volunteers, and the need to work hard to register the some 850, 000 people who are not registered to vote in Georgia.

Their efforts can best be summed up in the words of one Fellow that spoke towards the end of their meeting. "If we can register as many voters as possible we can turn Georgia Blue and that will go a long way to making sure Barack Obama is the next President of The United States."

ARTICLE LINK: http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/GAhqblog/gGx7Kz

Flip...Flop...Flip...and the beat goes on!

Curtis — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 21:04:05 EDT

McCain can't have it both ways. First he and the Republicans post the clock for the time that Obama has since been to Iraq. Now that Obama is going, they're trying to criticize him for being liked around the world. I think they're panicking because this is going to be major. This is the beginning of the fall for McCain. I don't want to be presumptious, but sounds like the Republicans are trying to do a little damage control before the anticipated tour begins. Bush has even flipped on the issue of diplomacy with Iraq. What? Bush administration actually talking with people! That's great, but that's what Obama has been saying all along. Get ready folk!

Prickly Polls

Tammy — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:50:49 EDT

I wish more of the mainstream media would dig deeper into the validity of polls. As much as I dislike this concept, published polls can sometimes shift public opinion. And when most polls are gathered from only citizens with landlines, they are not providing a true picture of the American electorate. Most of the people I know who are 28 and under do not possess a land line. I believe that if in depth polls were taken that included cell phone users, Barack would probably be polling a lot higher than he is. Your thoughts?

$8.04 on 8/4

Sean in ATL — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:49:07 EDT

Hey gang - I only have a small group of you guys on my friend's list- but wanted to get this out to you guys and hopefully you can forward it out to everyone you know as well..

August 4th is Obama's Birthday...on that day - try to get everyone you can to donate $8.04 to the campaign. It's amazing how such a small amount can turn into a huge day of contributions! As an 80/90's band once sang (10 points to whoever can guess it :-P ) ~~

Everything counts in large amounts

Take care, guys!! :)
-Sean

Crocs and Giggles... Ridiculous Rove

Tammy — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 17:23:19 EDT

Okay, I never thought I'd be mentioning something like Crocs on my Obama blog, but if the shoe fits... okay, okay, no more bad jokes.

Anyway, I really enjoyed this article on Sensico today contrasting McCain and Obama. There's a clip that shows McCain bashing Obama policies, and then links at the bottom from Obama's policies that refute what he's saying.

There is also a clip that shows how what McCain is saying about Crocs is the exact same thing as GWB has said. The only think I don't like is the name calling at the end. I think we can all engage in meaningful political dialogue without lowering ourselves to that level.

For me, seeing GWB in Crocs was my own Jon Stewart "Moment of Zen." The ridiculousness of the image symbolized how ridiculous this administration has become to me. I know we all expected it, but to have Rove fail to testify in Congress today (because of an incorrect application of executive priviledge) was yet another example of it. Now people are talking about whether he will be held in Contempt of Congress. That there is a question of whether this will happen is also ridiculous to me. Of course he should be held in Contempt!!! And if our congressional leaders don't do so, then they'll deserve their low approval ratings, in my humble opinion.

Okay, stepping off the soap box now... I try to stay on the positive side of things, but every now and then the proverbial straw and camel come together. Thanks for listening.

Take care and may the best and brightest of things shine on your day.

A touchy subject: Affirmative Action

Tammy — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:52:06 EDT

I know it's a touchy subject, and there are solid arguments on both sides. An article on MSNBC.com today discusses some of these arguments: Link

But I think one of the perspectives in this article is an interesting and more balanced idea... taking socio-economic factors into account as a basis for continued affirmative action policies. In this way, we would be helping those who have less, regardless of their race, gender, orientation, ability, etc. And in doing so, we would help improve the lives of many Americans.

It goes along with that tale about giving someone a fish and they eat for a day, teach them to fish and they eat for a lifetime.

Ready to volunteer for Obama?

Daniel Winters — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 23:22:39 EDT

Come to U.S. Play Thursday at 7pm! We'll give you some options, you choose when and where how you want to take part. Kennesaw Acworth 4 Change. See you there!

Our Money Is Blue - We Have Hope, Too!

Kimberli Greene, Leader, Obama For Change - Georgia Meetup — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:09:12 EDT

Hi All!

I've been in touch with the Campaign office in regards to a Metro-Atlanta, GA fundraiser that keeps with the spirit of the campaign - one where we ALL can participate (last time I looked, I didn't have a spare $2300.00 for a last-minute ticket!)

In fact, I'd been dialoguing with the office for some time prior to the announcement of the July 7th fundraiser. I think it will help our cause if we start a petition of the thousands of us who'd like to visit with the Senator in a fundraising capacity.

Please sign up at: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/georgiablue

Pass It On!

Kimberli Greene, Organizer
GEORGIA FOR OBAMA
A Grassroots Organization
www.barackobama.meetup.com/135

Zakaria's Iraq Advice for Barack

Tammy — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 01:53:36 EDT

I think Fareed Zakaria of Newsweek gives some very insightful advice to Barack in this article: Link

If Barack does follow his advice, I think it would definitely shore up his national security credentials because it makes so much sense, and really pulls together a lot of what Barack has already been saying... we need the Iraq govt to step up and create a workable govt.; we need to draw down troops, but in a smart and measured way; and we need to put a "surge" in place for diplomatic efforts in the region.

Fareed also rightly points out that Petraeus' surge strategy was successful in part because he talked to the various Sunni insurgent groups... Gee talking with your enemies to get something accomplished, what a novel idea! Too bad our current administration didn't try this tactic a lot more often... I think our country's coffers wouldn't be 1 trillion dollars lighter if that had happened, but there's no use crying over spilt milk... Once Barack in in the White House, we will see such a change in the way we interact with all countries, including the ones that we're not supposed to like... Oh Yes We Will!!!

Supreme Court Considerations...

Tammy — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 23:10:17 EDT

Caught this article on Newsweek today: Link

I think it definitely captures why voters should think long and hard about who to vote for president, including the fact that our next president could select up to THREE replacements for the Supreme Court!

Please everyone, encourage undecided voters to think of how they want the Supreme Court to rule on some of the very many issues of the day. Barack has proven that he has a considerable understanding of the Constitution and will select Justices do so as well. I shudder to think of what could happen in our country if McCain is the one who chooses those next three judges. This could very well be one of the most important issues of this presidency. Unfortunately, many of us pay attention to the burning fires that are before us, but we must also look at the bigger picture. Since Supreme Court selections are lifetime appointments, our next president could have a huge impact for the next several decades!

Let's Barack the vote and ensure we have a Supreme Court that doesn't try and turn back time.

Good night and Good Luck!

Barack Morning Buzz - 6-21-08

Barack Daily Buzz - Victory2008.net — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 10:44:51 EDT

Barack Morning Buzz - 6-21-08
On to Victory in November

(1) Obama Raises $22 Million in May
Associated Press
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iNxTApa2sQRu0Xx99P3jt2bEXw7gD91EAEI80

(2) $22 Million May
Sarah Wheaton-New York Times-The Caucus
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/06/21/the-early-word-21-million-may/

(3) Obama Expands Battleground to 18 States
Liz Sidoti-Associated Press
http://news.aol.com/elections/story/_a/obama-expands-battleground-to-18-states/20080620201

(4) Clinton Needs Obama Donors to Help Retire Her Sizable Debt
Associated Press
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5g8-DEMtAE9q4i4ySQ0eV_qZefmRQD91EFPJO1

(5) Obama Criticizes McCain on Offshore Drilling
Nedra Pickler-Associated Press
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jNlJOuGuTs5qgEuIws8f56V48hyAD91E34PG0

(6) Getting to Know Obama
David S. Broder-Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/06/20/AR2008062002275.html

(7) "Who Won The Week?"-The Competition Continues
Chris Cillizza-Washington Post-The Fix
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thefix/2008/06/who_won_the_week_the_competiti.html?hpid=sec-politics

(8) McCain May Lag in Money, But RNC Outraises DNC by 5 Times
Andrew Malcolm-Los Angeles Times-Top of the Ticket
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2008/06/gop-money-1.html

(9) ExposeObama.com-Ready to Attack Obama If Some Money Arrives
Michael Luo-New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/21/us/politics/21ads.html?em&ex=1214193600&en=225a0e17d0bd0e85&ei=5087%0A

(10) McCain Up After Hitting Obama on Security
Paul West-Baltimore Sun
http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/politics/blog/2008/06/mccain_blips_up_after_a_week_o.html

Why Opting-Out of Public Campaign Financing is Bringing Change

apinstein — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 18:56:46 EDT

Watching the news today I am shocked to see how the media is trying to say that Obama's decision to opt-out of public campaign financing means that he's not an agent of change. He's been marked as a flip-flopper and a hypocrite.

