Michiganders for Obama

A New Generation of Grassroots Leaders Get Trained in Kalamazoo

OFA in MI State Field Director — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:24:28 EST

From Regional Field Director Jenn Warner

Great training today in Kalamazoo, MI. We had 12 CO's and NTL's in attendance. As one attendee put it, "We have everyone here, from students to AARP members." The group was made up of people who have been working at the grassroots level since the campaign as well as people looking to dive back into grassroots organizing. Overall, participants really appreciated the breadth and depth of the training from our discussions about building teams to discussions about the legislative process. It was clear that today's training not only provided them with the tools necessary to organize in their community, but a renewed sense of enthusiasm about the very important work they will be doing!

University of Michigan College Dems Break Own Record

OFA in MI State Field Director — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 21:47:00 EST

This account of the historic day is from Community Organizer Amanda Caldwell

On Thursday, The College Democrats at the University of Michigan sought out to break their own national record for the most calls made at a single Organizing for America event. After making calls for ten straight hours with over 30 students participating, their efforts paid off. The College Democrats at the University of Michigan made 2,075 calls! They set the previous record at 1,739 just over month ago. A conference room in the Michigan Union was scene of the phonebanking marathon. It was filled with call sheets, pizza boxes, phone chargers and dozens of the group's members, showing up to make calls for as much or as little time as their schedules would allow. Some members stayed for four or five hours as a time, while others showed up several times through out the day in between classes and work to make as many calls as they could. True to their affinity for new media, the group used a Facebook event, google form, dozens of emails, Twitter, and text messages to rally its members. The College Democrats look forward to challenging their own record again in support of reform.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar d Minnesota set the Republican Lies abot The Mao Clinic Straight - Dont put your head in the sand as the Bush three page Medicare Reform was passed unfunded!

Lillene Ebanks — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:18:29 EST

Set the record staight with oibjective facts not subjective opinionated retroic to fillibuster a life and death bill!

OFA in Michigan Welcomes Home Members of Congress

OFA in MI State Field Director — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:23:47 EST

This week, Organizing for America in Michigan is preparing events to thank members of congress for their support on health insurance reform. Last Saturday, the House of Representatives passed historic health reform legislation. Allen and Janet H couldn’t wait to thank their representative, Congressman Gary Peters (D-Bloomfield Hills) for his support on health insurance reform. Allen and Janet have been involved in politics for over 50 years and comprehensive health insurance reform has been a goal they have always hoped could be achieved. Shortly after Saturday night’s vote, President Obama released the following statement

Tonight, in an historic vote, the House of Representatives passed a bill that would finally make real the promise of quality, affordable health care for the American people.
The Affordable Health Care for America Act is a piece of legislation that will provide stability and security for Americans who have insurance; quality affordable options for those who don’t; and bring down the cost of health care for families, businesses, and the government while strengthening the financial health of Medicare. And it is legislation that is fully paid for and will reduce our long-term federal deficit.

Thanks to the hard work of the House, we are just two steps away from achieving health insurance reform in America. Now the United States Senate must follow suit and pass its version of the legislation. I am absolutely confident it will, and I look forward to signing comprehensive health insurance reform into law by the end of the year.

Having always been supporters of Congressman Peters, Allen and Janet were overjoyed and wanted to find a special way to thank him for his support for health insurance reform. Janet decided to bake the Congressman her famous banana nut bread and Allen delivered it to him personally.

Organizing for America will be planning events across the state to thank our Democratic members of Congress for their support for health insurance reform. Here is a list of the events across Michigan. Click on the link to join us!

Thursday:

Detroit- Congresswoman Kilpatrick (D-MI 14)

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/thankyouevents/gpczzr

Ann Arbor- Congressman Dingell (D- MI 15)

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/thankyouevents/gpcz88

Flint- Congressman Kildee (D- MI 5)

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpczkm

Friday:

Detroit- Congressman Conyers (D- MI 13)

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/thankyouevents/gpczzv

Flint Celebrates the One Year Aniversary of Change

OFA in MI State Field Director — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:26:36 EST

Organizing for America hosted a celebration in Flint on the one year anniversary of the election of President Barack Obama. Complete with décor from the campaign, the ubiquitous Barack Obama cardboard cutout, and speeches from then Sen. Obama in the background, the atmosphere was somewhat surreal for those that had worked tirelessly during the campaign.

The scavenger hunt was case in point. It asked participant to find someone who: volunteered in both 2008 and 2009; volunteered out of state; made a donation; attended an event with Sen. Obama; attended the inauguration, and was wearing Obama gear. Everyone in the room fit at least one category. I met Jim Carlson, who volunteered in Michigan last year. Looking back on the one year mark, Jim said “It’s amazing how much has been accomplished since then”. I also met Mary McLemore who attended events with President Obama in Flint and Detroit. I met Laurie Holland, who was on the National Mall with her daughter when President Obama was officially sworn in. All voted for change, most volunteered for change, and many continue to work for change with Organizing for America.

Many were in this very room exactly one year ago watching the fruits of their labor come to fruition. Brian Bates remembers the excitement in the packed room as Genesee county residents waited for the results to come in.

“You get nervous. No matter how hard you worked, there’s always a chance the votes won’t go your way. I just hope we continue to push for the change we were pushing for during the election because it’s important and people need help.”

The trip down memory lane also served to keep people focused on continuing to work for change. Two tables on display had signs that said “Then” and “Now”. The latter was filled with sign-ups for Organizing for America volunteer opportunities, a place to sign up to call your congressman in support of health insurance form, and a place to drop off letters to members of Congress in support of reform. Flint township leader Mary Putnam spoke to the crowd, telling them of the friends she made during the campaign and the weekly meetings they still have to continue to push for change.

Nov.4th Then and Now: "The Sense of Hope That Continues to Motivate Me"

OFA in MI State Field Director — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:08:59 EST

Michigan: As Americans all across the country today celebrate the one year anniversary of the election of President Barack Obama, hundreds of Organizing for America volunteers gather to celebrate their continued efforts for change. For Community Organizer Christine Jaranowski, the hope born out of a movement for change and a historic election continues today.“It is that sense of hope that continues to inspire and motivate me as I continue the work started last fall, now with Organizing for America.”

Like many in Michigan, Christine joined the President’s campaign late in the election. President Obama was not on the ballot during the Michigan Primary, and there was little campaigning in the state by any Democratic candidate. The general election brought heavy campaigning from both Presidential contenders, and allowed Christine an opportunity to be involved in history.

“Getting involved in a presidential campaign was something that I had always wanted to do, but I never seemed to have the time to volunteer. In 2008, I was able to not only make the time to get involved, but I’d also found, in Barack Obama, a candidate that I believed could not only bring about much needed change, but one that I could support wholeheartedly.”

Unlike Christine, Chris Savage had been involved in previous election. His motivation to get involved with a local Dexter group could be found in those defeats.

“I got involved because I felt like I had really dropped the ball in 2004. Although we had volunteered on Election Day, we never got fully involved in the Kerry campaign and, when he was defeated, I felt defeated. I vowed I would never let that happen again.”

As Chris knocked on 1000s of door and made hundreds of calls in his community, Christine was running a phonebank in her home in Fenton every week from the beginning of September until Nov 4th. Christine remembers fondly the empowerment her volunteers felt when they were able to convince undecided voter to support President Obama. For Christine and Chris and millions of others across the country, the final results on Nov 4th proved that change could come from the ground up, and could lead to stronger communities.

“On election night, I remember standing with my team of volunteers, people I’d only known for a few weeks, but people who were tirelessly dedicated to fighting for change, and I remember the sense of accomplishment in creating this community of volunteers and the joy at not only having won, but of having been a part of something much larger. More importantly, for the first time in eight years, I had a restored sense of hope; hope that change was not just a possibility but also a reality.”

The ability to affect change has kept Chris, Christine, and hundreds of grassroots leaders involved in their movement for change with Organizing for America. Chris was able to get a lot of the friends he made during the campaign active again with OFA in the pursuit of health insurance reform. Christine has again taken a leadership role in Genesee County, not only in continuing to run a phonebank but also training and empowering other leaders.

“I have learned that we can’t just wait for change, we have to work for change every day. Today, we continue to work hard for change, as Organizing for America fights for real health insurance reform.”

Organizing for America in Michigan Grassroots Profile: University of Michigan College Democrats

OFA in MI State Field Director — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:28:01 EDT

Ann Arbor- One of the strengths of President Obama’s 2008 Campaign for Change was the record number of youth that got involved in hopes of changing the country. The College Democrats at the University of Michigan were a part of these efforts last year, and fortunately they have continued their efforts in a big way with Organizing for America –Michigan.

UMCD’s work with OFA- Michigan began with a meeting between their leadership and OFA- Michigan staff. Shortly after, Amanda Caldwell was chosen as the OFA liaison and they began to tackle health insurance reform by hosting weekly phone banks and doing outreach on campus. Since then Amanda and the College Dems have proven to be grassroots leaders on their campus and in the state.

A recent friendly competition with student organizers at Michigan State University proved the College Dems’ ability to affect change. On Thursday, October 15, more than 60 students from UMCD made over 1700 phone calls to Michigan residents urging them to call their representatives in support of President Barack Obama's plan for health insurance reform. At this event, UMCD members set the national record for the most phone calls made at a single Organizing for America event. Starting early in the day, UMCD members began calling potential supporters to encourage them to contact their members of Congress about health insurance

"It was great to see so many of our members turn out to the event," said Samuel T. Marvin, chair of UMCD. "Health care is a student issue. By working on comprehensive health insurance reform now, we are making an investment in our future.

In addition to UMCD's involvement with OFA Michigan, the group also activates on progressive issues and campaigns for Democratic candidates. Last fall, UMCD members volunteered for congressional candidates Gary Peters, Mark Schauer, and Bart Stupak. The members have also been volunteering for Marty Griffin's campaign for State Senate throughout the fall.

UMCD holds weekly chapter meetings every Thursday in the Michigan Union at 8pm.

President Obama is a DISASTER!

Devin — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 22:11:49 EDT

So happy I woke up last September and changed party's because if not I would be like all of you and be to blame for all that is going on in our country today. Barack is a disgrace to our nation!

Organizing for America in Michigan Grassroots Profile: Melissa Bernardi

OFA in MI State Field Director — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:44:34 EDT

Clarkston- Two years ago, Melissa Bernardi was a part time bookseller in Clarkston, Michigan. Today, Melissa is a proud Community Organizer with Organizing for America in North Oakland County. For Melissa, her venture into organizing began when she heard about her friends experiences with the other campaign experiences of her friends.

“I was always impressed by the stories a dear friend had told me about his experience working on the Bobby Kennedy presidential campaign, which led me to volunteering for Obama for America last year."

Like many working with Organizing for America, Melissa was inspired by her work on behalf of then Senator Obama.

“My first experience was a canvass in my town at the end of August that consisted of 3 other local volunteers. By Election Day there were literally hundreds of community members streaming through my house to knock on doors. By being a volunteer for the campaign I discovered how many of my neighbors shared my views, but had been too quiet or felt too alone to voice them.”

After the campaign ended, Melissa missed the spirit of community and activism she had experienced. It was not long before Melissa began volunteering with Organizing for America. Since then, Melissa has been a leader in the state of Michigan in the campaign for health insurance reform. She has reached out to thousands of Oakland Country residents in support of reform, led or participated in dozens of citizen contact events, and attended several trainings on community organizing. She even got the chance to meet Vice President Joe Biden in August. For Melissa, it’s all about having a voice in the process.

“The end of the campaign just left me wanting to continue being a voice for change in my community. Being a Community Organizer for Organizing for America has given me that voice to inspire others.”

New Ojamas Ready for Preordering

Ojamas Sleepwear — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 09:08:14 EDT

Our all new Ojamas for 2009-2010 are ready for pre-ordering! If you tried our original Ojamas, you'll be thrilled with the softer, luxurious cotton flannel fabric and improved sizing and fit for ladies in our new design. Throughout the year, we surveyed our customers and the two areas which stood out most were fabric and fit. You told us you wanted softer cotton flannel and that you wanted a better fitting garment for ladies, and that's exactly what we're delivering this year. An overwhelming majority of customers who liked the orginal design with the campaign logo said they wanted to see something more fun with our new President's face, and we've captured that in our new design as well.

As we did last year we'll be producing limited quantities, and demand is expected to exceed supply. We're starting with an introductory pre-order price of $24.99. Once our production cycle nears completion, this price is subject to increase, so we hope you'll take advantage now. During the pre-order period, your credit card will not be charged until we have received our production run and begin shipping orders. If at any time you'd like to cancel your order, you may do so without penalty - no questions asked. Pre-ordering is a no-risk way that ensures you'll be among the first to get your all new Ojamas in time for the holidays. Pre-order your Ojamas today!

What makes me sick...

Tim — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 06:10:20 EDT

When somebody has passed away, instead of well-wishing to surviving family members, offering condolences to supporters, or simply remembering the great differences the person has made; one feels the need to detract. Having the nerve to say something like "good riddance", or that "I'm happy and glad that he's dead cause he was all for the illegals and all for abortion.He was all for Obama's healthcare plan which I'm absolutely totally against it." Saying these things because:

- People crossing a line separating two areas of land to make a better life for their families

- "Killing" a group of cells that barely represents human life so as to not screw up their own life

- Making sure that all people have the ability to get quality, affordable health care

Is mind-numbing and sad. A human being has died. I can only hope that when you pass, others are more considerate that you are. To say these vile things because you feel differently about what is simply a difference in beliefs, makes me sick to my stomach. I hope this person looks at themselves in the mirror. I hope they don't like what they see.

