Moms for Obama

The New Way Forward - The President's Address

EsquireUK — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:45:03 EST

The New Way Forward - The President's Address

Read the Transcript | Download Video: mp4 (419MB) | mp3 (31MB)

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2009/12/01/new-way-forward-presidents-address

In a live address to the nation last night from the Military Academy in West Point, NY, President Obama laid out his decision for the way forward in Afghanistan. The President committed an additional 30,000 troops to the war, said the era of “blank checks” was over and articulated a clear plan for the transition of responsibility to Afghan security forces.

Here are several excerpts from the President’s remarks. You can read the full text of his address and watch it here.

On how we got to this point in Afghanistan:

Just days after 9/11, Congress authorized the use of force against al Qaeda and those who harbored them -- an authorization that continues to this day. The vote in the Senate was 98 to nothing. The vote in the House was 420 to 1. For the first time in its history, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization invoked Article 5 -- the commitment that says an attack on one member nation is an attack on all. And the United Nations Security Council endorsed the use of all necessary steps to respond to the 9/11 attacks. America, our allies and the world were acting as one to destroy al Qaeda’s terrorist network and to protect our common security.
Under the banner of this domestic unity and international legitimacy -- and only after the Taliban refused to turn over Osama bin Laden -- we sent our troops into Afghanistan. Within a matter of months, al Qaeda was scattered and many of its operatives were killed. The Taliban was driven from power and pushed back on its heels. A place that had known decades of fear now had reason to hope. At a conference convened by the U.N., a provisional government was established under President Hamid Karzai. And an International Security Assistance Force was established to help bring a lasting peace to a war-torn country.
Then, in early 2003, the decision was made to wage a second war, in Iraq. The wrenching debate over the Iraq war is well-known and need not be repeated here. It's enough to say that for the next six years, the Iraq war drew the dominant share of our troops, our resources, our diplomacy, and our national attention -- and that the decision to go into Iraq caused substantial rifts between America and much of the world…

On the current challenge in Afghanistan and the region:

Over the last several years, the Taliban has maintained common cause with al Qaeda, as they both seek an overthrow of the Afghan government. Gradually, the Taliban has begun to control additional swaths of territory in Afghanistan, while engaging in increasingly brazen and devastating attacks of terrorism against the Pakistani people…
Afghanistan is not lost, but for several years it has moved backwards. There's no imminent threat of the government being overthrown, but the Taliban has gained momentum. Al Qaeda has not reemerged in Afghanistan in the same numbers as before 9/11, but they retain their safe havens along the border. And our forces lack the full support they need to effectively train and partner with Afghan security forces and better secure the population. Our new commander in Afghanistan -- General McChrystal -- has reported that the security situation is more serious than he anticipated. In short: The status quo is not sustainable…
Since 9/11, al Qaeda’s safe havens have been the source of attacks against London and Amman and Bali. The people and governments of both Afghanistan and Pakistan are endangered. And the stakes are even higher within a nuclear-armed Pakistan, because we know that al Qaeda and other extremists seek nuclear weapons, and we have every reason to believe that they would use them.
These facts compel us to act along with our friends and allies.

On the decision:

I do not make this decision lightly. I opposed the war in Iraq precisely because I believe that we must exercise restraint in the use of military force, and always consider the long-term consequences of our actions. We have been at war now for eight years, at enormous cost in lives and resources. Years of debate over Iraq and terrorism have left our unity on national security issues in tatters, and created a highly polarized and partisan backdrop for this effort. And having just experienced the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, the American people are understandably focused on rebuilding our economy and putting people to work here at home…
If I did not think that the security of the United States and the safety of the American people were at stake in Afghanistan, I would gladly order every single one of our troops home tomorrow…
I make this decision because I am convinced that our security is at stake in Afghanistan and Pakistan. This is the epicenter of violent extremism practiced by al Qaeda. It is from here that we were attacked on 9/11, and it is from here that new attacks are being plotted as I speak. This is no idle danger; no hypothetical threat. In the last few months alone, we have apprehended extremists within our borders who were sent here from the border region of Afghanistan and Pakistan to commit new acts of terror. And this danger will only grow if the region slides backwards, and al Qaeda can operate with impunity. We must keep the pressure on al Qaeda, and to do that, we must increase the stability and capacity of our partners in the region.

On the way forward:

Our overarching goal remains the same: to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al Qaeda in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and to prevent its capacity to threaten America and our allies in the future..
To meet that goal, we will pursue the following objectives within Afghanistan. We must deny al Qaeda a safe haven. We must reverse the Taliban's momentum and deny it the ability to overthrow the government. And we must strengthen the capacity of Afghanistan's security forces and government so that they can take lead responsibility for Afghanistan's future…
The 30,000 additional troops that I'm announcing tonight will deploy in the first part of 2010 -- the fastest possible pace -- so that they can target the insurgency and secure key population centers. They'll increase our ability to train competent Afghan security forces, and to partner with them so that more Afghans can get into the fight. And they will help create the conditions for the United States to transfer responsibility to the Afghans…
We will work with our partners, the United Nations, and the Afghan people to pursue a more effective civilian strategy, so that the government can take advantage of improved security. This effort must be based on performance. The days of providing a blank check are over…
The people of Afghanistan have endured violence for decades. They've been confronted with occupation -- by the Soviet Union, and then by foreign al Qaeda fighters who used Afghan land for their own purposes. So tonight, I want the Afghan people to understand -- America seeks an end to this era of war and suffering. We have no interest in occupying your country…
We're in Afghanistan to prevent a cancer from once again spreading through that country. But this same cancer has also taken root in the border region of Pakistan. That's why we need a strategy that works on both sides of the border.
In the past, we too often defined our relationship with Pakistan narrowly. Those days are over. Moving forward, we are committed to a partnership with Pakistan that is built on a foundation of mutual interest, mutual respect, and mutual trust…
These are the three core elements of our strategy: a military effort to create the conditions for a transition; a civilian surge that reinforces positive action; and an effective partnership with Pakistan.