While I yield that he changed his mind, I refute the idea that changing your mind is a bad thing.

Obama has just seized a huge opportunity to change how elections are financed in a real way.

We are the ones we have been waiting for--Barack Obama

Tammy — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 01:45:17 EDT

A couple of our members shared some sources for where Barack got this quote on the community blog tonight. They were so beautiful I had to share:

By IA for Obama ☮ Yesterday at 9:46 pm EDT Actually, I believe it's from the Hopi:

The Hopi Elders Speak

We Are the Ones
We've Been Waiting For

You have been telling the people that this is the Eleventh Hour.

Now you must go back and tell the people that this is The Hour.

And there are things to be considered:

Where are you living?

What are you doing?

What are your relationships?

Are you in right relation?

Where is your water?

Know your garden.

It is time to speak your Truth.

Create your community. Be good to each other. And do not look outside yourself for the leader.

This could be a good time!

There is a river flowing now very fast. It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid. They will try to hold on to the shore. They will feel they are being torn apart, and they will suffer greatly.

Know the river has its destination. The elders say we must let go of the shore, push off into the middle of the river, keep our eyes open, and our heads above the water. See who is in there with you and celebrate.

At this time in history, we are to take nothing personally. Least of all, ourselves. For the moment that we do, our spiritual growth and journey comes to a halt.

The time of the lone wolf is over. Gather yourselves!

Banish the word struggle from your attitude and your vocabulary.

All that we do now must be done in a sacred manner and in celebration.

We are the ones we've been waiting for.

—The Elders Oraibi
Arizona Hopi Nation
Link Re: good evening obamafans! | Report to Admin Reply

By Michael from Iowa City, IA Yesterday at 10:32 pm EDT I post this not to argue the point. In each case the words are placed in beautiful context. These words have been used by Alice Walker, Sweet Honey in the Rock, The Hopi Elders, and now Barack Obama. Words shared in the cause of good are powerful words indeed.

Poem for South African Women

Our own shadows disappear as the feet of thousands
by the tens of thousands pound the fallow land
into new dust that
rising like a marvelous pollen will be
fertile
even as the first woman whispering
imagination to the trees around her made
for righteous fruit
from such deliberate defense of life
as no other still
will claim inferior to any other safety
in the world
The whispers too they
intimate to the inmost ear of every spirit
now aroused they
carousing in ferocious affirmation
of all peaceable and loving amplitude
sound a certainly unbounded heat
from a baptismal smoke where yes
there will be fire
And the babies cease alarm as mothers
raising arms
and heart high as the stars so far unseen
nevertheless hurl into the universe
a moving force
irreversible as light years
traveling to the open eye
And who will join this standing up
and the ones who stood without sweet company
will sing and sing
back into the mountains and
if necessary
even under the sea:
we are the ones we have been waiting for.

from Passion: New Poems, 1977-80, by June Jordan

Care and Consideration

Tammy — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 01:19:42 EDT

I just saw an interview Barack did Tuesday at a Michigan Community College: Link

He's talking with a student and her financial aid counselor about her situation, which is representative of many of the students in her school. Gas prices and other expenses, along with some personal family stuff, make it hard for her to pay for all the things she needs for school. Towards the end of the interview she starts crying, and Barack really listens and comforts her. Politics stopped, and it was all about making her feel better. Thank You, Barack!

A Windfall Profits Tax on Oil is a BAD idea because...

apinstein — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 16:16:26 EDT

Windfall profits taxes are a horrible idea on many, many levels. On top of that, they offer nearly no advantages. This post will explore the details behind this popular but ultimately flawed policy stance.

I definitely disagree with Barack's stance on this issue -- however, I hope that he and his supporters will read this article and adjust their position to one that achieves the same ends but in a fair and sustainable way.

Let's start out by addressing a few myths about the "evil oil companies":

OIL COMPANIES MAKE TOO MUCH MONEY

When you hear on the news that a company has made $40 billion dollars in 12 months, your instinct screams "Wow that's too much money. They must be ripping someone off. Probably me!" This just isn't the case.

Oil companies make a lot of nominal profits, but they don't make unreasonably high profit margins. Exxon Mobil made $40 billion in 2007, but only 9.3% net income. For every $1 they sell, they keep only 9 cents as profit. But you know who else made a lot of money last year? Microsoft! They made $14 billion. But their net income is 27.51%. That's about three times higher than Exxon Mobil.

Where's the battle cry for a windfall profits tax on Microsoft? There isn't one, for all the right reasons. The same should be true for oil companies.

Market capitalism is the most fair economic system that exists. Sometimes a little short-term interference is justified to prevent companies from abusing power, but in the long run it always does the right thing.

Yes, oil companies make a lot of money, but it's because oil is a huge business, not because oil companies are gouging us.

A Farewell to Russert

Tammy — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 01:48:22 EDT

Of all the journalists and pundits out there, I think Tim Russert most embodied one of my favorite Obama quote about disagreeing without being disagreeable. I loved his work and will greatly miss his seeing his perspective on political issues of the day.

Howard Fineman gave a beautiful tribute to him in Newsweek that I thought I'd share: Link

Here's the last interview Tim did... I think the topic's something we should all pay attention to during this campaign: Link

Good night, and Good Luck

Great Resources!

Tammy — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 01:16:44 EDT

I jsut checked out ailene's blog and found some wonderful information about the Obama Rapid Response effort. Check it out: Link

Georgia Bound!

! Candace from NY, An Obama Fellow! — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:48:27 EDT

I am headed to Atlanta, Georgia for my three day training as an Obama Fellow! When I began supporting this campaign, I had no idea this is where I would go! I am extremely excited and humbled to have an opportunity to serve.

Another reason to vote for Barack

Tammy — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 01:42:05 EDT

Someone on the community blog posted they still weren't convinced about Obama being able to accomplish anything, and I wanted to share my reply:

Here's a reason to vote for Obama:

When he was in the Illinois State Legislature, he worked across the aisle and with law enforcement to design a law to videotape confessions (of felony murder, I believe). I think this is so telling of how he will conduct business. While he may not believe in the death penalty, he learned to work with people who passionately feel that the death penalty is truly a punishment that will prevent crime. He approached the situation understanding that he will not change their minds on whether the death penalty is good or bad.

Instead, Barack reasoned that if you are a supporter of the death penalty, it is only effective if you are actually convicting criminals. Convicting innocents undermines the concept of the death penalty. Given that we want to only convict criminals, it made sense to videotape confessions so that coercion does not occur during the confession. As far as I can tell, this bill was a win-win for everyone in Illinois.

Campaign Should Hype our Technical Saavy

Tammy — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:48:52 EDT

Copied from tonight's community blog:
By jakuva Yesterday at 10:58 pm EDT My dad is the same age as McCain and at least can do email...but I sure wouldn't want him in charge of any decisions that affect technology - yikes!