Rest In Peace Edward Kennedy. No matter who wants to belittle and hate, you were beloved by those who have a brain, and a heart.

Facebook Group - Keep The Public Option

Tim — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 06:09:07 EDT

Voice your support for the public option by joining this group!

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=120902578303

you can spend on health care or blow peoples heads off

Frank — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 11:06:42 EDT

new appropriations bring total war-related spending for Iraq to $687 billion. So republicans have no problem spending our collective money to illegally invade a country, kill people, expand the empires reach etc. but don't ask them to spend it to insure our collective health as a people and society.

Will Obama Drop the "Public Option"?

Gary — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:14:48 EDT

I am very disappointed with some of the talk I have been hearing about the administration backing away from a public option for health care. I did not join the Democratic Party to have it morph into the Republican Party.

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said government alternatives to private health insurance are "not the essential element" of the administration's health care overhaul. The White House would be open to co-ops, she said.

I am not buying this.

Obama said the public option is needed to keep the private insurers honest. We need him to stand by his statements and not lose his nerve.

Health Insurance Reform Under Attack

EsquireUK — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:18:07 EDT

Some of my unedited views on the economy and health care

Jason Harter; Stop Hate — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 18:44:51 EDT

President Obama, in my view, needs to stop being so centralist and start to fully embrace an FDR policy of job creations. I love Obama, but he is too Centralist. Of course, Obama is A MILLION times better than ANY Republican view I have ever heard; and I will still eagerly campaign for President Obama even if his views are a bit more centralistic than mine:

President Obama's grades, in my book:

Foreign Policy: A+

Torture: A

economy: B- (he talks the right talk but doesn't do enough walk)

Health care reform: B (the right track; but more needs to be done. Equal access for all and throw out the greedy and leech like health insurance companies that have no purpose outside of exploitation; get rid of the greed and start to heal the sick; Public education, which is VERY socialistic, was rejected by many as 'wasteful' spending; However, the advantages of a literate society with innovation and business/math skills has proven very beneficial to society; Public Health Care ought to be equally accessable. Education and Health Care are socially advantagous in a socialisitic form, giving Americans the OPPORTUNITY for the American Dream. If we listened to Republicans, the only American Dream would be for those who are born healthy and wealthy).

The only people who complain in a public health system are those who are beyond filthy rich who believe that health care, like everything else in life, should be handed to them on a silver plater; people who believe that just because they were born into wealth they are somehow magically more deserving of a heart transplant than someone who is 'beneath' them. The middle class and the moderately wealthy (early millionaires) would see no major differences in treatment between a public and a completely private system if it could be run properly and ethically.

The economy is like blood circulation. It needs to be circulated effectively through all parts of the body (society) in order for it to be healthy. In a society where it takes over 1.5 BILLION dollars to be in the wealthiest 400, while wages remain relatively low and jobs outsource to exploit cheap labor elsewhere, and there are NO jobs left while the rich become richer than ever before - the blood circulation ends. Causing wealth to effectively circulate in society is NOT socialism.

Capitalism itself is created through regulation - capitalism cannot exist without some form or shape which it was regulated into. The only form of 'free market/trade' is a system of barter. The creation and establishment of our economic structure necessarily entails shape/form/regulation on some level. We created/shaped the rules in a previous epoch, and we can change the rules to address a new more globalized epoch.

After all, I firmly believe people ought to get the wealth they DESERVE. But lets face it, how many billionaires or millionaires do activities worth that kind of money? How many merely exploit the economic structure for personal greed?

Sorry, Republicans, trickle down theory is false: The wealth needs to be circulating effectively in all parts of society; not merely 'trickling down' but rather 'flowing' up and down.

PS Change is not going to happen unless we the people step to the plate and make the changes. President Obama cannot make the changes alone. Even if we have some disagreements, we have a similiar goal. If we do not act in unity to bring about change, nothing will happen. And before we know it we will have another disasterous Republican/neocon like Bush in office.

Now is the time. This is the place. Together, change can happen. The only thing which could stop it is our own lack of motivation.

Health Care Analogy

Ryan I. — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:38:41 EDT

"Providing health care is like building a house. The task requires experts, expensive equipment and materials, and a huge amount of coördination. Imagine that, instead of paying a contractor to pull a team together and keep them on track, you paid an electrician for every outlet he recommends, a plumber for every faucet, and a carpenter for every cabinet. Would you be surprised if you got a house with a thousand outlets, faucets, and cabinets, at three times the cost you expected, and the whole thing fell apart a couple of years later? Getting the country’s best electrician on the job (he trained at Harvard, somebody tells you) isn’t going to solve this problem. Nor will changing the person who writes him the check."

Flint - Health Care Kick-Off Event

Ryan I. — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:27:20 EDT

Tomorrow the first big Flint Health Care Kick-Off is happening. http://blog.mlive.com/get-healthy-in-genesee/2009/06/health_care_reform_the_topic_a.html

Please come and join the conversation to help move our country forward.

Michigan Policy Summit May 16

Amy Chapman — Fri, 08 May 2009 10:26:39 EDT

Last week President Obama marked his 100th day in office; although he has already brought about significant change, we still have more work ahead of us. To build upon these efforts, the President needs support at the local and state level.

You can be a part of implementing change right here in Michigan by joining me in Detroit on May 16th at Cobo Hall for the 3rd Annual Michigan Policy Summit.

This year’s summit is about investing in our state through bold policies that secure our economic future by focusing on job creation, worker protections and investing in our communities. These policies will lay the foundation to once again positioning Michigan as a leader and offer needed on-the-ground support for President Obama’s bold policy initiatives.

Upcoming Events

Justin — Thu, 07 May 2009 15:17:45 EDT

I am hosting some upcoming events in the area and attending some as well. So please check out Mybo, Facebook, and your local paper to see what's near you because there is a whole lot happening this summer for a non-election year.

It's been a long time....

Together We Stand for Change! formerly K. Bell — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 15:14:45 EDT

I have a confession to make. A confession that I'm ashamed of and that I know, if it weren't for the spirit and drive of my fellow Americans, a confession that may have ruined our journey, our promise, and our nation.

My confession? Is simply this, I've been on vacation since the election, and I see now that I couldn't afford to take one. The fate of this country, the state of the economy, and fighting the opposition to change is too important for any of us to take a vacation.

I am so proud of those of you who have not. Those of you who realized that in order for President Obama's agenda for change to come to pass, he needs all of us and he has needed all of us. Yes, I've signed petitions to senators to vote "yes" on the last two budgets, but through a simple email. I've read the reports and debated with friends, but there was so much more I could have done. Attended meetings, or made calls, send emails, and knock or doors, but thank God for the statement that President Obama uttered on more than one occassion, "I am my brother's keeper." All of you have kept me and helped to keep our promise, and now I'm back to join you and replace those others that may make the mistake as I have in thinking that our job is done. YES WE CAN!

Community Health Care Forum with Congressman John Dingell

Chris Savage — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 07:49:47 EDT

Anyone in the Southeastern part of Michigan with an interest in health care reform in this country should plan to attend the health care forum being sponsored by the OFA team from Districts 7 and 15 this coming Tuesday, April 14th. It will be attended by Congressman John Dingell along with a number of other local officials. The press release is below and a flyer for the event can be found HERE.

Chris Savage
--------------------------------------

New Grassroots Coalition and Congressman Dingell Hold Local Health Care Forum

For more information contact:
Tad Wysor, 734/883-3225 or tadwysor@gmail.com
Lynne Schwartz, 646/842-1360 or Lynnes1@gmail.com

A broad new group of Obama campaign volunteers believes that everyday people and community leaders need to take more responsibility for winning on key issues essential to the economic turnaround both here in Michigan and across the nation - issues like health care reform -- and is acting on it. The local "Organizing for America (OFA)" Coalition sees its upcoming Health Care Forum with 15th Congressman John Dingell (Tuesday April 14, 6:30-8:00pm at Brown Chapel AME Church in Ypsilanti) as one of the in critical ways in which local people can play an active and effective role in this major upcoming national debate.

"It's no secret that Michigan continues to bear the brunt of our struggling national economy. Our broken health care system is a huge part of the problem and fixing it will be a key factor in the Michigan's economic revival" said Lynne Schwartz, 15th District OFA leader. "It's very hopeful that so many are joining together in effective new ways, including working with a major Washington figure on health care like Congressman Dingell."

The OFA Coalition is encouraging residents, students, unions, people of faith, small business owners, heath care providers, not for profit service organizations, elected officials, and other health care stakeholders to attend and become a part of making the Forum...and ultimately the campaign to reform health care and revive the economy...a success.

The forum is the second major public meeting organized by the new OFA Coalition. In March, 85 people filled First Congregational Church in Ypsilanti, during which three local State Representatives (Alma Wheeler Smith, Rebekah Warren, and Pam Byrnes) committed to support the Coalition's efforts to follow and influence the large influx of economic stimulus dollars into the area as the Obama Administration's economic recovery plans unfold.

The group, many of whom were key volunteers last year in the Obama campaign's grassroots organizing operation throughout the area, are now working closely with the national Organizing for America (OFA) organization. The OFA Coalition believes that this is the logical continuation of the unprecedented grassroots-oriented campaign last year that saw huge numbers of people becoming more active and aware. The local OFA Coalition is committed to supporting the major policy changes and initiatives in health care, education, and energy that are key to the Obama Administration's economic recovery plans.

The OFA Coalition volunteers intend for events like this Health Care Forum to be a important way to show how a wide range of people -- both those who supported Obama and those who didn't -- can participate more effectively in government decisions at all levels. "The Health Care Forum is another chance for many of us to meet our neighbors and remember we're not alone in this crisis. Together, we'll to hear from Mr. Dingell, a national health care leader, and share with him the vital concerns of the community regarding this critical issue." said Tad Wysor, 15th district OFA leader.

Blog location

Sean Mullally — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 09:00:38 EDT

I've moved my blog to http://seanmullally.blogspot.com

Check their for my current posts regarding progressive politics in West Michigan.

Thank you,

Sean Mullally

President Obama Issues Ultimatum To Automakers

EsquireUK — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 21:17:59 EDT

www.whitehouse.gov

Obama sets tight auto aid terms

US President Barack Obama has given US carmakers General Motors (GM) and Chrysler strict deadlines to restructure before getting more aid.

General Motors will be given 60 days and Chrysler just 30 days to submit new plans for recovery.

Soon after ordering the resignation of GM chief Rick Wagoner, Mr Obama said bankruptcy protection could speed up the restructuring process.

But he also offered conditional assurances about the industry's future.

Government guarantees

"We cannot, we must not and we will not let our auto industry simply vanish," said Mr Obama.

KEY POINTS

GM has 60 days to submit new recovery plan

Chrysler has one-month deadline for a merger with Italy's Fiat

If merger is successful, Chysler will receive up to $6bn

Bankruptcy protection is an option

US government will guarantee vehicle warranties

Incentive scheme being considered to boost car sales

"But our auto industry is not moving in the right direction fast enough to succeed."

He said the car firms had run into trouble because of a "failure of leadership - from Washington to Detroit".

Restructuring plans may "mean using our bankruptcy code as a mechanism to help them restructure quickly and emerge stronger", he said.

This could make it easier for the firms to "quickly clear away their old debts that are weighing them down so they can get back on their feet and on to a path of success".

Mr Obama said this would not have to involve breaking the companies up.

Stocks slide

Talk of bankruptcy unsettled investors and US stocks fell sharply.

The leading Dow Jones index ended down 3.3% at 7,522.02 points in New York, with GM shares down 25% at $2.71.

Richard Lister, BBC News, Detroit The cold and grey in snowy Detroit is an accurate reflection of the mood here as people wake up to the idea that their industrial landscape has changed again. President Obama has swept aside one of the pillars of the car industry here. Mr Wagoner was a GM veteran, so on local talk shows his resignation was met with some incredulity that he could be forced out by Washington, with one caller insisting he was the victim of and not the creator of the global recession. Both in urban Detroit and surrounding rural Michigan there is a deep set conservatism that instinctively dislikes this level of government intervention. But there is mounting nervousness too. Mr Wagoner had already pledged to cut a fifth of GM's global workforce and close 14 factories. By forcing him to go, President Obama is clearly saying is, that's not enough.

Mr Obama reassured would-be buyers of vehicles made by Chrysler and GM that after-sales support would not be affected by the restructuring plans.

"If you buy a car from Chrysler or GM, you will be able to get your car serviced and repaired. Your warranty will be safe," he said.

"Because, starting today, the US government will stand behind your warranty."

Mr Obama said the restructuring plans submitted by the carmakers did not go "far enough to warrant the substantial new investments that these companies are requesting".

GM and Chrysler are looking for more than $20bn of government aid.

"My administration will offer GM and Chrysler a limited period of time with creditors, unions, and other stakeholders to fundamentally restructure in a way that would justify an investment of additional tax dollars."

The president also said he would work with Congress on a programme to encourage consumers to replace old, less fuel-efficient cars with newer, cleaner vehicles.

Germany and others have adopted such schemes, thus boosting vehicle sales.

'Far too slow'

GM has been told to come up with a new, more radical restructuring plan within 60 days in order to qualify for further funds.

The auto task force set up by the US administration to oversee the government bail-out of the carmakers said in a written report that GM "could be a viable business with a more aggressive restructuring plan".

The carmaker has already announced tens of thousands of job cuts and a number of factory closures in order to cut costs that have spiralled out of control as sales have slumped during the economic downturn.