On financing the effort:

As President, I refuse to set goals that go beyond our responsibility, our means, or our interests. And I must weigh all of the challenges that our nation faces. I don't have the luxury of committing to just one. Indeed, I'm mindful of the words of President Eisenhower, who -- in discussing our national security -- said, "Each proposal must be weighed in the light of a broader consideration: the need to maintain balance in and among national programs."
Over the past several years, we have lost that balance. We've failed to appreciate the connection between our national security and our economy. In the wake of an economic crisis, too many of our neighbors and friends are out of work and struggle to pay the bills. Too many Americans are worried about the future facing our children. Meanwhile, competition within the global economy has grown more fierce. So we can't simply afford to ignore the price of these wars.
All told, by the time I took office the cost of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan approached a trillion dollars. Going forward, I am committed to addressing these costs openly and honestly. Our new approach in Afghanistan is likely to cost us roughly $30 billion for the military this year, and I'll work closely with Congress to address these costs as we work to bring down our deficit.

On America’s role in the world:

Since the days of Franklin Roosevelt, and the service and sacrifice of our grandparents and great-grandparents, our country has borne a special burden in global affairs. We have spilled American blood in many countries on multiple continents. We have spent our revenue to help others rebuild from rubble and develop their own economies. We have joined with others to develop an architecture of institutions -- from the United Nations to NATO to the World Bank -- that provide for the common security and prosperity of human beings.
We have not always been thanked for these efforts, and we have at times made mistakes. But more than any other nation, the United States of America has underwritten global security for over six decades -- a time that, for all its problems, has seen walls come down, and markets open, and billions lifted from poverty, unparalleled scientific progress and advancing frontiers of human liberty.
For unlike the great powers of old, we have not sought world domination. Our union was founded in resistance to oppression. We do not seek to occupy other nations. We will not claim another nation’s resources or target other peoples because their faith or ethnicity is different from ours. What we have fought for -- what we continue to fight for -- is a better future for our children and grandchildren. And we believe that their lives will be better if other peoples’ children and grandchildren can live in freedom and access opportunity.
As a country, we're not as young -- and perhaps not as innocent -- as we were when Roosevelt was President. Yet we are still heirs to a noble struggle for freedom. And now we must summon all of our might and moral suasion to meet the challenges of a new age…
It's easy to forget that when this war began, we were united -- bound together by the fresh memory of a horrific attack, and by the determination to defend our homeland and the values we hold dear. I refuse to accept the notion that we cannot summon that unity again. (Applause.) I believe with every fiber of my being that we -- as Americans -- can still come together behind a common purpose. For our values are not simply words written into parchment -- they are a creed that calls us together, and that has carried us through the darkest of storms as one nation, as one people…

Grassroots Our Unions Could Use Our Help!

Donna No Shock Barack No Drama Obama of MD — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:12:40 EST

Something we can do even in this short week to help the cause of Health Care Reform is to contact the local unions in the following states to thank them for their support of HIR and to ask them to please hold large rallies in these states:

Please contact these local unions and ask them to hold rallies in the following states:

Louisiana (Mary Landrieu)
http://www.unions.org/home/umap18-.htm

Connecticut (Joe Lieberman)
http://www.unions.org/home/umap7-.htm

Arkansas (Blanche Lincoln)
http://www.unions.org/home/umap4-.htm

Nebraska (Ben Nelson)
http://www.unions.org/home/umap27-.htm

Also SEIU is asking us to Adopt A State to help get HIR passed.

Adopt a State:

Team Arkansas (Lincoln)
Team Connecticut (Lieberman)
Team Louisiana (Landrieu)
Team Nebraska (Ben Nelson
http://www.seiu.org/a/healthcare/adopt-a-state.php

Thank you!

Nobel Committee Head Asks "Who Did More"?

Obama-Mamas.com — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 13:10:02 EDT

Yesterday, four of the five members of the Nobel Committee responded to the largely U.S. controversy over the selection of President Obama as this year�s recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. “The question we have to ask�, said Thorbjoern Jagland, head of the Committee, �is who has done the most in the previous year to enhance peace in the world, and who has done more than Barack Obama?”

Obama and the Nobel Peace Prize

april — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:35:50 EDT

I am so stunned on everyone's reaction to Obama winning the Nobel Peace Prize. It seems alot of people forget what he did over the campaign and how he got SO many people off there butts and out into there communities doing something and be apart of something greater than themselves. I had the chance to see him speak in Green Bay during the campaign and had the chance to shake his hand and I can tell you....just from my experience..... when you see him in person and listen to him talk...you can tell that he truly cares about helping US and that he truly believes he can make a difference in our country. I still support him...he is trying so hard with Health Care, and with the War...we have no real idea of what he really deals with on a daily basis...I was shocked when I heard he won...but in no way did I think he didn't deserve it....I think he whole-heartedly deserves it for bringing a Nation together and for opening up talks with other countries....who are interested in what he has to say. I think the Obama's are wonderful people and it is awesome to see real people in the White House and not a bunch of rich suits. Congratulations Mr. President!!

Make a Change Tonight

Mid America Mom — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:33:54 EDT

Like many of you, as if on clockwork, I opened up my email today. It is part of my daily routine. Oh I also have kids to feed, toys and clothes on the floor, homework needs to be done. My life does not vary day to day.

Here it is in my inbox. Yes another email about healthcare reform. Come make calls TONIGHT.. call your Senators! Is this health care thing still going on and when will it be over? Oh this time is not good for me....

If you have not done a thing or many things NOW IS THE TIME to ACT. Yes today and tomorrow is crucial and if you have a thought or want to lend your voice THIS IS THE TIME TO ACT. Life does get in the way but everyday life will be there tomorrow and the day after. But this opportunity of health care reform with teeth and substance will NOT.