Aside from being just funny as hell, I really think BO should exploit this issue. John McCain knows nothing about technology, is not in favor of net neutrality, and is incapable of using the power the internet (or 'series of tubes' as his peer Ted Stevens calls it) to better our government. Technology is one of the only segments of our economy that is working and we need a POTUS who understands it.

As someone involved in the tech industry, I am terrified what would happen to small internet based businesses if John McCain got his way (corporations deciding who is worthy of adequate bandwidth and who is not - it's a terrifying prospect for the industry). ************* I think jakuva makes a great point... As mixed up as McCain has been about who is working with whom in Iraq, discussing these important issues of technology could add to our argument for our candidate being prepared for future trends.

Obama vs McCain on taxes

Tammy — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 14:00:03 EDT

Here's a great article I caught today on CNN that actually breaks down by income bracket how our tax bills would probably be affected based on the candidates plans... Their anaylsis supports Barack's statements that he would be granting relief to the middle class. Three cheers for our Nominee!!!

Link

This could definitely help us in our arguments to get more people to honestly assess their own economic situations and vote based on their pocketbook concerns...

Discussion points for winning over non-supporters of Obama

Tammy — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 03:20:41 EDT

This was linked on the community blog this morning and I had to share. It has some great points about how to win over someone without being disagreeable. I would go one step further, though. In a couple of examples, the writer may say "loser" or "McSame." In keeping with Barack's message of hope, respect and unity, I would avoid using those terms.

Link

Disagree without being Disagreeable

Tammy — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 18:32:25 EDT

I liked what Beth said so much on the community blog today that I had to include some more discussion on it... This reply resulted after someone brought up a comment about the use of "repug" in a previous post:

I have to say that a lot of the name calling, no matter who the supporters are really just hits emotions, muddies the waters, and is a real turnoff. I sure didn't like being referred to as an Obamabot, just as much as I'm sure Hillary supporters didn't like being referred to as Hillbots. The same goes with Repugs and McSame... etc.

Yes, it's an easy way of communicating that you don't like someone or thing, but I think it steps away from the core of Barack's message about respect for all people. Barack doesn't agree with McCain's platforms, but he always states how he respects McCain and his service.

In respecting others, we are respecting Barack's message. So, I have to reiterate what Beth said in an earlier post above:

We should disagree without being disagreeable.

Thanks, and I'll step off my soapbox now.

Warm regards to all,
Tammy

Education vs. Space... why can't we have both?

Tammy — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 18:06:18 EDT

In an article linked to the community blog, we find a review of the nominees' education platforms...

http://thevote.abc13.com/2008/06/education-is-a.html?cid=118030066#comment-118030066

This article does speak to one of my disagreements with some of Barack's ideas, and that is reducing funding of our space initiatives to pay for education. I believe we have to find a way to do both things... Education prepares our children for their future, and I believe that Space is where a huge chunk of our future prosperity will come from.

I also wanted to share my reply to the article above...

"This, unfortunately, is one of the few issues where I differ with my candidate, Barack Obama. The space program definitely needs to continue to be funded, especially as we are nearing the time when the rapid pace of technological advancements will allow us to mine our solar system for resources. Who knows, we may find plentiful energy resources out in the asteroids.

However, Barack's focus on education is incredibly important, and I also like how he discusses that he will improve teacher salaries. How can you attract the best and brightest to teach our up and coming best and brightest?

The question does become how do we pay for it all, especially when we've wasted billions in what many agree was a war we should have never started.

The answer is hard to nail down, but I can tell you that with Barack's history of choosing advisors based on their skills and not their loyalty, that we'll get some really great ideas out of his administration."

Revise Voter Registration Laws

Tammy — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:50:25 EDT

Saw this article on Newsweek today and think it makes a wonderful point...

http://www.newsweek.com/id/140295

One thing that saddens me about our democracy is that often, it is a minority of citizens who decide who will be our leaders... because our voter turnout has been a lower percentage than it should be. Imagine the power of the people if every voter who was eligible could easily register. Many people choose not to vote because they don't feel they can make a difference. I think Barack's campaign has shown people that we can indeed make a difference.

We need to make our voter registration laws more uniform so that more voters engage in the democratic process. In doing so, that makes our entire democracy more inclusive for all.

No more robber barons!

Tammy — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 04:13:11 EDT

As I've suspected, it seems we are repeating a trend in history similar to right when Teddy Roosevelt was in office... when the wealth in our country was greatly concentrated in the hands of the few...

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/6/6/14567/41360/691/531194

Spread the word so we don't allow them to label our nominee with the title the republicans so richly deservie (pun intended)

No propaganda

Tammy — Thu, 29 May 2008 00:02:08 EDT

When I read articles like this one, I am reminded why I am such an Obama supporter. Barack wants the government to be of the people rather than of a few secretive few.

info about Scott McClellan's new book

Barack, Meet Them Where They Are...

Tammy — Sun, 25 May 2008 14:50:34 EDT

I'm a huge fan of diversity efforts, and I am closely involved with work going on at my company. Some things we have learned is that understanding diversity is a journey, not a destination. You may have a strong feel for some groups, but not others. You may think you know things, but then discover that you were only partially right.

Talking and learning from others is often the best way to learn deeper about those groups. A couple of basic rules I've crafted while on my own diversity journey are:

Meet them where they are:

Just because I have done a lot of learning, doesn't mean they have... and conversely, they may have way more learning than me. I have to stay open to all possibilities. I can neither tug them further than they're ready to go, nor can I always make that leap to where they may be, but I have to try.

Assume good intent:

I feel that the vast majority of Americans honestly want to be good people. Even when people say or do things that don't sit well, it's often because they didn't realize they were negatively impacting others. My personal experience was that you could be so in tune with impacts in groups that are subordinated (ex. race) but that same person might be in a dominant group (like gender or sexual orientation) and say and do things that caused impact without realizing it. When it was pointed out to them, they were horrified.

Harold Ford Jr. has some advice to Barack, and I think what he says in this article speaks to my two rules.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/138511/page/1

Barack really does need to go to the places where he's not polling well and really meet them where they are. He also needs to assume good intent, which I think he generally does. Fear of the unknown is a powerful driver for people, and he really does need to introduce himself in a way that honors their participation as citizens in America.

And, last but definitely not least... Barack is not able to go to every place, even though he should try to meet as many different kinds of people he can, so that gives us a huge opportunity. The next time you're going somewhere, stop by a place you don't normally go, and just strike up a conversation.

It's amazing to see the personal impact when you speak to someone face to face. Often, they'll see the inspiration in your eyes and will feel so good about how you took the time to talk with them, learn from them and then teach them a bit about Barack and how he wants us all to achieve the potential of the American Dream.

Proud of We, the People

Tammy — Fri, 23 May 2008 22:13:41 EDT

Yes, our country is not where I would like it to be regarding racial bias. There's on article I read in Newsweek today that showed some metrics that suggest racial bias in some voters. However, the last paragraph (below) really gave me a sense of hope and pride in our citizenry.

"While the NEWSWEEK Poll clearly suggests a lurking racial bias in the American electorate, the role of race in presidential politics may be diminishing. In 2000, only 37 percent of voters thought the country was ready for a black president. Now, 70 percent of voters think a black candidate like Obama could win the White House."

full article: http://www.newsweek.com/id/138456

To see the tremendous change in 8 years is breathtaking. Yes, we're not perfect, but our quintessential quality is that we always try to make things better. That's how are country was created; our founding heroes were searching for a more perfect union.

Today, we the People are striving again for that more perfect union, and I am so filled with pride to be an American voting for a President who is the greatest advocate of We, the People I've ever seen.

Roland Martin and Flag Pin Wisdom

Tammy — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:22:00 EDT

I just read this article and have to applaud Roland for exposing the flag pin debate for the truly inane discussion it is!

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/05/19/roland.martin.05.19/index.html

Not to count our chickens or anything, but...