But the task force criticised GM's progress on current restructuring efforts for being "far too slow".

Fiat alliance

In Chrysler's case, the task force questioned whether the company could survive alone and demanded a merger with Italy's Fiat - the two firms created a strategic alliance earlier this year - or another carmaker.

After President Obama's speech, Fiat and Chrysler announced they had reached the framework on a global alliance.

The US government would provide working capital for a further 30 days while a merger was discussed, it added.

If a merger is successful, then the government will consider investing up to $6bn.

The two carmakers have already received $17.4bn (£14.4bn) in bail-outs. Chrysler has requested a further $5bn, while GM says it needs $16.6bn more.

On Sunday, President Obama ordered the resignation of GM's chairman and chief executive, Rick Wagoner.

Kent Kresa will take over as interim chairman, while current GM President Fritz Henderson will serve as chief executive.

GM also announced that a number of new directors would be appointed to the board.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7972464.stm

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0309/20642.html

Obama shakes up GM, Chrysler
By: Mike Allen and Josh Gerstein
March 30, 2009 12:00 AM EST

President Barack Obama announced an extraordinary bid to remake the ailing U.S. auto industry Monday, saying he would withhold long-term federal aid to two carmakers unless they make sweeping changes to ensure their survival.

In blunt terms, Obama said his vision for reshaping GM and Chrysler would be painful to the companies and their workers, but insisted the strong medicine was the only course to saving them – while also leaving open the possibility they could fail.

And he spoke directly to auto workers and communities who rely on the plants, saying, “I will not pretend the tough times are over. I cannot promise you there isn’t more pain to come. But what I can promise you is this – I will fight for you. You are the reason I am here today.”

“These efforts, as essential as they are, will not make everything better overnight. There are jobs that cannot be saved. There are plants that will not reopen. . . .”

Obama also took the dramatic step of putting the federal government fully behind the two companies’ products – saying the United States would back the warranties on their cars for the rest of the years, in hopes that consumers wouldn’t shy away from the battered companies.

In the case of GM, Obama sought the resignation of CEO Rick Wagoner, and Wagoner complied by stepping aside. Obama gave GM 60 days to restructure and sounded optimistic the company could.

In the case of Chrysler, Obama was much more pessimistic – giving them only 30 days to cut a merger deal with Italian automaker Fiat. If they merged, he offered $6 billion in new loans. If they don’t, Obama said they would get no more federal aid – and likely be forced into bankruptcy.

“Year after year, decade after decade, we have seen problems papered-over and tough choices kicked down the road, even as foreign competitors outpaced us. Well, we have reached the end of that road,” Obama said. “And we, as a nation, cannot afford to shirk responsibility any longer. Now is the time to confront our problems head-on and do what’s necessary to solve them,” Obama said.

“But I am confident that if we are each willing to do our part, then this restructuring, as painful as it will be in the short-term, will mark not an end, but a new beginning for a great American industry; an auto industry that is once more out-competing the world; a 21st century auto industry that is creating new jobs, unleashing new prosperity, and manufacturing the fuel-efficient cars and trucks that will carry us toward an energy independent future.”

The White House first floated its plans Sunday, saying it had concluded that neither GM nor Chrysler as they now exist deserve more federal bailouts – and demanding dramatic steps by both companies to show they can survive.

“The pain being felt in places that rely on our auto industry is not the fault of our workers, who labor tirelessly and desperately want to see their companies succeed. And it is not the fault of all the families and communities that supported manufacturing plants throughout the generations. Rather, it is a failure of leadership – from Washington to Detroit – that led our auto companies to this point,” Obama said.

The administration found that both carmakers had failed to prove their “viability” as required under the terms of the massive government loans they’ve already received, and determined that neither should receive another bailout without making significant changes.

“We have unfortunately concluded that neither plan submitted by either company represents viability, and therefore does not warrant the substantial additional investments that they requested,” a senior administration official told reporters.

Obama also made clear he feels confident GM can turn around, but he isn’t so sure about Chrysler. “Chrysler is a more difficult situation,” the official said. “If [Chrysler and Fiat] cannot come to a satisfactory agreement … and if no other viable partnership emerges for Chrysler, we will not be able to justify investing additional American tax dollars into Chrysler.”

But Obama’s announcement already is running into resistance from Michigan lawmakers, who said it doesn’t go far enough. Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm said GM’s CEO Wagoner was being made into a sacrificial lamb.

The shove to Wagoner, a 30-year GM veteran, came from the Treasury-led Presidential Task Force on the Auto Industry, which Obama named in February in lieu of a “car czar.” It is the most vivid example so far of the extraordinary new role that the government, as controller of the bailout purse strings, is playing in American business.

GM and Chrysler have almost used up the $17.4 billion in combined federal aid they took in since December. GM has asked for up to $16.6 billion more, and Chrysler has requested another $5 billion.

The warranty program, a surprise offering, is designed to encourage consumers to buy cars without having to worry about whether or not the manufacturer will be out of business by the time something breaks. The administration is promising to “stand behind new cars purchased from GM or Chrysler during this period … of uncertainty.”

“No American should worry in buying a car from Chrysler, GM over this next period of time,” said the official, who added that the administration has no cost estimate for the “Warranty Commitment Program.”

The administration also announced that to help the affected communities, it is naming a Director of Recovery for Auto Workers and Communities. The post will go to Edward Montgomery, a labor economist and former Deputy Secretary of Labor, whose job will be to “work to leverage all resources of government to support the workers, communities and regions that rely on the American auto industry.”

In stark language, the administration’s five-page “Determination of Viability” for GM spells out the harsh findings: “General Motors has not satisfied the terms of its loan agreement. … It is strongly believed, however, that … a substantial restructuring will lead to a viable GM.”

Officials made it clear that Chrysler is much worse off than GM.

“If you even look at Chrysler’s own viability submission, you’ll see that based on their own assumptions, they kind of eke it along,” the official said. “They really never generate positive cash flow. They’re never in a position, really, to pay down their debt. It’s not … a very realistic or workable place for a company to be.”

“If you look at things like Consumer Reports’ ranking of cars, you’ll see very great differences between those two companies,” the official continued. “General Motors' Malibu won the car of the year award last year. Chrysler has zero cars – no cars – that are recommended by Consumer Reports.”

The official added: “There are certainly lots of fine Chrysler cars out there and we’re not trying to dissuade anyone from buying them. But we are attempting to make these viability assessments.”

"Uh, Rick.... It's Really Not Funny"

Hussein The Hope Monger — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:28:53 EDT

The Obama Presidency: First 100 Days

EsquireUK — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:13:14 EDT

Thursday, 26th March 2009

Washington, D.C.

www.whitehouse.gov

Obama plans tough line with carmakers
By: Mike Allen
March 26, 2009 07:49 AM EST

The White House plans to take a tough line with U.S. carmakers, forcing painful restructuring before releasing more bailout funds, according to industry sources.

The Obama administration has repeatedly said the auto industry needs a “major restructuring,” and officials believe carmakers must go further — much further — than they have so far.

The Presidential Task Force on the Auto Industry had planned to announce its recommendations Friday, but that may be pushed back to Monday. President Obama is announcing his strategy for Afghanistan in a speech at the White House on Friday morning, and aides don’t want the two events to conflict.

The industry sources say the announcement will be harsh news for workers, unions, retirees, shareholders, bondholders, suppliers and communities.

Ypsi/Ann Arbor Stimulus Public Forum a Smashing Success

Chris Savage — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:50:43 EDT

Last week, I blogged about a public forum to be held in Ypsilanti, Michigan to discuss the Stimulus Package, called "Where's All That Stimulus Money Going?" The event, sponsored by the OFA Coalition of Congressional Districts 7 & 15, was held last Sunday and was a big success. Below is our press release from the event.

Chris Savage

chrissavage123@sbcglobal.net

What does it mean to organize?

Jen Strebs - ObamaZoo — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 02:08:37 EDT

Community organizing has taught me so much and it’s given me a renewed purpose. Leading people is one thing, but learning to empower others to stand themselves is something else entirely. I've been in front of groups of people my whole life. This has been something so much more. It’s more than being a good boss, more than being a good teacher, this is being a good citizen, a steward of the future.

We are at a cross roads in this world. Like all of us I think about the future. I look into the eyes of my beautiful son and I dream about his world. That world could be one of two very different visions. I can see both in front of us. Which will it be?

I remember holding his little toddler body after his spinal surgery. He was fragile and groggy. His arms dangled against me helplessly. I remember his little heart beating in my hands. I felt so clearly then, like I have in other flashes of time, his very life was my responsibility, no, my purpose. That was a feeling of such gravity and powerlessness as he lay so ill.

I think of all the families that don't come through what we did. I think of all the families who don’t have healthcare at all or the transportation to get 70 miles to the best doctors. What if that had been us? What about all the children that don't return helpless and groggy to their parents? Who fights for them? Why hasn't the battle been won? It’s amazing how injustice can be so apparent and yet be so unsolved.

I knew then something had changed. I had all the energy I needed inside of me. All I had to do was stand up. So, I did. Along the way I have learned more than I hoped. Barack is right. We all want basically the same things. We all know that. We just have different ideas about how to get there.

So, as I see it we have two choices. We stand around and discuss, or even argue, about how to make things happen or we step up and we do it. I've always been a do-er. I'm not one to stand around and wait for something to save me. I can do the saving. We all can. You can.

That's just one of the reasons I keep going. Americans deserve Universal Healthcare. I am out supporting the budget because it lays the ground work to accomplish just that.

Community Forum - "Where's All That Stimulus Money Going?"

Chris Savage — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 08:48:06 EDT

The Districts 7 & 15 Organizing for America (OFA) Coalition is sponsoring a public forum, this Sunday, March 22nd. Come help us fill the room for our Coalition's first Ypsi/Ann Arbor Community Forum: "Where's All That Stimulus Money Going?"

This is a community forum on on how we can make the Reinvestment Act work for Michigan and our communities! Amid frightening economic times, the Obama Administration's economic recovery plan is beginning to pump large amounts of much-needed investment into our state and region. Help us start making sure it gets spent quickly and well!

Community Forum: "Where's All That Stimulus Money Going?"
Sunday evening, March 22nd, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
First Congregational United Church of Christ, 218 N. Adams St, Ypsilanti

There will be presentations on creating jobs, making college affordable and improving schools, reducing foreclosures, real improvements in public transportation, green energy and jobs, and good healthcare for everyone.

State Representatives Alma Wheeler Smith and Rebekah Warren will answer questions about how Lansing can help us monitor the dollars. Let's keep the momentum going! For more information and to RSVP HERE. You may also call Tad Wysor at 734-883-3225

Chris Savage
chrissavage123@sbcglobal.net

Made in the USA

Ojamas Sleepwear — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 08:21:09 EDT

One of our biggest dissapointments when we began creating Ojamas was the lack of textile manufacturing in the US. We obviously would have dearly loved to proudly put "Made in America" on our Ojamas labels, and we tried very hard to find a vendor here at home, but ultimately we were only able to find textilers in Asia that could meet our production needs. While most of our customers have not mentioned the issue, a few have expressed their concerns which we truly share.

The reality of textile manufacturing is that the industry has all but completely left our shores due in large part to the reduced costs of foreign labor. Most of the clothing found in the US with a "Made in America" label, sadly, is actually made in China or Southeast Asia. How can that be? Frankly, it's a matter of encomics. The textile companies recognize two groups of consumers. The first group is comprised of those consumers who place a higher priority on value and price. The second is a group which places at least some importance on buying American-made products. Without so much as a wink to ethics, some companies are sticking "Made in America" on items made elsewhere simply to "trick" consumers into buying their products.

This was never a consideration for Ojamas Sleepwear. We're a true American company trying to find a way to breathe life into an industry at home and restore American jobs and quality in our own market place. We will not accomplish that by fraudulently labeling our products, as much as we'd love to sell more. No gain is worth sacrificing the trust we're trying to build with our customers. Currently over 97% of all apparel is made outside of the USA. With your help, we're going to try to take some of that back.

You haven't seen new products rom us since our original Ojamas because we've been working hard to find American partners that share our vision. We have, however, made tremendous improvements in the products we're importing. If you'll continue to support us as we delivery higher quality products, you'll also be enabling us to build greater manufacturing capacity (and jobs) here in the US. We're not there yet, but when you see a "Made in America" label on Ojamas Sleepwear, you'll know it's the real deal - a name you can trust. Thanks for your continued support. For more information please see this article by Terri Gruca of WCCO.

When babies feel the sincerity....

Beverly from Harrison Township, MI — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:17:16 EDT

Annabel and President Obama

Pres. Obama wants to unite ALL. R U coming?

Beverly from Harrison Township, MI — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:08:05 EDT

Even if...

Beverly from Harrison Township, MI — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 13:55:54 EDT

Even if President Obama doesn't get everything he wants accomplished as president, and even if he doesn't satisfy all American's beliefs and ideologies, at least he got ALL people thinking and talking about issues that were rarely discussed in an open forum. Issues such as: political integrity, healthcare, stem cell research, racism, honesty, etc... And, President Obama has even helped ALL OF US realize how lazy, neglectful, and non-productive some of our elected officials have been over the years.

So, way to go President Obama and Vice-President Biden!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Get 'er Done!

Teachers need more than MERIT PAY RAISES!!!

Beverly from Harrison Township, MI — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 22:29:49 EDT

Merit pay is ok, but school teachers need a annual pay increase because we can barely make ends meet, and save money for retirement.