I urge you- pickup fast food for the family, leave the shirt and toys on the floor, bring your cell and drive over to lend your voice to the millions calling for change at a local phone bank (check events). Cannot make the whole time or stay that long? Hey we will take whatever you can give! None near you? Still contact your Senators - email is GREAT and while at it encourage family and friends to do so before it is too late.

Yes NOW IS THE TIME to ACT. Make a Change for America Tonight.

Mid America Mom

Millions Of Americans Can't Afford To Wait...

EsquireUK — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 12:51:21 EDT

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/The-Presidents-Remarks-and-a-Letter-from-Ted/

I just finished laying out my plan for health reform at a joint session of Congress. Now, I'm writing directly to you because what happens next is critical -- and I need your help.

Change this big will not happen because I ask for it. It can only come when the nation demands it. Congress knows where I stand. Now they need to hear from you.

Add your voice: Ask your representatives to support my plan for real health reform in 2009.

The heart of my plan is simple: bring stability and security to Americans who already have health insurance, guarantee affordable coverage for those who don't, and rein in the cost of health care.

Tonight, I offered a specific plan for how to make it happen. I incorporated the best ideas from Democrats and Republicans to create a plan that's bold, practical, and represents the broad consensus of the American people.

We've come closer to real health reform in the last few months than we have in the last 60 years. But those who profit from the status quo -- and those who put partisan advantage above all else -- will fight us every inch of the way.

We do not seek that fight, but we will not shrink from it. The stakes are too high to let scare tactics cloud the debate, or to allow partisan bickering to block the path. Your voice, right now, is essential.

See my full plan and call on your representatives to support it.
Ours is not the first generation to understand the dire need for health reform. And I am not the first president to take up this cause, but I am determined to be the last.

Thank you,

President Barack Obama

We Can Not Afford The Status Quo

EsquireUK — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 09:22:42 EDT

We Can Afford Reform, We Can’t Afford the Status Quo

Jared Bernstein, Chief Economist for the Vice President and Executive Director of the Middle Class Task Force, debunks the myth that we can’t afford health insurance reform. To the contrary, not only has the President demanded that reform not add to the deficit in the short term, but reform is the only way to get skyrocketing health care costs under control that will be devastating not for families , businesses, and for government deficits in the long term under the status quo.

Watch the Video

Earlier today, it was announced that President Obama will address a joint session of Congress on the issue of health insurance reform next Wednesday, September 9th. CNN reported:

It will be Obama's second speech to the full legislature since he took office in January, and the setting and rarity of such an event highlighted the importance the president places on his top domestic priority: overhauling the nation's ailing health care system.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid formally invited Obama to make the address, as required, in a letter issued Wednesday after news broke of the planned speech.

We'll have more information on this important speech in the days to come.

www.whitehouse.gov

Pardon Me, I'm Only The Patient

Dawn in Arizona — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:33:40 EDT

Pardon Me!

The title of this says a lot. Going to doctors has become quite difficult as they and the health care industry is run by the insurance companies, not the needs of a patient or what the doctor thinks is best for his/her patient but by a huge industry set on making money..only!

The GOP is putting out scarey ideas:

the government wants to take over our private lives

the government wants to kill older people

On and on they go while all the time taking money to work not for the people of this country who elected them but for the money, the power to control our lives and our health care.

Let us tell the truth! What IS a Preferred Provider list but simply a list of doctors in the pockets of the insurance industry? Already we are limited to what tests we can get, what treatments we can obtain and why? Because the doctors themselves have been up for sale and bought.

I just changed doctors because of this reason - a doctor that I must pay up front because he is not on The List. Now, finally, a few simple tests will be ordered to keep an eye on my health. With his help perhaps I will have the correct medication. This is life changing, good intelligent health care. But now my husband and I will be punished by the far to big health care insurance company. Who wants to bet they will not cover simple blood tests? Or new meds that work.

All of this is so wrong and thank God we have a President who is willing to go up against the power and fight for us, the patients.

Thanks to the Hard Work of Congress and the Obama Administration, We Are Almost There on Healthcare Reform

Andrea - President Obama Supporter — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 17:57:40 EDT

We are almost to the votes on the congressional floors for The Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009.

The Bill has to pass 5 committess to get to both floors of congress:

House - Energy and Commerce
House - Ways and Mean
House - Education and Labor
Senate - HELP
Senate - Finance

The Bill - H.R. 3200, has already passed two committees in the House: Ways and Means and Education and Labor. Now it only has to pass in Energy and Commerce to go the the House floor for a vote! Exciting!

Energy and Commerce will take up the matter on Monday.

As for the Senate, we need it to pass only the Finance Committee now, it already passed through the HELP Committee. Once the Finance Committee aproves, it's on to the Senate floor for a vote.

The good news is we have a majority on the Senate Finance Committee:

http://finance.senate.gov/sitepages/committee.htm

I think we are okay in Energy and Commerce too, but I have not verified it.

Once the Bill has been passed through by the last two committees, we are alomost there.

The pressure will then heat up on the naysayer democrats to go along with the historic legislation.

As for the republicans, we really do not need them because of a process called reconciliation.

Things are looking good. Thanks to the leadership of President Obama, America will finally get health care reform.

Do you want to be free?

Mid America Mom — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 18:56:04 EDT

TO BE FREE?

Hello from my temporary home in the North, our 51st State ;)

One thing I will tell you is that NOT ONE Canadian I have met ...has said they would rather have our system. Interesting isn't it?

I want medical freedom.

I want to know that there is an affordable and logical plan that ANYONE can have. Including those countless children that have no voice or choice.

I want medical freedom

I want to take a job I love or like instead of choosing it just for coverage. I want to see people taking a second job not because of medical care but for just simply getting ahead or paying off a debt. I want to know that if I am laid off that my family has care.

I want medical freedom.

This house of cards healthcare system we have takes our time, energy, conversation, and yes our loved ones. Why must we cling to the familiar? Why can't we get past this fear? Where is the American ingenuity to make our healthcare system truly the BEST?