Tammy — Thu, 15 May 2008 22:15:33 EDT

I just saw this post about a Gov. Sebelius as a potential VP and have to say I'm impressed:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/barthson/gGBfKj

I'd also love to see John Edwards as Attorney General and Bill Richardson as Secretary of State. Talk about some high quality work in America's benefit we'd see from them!!!

Keith Olbermann's rant

Tammy — Thu, 15 May 2008 13:29:52 EDT

I generally try to stay on the positive side of things, but I have to share this link to Keith Olbermann's rant on George W. Bush... It sums up many of the reasons why I am so thankful we have Barack as a thoughtful, intelligent, reasoning presidential alternative to the blunders of the Bush Administration:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/24635229#24635229

Great political poetry

Tammy — Thu, 15 May 2008 13:25:05 EDT

Saw this and just had to share...

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/joefromontarioca/gGBlrF

Almost There!

Tammy — Thu, 15 May 2008 02:09:21 EDT

I am so excited that our candidate is so very close to becoming the nominee!!! Ever since 2004, I've hoped and dreamed this day would come. Those who scoff and say hope isn't worth anything must surely recognize what a a wondeful day it is when hope can become reality. Thank you to every American who made this dream come true!

Documentation on the Peter Paul case

Tammy — Mon, 05 May 2008 13:03:43 EDT

Read this link today and had to share.... Please share with anyone you know in Indiana and NC.

http://hillarytruth.blogspot.com/

You are needed in NC!!

Lawrence — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 17:34:59 EDT

Many of you know the impact Georgia volunteers had on the South Carolina election.

Well you are needed again in NC! Please plan to travel with the Obama campaign to North Carolina

in the upcoming months. Your participation can make a big difference on a win in this State.

I know you are tired and frustrated, but we can not stop now.. let's keep marching forward until we f

inally clinch this primary leading to the presidency.

Please sign up today to travel to North Carolina the entire weekend or on Saturday.

We can do it.. Yes We Can!!

Sign-up here: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4zgj

Bowling For Obama--need help

Sean in ATL — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 09:47:30 EDT

I would greatly appreciate your help in publicizing this event on April 20th at 7pm. Any campaign contacts you can forward this to, reposting, word-of-mouth, bathroom stalls, what ever you can think of. Thank you!

http://my. barackobama. com/page/event/detail/48dw

Daniel Winters
Event Coordinator, U.S. Play
770-427-7679 x.18

Bowling For Obama (Update)

Sean in ATL — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:30:35 EDT

Bowling For Obama!! We initially wanted to have a fundraising campaign that capitalized on Barack’s poor bowling skills and spun it to generate a rewarding fundraising campaign for his road to the White House. So: the plan was to start a “bowling for Obama” campaign weekend prior to the PA primaries (that’s 4/18-4/20) and get other local activists throughout the country to partake in event planning for that weekend as well. Utilizing it to now only collect campaign funds to make a large donation – but also to network with local activists/supporters and even allow local venders to donate/sell shirts, buttons, stickers, etc for the Obama campaign. So – that was the plan. Now, we currently have a couple small events taking place throughout the country on that weekend, and I infact have an event taking place on 4/20/08 from 7-9pm at U.S. Play and will have further details to follow. We will begin promotion for this event and hope that everyone can spread the word. However – we don’t want to stop here. We’d like to set up a separate location for the other 2 days of the weekend (4/18 & 4/19) so that we can allow everyone the opportunity to participate. So – from this, is the purpose of this e-mail: I am asking that anyone with connections or the network to assist in ANY WAY POSSIBLE with making this into a success, please contact me. Additionally, if you can make it to the event on 04/20 – please attend and bring some friends :) :) . As we’re still green-behind-the-ears with this entire process, any advice is always welcome as well! :) Please pass this to anyone and everyone you can…I’ll be in touch. Thank you! :)

-Sean

scoleman911@yahoo.com

Bowling For Obama

Sean in ATL — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 13:17:24 EDT

Hello everyone. I just wanted to get it out their that we are rolling out a “Bowling For Obama” fundraising campaign for the weekend leading up to the PA Primary (04/18-04/20). We are encouraging everyone to host an event at their local bowling alley. Utilize this as a method to network with local Obama supporters and possibly allow local vendors/distributors to offer Obama memorabilia. Additionally, it’s good ‘ol fun bowling. Have some snacks and some drinks, network with fellow supporters, and (if you can) donate to a pot to submit to the Obama campaign. This is a great opportunity for people who don’t normally have the time/money/energy to contribute or participate in this campaign – do be able to take a day or 2 out and enjoy yourself at the local bowling alley, meanwhile joining the ever-growing supporters throughout this country… Let’s gather together and show this country how truly powerful we can be, while having some fun and supporting our candidate for the next President of the United States!! Please feel free to add me as a ‘friend’ and contact me for details in helping to get your event started!! Thanks! J-Sean Also, www.myspace.com/bowlingforobama

Fulfill one of Barack Obama’s themes. This Saturday March 22, 2008 in Atlanta, GA! Operation “Talk is Cheap”

Dexter "Emory U MBA" Porter Feb 5th Political Director, GA Obama for America — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 11:29:44 EDT

Atlanta Obama supporters volunteers are needed to assist Metro Atlanta communities affected by this past weekend’s severe storms and tornadoes with cleanup efforts. Homes, schools and other structures in these communities were severely damaged and are in need of repair.

The Hands On Atlanta Volunteer Disaster Reception Center will be open Wednesday, March 19th – Saturday, March 22nd from 8:00am – 3:00pm. Volunteers are welcome to come at any time during those hours.

If you have any questions, please email TakeAction@HandsOnAtlanta.org or call 404-979-2800 or 404-979-2882 between the hours of 8am - 5pm.

LET THEM KNOW THAT YOU ARE A BARACK OABAMA SUPPORTER

All volunteers will need to report to the Hands On Atlanta Volunteer Disaster Reception Center located at 600 Means St., Atlanta, GA 30318 to receive a volunteer assignment, as well as safety training.

Barack Morning Buzz - 3-13-08

Barack Daily Buzz - Victory2008.net — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 08:44:21 EDT

Barack Morning Buzz-3-13-08
On to Victory in Pennsylvania

(1) Obama Wins Big in Mississippi Despite "Limbaugh Effect"
John K. Wilson-Huffington Post
http://www.alternet.org/election08/79506/

(2) MSNBC's Keith Olbermann Calls on Clinton to Denounce Geraldine Ferraro
Mark Silva-Chicago Tribune-The Swamp-Washington Bureau
http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/politics/blog/2008/03/olbermann_calls_on_clint

(3) Obama Hackles Raised over Enduring Race Issue
David Batty and Elana Schor-Guardian-UK
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/mar/13/uselections2008.barackobama1

(4) Obama Tax Plan Stresses Inequality
Alison Fitzgerald and Matthew Benjamin-Bloomberg
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601070&sid=are4y0wpjqXU&refer=home

(5) Obama Speaks and No One Faints
J.D. Mullane-PhillyBurbs.com
http://www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/219-03132008-1502789.html

(6) Obama's Saturday Visit will be Second Trip to Indiana
Mary Beth Schneider-IndyStar.com
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080312/LOCAL19/80312037/0/ENTERTAINMENT01

(7) Obama and Clinton Add to Delegate Numbers
Boston Globe and Associated Press
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2008/03/13/clinton_obama_add_to_delegate_numbers/

(8) Why I Support Barack Obama
Anhoni Patel-Economic Times-India
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/The_Global_Indian_Takeover/Why_I_support_Barack_Obama/articleshow/2861279.cms

(9) Insults Taking Hold of Democratic Race
Calvin Woodward-Associated Press
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iBdc8ffUm6ksqP_vp4ZzbUvvm8SAD8VCDPIG0

(10) Obama and the Race Card
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120536677319031953.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Florida, Michigan don't deserve a do-over

Dexter "Emory U MBA" Porter Feb 5th Political Director, GA Obama for America — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 23:43:32 EDT

For the last two weeks we have watched nearly every political hack from Michigan and Florida hit the airwaves to tell us that voters in those states deserve to have their votes counted, and new elections should be called for - and paid by - the Democratic National Committee.