Teachers work hard, and we deserve to be paid accordingly. So, can we (teachers) receive an annual pay increase like the military employees are receiving. We would certaintly appreciate it!

Thank You

America will prosper!

Beverly from Harrison Township, MI — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 22:17:52 EDT

President Obama is making the right decisions for America, but many people can't see it yet.

Fed. Funds for STEM CELL Research...

Beverly from Harrison Township, MI — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 22:09:50 EDT

Thank You President Obama!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Michigan Delegation And The Auto Industry Back In Limelight

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:05:08 EST

"Your Cheatin' Heart"

by Hank Williams Jr

(Your cheatin' heart will tell on you)
Your cheatin' heart will make you weep
You'll cry and cry and try to sleep
But sleep won't come the whole night through
Your cheatin' heart will tell on you
When tears come down like falling rain
You'll toss around and call my name
You'll walk the floor the way
I do your cheatin' heart will tell on you
When tears come down...
Your cheatin' heart will tell on you

Healthcare Reform Must Include Mental Health Counseling

Hussein The Hope Monger — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:29:52 EST

LOS ANGELES – The mother of the woman who used a fertility doctor to give birth to octuplets, despite already having six young children, called her daughter's actions "unconscionable" in an interview posted online.

Angela Suleman is caring for the six older children while her daughter is hospitalized after giving birth Jan. 26 to the octuplets.

"She already has six beautiful children, why would she do this?"

Taxpayers will end up footing the bill for this confused brood mare!

It's Time To Layoff US House of Representatives

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 16:37:39 EST

Think of the money we taxpayers would save. Why do we need a bi-cameral legislature? These guys and gals vote themselves pay raises while citizens pay more and more taxes and problems don't get solved. Eliminate their jobs, staffs and overhead. They do not add value.

The Speaker has ZERO leadership capability. She defines herself by how much she alienates the other party.

This guy (my former US Rep) 'distinguishes' himself this week as the longest consecutively serving member of the House of Representatives. Talk about legacy. He took over his father's seat back in the middle ages. He prides himself with introducing his dead father's bill to reform healthcare each and every session since! It has NEVER passed. He's at the beck and call of Detroit's Big 3. He's a FAILURE.

The Obama Presidency: First 100 Days

EsquireUK — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:26:08 EST

Monday, 9th February 2009

Washington, D.C.

www.whitehouse.gov

Monday, February 9th, 2009 at 10:17 am Town hall time

The President is on his way to Elkhart, Indiana, for a town hall about the economic recovery plan. He'll talk for a bit, then take questions from the audience of about 1,700 people.

Elkhart has been hit especially hard by the economic crisis. Its seen its unemployment rate more than triple over the past year -- from 4.7% in December 2007 to 15.3% this past December.

Our economic team put together some details of how the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan will work in Indiana, we've pasted them below. We’ll have more from the town hall later this afternoon.

AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT PLAN:
THE IMPACT FOR INDIANA

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan is a nationwide effort to create jobs, jumpstart growth and transform our economy for the 21st century. Across the country, this plan will help businesses create jobs and families afford their bills while laying a foundation for future economic growth in key areas like health care, clean energy, education and a 21st century infrastructure. In Indiana, this plan will deliver immediate, tangible impacts, including:

Creating or saving 79,300 jobs over the next two years. Jobs created will be in a range of industries from clean energy to health care, with over 90% in the private sector. [Source: White House Estimate based on Romer and Bernstein, "The Job Impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan." January 9, 2009.]

Providing a making work pay tax cut of up to $1,000 for 2,480,000 workers and their families. The plan will make a down payment on the President’s Making Work Pay tax cut for 95% of workers and their families, designed to pay out immediately into workers’ paychecks. [Source: White House Estimate based on IRS Statistics of Income]

Making 76,000 families eligible for a new American Opportunity Tax Credit to make college affordable. By creating a new $2,500 partially refundable tax credit for four years of college, this plan will give 3.8 million families nationwide – and 76,000 families in Indiana – new assistance to put college within their reach. [Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities analysis of U.S. Census data]

Offering an additional $100 per month in unemployment insurance benefits to 456,000 workers in Indiana who have lost their jobs in this recession, and providing extended unemployment benefits to an additional 89,000 laid-off workers. [Source: National Employment Law Project]

Providing funding sufficient to modernize at least 176 schools in Indiana so our children have the labs, classrooms and libraries they need to compete in the 21st century economy. [Source: White House Estimate]

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog_post/town_hall_time/

America, We Have An Economic Stimulus Deal

EsquireUK — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 22:18:48 EST

Friday, 6th February 2009

Washington, D.C.

www.whitehouse.gov

The White House and Senate Democrats secured a deal Friday with moderate Republicans to clear the way for passage of President Barack Obama’s economic recovery plan.

After days of watching from the sidelines, Rahm Emanuel, the president’s chief of staff, came to the Capitol Friday afternoon to help seal the final arrangements, and Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) called a Democratic caucus for the evening to go over the revisions with his party.

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0209/18508.html

www.whitehouse.gov

WASHINGTON — With job losses soaring nationwide, Senate Democrats reached agreement with a small group of Republicans Friday night on an economic stimulus measure at the heart of President Barack Obama's plan for combatting the worst recession in decades.

"The American people want us to work together. They don't want to see us dividing along partisan lines on the most serious crisis confronting our country," said Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, one of at least two GOP senators who pledged their votes for the bill.

Democratic leaders said the concessions they had made to Republicans and moderate Democrats to trim the measure had cleared the way for its passage. It seemed likely a final vote would take place Saturday or Sunday.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/02/06/dem-stimulus-deal-reached_n_164808.html

www.whitehouse.gov

Andrew Card Applies For Job As White House Fashion Czar

Hussein The Hope Monger — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 10:23:21 EST

"Mr. (ex) President, sir, your shoes don't match your belt today."

Where Is Neel 'Cash&Carry' Kashkari Now?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 14:16:21 EST

You know, ex-Secy Paulson's Goldman Sachs-trained Asst Secy who was writing the checks to his buds on Wall Street last year...

WASHINGTON – The federal government overpaid for stocks and other assets in attempting to help financial institutions last year, a government watchdog said Thursday, taking further issue with the beleaguered $700 billion rescue program.

Elizabeth Warren, chairwoman of the Congressional Oversight Panel for the bailout funds, told the Senate Banking Committee on Thursday that Treasury in 2008 paid $254 billion and received assets worth about $176 billion.

The figures were reached by extrapolating the results of a study of 10 government transactions, comparing the price paid by Treasury and the value of the asset at the time of purchase. Warren did not present details of the transactions the panel analyzed. A full report will be released Friday.

But we taxpayers will be getting a dividend on this 'investment', right?

In a bright spot for the rescue program, however, banks that received capital infusions from Treasury have already paid $271 million in dividends to the federal government. A Treasury official said Thursday that banks are expected to pay more than $1.5 billion in dividends by the end of this month. Among them is Wells Fargo, which received a $25 billion infusion. The bank announced this week it would pay Treasury $371 million in dividends.

I feel better now. We overpaid $78 BILLION, but are getting $1.5 Billion in quarterly dividends. We should have made up the loss in just over 52 quarters, which is about 13 years. Cool. I'm cool with that deal.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090205/ap_on_go_ca_st_pe/bailout_oversight

ITS TIME WE FOUGHT BACK!!!!!

Raul — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 01:21:17 EST

I have sat back and watched the opposition to President Obama command the dialogue in the media regarding his plans. Whether it is about the stimulus plan or foreign policy (think the former VP!), the administration has been pushed around for the last week! The grass roots movement that helped push President Obama into the White House needs to rise up and fight on his behalf!!! We need to follow up and not just expect him to fight all our battles. WE WANTED A VOICE IN GOVERNMENT, SO LET'S USE IT!!!!

We need to write our congressmen and women, our local newspapers, and the television news media outlets and tell them that we want President Obama's plan to have a chance!!!! We had tax cuts and other policies from the Republicans for the last 8 years and it didn't work out. In fact, it has contributed to our debt, hurt job creation, and reduced services that are needed now. Changes are needed in the stimulus and senators appear willing to take some spending out, and that's great. We need to focus on strong job creation that will be around now and in the future.

President Obama HAS compromised and tried to find some conservative policy to use in the stimulus, but Republicans are just ignoring the outreach and simply biting the President's hand. It's time we bite back!!!!

Write your elected officials and tell them we are watching and will hold them accountable in the coming near term election if basic compromise is not found! We will hold accountable those people who played politics when Americans were losing their jobs. We will fight in the next election to get rid of old politicians who are not living up to the Change this country voted for in 2008!!!!

Spread the word to your family and friends to start writing as soon as possible.

Thank you,

Raul Dominguez

Obama Supporter

Torrance, CA

Jobs in All 50 States

Jill 4 Obama — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:13:54 EST

THE BRIEFING ROOM • THE BLOG
Wednesday, February 4th, 2009 at 4:03 pm Jobs in all 50 states Economic adviser Brian Deese was part of the team that assembled an analysis of how the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan will create jobs in all 50 states. In a guest blog post, he explains.

You've probably heard a lot about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan. And you may have heard the President or members of his economic team say that this plan will save or create 3 to 4 million jobs over the next two years. Maybe you wondered where that number comes from. Well, it's from a study by Christina Romer, the Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers and Jared Bernstein, Chief Economist to the Vice-President. Their analysis has been confirmed by outside experts including the forecasting firm Macroeconomic Advisers and Moody's.

Jumpstarting job growth is the top priority of the Recovery and Reinvestment Plan. Construction jobs to rebuild our nation's crumbling infrastructure*....technology jobs to bring put medical records online and lower health care costs while reducing medical errors...engineering jobs to modernize federal buildings and save billions in annual energy costs...jobs equipping our schools and colleges so the country's best young minds have a place to grow...and jobs laying broadband lines so a business in rural America can compete with any other business in the world.

The plan will create jobs in all 50 states, in industries across the spectrum. Over 90% of the jobs created will be in the private sector. We put together a fact sheet to show you, state-by-state, just how many jobs the plan aims to create.

But no matter what state you live in, with 2.6 million jobs lost last year and our economic crisis deepening, we can't afford to delay any longer.

*Just a couple of weeks ago, the American Society of Civil Engineers Report Card for America's Infrastructure issued an overall grade of D. From Katrina to the Minnesota bridge collapse, our nation's failure to take this infrastructure crisis seriously is blatant, and unacceptable. By making long overdue investments in our roads, bridges, transit, ports, and air security, this plan will put people back to work while making our nation safer and more prosperous in the future.

The Obama Presidency: Day Eleven

EsquireUK — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 00:37:43 EST

Saturday, 31st January 2009

Washington, D.C.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog_post/moving_forward/

www.whitehouse.gov

Moving forward

In the weekly address, President Barack Obama addressed the latest economic news and urged the passing of an America Recovery and Reinvestment Plan.

He also announced that Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner is preparing a new strategy for reviving our financial system -- which will not only ensure that CEOs aren't abusing taxpayer dollars, but also get credit flowing and lower mortgage costs.

www.whitehouse.gov

Friday, January 30th, 2009 at 11:17 amA strong middle class = a strong AmericaThe mortgage crisis. Wall Street. The loss of millions of jobs. In this economic crisis, the middle class is getting hit from all angles.

That’s why the President created a Middle Class Task Force and asked his right hand man, Vice President Joe Biden, to lead it.

The Vice President lays out the goals of the Task Force in an op-ed appearing this morning in USA Today, which you can find on the Task Force’s new site.

Even though the middle class has been pummeled by this crisis, there are steps we can take to make sure the recovery doesn’t just benefit the wealthy, like past expansions. This time around, we’re going to grow the middle class, improve quality of life, and expand the American dream to millions of people who have shouldered the costs of our economy but not reaped its gains.

So take a look at the new website of the White House Task Force on Middle Class Working Families to learn more, and be sure to leave your comments and ideas.

Won't Be As Rewarding As Caucusing Last Year ...

Hussein The Hope Monger — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:35:45 EST

Rock fans head to Iowa to recall day music died

01/28/2009 6:00 AM, AP

It's been 50 years since a single-engine plane crashed into a snow-covered Iowa field, instantly killing three men whose names would become enshrined in the history of rock 'n' roll.

The passing decades haven't diminished fascination with that night on Feb. 2, 1959, when 22-year-old Buddy Holly, 28-year-old J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson and 17-year-old Ritchie Valens performed in Clear Lake and then boarded the plane for a planned 300-mile flight that lasted only minutes.

Clear Lake is an unlikely spot for a rock 'n' roll pilgrimage — especially in winter. The resort town of about 8,000 borders its namesake lake, and on winter days the cold and wind make the community 100 miles north of Des Moines anything but a tourist destination.

All three musicians influenced rock and roll in their own way.

Holly's career was short, but his hiccup-vocal style, guitar play and songwriting talents had tremendous influence on later performers. The Beatles, who formed about the time of the crash, were among his early fans and fashioned their name after Holly's band, The Crickets. Holly's hit songs include "That'll Be The Day," "Peggy Sue" and "Maybe Baby."

Richardson, "The Big Bopper," is often credited with creating the first music video with his recorded performance of "Chantilly Lace" in 1958, decades before MTV.

And Valens was one of the first musicians to apply a Mexican influence to rock 'n' roll. He recorded his huge hit "La Bamba" only months before the accident.

The crash set off a wave of mourning among their passionate, mostly young fans across the country. Then 12 years later the crash was immortalized as "the day the music died" in McLean's 1971 song, "American Pie."