I want to be free. Don't you?

Taking up the fight has never been easy. But if we let this opportunity pass then it means well maybe we never really wanted it at all. And who says we, your plain jane and joe's cannot do it? WE elected OUR President. If it was not for us we would be talking about John or Hillary.

Join the chorus of millions calling for change. TODAY!!!! Get ON THE PHONE to the reps, send your EMAILS, CANVASS the neighborhood, HOST an EVENT for change.

No matter who you are

where you are

you can be the change

YES GET OUT THERE and never forget that YOU ARE THE CHANGE.

Mid America Mom
Moms for Obama

A Toast To Your Health

Linda — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 20:37:34 EDT

Lets connect to make sure that all Americans have health care. I lived in Australia and the healthcare system was awesome and was paid by the taxes that people paid. The system was amazing. Lets have a similar system here. YES WE CAN

National Health Care Day of Service

EsquireUK — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:36:30 EDT

National Health Care Day of Service

This summer, Organizing for America will fight to ensure Americans receive much-needed health care reform in 2009. Community service is a critical piece of our health care campaign and our National Health Care Day of Service on June 27, 2009 will highlight its importance.

These health care service projects give volunteers a chance to make an impact in their own communities while we simultaneously fight for long term, systemic health care reform.

Why Service?

Volunteers who participate in the National Health Care Day of Service will be stronger advocates for health care reform. Volunteer projects directly expose participants to the reality of our country’s health care system and the millions of people who it is currently failing.

Suggested National Health Care Day of Service Opportunities:

Where do you see the need for health care reform in your community? Some ideas include:

• Volunteer at a Community Health Center
• Coordinate a Community Blood Drive
• Run a Healthy Food Drive
• Provide education to the community on Children's Health Insurance Programs

Download our Host Guide for more information.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/servicehost

You don’t need to be an expert to help out. If you have a few hours to spare, you can help people near you get the care they need, and raise awareness about the urgent reform our nation requires.

Congress Has a Public Option -- Why Can't the Rest of Us?

Andrea - President Obama Supporter — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:24:14 EDT

What I am saying to memebers of congress that oppose the public option:

We need a public option so that Americans can have the choice to chose an affordable health care plan if they need one or do not have healthcare coverage.

There are a lot of poor and middle income people who do not have healthcare because they can not afford it. The public option would help them.

You get publically funded federal health care as a memeber of congress, opt of of your public option government funded health care if you think it is so wrong. Do not be hypocritcal and vote against others from getting the same healthcare option you get as a memeber of congress. The public pays your salary and for your healthcare.

America needs a public option, it's very important to the working families that can not afford healthcare.

Andrea Taylor

Ask all members of congress that oppose the public healthcare insrurance option if they would give up their own.

President Obama wants Americans to have access to a healthcare plan comparable to what members of congress get. Members of congress get healthcare from the goverment paid for by the American public, how dare any member deny a needy American to an affordable governmemt plan?

Too Much? Obama Tackles Health Care

Linnie Frank Bailey — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 15:38:45 EDT

Those who say the President is taking on too much, remind me of a group of parents from my kid's school a few years back. They complained that the third grade teachers were assigning too much homework because they expected the students to spend at least 20 minutes a night completing assigned work. Of course, these same parents were concerned with reading and math levels at the school, and some even suggested that foreign-born students were bringing the scores down!

There comes a time when you have to get your priorities straight! With my parents, 'too much homework' would have been an oxymoron! Homework came before all other activities and I was expected to complete it...even if I had to stay up late on occasion (of course, this was usually when I left some work to the last minute...I got punished a lot for this :)

Telling the Obama administration to not tackle our health care problem, is like telling a drowning man to stop trying to get his head above water!

Health care challenges are 'killing us' literally and figuratively. Every family is either struggling with this problem, will be struggling with this problem, or knows someone who is.

We can't afford to get sick, and the American economy can't afford for us to get sick... the way the health care industry currently operates.

Money being spent on escalating health care costs, can't be spent in retail establishments, at car dealerships, for college education, to pay mortgages and debt, to buy gas, ...or most importantly, SAVED!

Doing nothing and watching millions more Americans give up on trying to pay for health care, will only cost us more in the future as they show up at hospital emergency rooms.

I am wondering....who are these people opposing health care reform?

Surely not American families who can't afford rising premiums, deductibles, and co-pays.

Surely not employers who are also faced with escalating costs to insure workers.

Surely not the unemployed who are praying for a job before their COBRA runs out (if they can afford COBRA.)

And, surely not our aging boomers and seniors, some of whom have to choose between food and medicine.

Even with everything on his plate, President Obama has to reform health care to prevent an America full of sick and bankrupt citizens

Obama's Health Care Party for the Homeless at Barber's Point, Hawaii

Victoria Shabazz — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:09:53 EDT

Why not combine the promotion of President Obama's Health Care Reform w/ providing the homeless of White Plain's Beach, Barber's Point, Hawaii w/ Christmas in June???

President Obama Weekly Schedule Week Ahead May 23

Obama-Mamas.com — Sat, 23 May 2009 13:13:22 EDT

Robert Gibbs announced the President's schedule for the week. On the President's agenda in Las Vegas, sometimes funny man responds, "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas." This week's events include the wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers and a meeting with Palestinian President Abbas.

Full Week after the jump.

Message From The White House

EsquireUK — Fri, 15 May 2009 12:18:31 EDT

www.whitehouse.gov

The White House sent out it's first email yesterday to supporters on the WhiteHouse.gov email list. In the message, the President recapped some of the key events of the last three days -- including a pledge from healthcare stakeholders to reduce the growing rate of healthcare costs, and Speaker Nancy Pelosi's announcement today that the House of Representatives would take up healthcare legislation before the end of July.