One word they all keep tossing around is disenfranchisement. Because of this nation's sordid history on the issue of denying African Americans the right to vote, those calling for a re-vote know the true power of the word, and just uttering it sort of backs the opposition up.

Action - Jackson!

Kimberli Greene, Leader, Obama For Change - Georgia Meetup — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 13:58:39 EDT

This event is approved by the site administrator and can be found at: my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4r23g.

COST PER PERSON: $45.00 TIX AT www.blondebombshellentertainment.com/events.html

If you aren't able to go, please sponsor someone! We have a few persons who cannot afford the trip at this time. Please help them share in our history in a tangible way. Call me. 404-349-0447

When:

Monday, March 10, 2008 at 5:00 AM

Where:

JSU
1400 Lynch Street
Jackson , MS 39217

Who should come:

Put your support into action! Join us for a bus trip to Jackson, MS where we'll help the campaign & attend the rally!
Why:

It's for Senator Obama!
How to find the organizer(s):

"I'll be at the staging location to sign everyone in. I'm riding , too."
--Amber
Meeting fee
USD45.00 per person

Details
Action - Jackson! (Organizing)

Bringing Atlanta Hope, Belief and Action to Jackson, MS on March 10th.

Join us on our comfortable bus trip to Jackson, MS. We will coordinate with & assist the Field Office.

We will also attend the Stand For Change Rally.

Breakfast will be served on the ride to Jackson.

This is an ALL-DAY trip. We expect to return to the Atlanta area at approximately 3am, March 11th.

COST PER PERSON: $45.00, tix at www.blondebombshellentertainment.com/events.html

Time: Monday, March 10 at 5:00 AM
Duration: All day
Host: K. Amber Hill
Contact Phone: 404-349-0447
Location: Jackson Field Office, Jackson University (Jackson, MS)
1400 Lynch Street
Jackson, MS 39217

To purchase, go to : www.blondebombshellentertainment.com/events.html

404-349-0447

On Steve King (R-IA) Comments

Mark Webb — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 11:53:25 EDT

It is sad that an elected official would act in such a xenophobic, racist fashion. See his comments:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/03/08/politics/main3919500.shtml

Perhaps his constituency should let him know just how sick these comments are. Send your comments:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/03/08/politics/main3919500.shtml

You might expect this from talk-show host Bill Cunningham, but I, for one, hold elected officials to a much higher standard. This is not far from Saxby Chambliss' (R-GA) slurs in 2001:

http://www.counterpunch.org/chambliss1.html

Even New York's Bloomberg sees the Republican xenophobes as a problem:

http://www.nysun.com/article/69742

And many Democrats should take note:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-jenkins/democrats-uneasy-dance-w_b_73397.html

I note Jenkins' comments from the above article about Obama:

"Perhaps, in that sense at least, the Democrats' best hope is Barack Obama, who has so far managed these issues with the most grace and intelligence (surely due in no little part to his own multinational and multi-ethnic background), campaigning in a way that does not dismiss or patronize immigrants and foreigners, and pays due respect and priority to all U.S. workers. "

So sad...

D Knapp — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 16:43:57 EST

...now the Clinton Campaign is considering a legal challenge to the Texas Primary System.

UGGGHHH...they really don't care if they tear the party apart, do they!?!

Democrats abroad for Barack

Aly Baba Faye — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 07:36:01 EST

Obama wins the vote among democrats abroad. An overhelming victory full of significations. The expats have the idea of what kind of leadership the US must be. The role of USA in the world is a key point for the future of peace and the world of peace. After Bush journey and the set of violence of the clash of civilisations, the expats know tha there is a claim of change all'around the world and the election of Barack is the best answers for that challenge. That's why they choose him.

PhoneBanking

Liz — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 09:16:35 EST

I've been doing some phone banking to women in Wisconsin and Latinos in Texas and I am surprised at how much of a good time I am having. I originally thought that it would be boring and a little annoying, but instead I have had a good time talking to people, specially undecided voters.

I am looking forward to doing more phonebanking for Sen. Obama and it's great because when the results begin to roll in I will feel like I at least had a small hand in the victory :)

Aint nothin' goin' on but the rent....

Carl — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 17:38:55 EST

I know it's been a while since my last entry. Honestly there's been so much to comment on but sadly enough not very much time. However after reading this story I couldn't resist from sharing it. I saw the link while on the Faux news website. Yes the same Faux news that Hillary claimed to be giving her a more unbiased treatment than the other news sources. (Probably due to the fact that a major contributor to her campaign is Rupert Murdoch) Regardless of the source that dug it up it appears to be true. So fellow Obamaniacs here's something for your reading enjoyment.

http://www.seacoastonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080213/NEWS/80213011

The SC Primary - My First Canvass

David Carroll — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 18:42:42 EST

I'm Dave Carroll, a 31 year old software developer from Atlanta, GA. On Saturday, January 26, I was part of Atlanta's Get Out The Vote in South Carolina for Barack Obama.

I did this for my unborn child, my daughter. I want her to be proud of her country. It was the first political volunteering of my life, but it won't be the last.

If you've never canvassed or volunteered, maybe this will give you a notion of what it's like.

12:15 AM - After long MARTA delays, I finally pick up the van I'll be driving. Hard to believe I volunteered for this almost on a whim. Home for a little sleep.

5:30 AM - Up and at'em! I pick up a friend and head to the meeting site.

7:15 AM - After much wrangling, the van is full with 12 awesome human beings and we hit the road for Orangeburg, South Carolina. There are nine full vans in this caravan. We are number 3.

9:30 AM - At a pit stop, I get a good look at our Rainbow Coalition: 1 black man, 3 white women, 3 white men, and 5 black women. Our oldest are in their late 50's perhaps, our youngest are a pair of 16 year old high school girls.

12:00 PM - We arrive in Orangeburg, it seems small to us. (We haven't seen small yet.) But the regional Obama headquarters is packed!

12:10 PM - Back on the road. They need us in Norway, SC. Population: 380.

12:45 PM - Norway turns out to be a mini-headquarters for the surrounding towns. We are the bulk of the afternoon shift. I am eating an amazing pumpkin cookie topped with whipped cream.

1:00 PM - Canvassing Training led by Tushar from New York City. The two other full-time volunteers here are women from NYC and New Hampshire. They all put their lives on hold 2 weeks ago and have been working in this quiet rural corner since then.

1:05 PM - We learn that on election day, we are not changing anyone's mind. We are simply knocking on every door we already know supports our candidate.

1:20 PM - Our team splits up. My group of 5 hits the south side of a town called North. We split into two groups and start walking.

1:25 PM - The roads are all dirt. The houses are small. There are chickens in a backyard coop. Disrepair is the norm.

1:30 PM - A woman hugs me when I tell her nine vans came from Atlanta. Thanks to our reminder, she heads to the polls with a ride from her brother.

1:40 PM - Most people have already voted. This is a good sign. We get to say "thank you" a lot.

1:50 PM - Two older Caucasian gentlemen in a pick-up truck pass Caroline and Imam and ask them if they support Hillary. My teammates just wave their Obama poster and tell them to rethink their choice. The pick-up riders are surprisingly pleasant.

2:15 PM - For the first time in my life I can feel, in my bones, that every single vote matters. Seriously.

3:45 PM - Our team has finished canvassing our turf in North. Back to Norway for a quick break and reassignment.

4:10 PM - The same family from Norway which made those cookies has prepared an enormous spread of sandwiches, soups, and sides. I eat too much.