The "Stimulus" Package

Hussein The Hope Monger — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 14:58:09 EST

Each dollar of the $825Billion should be used to 1) create jobs and/or 2) stabilize the housing market upon which Wall Street has leveraged and gambled investors' savings. Some of us want to retire some day.

If spending $825,000,000,000 results in 3 Million jobs, each job will cost $275,000. And every American household will be on the hook for $2,700 in additional debt. (Will the IRS allow us the same lattitude permitted Secy Treasury Geithner?)

Aggregating all these local "pet programs", purportedly "shovel ready" that are already awaiting funding simply to garner Congressional votes is an ignorant approach to simply spend money. Many are not tied to national security, energy or environmental initiatives and do not CREATE JOBS.

Repost of YES WE DID, YES WE MUST by Carla Mays, Jan 23rd, 2009

Jill 4 Obama — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 07:36:29 EST

YES WE DID, YES WE MUST By Carla Mays - Jan 23rd, 2009 at 10:01 am EST Also listed in: 8 groups

YES WE DID! YES WE MUST:

Þ Protect him from harm both verbal & phyiscal

Þ Stay "FIRED UP" by staying active

Þ Work Bi-Partisan to bring "Change" together

Þ Don't just bitch, get active and stay engaged

Þ Start and join a local "Change" group

Þ Be philanthropic, serve your community, state and nation

Þ Stick by Obama, STOP smears on the Right & the Left!!!! Hold yourself responsible as you hold Barack!

Join the future of this movement!!

http://change.gov/joinus

http://www.communityorganize.com

http://www.ourpresidency.com

http://www.usaservice.org

http://www.whitehouse.gov

Barack's DNC 2004 Speech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWynt87PaJ0&feature=PlayList&p=B1939005B8A4D4ED&index=188

Barack's DNC 2008 Speech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ato7BtisXzE&feature=channel

Barack’s Election Acceptance Speech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wJ-2Zu_Iic&feature=channel

Barack’s Inauguration Speech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjnygQ02aW4

PURPLE TUNNEL

Gregg — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 22:22:01 EST

We started this thing 2-10-2007. We ended it in a purple haze. Stuck in the Purple Tunnel with no water, no food, no restroom and no idea what the hell was going on. No Inauguration, just Hope. I call it the "InauGATRINA". This administration needs to show some CHANGE NOW!!!...and make it come from the top. We fought long and hard for this and WE deserve better. President Obama can show that he is No Bush, right now. We will continue to KEEP circling this on the net. What a shame folks. Not off to a good start at all. Maybe some of the Bush curse is still left.

And The People Say "AMEN"!!

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 15:16:10 EST

Rev. Joseph Lowery' ended his benediction with a rhyme familiar to black churchgoers:

"We ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around..."

There was laughter from the enormous crowd. The 87-year-old civil rights pioneer continued:

"When yellow will be mellow, when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen."

The crowd thundered, "Amen!"

America's 44th President

EsquireUK — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 03:10:56 EST

Tuesday, 20th January 2009

Washington, D.C.

Swearing-In Ceremony Streamed Live

The Inaugural Swearing-In Ceremony will be streamed live on the World Wide web at http://inaugural.senate.gov/ beginning at 9:30 a.m. EST.

The Promise Of A New Beginning

EsquireUK — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 07:21:20 EST

Sunday, 18th January 2009

Washington, D.C.

Text SERVE to 56333 for alerts about Renewing America Together – National Day of Service.

Text EVENTS to 56333 to receive the latest info on events & updates on free Inaugural events in the area.

Text SCHDL to 56333 for latest updates and breaking announcements and any schedule changes.

Text TIPS to 56333 for information on how to prepare for Inauguration

Text WEATHER to 56333 for basic weather updates in the DC area and planning

Text METRO to 56333 for alerts about the buses and trains in DC.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/stateupdates/gGxFlr

www.change.gov

Text SERVE to 56333 for alerts about Renewing America Together – National Day of Service.

Text EVENTS to 56333 to receive the latest info on events & updates on free Inaugural events in the area.

Text SCHDL to 56333 for latest updates and breaking announcements and any schedule changes.

Text TIPS to 56333 for information on how to prepare for Inauguration

Text WEATHER to 56333 for basic weather updates in the DC area and planning

Text METRO to 56333 for alerts about the buses and trains in DC.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/stateupdates/gGxFlr

Michigan Gov Hub Touts Ojamas

Ojamas Sleepwear — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 22:53:51 EST

It took us a while, but we caught up on all orders, and we have plenty in stock for inauguration. As of this week, we're shipping orders the next day after they are placed. If you ordered before today or if you returned an item for exchange before today, your request has already been shipped or is being shipped tomorrow. Thank you to everyone who has been patient and thanks to those who have reordered or shared our concept with friends and family.

Completely changing the subject, we're very proud to have been mentioned by the husband of Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm in one of his recent weekly messages. Michigan's First Gentleman, Daniel Granholm Mulhern, encourages us all to have faith and confidence and to take risks that move us forward. Ojamas Sleepwear is honored to be featured as a case study by Mr. Mulhern.

Faith an Choice Update

darlene matthews — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:44:35 EST

Update from the Religious Coalition of Reproductive Choice.

Subject: Faith & Choices - January 2009Reply-To: info@rcrc.org
You're receiving this email because of your relationship with Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice.  You may unsubscribe if you no longer wish to receive our emails.  Faith & Choices - January IssueInauguration Optimism!
  Dear DARLENE, There's a feeling of optimism here at RCRC. Eight diasastrous years for women and families are over. President-elect Barack Obama and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi are both pro-choice and both people of strong religious conviction. They understand that our religious beliefs are deeply entwined with our social justice ethic. Of course, that doesn't mean that the fight for reproductive justice is over. We still must convince Congress to de-fund dangerous abstinence programs and lift harmful restrictions on funding overseas for family planning and HIV/AIDS programs. Much else must be done, but our faith-informed priorities have been delivered to the Obama transition team, and we are preparing for high-level meetings with congressional leaders. Please take a few moments to read more about our plans and help to make them a reality by making a generous donation to the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice.
Thank you for keeping the faith for choice!
Reverend Dr. Carlton W. VeazeyPresident and CEOReligious Coalition for Reproductive Choice   What's Ahead  These are some highlights as we approach the inauguration of the first president who openly identifies his pro-choice views with his religious convictions. Watch for our action alerts as legislation moves through Congress - and when you contact your congressional representatives, let them know you are a pro-choice person of faith.Prevention First: On the opening day of the 111th Congress, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) reintroduced the Prevention First Act (S. 21), a package of health and education measures that will reduce unintended pregnancy. This week, Representatives Louise Slaughter (D-NY) and Diana DeGette (D-CO) will introduce the bill in the House of Representatives. RCRC endorses these legislative proposals as necessary and effective responses to the needs of women and their families and in keeping with the values of our faith traditions.  Read more!
The Bush Administration Rule: As a parting shot at women, the Bush Administration finalized a rule creating more barriers to reproductive health services. In the guise of protecting the conscience of providers who object to abortion, voluntary sterilization and other measures, this regulation denies women and other patients their right to follow their conscience and make decisions according to their religious and moral beliefs. Opposition to this rule was overwhelming, widespread and... ignored. Congress and the Obama Administration must act quickly to rescind the rule. Read more!

Children's Health Care: It is a fundamental tenet of all faiths to protect children and work to ensure that they are strong, safe and healthy. It is unconscionable that 9 million children in the United States continue to be uninsured. An important step to address this will be taken this week when the House of Representatives is expected to vote to renew and expand the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Read more!Diversity Increases in Congress The new Congress - like the nation as a whole - is much more religiously diverse than ever before. The total percentage of Protestants in Congress is 54.7%, a drop of 20% since 1961, which roughly tracks with broader religious demographic trends during this period, according to the Pew Forum on Religion and Civic Life. Roman Catholics, who account for nearly one-quarter of the U.S. adult population, make up about 30% of Congress. Jews and Mormons are also better represented in Congress than they are in the population as a whole but Buddhists, Muslims and Hindus still are somewhat underrepresented. Read more!
  Lexi Jay was an anti-choice born-again Christian until she saw an RCRC bumpersticker that said: "Prayerfully Pro-Choice." She had a change of heart. Now, she says, "God allows us to choose...so should the law." Read more  Order your bumpersticker now!

Support RCRC! RCRC is the leading national religious voice for reproductive health and choice.Support teen pregnancy prevention, faith-based sexuality education in congregations, advocacy for health care access, HIV/AIDS prevention, and more. Support RCRC.Moral voices.Vigilant attention. Effective action.
Generation of Justice Spiritual Youth for Reproductive Freedom Regional Training Institutes The SYRF Regional Training Institute (RTI) is back and better than ever. The RTI is an activist and organizing training program preparing participants to galvanize community support for reproductive justice in a faithful context.  Austin, TX:March 7-8, 2009
Apply by January 30

Download a sample schedule and see what we've got in the works.

SYRF Regional Trainings are completely free to accepted participants.  Forward email This email was sent to go2thesun@mac.com by cveazey@rcrc.org.Update Profile/Email Address | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe™ | Privacy Policy.Email Marketing byReligious Coalition for Reproductive Choice | 1025 Vermont Avenue, NW | Suite 1130 | Washington | DC | 20005

My Advice to Israel: Think HYDRA.

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:55:13 EST

After spending a year studying guerrilla warfare and counterinsurgency strategy, it's hard not to cringe when watching Israel's handling of the situation in Gaza. So, as a Jewish American with family in Israel, my two cents on the issue: think "hydra."

For those who are unfamiliar with what a hydra is, please watch this video I have posted after a quick YouTube search. It is from the Disney movie, Hercules (and skip ahead to 1:20 into the clip to save time, and stop after 3:20):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=079Z1CRXDmM

And if you're not going to watch the video, I'll put it in writing: when bombing Hamas missile sites and UN schools alike in the Gaza strip, Israel needs to keep in mind the Herculean foe that grew two heads every time one of its heads was chopped off. Yes, we all (should) support Israel's right to exist. And Hamas provoked Israel by firing hundreds of missiles into Israeli territory during what was, at least ostensibly, a cease fire. But the collateral damage from targeted bombs against Hamas is not going to make the majority of Gaza residents (who voted for Hamas in the first place, remember) turn against Hamas because of group's provocation of Israel (as Israel seems to be hoping for). One Israeli died during the missile attacks on Israel, four have died since the invasion. Wouldn't it have been a better PR move (and less deadly for Israelis) to create a big fuss about the missiles and demand foreign intervention? The inability for the latter to happen (foreign intervention) would show that Israel has to do something to defend itself because no one else is going to step in, and if four Israelis die on Israeli territory instead of dozens more Israeli and Palestinians in Gaza, Hamas would suffer from a drop in public support (infinitely more damaging than missile attacks), not Israel.

To quote General Petraeus, "an operation that kills five insurgents is counterproductive if the collateral damage or the creation of blood feuds leads to the recruitment of fifty more."

Stay tuned for my solution to the conflict (psyche), or just beg me to send you my senior thesis.

-Nate

In Israel's Defense

Jill Oserowsky Stanevich — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 09:26:07 EST

Lest I sounded totally naive in my previous post, let me say clearly that when a country is attacked, it's natural to want to respond. Israel has been attacked since it was recreated as a modern state in 1948.

As Benny Morris so succicntly explained in a recent New York Times op-ed piece, Israelis are in a tight spot.

This is not only about Hamas in Gaza. The larger picture includes Hezbollah, Syria and Iran. With crazy men like Ahmedinejad spouting lies and disinformation about the Jewish people, one can understand why the "situation" has escalated in the Middle East.

So long as Arab educators and leaders deny Israel's right to exist in its own historical homeland, there will be chaos.

Happy New Year.

Above and Below...Out of Balance

Jill Oserowsky Stanevich — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 18:06:05 EST

These are legitimate questions. Is the cocky, dominant, top-gun attitude the best for making ethical decisions? In war should we be "removed" from our targets? What numbers are acceptable "collateral" casualties? Where is the leadership? Where is the humanity in war? Where's empathy? When is a response too much?

I taught high school students at the American International School in Israel for one year in the late '80s. [I had previously spent my junior year in Jerusalem at Hebrew University.] We had kids from around the globe. In one senior English class, I had an Israeli (born Canadian) student who had just been chosen to join a pilots program in the Israeli Air Force. He was a blonde, blue-eyed Tom Cruise type. He was also the son of a Jew for Jesus, a Christian convert. His mother objected when I assigned "Native Son" to the class. She didn't want her son to have to read about such a bleak situation. I explained that it was an important work of literature. She didn't want him becoming depressed by it, she countered. I asked how reading a book and discussing issues was more dangerous than choosing to be a pilot and making life and death situations for those people living on the ground. I never got an answer.

You might say it's easy for me to prattle on; after all, I'm not living through bombardment as are the Israelis and, more so, the Palestinians in Gaza. Sitting in a safe place in the states leaves me in a different emotional situation than if I were over there. So, I can only imagine how people's judgments are affected by the stress on all sides.

As Amos Oz and A.B. Yehoshusa wrote in a recent articles, Hamas can be blamed for launching the attacks, but there needs to be a cease fire.

The way forward has to be one of eventually coming together--or at least balancing the seesaw. Like the yin and yang or the two halves of the kabbalistic star...the one on top is not superior, it is merely the one above. The half on the bottom--this is very important--is not inferior. It is the root. The two halves make one. Like in the creation story where the first human was made in the Creator's image with both male AND female parts (Adam/Adamah), they complete each other. (It wasn't until much later that the superiority/inferiority tale emerged.)