President Obama urged both the House and Senate to move quickly with a process that is both transparent and inclusive. He also reiterated his three core principles for reform: driving down healthcare costs, assuring quality and affordable care for everyone, and guaranteeing all Americans a choice of doctors and plans.

www.whitehouse.gov

Nothing Better To Do

Dawn in Arizona — Sun, 10 May 2009 21:12:52 EDT

How amazing that some folks have nothing better to spend their time on than spamming here- nope! do not answer them or comment.

Come On!

Is this Republicans so bitter that they will spend time writting and re-posting many times? Or?

So! to you who are doing this...it does not upset me or others but how about a little volunteer work? or go for a walk, while on that walk pick up a bit of trash.

Life is to precious and to short. Wake Up!

President Obama's 100th Day In Office

EsquireUK — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:27:07 EDT

www.whitehouse.gov

Wednesday, April 29th, 2009 at 12:10 pm"Words and Deeds"

Norm Eisen, special counsel to the president for ethics and government reform, drops by to talk about progress on ethics and transparency since the President was sworn in.

The President promised across-the-board change in Washington and all of us in the White House have been pleased to help deliver. In the ethics and government reform arena, we have worked hard to help the President impose strict new ethics rules for all employees; foster a culture of compliance and respect for the law; promote greater transparency (including through our first-ever instant electronic release of personal financial disclosure forms); and implement historic revolving door limits for lobbyists and others.

But don't just take our word for it. Members of the government reform community have issued a statement praising the President for the "groundbreaking government integrity reforms he has put in place" and recognizing that "the President has demonstrated in his first hundred days through words and deeds that he is serious about changing the rules of the game in Washington and increasing the voice of citizens in the governing process."

Click through and read the complete statement by members of the government reform community acknowledging the administration's historic opening efforts.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/09/04/29/Words-and-Deeds/

Swine Flu

Dawn in Arizona — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 14:53:23 EDT

This swine flu is going to be a bigger story and very soon! CNN devoted enough time to it last night that it scared me greatly. It is being worked on by the CDC to find origins - bet those people are working quite hard. So what do we do?

Any ideas please post!

As an older mother it makes sense for us to wash our hands, and often. Simple? Not really- we go about our lives busy and not thinking. My great aunt who is nearly 95 years young and a nurse for 50 years says washing our hands often is a first line of defense...get into the habit, especially after shopping or being at work.

Next wash fresh produce - do not think that the store has done this for you. After a long grocery shop I am tired and it is more simple and easy just to stuff everything away and go set down. Stop! take the time to rinse your food.

We will hear more soon about this but until then, be safe and smart.

Lets bring it back together!!

Ebony for Obama in 2012 — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:43:46 EDT

Hello to all my fellow Obama-ites. We had a successful campaign and election! The work is not over. The County and State governments still need our help. Get involved in your local politics, join committees and boards, volunteer and work strongly with OFA.

For those in Iowa, in particular Linn County; the Linn County Democrats meet the 4th Wednesday of every month. Longbranch Hotel/Convention Center, 7pm.

The Linn County Democrats are hosting a Pancake breakfast fundraiser on May 2. 8 am to 1 pm at the Fairfax American Legion, 216 Main St Fairfax IA.

Further Info Needed, contact me; ebony.luensman@msn.com.

Remember, "We are the ones we have been waiting for!"

I Am Glad I Voted for Barack Obama!

Andrea - President Obama Supporter — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:09:03 EDT

The presidential campaign was a long journey. I was supporting the campaign since the summer of 2007. Obama Nation made it to the White House!

Now we are in our first 100 days!

I am so proud of all the accomplishments and efforts of the extra ordinary and capable Obama Administration.

I am very happy I supported the campaign and I look forward to the next 100 days and all the wonderful changes the Obama Adminstration will bring to America and the world.

Sky High Utilities

Dawn in Arizona — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 11:06:07 EDT

Is anyone else having problems with the elcetric/water/basic phone bills? The electric company is the only one here in Arizona that gives a break for disabled or low income people- but that is taking months to pull together(in the winter).

These companies have and continue to raising rates sky high.

Is there not a way to rein them in??

We have no choice - either these companies or go without!

How I would love to put solar panels in, yet the out lay of money is not possible and I'm not to sure about any tax help beyound that.

The Corporation Commision is useless to the consumer.

Moms and US must oppose Swat Valley Sharia Law against women

MechMom — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:32:04 EDT

Can you believe that Pakistan is providing not just safe haven for Taliban, but allowing them to impose Sharia Law in the beautiful former tourist haven of Swat Valley ski resorts - laws AGAINST women predominately ...

http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/politics/pakistani-cleric-pledges-peace-after-sharia-law-approval_100179577.html Girl beaten for adultery (but not the older man!) Schools also burned, women flogged for dress, what next? It's beginning to sound like what has happen to the poor women of much of Iraq!

http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory?id=7331861 US condemns but does not yet act! Peace dealing with the Taliban began in 2007, so the Obama administration cannot take much blame for the current situation - unless they accept this latest turn without a strong fight...

http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=6733576&page=1 Tourist haven to terror camp!

"There is a widespread belief in Swat that the military has not defeated the militants because the army has struck a deal with them. It is a belief that few people speak about on the record, but the Awami National Party, which is the coalition leader in the Northwest Frontier Province, agreed to a candid, on-camera interview...." - OUR overspent taxpayer dollars and public debt support this very military regime!!!

Please express to your Congress representatives and the Obama administration that continued financial support of Pakistan should be contingent upon cleaning up Swat Valley - or allowing the US to do so.

Women of the world need to unite for our Muslim sisters under unimaginable oppression. Let's all do our part as mothers, daughters and friends!

Thank you!!!!