4:45 PM - With a re-formed team, we go to the outskirts of Springfield, SC (every state has one, right?). This time I'm playing in-between driver for 3 teams of 2.

5:15 PM - I start dropping people off. Less than two hours until the polls close.

5:45 PM - On a tiny dirt track surrounded by trailer homes, two kids excitedly chase our van with its prominent sign, yelling "OBAMA OBAMA", as though the man himself were inside. Later we learn that the canvassers we dropped off will recruit these guys to help them find houses and people to talk to.

6:00 PM - A young mother wearing a head scarf in a field of 5 trailer homes holds her baby and looks at me like I dropped out of the sky. She hasn't voted, and I honestly have no idea if she will, but I tell her there's still time and confirm she has a way to get into town.

6:45 PM - I round everyone up, including two women who were starting to freak each other out a bit in the rural gloom.

6:59 PM - Everyone is back at Norway, nibbling on food and chatting. I predict we'll hear results within one hour. Others are unwilling to be so optimistic.

7:01 PM - The volunteer from New Hampshire gets off her cell phone and gets our attention. Obama has been declared the winner before a single official vote is counted. The exit polls must be overwhelming.

7:02 PM - Ten minutes of joyous pandemonium in a modest church meeting room on a quiet country road outside a town with fewer residents than my condominium complex. But we know: We Did It. This is our victory.

7:20 PM - Glancing nervously at the clock, we bid our all-too-hasty good byes to the Norway team and the twelve of us head for Atlanta.

8:00 PM - South Carolina Public Radio finally starts covering the election results on the radio. We are eating it up. Obama is winning with almost twice the votes as Hillary. AP calls it a "rout".

8:48 PM - I fill up the van and the cashier high-fives me when she sees my button, saying "the troops are going to come back from Iraq now!".

8:58 PM - At a Starbucks in Augusta, the barista buys my coffee for me. He canvassed and voted today, too.

9:00 PM - For the twenty minutes of Barack's victory speech, I seriously endanger the lives of twelve people. It's hard to drive with tears in the eyes.

10:30 PM - We get into a scary but important conversation about gay marriage. There are serious differences of religious opinion, but we realize we all agree on the same governmental policy - a civil union should be possible for any two people. Leave the rest to the churches.

11:00 PM - Home at last. We've talked the entire way. We are wiped out, but we changed the world.

Variation in Demographics across SC Irrelevant, We won Everywhere!!

HHP — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 17:18:09 EST

As the Clintons and some media observers have been busy qualifying Barack Obama's landslide victory in South Carolina, I've been thinking about the demographics of SC. Yes, a third of the state's population, give or take, is African American. BUT that percentage is not distributed evenly across the state. Almost all of the voters in some counties, especially in the SE corner of the state, are African American, whereas other counties have much lower African American populations.

If the South Carolina vote was merely the result of race politics, Obama would have won where black people are concentrated and not in the whiter counties. HE WON 44 of 46 counties. Obama prevailed in ALL except two counties (John Edwards took Oconee, where he grew up, and Hillary Clinton took Horry, where Myrtle Beach is located). Obama did not prevail only in places like Orangeburg and Kingstree and Jasper County.

He took Greenville and Spartanburg. He took Lexington County, one of the whitest and most republican counties in the state. He took all but one of the counties in the upstate, which are demographially more similar to North Carolina that the lowcountry of South Carolina. The NY Times has a map showing the margin of victory and prevailiong candidate by county. In Nevada and NH, Obama took substantial geographical areas of the state. The maps for Iowa, NH, and NV show that Obama and Clinton both took a good number of counties. The map for SC, with its great expanse of green (Obama's color on the map) reveals what a landslide this was for Obama. (As a side note, the Republican map looks almost evenly divided between McCain and Huckabee - the democrats were more unified than the republicans were last Saturday.)

I wish the media would focus on the votes and not the exit polls. All of this talk about the black vote is based on polls. Remember the polls in NH? How about the exit polls in the 2000 presidential election? Why are the exit polls in SC going unscrutinized?

Further, I am sick and tired of Bill Clinton's attempts to make this election all about race. For him to compare Obama's win to Jesse Jackson's wins in the 80s is nonsense. For one, Jesse Jackson was a native son, like John Edwards. Jesse Jackson took only 10% of the white vote, whereas Obama took almost a quarter of the white vote. Funny that Bill didn't mention that he won the SC democratic primary. That seems like a better comparison to me.

Do you remember when all of the talk was about whether African Americans would even support Obama? It wasn't that long ago. Some people said it took Iowa to convince African American voters in SC that Obama could win white votes. The results show me that he can and did win those white votes. Instead of looking at SC as a whole, and dismissing the results, because other states don't share it's demographic profile, I think we should look at the counties. I think we would find that some of the counties, especially in the upstate, are reasonably similar to to the February 5 states.

The fact that Obama won SC overwhelmingly, in all areas of the state, tells me all I need to know about his success from here on out. Remember, also, that he won in IOWA, a place with very few minorities. There is room in this tent for everyone, regardless of race, who is more concerned about the issues than partisan politics.

The Work Of Many

"*Jerome — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 20:37:11 EST

Thanks to the dedicated volunteers recruited from My.BarackObama.com we are able to have another successful voter registration drive.

Athens Ga. Campaign Office Opening Soon

Elizabeth, Mama4Obama — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:48:01 EST

Here is the information as I rec'd it. if any of you are close to Athens Georgia and have an interest in helping out or knowing where to direct people to for campaign supplies, here is the information

Hi all, this is Eureka, Georgia State Director. We will be opening an office in Athens within the next week or so. In the meantime, you can e-mail Chad if you’d like to be engaged in the Athens area. Stay tuned for more details.

I was given an e-mail address for Chad it is,

cbrock@barackobama.com

Warmest Regards,

Elizabeth, Mama4Obama

Obama's Next Test

Mark Webb — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 19:59:13 EST

The poll averages at Realclearpolitics show Barack up 7.7 points, Intrade prediction markets show last trade for Barack to win in NH at 95, versus HRC's 8, and the Hollywood royalty has begun to come out strongly in his favor.

Real world, though, Barack's got "the right stuff." He is charismatic, and he is intelligent. He inspires me to care about not only myself, but others. His ideas are realistic, and he can build consensus amongst the politicos who really care about our country.

He has broad appeal to the old, young, left, center and right. He is a healer for this United States of America. He asks us to believe not only in him, but ourselves. He has transcended the political machine, he is "one of us."

So, what is the test? Win, and win big on February 5th? This seems a foregone conclusion. Is it the Democratic nomination? Perhaps, but a February 5th win all but insures this outcome. So what else is there? I do not see a viable Republican (today), so he can win the general election.

Simply, to be the man who inspired us, in the position of President. To change this country, and thereby each of us and the rest of the world.

Signs of Change in Obama's comments

Mark Webb — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 08:26:09 EST

In an AP article today, found at: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071219/ap_on_el_pr/obama_foreign_policy;_ylt=At3kmrdeWhHzgX6m1RE3YRsb.3QA

I note a quote by Obama:

"I look forward to drawing on all of the talent that I can get when I am president of the United States — because unlike George Bush, I'm not going to demand an ideological or loyalty test for my advisers," he said. "I don't intend to be surrounded by 'yes' men and women."

Again, a breath of fresh air, that we won't have the idealogues we do today. Onward!