People don't have to love or even like one another, but they can respectfully work for a more just future for all the people living in Israel and the Palestinian territories. The way forward is not more bombs and rockets.

I love much about Israel--I have friends who live there; I'm hopeful about a Palestinian state.

Meeting your "enemy" and walking through their world for a day is one way to start. Let's refuse to be enemies and make a better future. Taking risks for what is right is strength, too. Peace.

3 PERCENT MORTAGE RATE FIXED AVAILABLE FOR ONE YEAR!

karen benzer — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 16:13:13 EST

I tried to send this solution for a Main Street Bailout on Change.Gov but it is impossible to get through, so here it is Mainstream People...Reduce the mortgage rate to 3 perecent fixed for 20 years. It may sound drastic but, giving 700 billion to financial institutions with our tax money WAS WAY MORE DRASTIC! This 3 percent interest rate should be offered for one year to refinances and new loans...If you are in the position to refinance an existing rental property or to buy a new rental property you should be able to do so at the same 3 percent! However any rental properties given a 3 percent interest rate must pass on these savings to the renters. The investors would have to sign something to that affect during the loan process. If a homeowner ended up renting out their 3 perent property at some point, they too would have to pass on the savings to their renters, signed off during the loan process. This would make housing affordable again for everyone! Allow the payback of the bailout to be repaid at 3 percent fixed too.

Mainstreet would be dancing in the street and buying again! What a true bailout without needing to dole out charity...ANYONE BEHIND IN PAYMENTS OR IN FORECLOSURE WOULD BE QUALIFIED TO REFINANCE..

What do you think? If you like it..PLEASE PASS IT ON TO ALL GROUPS...LET'S MAKE IT HAPPEN

We Need REAL People Working On This TARP Thing!!

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 09:22:41 EST

“The broad authorities in this legislation, when combined with existing regulatory authorities and resources, gives us the ability to protect and recapitalize our financial system as we work through the stresses in our credit markets.” – Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr., Oct. 3, 2008

What happened to accountability, transparency, oversight? And why do the bobbleheads keep referring to the $700 Billion bill when it was loaded down with an ADDITIONAL $158 Billion of 'pork' to get through the Congress - it is an $$858,000,000,000 piece of legislation funded with OUR money.

(Enron's 1988 Christmas party above)

Wishing You Oceans Of Joy...Happy Holidays

EsquireUK — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 11:15:10 EST

www.change.gov

www.barackobama.com

"Now more than ever, we must rededicate ourselves to the notion that we share a common destiny as Americans – that I am my brother’s keeper, I am my sister’s keeper. Now, we must all do our part to serve one another; to seek new ideas and new innovation; and to start a new chapter for our great country." - President Elect Barack Obama

A special holiday prayer and greeting...

Give us, O divine creator, the vision which can see Your love in the world in spite of human failure.
Give us the faith to trust Your goodness in spite of our ignorance and weakness.
Give us the knowledge that we may continue to pray with understanding hearts.
And show us what each one of us can do to set forward the coming of the day of universal peace.

Barukh atah Adonai, Eloheinu, melekh ha'olam
Blessed are you, Lord, our God, sovereign of the universe

shehecheyanu v'kiyimanu v'higi'anu laz'man hazeh. (Amein)
who has kept us alive, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this season (Amen)

www.change.gov

www.barackobama.com

A familiar introduction to an annual Christmas Carol Service contains the words: 'Because this would most rejoice his heart": let us remember, in his name, the poor and the helpless, the cold, the hungry, and the oppressed; the sick and those who mourn, the lonely and the unloved.'

Wherever these words find you, and in whatever circumstances, I want to wish you a blessed Holiday Season with oceans of joy and all good wishes for 2009!

Raphael Holoman-Frankklin

President-Elect Barack Obama Supporter

www.change.gov

Rev Joseph Lowery To Deliver Benediction Jan 20th

Hussein The Hope Monger — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 14:51:57 EST

Reverend Joseph Lowery began his work with civil rights in the early 1950s in Mobile, Alabama, where he headed the Alabama Civic Affairs Association, an organization devoted to the desegregation of buses and public places. During this time, the state of Alabama sued Lowery, along with several other prominent ministers, on charges of libel, seizing his property. The Supreme Court sided with the ministers, and Lowery's seized property was returned.

In 1957, Lowery and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. formed the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), and Lowery was named vice president. In 1965, he was named chairman of the delegation to take demands of the Selma to Montgomery March to Alabama's governor at the time, George Wallace.

Lowery is a co-founder and former president of the Black Leadership Forum, a consortium of black advocacy groups. The Forum began protesting apartheid in South Africa in the mid-1970s and continued until the election of Nelson Mandela. In 1979, during a rash of disappearances of Atlanta's African American youth, Lowery provided a calm voice to a frightened community.

After becoming president of the SCLC in February of 1977, Lowery negotiated covenants with major corporations for employment advances, opportunities and business contracts with minority companies. He has led peace delegations to the Middle East and Central America.

In addition to serving as pastor to several churches over the years, Lowery's efforts to combat injustice and promote equal opportunities has led to the extension of provisions to the Voting Rights Act to 2007, the desegregation of public accommodations in Nashville, Tennessee and the hiring of Birmningham, Alabama's first black police officers.

Dr. Lowery is 'the real deal'.

Let's Talk About Rev Joseph Lowery Who Will Deliver The Benediction...

Hussein The Hope Monger — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:06:57 EST

The Rev. Joseph Lowery helped found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Martin Luther King in 1957 and led the organization for 20 years.

Lowery played a major role in many of the pivotal civil rights struggles of the 1950s and ‘60s and has remained active.

In a case that went all the way to the Supreme Court, Lowery was among four ministers sued by Alabama officials for $3 million in the early 1950s. Lowery’s property was seized, but he was vindicated when the court ruled for the ministers in the landmark 1964 libel case, Sullivan v. New York Times, Abernathy, Lowery, Shuttlesworth, and Seay.

In 1965, King named Lowery to deliver the demands of a planned Selma-to-Montgomery march for voting rights to then-Alabama Governor George Wallace. Police tear-gassed and clubbed the peaceful marchers at Edmund Pettus Bridge on “Bloody Sunday”. Congress was led to enact the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Lowery recalled the 1965 march when he testified before a U.S. Senate committee following the disputed 2000 presidential election.

“Dr. King could not have anticipated that once we secured the ballot in 1965, that here in 2001, we would be demanding that our government assure us that our votes are fairly and accurately counted,” Lowery told the senators. “We must understand that failure to provide those resources is to blaspheme our devotion to rights guaranteed in the Constitution of these United States.”

As president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference from 1977 to 1997, Lowery protested apartheid policies in South Africa and cochaired the 1990 Nelson Mandela visit to Atlanta following Mandela’s release from prison. He led a peace delegation to the Middle East and met with the president of Lebanon and Yasser Arafat to seek justice in the Middle East by nonviolent means. Lowery also led protests and was arrested twice in a campaign against the dumping of toxic waste in Warren County, N.C.

Lowery also cofounded the Black Leadership Forum, a consortium of national black advocacy organizations, and served as third president following Vernon Jordan and Benjamin Hooks.

After retiring from the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in January 1998, Lowery helped African American farmers secure a federal court decree valued at $2 billion against the Department of Agriculture for discrimination.

Let us all move forward and not backward to form a 'more perfect union' beginning at the conclusion of the Inaugural ceremonies.

Say it ain't so, Barack!

Jill Oserowsky Stanevich — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 23:36:44 EST

Rick Warren to give the inaugural invocation? Really? I thought that you were more progressive than that, Senator Obama.

Why not a female theologian? Why a right-wing, anti-choice, homophobic patriarch? And if he invokes the creator with a narrow, one-religion name...I will be greatly disappointed.

Where's the bigger picture? Where's the change? Yawn.

Ojamas - Heads Down Shipping

Ojamas Sleepwear — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:37:58 EST

All orders placed before 12/15 are either already in the mail or being shipped this weekend with an estimated delivery before Christmas (12/23-24). There will be some that will arrive later, but it is impossible to tell which ones as the US Postal Service is making excellent progress with in all geographies so far. We are dedicating all of our resources to printing labels and postage and packaging orders for shipment from now until all orders placed through 12/15 have been mailed.

If you'd like to know the status of your order specifically, please send an email to service@ojamas.us and include the invoice number as well as your last name. We ask that you do not call us for status updates on the shipment of existing orders at this time. Phone requests for status are not being answered because it takes our staff away from packing and shipping which are are tasks that require human concentration and focus. Answering phones to search for status can introduce distractions that cause errors which we are stringently trying to avoid at this critical time to ensure that everyone receives error-free delivery. We'll be back to answering the phones as usual after we've shipped everything ordered through 12/15 (estimated Monday, 12/22).

Order placed after 12/15 are being delivered as soon as possible. Most will be shipped before 12/23. We thank all of you for your enthusiastic embrace of Ojamas and for your patience as we deliver them to you as quickly as possible.

Vilsack...really?

Jill Oserowsky Stanevich — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 20:50:28 EST

Are you set on reform, Barack Obama, or more of the same?

Where's the change in this pick? Just askin'.

The Pickens Plan - Can Old Dogs Learn New Tricks?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 17:19:00 EST

Since 1980, Pickens has made over $5 million in political donations. He was a financial supporter of Bush #43 and contributed heavily to both his Texas and national political campaigns. In 2004, Pickens contributed to Republican 527 groups, including a $3 million contribution to the Swift Vets and POWs for Truth attacking Bush's rival, John Kerry, and $2.5 million to the Progress for America advocacy group. In 2005, Pickens was among 53 entities that contributed the maximum of $250,000 to Bush's second inauguration.

On July 16, 2007, Pickens wrote an article for the National Review supporting Rudy Giuliani for President. Pickens was an executive-committee member of the Rudy Giuliani presidential committee.

Pickens chaired the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the American Spectator , a conservative U.S. monthly magazine covering news and politics.

Pickens has said he has stopped giving to political campaigns and focused his advocacy on alternative energy such as solar and wind. The Washington Post says that "perhaps the strangest role" Pickens "has fashioned for himself is his current one: the billionaire speculator as energy wise man, an oil-and-gas magnate as champion of wind power, and a lifetime Republican who has become a fellow traveler among environmentally minded Democrats.

In November 2008, California voters rejected a referendum regarding natural gas. Pickens owns Clean Energy Fuels Corporation, a natural gas fueling station company that was the primary backer of the November 2008 Proposition 10 on California's ballot. Much of the measure's sale of $5 billion in general fund bonds to provide alternative energy rebates and incentives ($9.8 billion after interest) could benefit Pickens' company to the exclusion of almost all other clean-vehicle fuels and technology.

Ojamas Christmas Shipping Update

Ojamas Sleepwear — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 08:21:19 EST

As of Friday, we've shipped hundreds of Ojamas all over the United States and the United Kingdom. We almost made it through every order up to Invoice 802, but we ran out of a few sizes before we could finish and we did not receive any gowns. We are temprarily out of stock on XL, Large, and Medium sizes. The good news is the the entire balance of our inventory (including gowns) is arriving Friday or Saturday of this week. ALL orders placed through 12/15 will be shipped by Saturday or Monday. We are finding that USPS is doing a great job of delivering our packages so far. Although they do not guarantee it, we are seeing delivery times of only 1 to 2 days for destinations East of the Mississippi River and 2-4 days to the West of it. We are really working hard to get everyone their Ojamas by Christmas day.

We're getting excellent feedback from our customers who have received their Ojamas. Adrienne in Arizona wrote, "I received them in today's mail...I can't wait to wear them Christmas Day!" Her order was shipped on Saturday and she received them Monday! Like most of our customers, Adrienne chose USPS Priority Mail, not Overnight Express. Way to go US Postal Service!!

We've also ordered twice our current amount of inventory for our next batch which will arrive January 9. Current demand indicates we'll be sold out of our existing inventory by Christmas day. Everyone who wants Ojamas in time for inauguration is encouraged to get their order before Jan 13.

Did you receive your Ojamas yet? Please send us a note telling us what you think and include a picture for our photo album.

Join the Detroit Intelligence Movement

Gayle — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:59:07 EST

**********************This is A Cry for Help**********************

Please pass this letter to everyone in America

We Need Superheroes to Join “The Detroit Intelligence Movement”

The Children of Detroit urgently need help. Activate your powers to mandate change.

You have permission to post and copy letter. Be apart of History. Join Today.

Do not throw away. Don’t discard your future. Empower By Any Means Necessary

************************************************************************

Greetings Mr. President and my Fellow Americans,

Please endorse our radical plan of action. Detroit must Evolve. The city of Detroit is on the brink of suicidal self destruction. Our city is filled with tears of political anarchy and the collapsing fears of the Auto industry. Unemployment and crime is synonymous to the deplorable education system. Poverty, intolerance and foreclosures haunt the dreams of Detroit. Can anyone hear the children’s cry of desperation?

The American People can help resuscitate Detroit by displaying solidarity while promoting Personal Accountability. Detroit is in dire need of Motivated Intelligence. Endorse and Sponsor the “Detroit Intelligence Movement”. The Revolution is an Educational Evolution empowering America, one city at a time.