The Obama Presidency: First 100 Days

EsquireUK — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 15:00:13 EDT

Monday, April 13th, 2009 at 12:27 pm

Egg Roll!

www.whitehouse.gov

If you have not been watching, be sure to check in on our coverage of the White House Easter Egg Roll. You can watch some of the best artists, story-tellers, chefs, and egg-rollers around on four separate live-streams, carrying on and expanding on the tradition established by President Bush.President Obama and the First Lady spoke to the happy crowd this morning:THE PRESIDENT: Hello, everybody -- that's Malia, our technical advisor. (Laughter.)It is wonderful to see all of you today. Welcome. I hope everybody had a wonderful Easter. This is one of the greatest White House traditions because it reminds us that this is the people's house. And to see so many children out here having a great time just fills Michelle and myself and the entire family with a whole lot of joy.So I'm not really in charge here today. My sole job, in addition to thanking Fergie for that wonderful rendition of our National Anthem and thanking my buddy, the Easter Bunny, for being here, is to introduce my First Lady, your First Lady, Michelle Obama. (Applause.)MRS. OBAMA: All right -- okay, it's working. Welcome everybody. I don't have much to say. I want to welcome you all to the 2009 White House Easter Egg Hunt. Yay!Our goal today is just to have fun. We want to focus on activity, healthy eating. We've got yoga, we've got dancing, we've got storytelling, we've got Easter egg decorating. Oh, we've got basketball -- (applause) -- a little soccer, as well. And we want everybody to think about moving their bodies, get out -- we don't have tennis; it's on the tennis court -- the peanut gallery back here. (Laughter.)So the goal today is to have fun, to get out and play. And let's get things started with the Easter Egg Roll. Thank you all for coming today. Have fun. Thanks so much. (Applause.)http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/09/04/13/Egg-Roll/

http://www.politico.com/slideshow/slideshow.html?xml=xml/311#id=311&num=1

Join Me, Please!

Dawn in Arizona — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 14:51:15 EDT

Everytime I come here and see long blue nonsense post- I post! Please join me! Do not answer me, make a post of your own in support of our great and wonderful new President who has a brain and uses it!

Do not answer the Blue Meanies- POST and keep it up.

Thank you Mr. President for making us proud once again!

President Obama Plays Negotiator In Chief

Obama-Mamas.com — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 03:43:05 EDT

If George Bush ever resolved a tenuous issue between the Chinese and any country on the planet, it certainly got by me. Not only was President Obama able to accomplish this impressive feat at the G20 meeting, he did it with the French and on the important issue of tax havens.

President Obama's Online Town Hall...If You Missed It

EsquireUK — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 22:00:44 EDT

Thursday, 26th March 2009

Washington, D.C.

www.whitehouse.gov

The initial run of Open for Questions came to a close with the President’s online town hall this morning. With almost a hundred thousand participants and more than three and a half million votes, it was an eye-opening experience and showed the potential of what this kind of open engagement can accomplish. The online town hall had an amazing feel of something that had never been done before, and something we should be trying to do more of. If you missed it, watch the video of the entire event:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/09/03/26/Wrapping-Up-Open-for-Questions/

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/obamaforamerica/gGxxf9

Organic White House Garden

Dawn in Arizona — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 21:34:28 EDT

When our girls were 2 and 5 years of age we had a huge garden. I refused to use pesticides etc. and the garden grew anyway! If an enemy of my garden appeared I quickly put up small fencing and let the chickens at that area. worked fine!

On the plus side, a child who gets to work the soil, plant a seed, water it- is then amazed! My! Look! Someing is growing. Guess what? they DO eat their vegetables because they are so proud of having grown them.

As our oldest got old enough to go out by herself I sent her out to pick the vegetable for supper, her choice. She had learned how to tell when anything was ripe and ready. She would come back to the house holding her precious cargo with a great big smile.

Wonder if the grandma living there thought this idea up? It certainly is a good one! Lots of great lessons to be learned.

Change from a Bubble

Emma — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:27:04 EDT

Can you make change from within a bubble?

President Obama spoke of the bubble he and his family now lives in, as he visited the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. This bubble is contained and reinforced by the necessary security precautions and the political and diplomatic limitations that are always essential to any Presidency. But for no other US President I can think of, has change been so important and so desperately needed than for President Obama. So perhaps now more than ever this question becomes riddled with the most dire of consequences; can a President actually accomplish change, living in a bubble?

I don't propose any answer to this question, I really don't know. I suppose time will tell. But as I watch President Obama struggle with every challenge, fighting for every inch, I can't help wonder just how effective he's likely to be.

I've always attached a large dose of realism (some would say cynicism) to my faith and belief in Barack Obama. I've never believed he could make miracles happen and never had any doubt his journey would be difficult, bordering on impossible. Frankly I'll be happy as long as he can survive these four to eight years as President. But I partly appreciate, partly dread, his seemingly desperate attempts to step outside the restraints of his bubble, the interview on a talk show being an obvious example. The bubble is there for a reason, and pushing it beyond its breaking point could literally kill him. But it could also give the air of a President that is desperate, trapped and unfocused. I just hope he doesn't let the bubble get to him, or allow his emotions regarding it push him in a dangerous direction.

It's nice though, to finally see a US President trying to actually communicating with his people. But there's always the risk that too many news cycles become focused on dissecting his every word. Failure to communicate will of course be criticized as well, but it's easier to avoid dangerous mistakes if you hide, as the previous President did, as opposed to having to spend several days explaining every joke you've made and justifying every word.

Communicating at this level, at this time in human history, is perhaps the most difficult of balancing acts. I appreciate his efforts but worry it might come back and bite him. As President every word counts, much more so than during the election, during his time as Senator or at any other time as a mere mortal. As a US President he has unimaginable power and every news agency in the world will work hard trying to figure out if there's any hidden meaning to what he's saying or what his words might mean to them. Sitting down and having a casual and relaxed chat with a talk show host might be far riskier than President Obama and his staff seems to realize.

They support him out there

Donna No Shock Barack No Drama Obama of MD — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 17:02:07 EDT

Just got back from canvassing after Church today at the Mall and outside one of the largest AME Churches here in my county. Let me tell you folks that Our President has the unconditional support of 99 percent of the people we talked to. They don't follow this stuff like we do so they feel that the Administration is doing everything to correct the mess of the last 8 years. To a man or women they constantly said the same thing which was: "I support his budget and we just need to give him a chance because he just got started."