Youth wasted on Young

Carl — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 13:58:52 EST

Andrew Young’s quotes this weekend which hinted to why he is supporting Hillary Clinton instead of Barack Obama have to be the most idiotic utterances of a one time important figure that I’ve ever heard. It’s no secret that I question the validity of any African-American’s logic that is supporting Hillary over Barack, but not for the reason that many would think. I would never suggest that a potential voter should choose Obama simply because he’s African-American, NO. I challenge all those African-American’s that have a love affair with the last name “Clinton” to really take a look at the basis for their one sided relationship. As I’ve stated previously Clinton’s administration was behind quite a few policies that were not favorable to the African-American community, but here we have a one time contemporary of Dr. King tearing down Obama in favor of those that would use us a political tool. Mr. Young now comes with maybe the most baseless and inane logic used to date as the basis for his verbal assault on the prospects of an Obama presidency. Simply put he feels Barack to be too young. “It’s not a matter of being inexperienced. It’s a matter of being young,” said Young, who is 75. “There’s a certain level of maturity ... you’ve got to learn to take a certain amount of (expletive).”

I guess Young contends that unless you’ve been on this earth for less than half a century then you wouldn’t have the maturity to deal with the “expletive” that the world can throw your way. I wonder did he have the same ideals on youth and maturity when Dr. King lead the Montgomery Bus Boycott at the age of 27? Maybe also he felt Medgar Evars was too young also when at the age of 29 he began to establish local chapters of the NAACP throughout the Delta and organizing boycotts of gasoline stations that refused to allow blacks to use their restrooms, and that same year was appointed Mississippi’s first field secretary for the NAACP. The fact is that history has been filled with individuals that didn’t allow the perceived obstacle of youth get in the way of their mission, and neither should Barack. Let’s just stop and THINK about this for a second. Something that Hillary and her cohorts do not want us to do. Haven’t we been dogged by the politics of fear long enough? How many times are we going to fall victim to our fear before we listen to the courage of our convictions. Yes there are many issues that face us as American’s today, but unless we are ready to deal with these issues head on then we are doomed to continue the downward spiral of continuity. As Michelle Obama eloquently explains, the politics of fear is what brought us this war in Iraq and here are the same peddlers of that failed policy telling us to fear the possibilities of what may be if we take a chance in Barack. Andrew Young’s words tell me that he is content to accept the scraps that fall from the table and will use any desperate attempt to discourage others from seeking more. He has sold his convictions for those scraps and has turned his back on the memory of the civil rights movement which was largely organized by the youth of America at the time. Andrew Young’s ignominious comments highlight the need for an Obama presidency even more by showing America how apathy can take the heart of a once powerful figure unless there are signs of the progress for which he previously fought. An Obama presidency will remind the former civil rights leader that youth is not wasted on the young, and that Philippians 4:13 is accurate in expressing that all things can be achieved. Hopefully Mr Young will soon wake up and remember that there was a time when he wanted the very thing that he is working against today.

Who needs Hopes and dreams anyway?!?!?!?!

Carl — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 16:54:03 EST

I know this race for the President should not be about race. In my head I know that to be true. I feel that Barack should be elected not just because we share the same racial identity but because I truly believe that he is the best person for the job. With that being said I will admit that in my heart I feel a genuine since of connection and progress at the posibility. So when I hear that Barack is struggling with Hillary over the so called Black vote I'm honestly quite perplexed by the situation. Well this confusion turned in to flat out exasperation at hearing that 60 African-American ministers in SC endorsed Hillary. I gather that the main reason for their backing was her husband's huge popularity within the Black community. A popularity which would be almost as misplaced if blacks fell in love with Elvis or John Wayne! Yes, Bill's tenure in the WH saw economic progress that many blacks had not seen in a lifetime, but least we forget that many in our lifetime had to endure the 12 Reagan-Bush years which preceeded it. Coming off of those lean years any scrap would look like steak and to Clinton's credit there was more than just a few scraps. However Clinton's tenure also brought NAFTA, and Welfare Reform which has really done a number on the Black family. His tenure also saw unfair minimum sentencing with Drug enforcement that not only disproportionately placed more Blacks in jail than any other president but also labeled them as felons and revoked their rights as citizens to vote. As stated before looking at the situation as a whole I can not for the life of me see why Black America absolutely loves Bill Clinton. Now we have 60 AA ministers endorcing Hillary and I can't for the life of me understand why!! Maybe we want more political double talk in office? Maybe many of these ministers understand that a President Obama means that they wont be able to fear their congregations into doling out the tythes by perpetuating the idea that we are still victims to the whims of White men. Whatever the reason I think for anyone to suggest that Hillary Clinton would be a better president for not only Black America but America as a whole is either a. Being very short sighted or b. Blantantly dishonest! Well here is a quote that one such minister stated was his reason for supporting Hillary. I also supplied a poster's response to the the quote. Obviously I wasn't the only one who had an issue with what was said.

The Rev. Timothy Brown, of Cleveland Chapel in Spartanburg, said... "We need to look for a leader that is ready to lead right now," Brown said. "We don''t need to be filling our heads with hopes and dreams."

And there it is, the defining ignorance of our time. A minister in the Black community denounces "hope and dreams" in favor of supporting the tired and antiquated status quo that has done more over the last quarter century to divide this country along racial, social and economic lines, stalling and/or regressing the condition of the middle class in this country and criminally neglecting our poorer communities. If change is indeed the mantra of this election, recognizing our country''s urgent need to stop politics as usual so that we can create a new dawn of governing that actually is "for the people," then we all need to have the courage to embrace those who represent true and sincere change. We all need to dare to have hopes and dreams much like the signers of the Declaration of Independence had, slavery abolitionist had, women suffragist had, the allies against Hitler had, civil rights activists had, as JFK, Martin and RFK had. That''s why it''s a such a shame to hear someone like Rev. Timothy Brown ridicule the need for and faith in "hope and dreams"... but that''s probably because he and those he speaks for have lost their ability to do either.

Republican playbook?!?!?!

Carl — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 12:33:16 EST

“I don’t mind taking hits on my record, on issues, but when somebody starts throwing mud, at least we can hope that it’s both accurate and not right out of the Republican playbook because what I believe is important is that we put forth what we stand for. I have been active for 35 years. The American people know where I stand.”

Those were the words of Shillary Clinton at the last debate as she stood on the stage looking like a wounded puppy and dismissed Sen. Edwards’ criticism of her as mud slinging. What’s even more interesting is the specific kind of mud slinging that she suggested it was. Shillary contends that anyone that criticizes her is just adding to the Republican Attack machine that she has become so very well versed after her many years of being caught directly in the cross hairs. Now Hillary’s battles with the GOP have been well documented and in her defense there have been some snipes at her that have been quite nonsensical, but it seems that she has learned to pick up the characteristics of those that she claims persecute her with such vigor. Check out the last piece of GOP trash directed at Barack and then look at a line from a stump speech Hillary is currently using. Now tell me who is it exactly that is working off the Republican play book?!?!? Once again describing Hillary as Bush-Cheney lite hits the nail directly on the head.

Fictitious RNC Talking Points being circulated Regarding Obama’s Foreign Policy Experience:

OBAMA’S TOP 5 FOREIGN POLICY CREDENTIALS Foreign Policy Credential #1: “Life Of Living Overseas” For 4 Years…In Elementary School:
Foreign Policy Credential #2: Took Some College Courses In International Relations:Foreign Policy Credential #3: Has Passed Only One Bill As A Senator…It Dealt With A Foreign Country:
Foreign Policy Credential Number #4: Already Developed A Relationship With Australia’s Prime Minister; Now Ready To Meet With State Sponsors Of Terror:
Foreign Policy Credential #5: Member Of Foreign Relations Committee…Reluctantly.

Quote for Hillary stump speech regarding Obama’s Foreign Policy Experience:

"With all due respect," Clinton told a crowd in Iowa. "I don't think living in a foreign country between the ages of 6 and 10 is foreign policy experience."

Looks like Hillary is not only working off the same playbook but she’s starting directly from the top!

It takes a village....