My name is Gayle Webster-Price; I am the Founding Mother of the “Detroit Intelligence Movement”. I’m writing this urgent letter, requesting everyone in America to aid in the success of Greatest Sociological Campaign created since the Obama election. I beg you to answer my cry for help. With your help we can successfully demonstrate the Largest Educational Intervention in America. In honor of the Obama Presidency, the D.I.M movement was designed to motivate the entire nation. Every aspect was strategically designed in retrospect to successfully run concurrently with the Obama-Biden Education Plan. Detroit must mandate and galvanize change in their communities for survival. We will celebrate power to activate growth and global advancement or Detroit will further disenfranchise itself from the rest of America. In other words, Detroit is dying; Detroit must evolve; By any means Necessary.

The D.I.M movement requires Global Accountability to maximize success. The Detroit Intelligence Movement will altruistically enhance the mindset of the citizens of Detroit. Our vision is to alleviate tragic conditions that have infested the children of our inner city. For far too long, Detroit has been infamously known as one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Larceny, Robbery, Assault; Rape is at its all time high. Unemployment & Poverty has plagued Detroit for far too long. Statistic show 85% of Detroit is far below the average poverty rate.Detroit has one of the highest dropout rates in the nation. 1 in every 7 graduate, plus, the very few who graduate, are not prepared to function as employable independent adults. Detroit must expect integration to be the rule, and segregation to find its final resting place in the archives of American history. We should expect every young person to have an education that is sufficient for becoming the President of the United States.We cannot save our crumbling Detroit schools filled with self imposed limitations, or receive fair treatment, unless we restore the critical promise of Personal Accountability. Our children are suffering. Detroit’s deplorable dropout rate is unconstitutional.

Our beautiful children are being denied excellent education, and consequently are condemned to continue the cycle of poverty, crime, drugs, that have infested our city. We need the awesome support from our large Obama family and followers will enhance intelligence to empower children to become the fearless Creators, the Lord intended them to be… Creating and activating their Identities. Join the Detroit Intelligence Group elite collection of business partners, vendors, & sponsors that vow allegiance to assist Detroit Schools in enhancing the graduation rate 50% by 2014“By Any Means Necessary” Our outcome will altruistically circumvent the mindset of Detroit. Plus disseminate 5 million dollars back into the city’s economy by demonstrating evidence based campaigns to stimulate Detroit’s poor economy. We will see greater days, again. Mr. President; please honor Detroit by endorsing “The Detroit intelligence Movement” and gracing Detroit with your presence. On June 23rd, 2009 let’s mark the 46th anniversary of historic Freedom March of Detroit. Let’s recreate the greatest moment in history.

Your presence alone will cause a massive state of euphoria, illustrating the powers to rebuild a better America. The March on Washington is one of the most significant events in the history of the nation. The event which took place on August 28, 1963 signified the true power that average citizens control. The power to come together with other citizens such as themselves to illuminate change was phenomenal. The March on Washington became one of the defining moments, if not “The Defining Moment”, of the Civil Rights Movement. Although the March on Washington's impact was a direct result of the large number of people involved, one of the key moments came after the crowd reached Washington, D.C. as Martin Luther King, Jr. made his "I Have a Dream" speech which became somewhat of an anthem for the entire Civil Rights Movement. Did we forget that the city of Detroit was honored first with the power of the movement?June 23rd 1963, marked an historic influx of power generating the most intellectual sociological campaign in existence. The Detroit march was gigantic, with over 200, 000 people marching down Woodward Avenue led by Martin Luther King Jr. and Walter Reuther. It ended at Cobo Hall in downtown Detroit where King delivered his famous “I Have a Dream Speech” for the very first time! The Detroit intelligence Movement 2009 will walk the steps of our past to activate our powers to our future. Would you like to be a part of the most radical program ever invented? I dare you to doubt the powers of a focused, conscious, collective vision.

Our goals will come to fruition by allowing Detroit to visualize life, the way it is. Our plan is simple in design but intricately rooted with scientific based campaigns that will radically spark the greatest intellectual movement in Detroit’s history. D.I. M documented the sociological issues corrupting the families of Detroit and issued this state of address.” We must protect our future.” The Detroit Intelligence Movement will institute the “Classroom Safety Stimulus Plan” that will automatically fund every teacher and employ thousands of high school students that promote the “Accountability Contract”. We will empower our people plus stimulate Detroit’s poor economy. The Detroit intelligence movement promotes “Teaching as the strongest Force in Evolution.” If we don’t enlist the help of the teaching profession; the children of Detroit will be lead to the streets instead of the classroom. Young people are severely impacted by violence and those who live in urban areas are disproportionately affected.

The Detroit Intelligence funds the classroom safety stimulus plan by offering free safety campaigns to every classroom, with the purchase of Sabre defense spray. We teach the school entire community proactive personal protection. We will aid in the onslaught of gun violence by offering America a non lethal choice plus directly fund teachers and high school students.Killing is an option. But protecting yourself is not optional. Let’s stop the senseless killing of our children! Help us get the guns off the streets of Detroit. Violence & Street Crime can shatter your sense of safety, causing anger, loss of confidence, guilt and sadness or depression.

Our unique seminars provide the information needed to avoid making the very mistakes that criminals DEPEND ON to prey upon you. Courage silences fear. We cover three important areas that criminals don’t want people to know. How to get them arrested, to get identified or get them injured. We distribute personal protection items and information to civilians allowing them to transcend to a higher level of accountability.

Be empowered to extinguish the fears that engulfs their lives. Because Fear Paralyzes success.

The Detroit Intelligence Movement will bring Every School in the Detroit Metropolitan area HOPE, LOVE, PROTECTION & FINANCIAL SUPPORT. Our mission will aid in increasing the Detroit’s graduation rate by 50%. Our children are suffering.Our beautiful children are being denied excellent education, and consequently are condemned to continue the cycle of poverty, crime, drugs, that have infested our city. We should expect every young person to have an education that is sufficient for becoming the President of the United States. We cannot save our crumbling Detroit schools, or receive fair treatment in any other district, unless we restore that critical promise of Accountability.

We developed a sure fire way to successfully bring a sociological experiment to fruition but we need help with connecting to the free world. The evidence based campaign’s sole purpose is to stimulate high school students to graduate with research validated practices. Each area of the program has been strategically designed in retrospect to the Obama –Biden Educational Plan to maximize success.

The Detroit Intelligence plan of action will:

Enlist millions to join “The Detroit Intelligence Movement. Illustrating Global Accountability.
Fund thousands of high school students and Teachers to activate the Classroom Safety Stimulus Plan / $5000 max
Endorse the “Accountability Contract” program that will empower millions of children to activate their superpowers.
Conduct the “Schools of Change” Contest; rewarding children and the teaching faculty for mandating change.
Building small high school mastermind camps across Detroit.Empowering community and family involvement.
Construct, “The Second Walk of Freedom 2009”
Fund and stabilize Detroit schools during their 300 million deficits.
Our children will not suffer due to the government takeover of the Detroit Public Schools.
Film a “Cry for Help” special footage to create media coverage participation to aid in the movement.
Protect millions in Detroit with defense spray to lower the assault, rape, and robbery and crimes rates.

Teacher quality is the leading factor in student achievement. Improve that, and more teens will graduate. Michigan’s education establishment has pretended for too long not to see Detroit’s deepening high school crises. It’s imperative that teachers move to the lead in combating the problem.

Here’s a recap of how our plan works...

Parents and Citizens; Protect the future of our city.

Purchase defense spray exclusively from your child’s teacher.

Complete the “Accountability Contract” with your family.

Teachers and High School Students;

Empower your community while you empower your pockets. You deserve it!

Set up high school mastermind camps to maximize the D.I.M. success

Sponsors and Partners;

Promote City and Nationwide Success through the power of Personal Accountability. Participate in the “D.I.M. membership discount card. Offer discounts on goods or services for utilizing the “Accountability Contract” to stimulate Detroit’s economy. America; Please hold Detroit accountable for change in a global arena. Join the Revolution. The power of the people will spark the greatest intellectual movement in Detroit’s history. We demand a Better World.

Everyone in America can join the D.I.M to register and activate your superpowers to transform to a higher level of personal accountability.

Intelligence is the Key to Success…..Let's Spread the World

Visit - detroitintelligencemovement.ning.com for more info

Email – 313movement@att.net or 313revolution@att.net

Call Gayle – 313-739-8257 or Jason – 313-443-8736

**********************This is A Cry for Help**********************

Please pass this letter to everyone in America.

We Need Superheroes to Join “The Detroit Intelligence Movement”

The Children of Detroit urgently need help. Activate your powers to mandate change.

You have permission to post and copy letter. Be apart of History. Join Today.

Do not throw away. Don’t discard your future. Empower By Any Means Necessary

************************************************************************

Same Old Stuff - Deny, Then Bring In The Preachers Or Check In To Rehab..

Hussein The Hope Monger — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:25:31 EST

Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich shakes hands with Pastor Marshall Hatch of the New Mt. Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church as he arrives at his home with Pastor Ira Acree, right, of the Greater St. John Bible Church, and the Rev. Steve Jones, president of the Baptist pastor's conference, Friday, Dec. 12, 2008, in Chicago.

Last Night's Senate Cloture Vote Was Disappointing

Hussein The Hope Monger — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 09:19:42 EST

Not all Democrats and 10 Senate Republicans voted 'Aye', but it wasn't enough to bring the negotiations out of the backrooms and into the light of day. I was most impressed by the comments of Arlen Spector and Barbara Boxer AFTER the vote.

Sen Corker (R-TN) said the parties were possibly 3 words away from a solution. But the Congress was ready to recess. Do the rest of us get paid vacation until next January?

By the way, when does that pay raise the US Senate voted for itself kick in?

Pontiac: 'We Are Driving Excitement'

Hussein The Hope Monger — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:44:35 EST

Chevrolet:

Chevrolet. An American Revolution
See the USA in your Chevrolet
The Heartbeat of America
The road isn't built that can make it breathe hard!
Eye it - try it - buy it!

Oldsmobile:

Start Something.
This is not your father's Oldsmobile.

Buick:

Dream Up.
Buick. It's All Good.
Isn't it time for a real car.

Buick. The spirit of American style.

Saturn:

Saturn. Like always. Like never before.

Hummer:

Hummer. Like Nothing Else.

Cadillac:

Cadillac. Break Through.
Creating a Higher Standard.
Standard of the World.
The Penalty of Leadership.

Ford:

Ford. Feel the difference.

Ford. Bold moves.

Built for the road ahead.
Ford. Designed for living. Engineered to last.
Have you driven a Ford lately?

Mercury cars:

New Doors Opened.
Imagine Yourself in a Mercury now.

Chrysler:

Drive & Love
Chrysler. Drive = Love
Chrysler. Inspiration comes standard

Dodge:

Dodge. Grab Life by the Horns.
Dodge. Different.

Jeep:

Jeep. There's Only One.

Ojamas Shipping Update

Ojamas Sleepwear — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 18:51:31 EST

Shipping Schedule
If your invoice number is between 0 and 801 we will be packing and shipping your order this weekend. Although USPS does not guarantee delivery dates, our best estimate is that you'll receive your order by next Friday, 12/19.
If your invoice number is higher than 802, we are expecting more inventory on 12/17. From the time we receive inventory from the factory until the time your package it on its way to you is 24-36 hours. All orders placed by 12/15 will be delivered by 12/24 regardless of the invoice number.

You are certainly welcome to email us any time for status of your order, however once our inventory arrives, we plan to dedicate all of our resources to packaging and shipping. It may take us a little longer to reply, but we'll respond to your email as soon as possible. Our priority at this time is shifting from providing status updates to getting packages delivered before Christmas.

Thank you for your continued patience as we experience the growing pains of a small family business and as we improve our product quality and service delivery. Without doubt, you have chosen the best gift of the season for anyone who supports, believes in, or wishes succes for our new President, Barack Obama. We wish you and your family the Christmas season's joys and wonders. Enjoy the holiday.

How I See It

Hussein The Hope Monger — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:15:33 EST

Having grown up in the "red" section of Cook County IL during the elder Mayor Daley's patronage regime of the 1960s, this is how I see the Blago-Obama connection. Yes, I'm an Obamacan - but I'm not drinking any political Kool-aide.

To be elected to the position of State Senator in Illinois, he had to defeat the machine's people. As a Democrat in the Illinois State Senate, he had to interact with with elected reps who were both part of and apart from the machine in order to serve his constituents. He led his party on campaign finance disclosure legislation.

He also had to interact with the elected Governors - both Democrat Blagojevich and his predecessor Republican George Ryan - both of whom opposed his successful legislative initiative to require taping of interrogations and confessions. Gov Blagojevich was 'convinced' to change his position and sign the bill after it passed the Illinois State Senate 50 to 0.

To be elected to the US Senate from Illinois, he also had to interact with Illinois as well as national partisan leaders. Most, but not all, of them have 'clean hands' - in EITHER party. Even from the nation's capitol, he called back to Springfield to weigh in on ethics reform.

When I was fortunate to meet then candidate Barack Obama in our local high school cafeteria, I asked him about his relationships with the likes of the Strogers (John and Todd), George Haywood, Tony Rezko and others. He responded that they considered him "the upstart".

I am fully prepared to accept his response until it be proven false.

Blagojevich married an Alderman's daughter to get his political career launched. He runs a 'pay to play' program out of Springfield (and now gets caught with his hand in the cookie jar). He spat in his father-in-law's face over one of those perennial Chicago landfill schemes. He sees himself as invincible. As JFK FAN's earlier post illustrates, even the mafiosa (depicted in Soprano-form) has rules.

Enter DOJ's Patrick Fitzgerald from NY. Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely.