My advice concerning the MSM is if it destroys your hope and/or weakens your confidence in this admnistration then I appeal to you to turn it off. Our President has turned them off. He bypasses them at every chance. He didn't attend that Gridiron thingy because he was not going to joke with them on Saturday only to have them beat him up on Monday. I respect him soooo much for that. We worked too hard to give into the "noise" now. BRUSH IT OFF and do something positive.

BTW - I love the people that Our President has surrounded himself with. They are not perfect but they listen, are brilliant and cool characters. Sound Familiar?

When he says this economy will turn around this year. TRUST HIM. He knows what you don't know.

My prayer is that God will continue to bless our President, his family and his cabinet.

Walking the Blocks for Obama

Mid America Mom — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 16:44:47 EDT

As an American "Abroad" (am I really abroad when I'm on the same continent and 11 hours drive from my hometown?) committed to bringing change to the country I love and miss, I have been actively coming back to the states to help when I can. And this city, Buffalo, needs support, hope, and change.

About YOU, us

Mid America Mom — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:41:33 EDT

Is your family one of the millions that is having a hard time paying the bills, looking or fighting to keep a job, wonders why the school spends more time testing then teaching, have no or little health insurance?

If not - I bet 100% you know someone that is.

This is About YOU, us.

Happy St.Patricks Day!

Mid America Mom — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 11:47:15 EDT

Cead Mile Failte! Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone!

*FACT. did you know Obama is 3% Irish ? Story here

*The world wide humorous Irish video sensation “There’s no one as Irish as Barack O’bama” on Youtube

*President O’Bama is a icon around the world! “O’Bama” made an “appearance” at the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Toronto Canada this year. Actually TWO did. One was complete with secret service and “the Beast”. Here are some of our pictures of the parade.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t298/tshop144/Toronto/HPIM1474.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t298/tshop144/Toronto/HPIM1514.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t298/tshop144/Toronto/HPIM1485.jpg

(Yes I had my Irish O’Bama button and my husband Mike had his O’Bama green teeshirt on though it does not show up well in the pics.)

*Today everything IS Irish in the Washington DC. Article here

Blessings:
May there always be work for your hands to do.
May your purse always hold a coin or two.
May the sun always shine warm on your windowpane.
May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain.
May the hand of a friend always be near you.
And may God fill your heart
with gladness to cheer you.

Mid America Mom

Moms for O'Bama

(Don't forget to host or join thousands of others in a pledge for change canvass THIS WEEKEND)

Nonsense

Dawn in Arizona — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 20:07:07 EDT

Please tell me who/where the posts are coming from that are making no sense? and taking up space.? Is this all the Republicans have? Geez!

Secy of State International Women of Courage

Obama-Mamas.com — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 15:07:58 EST

In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Department of State announces the recipients of the third annual Secretary of State’s Award for International Women of Courage. This is the only award within the Department of State that pays tribute to outstanding women leaders worldwide. It recognizes the courage and leadership shown as they struggle for social justice and human rights.
This year, the Secretary of State will pay tribute to honorees representing Afghanistan, Guatemala, Iraq, Malaysia, Niger, Russia, Uzbekistan, and Yemen. They are among over 80 exceptional women nominated by U.S. Embassies worldwide for their extraordinary work in advancing human rights. The women will be in Washington from March 8 – 12 for a program of meetings with government officials, NGOs and the media. The Office of International Visitors is partnering with the Office of International Women’s Issues on this project.

Sacred Cow Tipping - Playing the Blame Game

Rheanni — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 14:11:50 EST

Long, long ago, the Status Quo established a particularly opportunist Sacred Cow to use whenever cornered by their own abuse of power. This collective agreement was bred and perpetuated into the people through the use of force and trauma to avoid responsibility, and it's being used now with the economy:

"Blame the Victim."

The way it often works is for the perpetrator to insist that they had no choice – they had to do whatever it was they did because of the victim. They don't want the economic recovery plan to help the people that need it the most. They think they are able to depend on compliance because the victims are so used to being abused, falling into the role almost automatically. A victim readily accepts blame because that is what they have been trained to do through repeated traumatic events.

Into The Arms Of Our Lovely First Ladies

Obama-Mamas.com — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 23:19:34 EST

Arms. Who would have guessed that in the middle of an economic collapse while we’re engaged in two wars and the ecology in jeopardy, anybody would even think to make an issue about a woman’s arms. But reporting every minute detail of the President and his family has been going on since “Lady Washington” went shopping for “new fashioned” shoes as she traveled to her new home in New York, at 58 years old. Mrs. Lincoln, as well, was criticized at every turn, for everything from her expensive clothing to her “loud and unrefined” nature, by a new generation of female journalists whom she dubbed the “vampyre press.”

Sadly, that tradition hasn’t changed either, as the harshest critics of Mrs. Obama’s arms have come from women who have written of her arms with headlines that shout “call to arms”, “right to bare arms”, and the unbelievable “buff-arm fetish”.

Obama’s address to Congress; Reaching too high?

Emma — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 07:29:35 EST

I’m all for hope and change, anything is better than were we’ve been for the past eight years. But there is a frightening truth in the old saying; “the higher you climb the harder you fall”. When Bush Jr failed in something we all just took it as a matter of course. With President Obama there’s such great and dire need to believe, to keep faith and hold on to hope. So when he promises the moon I get worried.

I don’t need him to cure cancer. I don’t need to hear that Americans can achieve anything and everything. And America doesn’t need him to fix healthcare, education and every other problem under the sun, in four years. We just need him to help us survive. We need him to make us believe we can survive.

Hope is ethereal, beyond that which allows us to touch and analyze. It makes us breath again, when despair has choked us for so long. But no one should ever place the heavy burden of impossible expectations on it. Hope will never endure under such pressure. It is only there to let us pick ourselves up from the pit of hopelessness, not to solve problems or cure disease.