Carl — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 12:49:40 EST

Yes, we've all heard the old African Proverb of raising a child. It has been used by many from pastors, teachers, and community activist. It oddly enough has also been used by the beloved former Senator of Pennsylvania the great R-Rick Santorum who never saw a partisan issue he wouldn't fight. However never has that saying been more true that now during this Presidential Primary season. It seems that the village made up of the Vast Clinton conspirists have banned together to get Shillary nominated. We've seen how she has dispatched her minions to do the dirty work of slinging mud while she appears to stay above the fray keeping the "heat" on the Republicans. There was former Sec of State Madeline Albright after the CNN/Youtube debate claiming that Barack's willingness to meet with foreign leadors without preconditions was naive. Then there was former Vice Presidential Candidate Geraldine Ferraro claiming that Edwards attacked Hillary because she was a woman. She also contended that no candidate wouldn't attack Barack the same way because "its less damaging to be seen as a sexist than a racist". A very revealing comment about the character of those shilling for the Shill. Much to my dismay this type of politics is business as usual for our country. It seems the conventional playbook is to do all the dirt from behind the scenes sending out the pawns to take the heat for saying the exact things you are too calculated to say. I mean heck if you actually said what you thought it may make you look bad. This type of thing is done so much that it has become not only expected but accepted if you look at the relative lack of connection made to the Shill by her legions. However as the other shoe is starting to drop and Barack is surging in the polls while America seems to be over the hill we see the desparate villagers are pulling out all the stops. The latest of the group to send praises toward Shillary was none other than the Village idiot himself!!!! Yes, that was George W Bush professing his admiration for Hillary's foreign policy experience. This was the same village idiot who jumped at critisizing Obama's policy proposals by stating that they were "odd". Excuse me, am I mistaken or was this the same man who oddly enough invaded the wrong country after America was attacked!?!?!?! But wait, it didn't end there!! Even the wife of the idiot chimmed in stating the Hill's time in the White House as 1st lady accurately prepaired her for the issues she will face as president. Hmmmm was this an attempt for Laura to put in her bid to run in 2016?!?!?! Sure that's just what America needs Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton-Bush..... ooooooohhhhhhhh just the thought of it gives me chills!!! So there we have it the entire village has convened and decided to force Shillary down our throats. Whether they are Democrat or Republican its obvious that the powers that be want to keep that power centered directly where it is now, in the hands of the Washinton elites. Yet for some reason I remember hearing how this is supposed to be a country by the people and for the people. Someone needs to pass that information along to the President, 1st lady, former president and former first lady. I think that someone needs to be the voters standing as one to reject thier brand of politics as usual and elect a person for real change.

We must not be in Kansas anymore Toto....

Carl — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:37:14 EST

Obviously the nation must be flipped upside down as many of the traditionally Red states are finding their media print positive stories of a Blue State Democrat! As Dorothy lamented as she looked around her strange new environment... we must not be in Kansas anymore. However the states have not gone through a physical transformation as much as they seem to be making an emotional, and inspired political transformation. Read this story writing about Barack in the Kasas City Star.

http://www.kansascity.com/445/story/367841.html

Obama's IL Record Search Instructions

ychelleh — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 22:32:39 EST

Obama's last year in the IL Senate record

http://www.ilga.gov/senate/Senator.asp?GA=93&MemberID=747

Here is his first year in the IL Senate record

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet90/sponsor/OBAMA.html

Also click here to get his past years in the IL Senate. Click the years that you're interested in from the drop down menu. Then select "search" under either - legislation & laws, journals, or transcripts within the senate section. Then type in Barack Obama and there you go his records for all to see.

http://www.ilga.gov/previousga.asp?GA=93

vs.

HRC legislative records prior to the senate. Here's the links

www.oops-there-unavailable.com
or
www.oops-there-are-none.com

Obama in Orbit

Carl — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 09:06:58 EST

Hey fellow Obamites,

Here's another article that I came across today on the Obama's potential to change, not only America and how we view ourselves, but the world and it's view of us as well. I will also not the irony of the fact that if comes from the home state of Sen. HRC.

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/15/opinion/15cohen.html?hp

Real Man of Action!!

Carl — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 15:11:38 EST

Hey guys,

Check out this article posted on CNN.com about Barack's efforts to over haul the Death Penalty in Illinois. As a citizen of Chicago at the time I heard of the legislation but did not know that Barack plaid such a huge roll. It's refreshing to see a politician being a real man of action and getting things done based on his convictions!

http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/11/12/obama.death.penalty.ap/index.html

Fired Up!..... Ready to Go!!!

Carl — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 17:45:26 EST

I know that many people do not look forward to Saturday nights because they can't wait to watch CSPAN. Yeah that was me rushing back from the mall so that I can watch the JJ Diner last night. I had been looking forward to this event for two weeks since Barack officially dropped the guantlet at Shillary's feet at the 10/30th debate. Many people, as I, was looking forward to seeing Barack continue to put heat on the "front runner", while others where hoping to pounce on any percieved slip up. Well I think the stage was set for Barack after the opening bell rang. During the speaker introductions the pro Obama faction which has been estimated of upwards of 4000 strong drowned out everyone else in the crowd of 9000 with the chants of Fired Up and He's Ready to go. Finally after some good and some not so good speakers, Barack strode to the stage and delivered on what has been called one of his best speeches since the 04 convention. In my eyes this event helps Obama on two fronts. First it shows off his organizational skills in getting supporters to events which will no doubt help during the caucuses. This will also show that much of the poll numbers do not accurately reflect his support. Secondly his speech was flawless, not only did he solidify his base but I'm sure picked up support from his opponents as well. Honestly I was a bit worried by this campaign at times after hearing statements of "its a marathon and not a sprint". Well it seems that Barack has paced himself and now is poised for the final kick and he is deffinitely Fired Up and Ready to Go!

Talking Loud and Saying Nothing!

Carl — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 15:50:24 EDT

I remember as a kid hearing this phrase and not having any clue how it was possible. Much like the ever dreaded "eat with your mouth closed" phrase that my mother would snap at me while at the dinner table as I tried to multi-task by finishing dinner at the same time I told her about my day. Well now that I am much older and hopefully much much wiser I see that it's not only possible to Talk Loud and Say Nothing but an everyday occurrence when it comes to politics. Some of the more infamous instances of this phenomenon took place during Bush's "Mission Accomplished" speech or Cheney's "last throws" statement, and even more fitting was Rumsfeld's "the Army you got not the army you want" fiasco. Yes unfortunately enough over the last 6 years this current Administration has given us plenty of times where they spoke loud but had absolutely nothing to say. Many people are eager to turn the page on these types of politicians and move toward real, fundamental, mind awakening change. However just because the clock is winding down on this administration don't think there are not those that are ready to pick up exactly where they left off and the worst part of it is that not all the culprits are Republican. Currently outside of Rudy "9-11" Gulliani we have Hillary Clinton who has seemed to master the art of "Talking Loud and Saying Nothing"!! Take into account Hillary's answer regarding HIV/AIDS statistics of Black women in America. "Let me just put this in perspective: If HIV-AIDS were the leading cause of death of white women between the ages of 25 and 34 there would be an outraged outcry in this country." Well let me be the first to admit that yes she may have a point. However let me also point out that this little sound bite may score some political points to emotionally charge the audience of African Americans attending the debate at Howard University but does very little to explain what she would actually DO to solve the problem. Yes, the current so-called, media driven front-runner Hillary Clinton is a master of using snake-oil politics. This is a woman that went on all 5 Sunday morning talk shows on the same day and the next day the only thing that reporters were able to comment on was her uncanny laughter. No advancement in policy or procedure. No new ideas or examples on how she will follow through on her old ones. The last few years we have had to deal with an Emperor who had no clothes. The last thing we need is an Empress to follow in his footsteps. Seems to me that Barack's short simple statement of "Bush-Cheney lite" was one of the more fitting statements uttered during this entire presidential race. One with meaning and depth, and what’s even more fitting he didn't have to shout it from a mountain top for its gravitas to be felt.