Engineering Intern Shows Off Chrysler's New Plug In Fuel Cell Technology

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 17:39:56 EST

GM's Rick Wagoner Reveals New Business Plan To Get Tax Money

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 17:03:27 EST

Where Are They Taking Applications For 'Car Czar'?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:12:51 EST

Does anybody know how much the job will pay?

What The Heck Were Ford's Mulally and Chrysler/Cerberus' Nardelli Smiling About Friday?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 16:38:13 EST

Studies show dogs have sense of fairness

Hussein The Hope Monger — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:08:37 EST

(Is that taxpayer-funded bottled water these hucksters are drinking?)

WASHINGTON – No fair! What parent hasn't heard that from a child who thinks another youngster got more of something. Well, it turns out dogs can react the same way.

Ask them to do a trick and they'll give it a try. For a reward, sausage say, they'll happily keep at it.

But if one dog gets no reward, and then sees another get sausage for doing the same trick, just try to get the first one to do it again.

"Animals react to inequity," said Friederike Range of the University of Vienna, Austria, who lead a team of researchers testing animals at the school's Clever Dog Lab. "To avoid stress, we should try to avoid treating them differently."

Similar responses have been seen in monkeys.

When one dog got a reward and the other didn't, the unrewarded animal stopped playing.

When both got a reward all was well.

One thing that did surprise the researchers was that — unlike primates — the dogs didn't seem to care whether the reward was sausage or bread.

But the researchers didn't do a control test that had been done in monkey studies, Wynne said, in which a preferred reward was visible but not given to anyone.

In that case the monkeys went on strike because they could see the better reward but got something lesser.

In dogs, he noted, the quality of reward didn't seem to matter, so the test only worked when they got no reward at all, he said.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081208/ap_on_sc/sci_no_fair

Merrill's Thain seeking 2008 bonus of $10 million

Hussein The Hope Monger — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 12:13:33 EST

(Reuters) – Merrill Lynch & Co Chief Executive John Thain has suggested to directors that he get a 2008 bonus of as much as $10 million, but the battered company's compensation committee is resisting his request, the Wall Street Journal said, citing people familiar with the situation.

The compensation committee has not reached a decision, but is leaning toward denying Thain and other senior executives bonuses for this year, the people told the paper.

Merrill was arguably saved from extinction when it agreed to merge on September 15, an hour before Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc filed for bankruptcy. The fear was that Merrill could be next if shareholders and trading partners fled, as many did at Lehman and the former Bear Stearns Cos.

Thain has said he deserves a bonus because he helped avert what could have been a much larger crisis at the firm, people familiar with his thinking told the WSJ.

Thain, who became Merrill's chief executive after losses in mortgage-related investments led to the October 2007 ouster of Stanley O'Neal, has also run NYSE Euronext, after a long career at Goldman.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20081208/bs_nm/us_merrill_bonus

What Does It Take To Get A Parade Permit Around Here?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 10:59:52 EST

Exclusive interview!

Beverly from Harrison Township, MI — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 08:42:41 EST

In case you're interested, President-e Obama will be on NBC's Meet The Press Sunday Morning, Dec. 7, 2008.A. J. Mast / Getty Images fileExclusive!
Barack Obama

Exclusive! In his first Sunday morning television interview since winning the election, President-elect Barack Obama joins Tom Brokaw to discuss the economy, foreign policy and the upcoming transition of power.

And, REMEMBER to take a seat at the table, and go behind the scenes at change.gov change.gov is where we can visually stay informed about President-e Obama's plans for America. President Obama's weekly radio address' can also be seen via YouTube at http://change.gov/ (click this link) to get your seat at the table!.Thank you.

Exclusive interview!

Beverly from Harrison Township, MI — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 08:42:40 EST

In case you're interested, President-e Obama will be on NBC's Meet The Press Sunday Morning, Dec. 7, 2008.A. J. Mast / Getty Images fileExclusive!
Barack Obama

"Yes We Did" Stickers Sold Out

Ojamas Sleepwear — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 23:10:50 EST

Our offer of a free "Yes We Did" sticker expired today as we have exceeded our alotment of 1000 units. There are still plenty of Ojamas (pajamas and gowns) available in all sizes for holiday delivery, but we've run out of the Shepard Fairey stickers. Everyone who ordered Ojamas gowns or pajamas before today will receive one (per order) before Christmas. If you didn't get your order in soon enough for the sticker, don't let that stop you from getting the best political pajamas and gowns in history. Whether you're collecting Obama memorabilia or you feel a special connection with the new First Family as many of us supporters do, you can give the most memorable and unique gift of the season with Ojamas. Orders placed before 12/15 for delivery in the US are guaranteed to be delivered before Christmas. Orders placed between 12/16 and 12/20 have a good chance of being delivered by 12/24, but each day that passes after 12/16 poses a greater challenge for a pre-Christmas delivery. Don't forget inauguration. Even if you don't get your order placed in time for Christmas, there is no finer way to enjoy the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States than while wrapped in the soft warmth of genuine Ojamas. Order yours now.

We must NOT think small. We must not be timid.

James from Detroit, MI — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 01:17:31 EST

The government needs to think big in the next four years. No... wait... scratch that ... we need to think on a massive scale. Rebuilding roads and bridges, while vital, will not cut it.

We need to do more than just restore the Eisenhower-era national high system. We need to add another leg to the transportation grid: high-speed rail. I suggest we do that, in part, by passing out no-bid contracts to GM, Ford and Chrysler to build the rolling stock here in the U.S.

The events of 9/11 showed that air travel is vulnerable. And, if we ever need to once again the nation's air fleet, we'll want to be able to move goods and people quickly and efficiently on the ground. Hence, a new, modern rail system could be (and should be) seen as a national security priority -- just as the interstate highway system was seen as a national security priority during the Cold War.

Another big project should be a big expansion of student loans and aid to colleges so that higher education and other kinds of post-secondary training is available to every American who can do the work.

Our urban agenda should be equally bold. We need to make sure cities have what they need to fight crime and investors have good incentives to invest in now-blighted areas to create jobs and decent housing.

We also need to change the way we defend ourselves. That means having our NATO allies take on a bigger role in the defense of Europe and asking Japan to step up its military spending so that we can stand down. We cannot police the world alone and should stop trying.

Those are just a few ideas. I am sure others will have more of them.

OUR GUY IS IN, BUT WE'RE NOT DONE YET!

Dimples02 — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 22:06:11 EST

HERE'S ANOTHER GOOD VIDEO, IN CASE YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IT YET!

THIS IS WHAT DIVERSITY AND UNITY LOOKS LIKE!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YX5we3cWgrk&feature=related

We need aggressive Transparency in Government

amadeusmax — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 23:43:26 EST

I understand right now that President - Elect Obama is not in office, we need to see some ground work for Transparency into government. I would also like to see a move that would investigate and examine against corruption in washington, which in my humble opinion, transparency would help us see.

A lot of things are hidden in the name of National Security and I believe they are falsely classified as a means to hide illegal activity. As much as I would love to have job of being in charge and exposing all the corruption, coverups and mismanagement in our federal government, I know I do not have the surgical knowledge needed to do this quickly and efficiently. But I am sure there many out there that do, and that there are many people like me that would enjoy the job of bringing to light many if not all government activities.

One major step towards transparency, is to eliminate corrections to federal records. Many probably do not know this, but when our Representatives speak on the floor they are allowed to go in afterwards and change the Federal Record. In other words change what is recorded what they said. If they want to say this is what I meant, then they can add an amendment after the context of their speech. Showing us what they meant to say. But I and I'm sure you too, what to know what they actually said.

Second we need and easily searchable way to look at each and every bill the government has voted on. We need to see each and every ruling done by the supreme court in the same manner, and everything the executive office signs off on.

Thirdly, no government agency, should have the right to hide everything indefinitely. I think the most the government should be to keep something top secret is 20 years. FISA would be admended to allow this. By doing this we are keeping the US Goverment accountable for it's actions. We do not need to show the world our plans on how to build a nuclear weapon, but we need to show when the decesions was made and by whom to make them.

Anything that would need top secret clearance longer than that would need to be approved by a committee, that is made up of one person from the executive office, one from the judiciary, and at least 20 from the house, 10 reps and 10 senate. They would meat once every year and vote on each item that requires to maintain top secret clearance that is already 20 years or older in that status. This would require the government to report each item that requires top secret. If it isn't reported to this committee than it is offically not a secret and therefore open for public review.

New Ojamas Gowns and Pajamas

Ojamas Sleepwear — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 15:23:58 EST

The newest batch of pajamas is almost ready. The fabric is a soft 100% cotton flannel, and we've added a drawstring to the elastic waist for fit and comfort. The latest update from the factory is that we'll have them by December 9th. We will turn them around within a few short days and fill all oustanding orders well before Christmas.

Ojamas Sleepwear is also pleased to announce our new ladies nigthgown! The full length light weight flannel gown has long sleeves, a two-button flat collar and features our traditional Ojamas design on field of snowy white. Both our gowns and pajmas are available for guaranteed Christmas delivery for orders palced by December 15th. Please get your order in as soon as possible to ensure you get your before they're all gone.

Enough Of The Bush-Cheney Romance For Oil Schemes!!

Hussein The Hope Monger — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 10:02:35 EST

CAIRO, Egypt – Saudi Arabia's king says the price of oil should be $75 a barrel, much higher than it is now, but his oil minister indicated Saturday that no measures will likely be taken until OPEC meets again next month.

Saudi Oil Minister Ali Naimi said that the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries will "do what needs to be done" to shore up falling oil prices when the group meets Dec. 17 in Algeria, but for now it was "too early."

Can Carmakers, Consumers Be Weaned From Foreign Oil?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:23:05 EST

Or are we doomed?

Eyes Wide Shut

Gregg — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 12:03:24 EST

Because of record profits based on greed, oil companies have held this nation hostage. Like a prisoner, we are now showing signs of the ties that have been biding us. Like prisoners, we are arguing how did this happen and how can we escape. It is not the shape, size or price of the vehicles that brought us here. The whip that has thrashed our backs with $4+ gas, now has let off the whip a bit because their hands were starting to hurt. Are we gonna sacrifice our future childrens lives for the power of the oil companies?? Rebellion should be at hand!! But we say...HOW?? The new F word is called bailout. Lets hear the oil companies say that F word, when they are the ones that are bailing out the auto industry. After all, they have to keep these prisoners barely alive so they can keep having fun time.

Why Not Just Bailout The Strongest? Or The Weakest? Why All 3?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 12:22:19 EST

If times are tough and 3 businesses come to you and ask for money, wouldn't you ask each a few questions and expect different answers from each?

If you had a limited amount of cash to lend, would you seek to lend it to all 3 applicants? Or just the one most likely to pay it back on the strength of its business and business plan?

So They Flew In On Their Corporate Jets And Wiggled Out Of Fuel Efficiency Mandates?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:14:56 EST

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Aides to a bipartisan group of auto-state senators say they have reached a compromise to speed emergency loans to Detroit's Big Three car makers.

Republicans and Democrats plan to present the proposal at a mid-afternoon news conference Thursday. But it was not immediately clear whether the compromise plan could draw enough support to get through a reluctant Senate.

It temporarily would divert to troubled automakers money from a program that currently finances the development of fuel-efficient vehicles. The aim would be to cover their immediate expenses.

Don't fall for the old shell game!!

GM shares hit 70-year low as bailout hopes dim

Hussein The Hope Monger — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:01:54 EST

DETROIT (Reuters) - Shares of General Motors Corp tumbled more than 35 percent to hit a 70-year low on Thursday as prospects dimmed that lawmakers would reach a compromise on a proposed $25 billion bailout for U.S. automakers before Congress adjourns this week.

Shares of Ford Motor Co also fell, dropping nearly 17 percent to their lowest level in 27 years, and auto parts suppliers declined across the board amid concerns a failure by one of the U.S. automakers would touch off a cascade of failures in the struggling industry.

Without a deal this week, any bailout is likely to have to wait until the new Obama administration takes over in January, by the time GM has warned it would run desperately short of its minimum cash needs.

December 2007 ... Are They Clueless?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:46:19 EST

William Clay Ford Jr., center, of Ford Motor, with Ron Gettelfinger, left, president of the United Auto Workers, and Alan Mulally, Ford’s chief executive, at Monday’s contract signing.

'The Panhandlers Four' - A Folk Group Sings Songs From The 60s

Hussein The Hope Monger — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:24:21 EST

Did anybody else hear these dopes testify that they have made significant changes to bring their current (and by implication, legacy) costs in line with those of their off-shore competitors?

Here's a little news flash form April 5, 2008:

"Just hours after threatening to strike at one or more GM plants, the UAW and the General have agreed on two-tier wages for certain job types. The move to clarify which jobs were "non-core" at the national level came as local UAWs were threatening to strike because they felt GM was asking for too many lower-paid positions at their plants. The more regimented deal identifies 16,000 positions that will soon be paid $14 per hour, which will save GM up to a half-billion dollars per year. It will take years to fill all of those positions because GM has to entice existing workers to retire before they can be replaced."

They need to do everything they can before begging for taxpayer money!

Tell Me Again Why I Should Buy A Cadillac? It's Well-Built? Great Mileage? Dependability?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 12:10:33 EST

Change Not Just The CEOs, But Their Entire Management Teams and Boards

Hussein The Hope Monger — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 10:27:51 EST

Eric Holder as AG? Another Clinton Re-tread?

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:10:40 EST

Denise (Mrs. Marc) admires ex-Prez who admires his own sax (pre pardon).

Get Your Hands Out Of Our Pockets!

Hussein The Hope Monger — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 10:24:36 EST