I fear President Obama may have let himself be lifted too high on the power rush of his current job. It happens to the best of us and he is only human after all. But I have faith that, when life hands him his first massive defeat, when he makes that first unavoidable life and death mistake, he will pull his head out of the clouds and regain the posture that propelled him through the election. I have faith. I just don’t particularly look forward to the process.

Shocking Speech!

Dawn in Arizona — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 10:40:39 EST

What blew me away about the Prez last night was all the honesty! When have we ever see a President stand up and be so openly honest with us? not just politics, not just patting himself on the back - but honest talk about us. Thank God and the powers that be for Obama - he can and will work for us and get us out of this mess. The day is brighter folks!

Organizing U.S. Health-Care System, President Obama Top Fiscal Priority

Dr. Pathe Sambe — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:51:26 EST

Now, the President Obama is working on this urgent matter. As proposed in my previous blog: " Organizing Health-Care System, Time is Ripe for Action " that is a very important priority of the Obama administration.

The report by Lori Montgomery and Amy Goldstein, Washington Post Staff Writers, Tuesday, February 24, 2009; Page A05:

"President Obama will make reforming the U.S. health-care system his top fiscal priority this year, administration officials said yesterday, contending that reining in skyrocketing medical costs is critical to saving the nation from bankruptcy."

At a summit on "fiscal responsibility" convened by the White House, top administration officials said they also are committed to stabilizing the Social Security system and to revising a tax code that generates too little money to cover the cost of government.

For more details on the report, clik here

Thanks for your views and comments

The stimulus bill - an inadequate solution

Emma — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 16:33:41 EST

We finally have a US President who can speak in full sentences, who can take responsibility for mistakes made and have a stated interest in hearing dissenting opinions. The past few weeks have been filled with joyous relief for those few facts alone! But the challenges the US and the world face are enormous and with the recent debates on the economic crisis I can’t help but feel President Obama may be a little too limited in his perception of potential solutions.

The problem for our new President is that he has to do the impossible, and he has to do it fast. Unfortunately, even for the truly great, it’s easy to get caught up in the eye of the storm and not see what goes on beyond the immediate wall of despair and destruction. From my perspective this stimulus bill, although certainly much needed and done with the best of intentions, is a dangerous gamble. Consuming your way out of debt is only effective if there is a prospect of new funds on the horizon. As far as I can tell, this bill will only increase the national debt with very little influx of pure capital. In my humble opinion the US economy is in far too deep a recession to come out of it just by adding billions of borrowed dollars on some domestic touch ups.

I fully understand the thought process behind the stimulus bill and the need to get Americans back to work. And personally I can’t wait for the United States to join us in the 21st century when it comes to internet access, environmental developments, education and healthcare. But I can’t imagine anyone believing this is going to be enough. This stimulus bill is like adding oil in a car to make the engine run more smoothly when it is in fact all out of gas!

The effort that goes into the sheer political practicality of passing a bill as massive as this stimulus package is mindboggling. What is commonly referred to as pork is the price you pay to get politicians with very different agendas to come together to achieve a mutual goal. This is what politics is at its core; bargaining, squabbling and endless compromises until all agree but no one is happy. It’s the price we pay for democracy. A sovereign King can decide on any action he pleases, a democracy has to find ways to make hundreds of vastly different individuals with, in many cases opposing agendas, agree on one course of action, in theory as much of a challenge as in reality.

But to survive this recession, depression, slump or whatever you want to call it, the US desperately needs to pump gas into its engine, and fast. America’s debt is today so high it defies human comprehension. This debt is only going to get higher during the next few years, with all the bailouts and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan still needing funds. This debt can never be fully paid by American taxes or consumer spending.

What the US needs is external funds flooding into the country, money not attached to business deals or political deals, but pure profit. The only way this is going to happen is if America can come up with something to sell to the world that’s worth buying.

Today the whole world suffers from the economic crisis, every nation in its own way. The first instinct is of course to look to one’s own welfare with a deadly protectionism as a result. We are all dependent on the free flow of goods and funds to maintain our level of comfort and if the US were to close the door on fair trade and withdraw inward (effectively abandoning capitalism for planed economy) it would have disastrous effects on the entire balance of the global community. Where America goes, the world goes…

The only way to save the US economy, and in effect the worlds, is to make full use of the means available in the realm of the global community. But if Americans keep making up the rules as it suites them no one else is going to play along. President Obama will then be left standing alone, with his fancy new roads and shiny new houses and a national debt that will make the United States of America effectively bought and paid for by foreign nations and conglomerates.

Innovations and foreign relations should be President Obama’s main focus, in my opinion. This is where the money is and the solution to America’s many problems. One new invention is not going to be enough, nor will one solution ever be enough. But President Obama won the worlds approval through this recent election. He should capitalize on that now. The influx of money into his suffering nation depends on whether we believe America is once again worth investing in and if American products are worth paying for. If we are still ignored, as we have been for the past eight years, if the current President insists on pressing the idea that saving American jobs at all cost is the only solution then I fear, as great a man as I believe he is, President Obama will inevitably fail.

One of the most important rules of capitalism state that if a product can be produced at a smaller price with same quality in, let’s say India as opposed to Indiana, then that’s where it needs to be produced. The country that has a higher living cost and its workers therefore are unable to live on a the salaries the workers can, in for example India, will just have to find other things to do for profit, things that are too complex to be done in India, or other developing nations. Clinging to jobs that rightfully belong to people in poorer nations, simply because Americans lack the imagination or the education they should have considering the nations collective wealth, is inexcusable!

We shall soon see which road President Obama chooses for his country. What I hope for is that he will find the courage to let go of some type of jobs and businesses in order to allow the world to help fuel the American wonder once more. But if he ignores the needs of the other nations across the globe, which many of his fellow countrymen will insist on, I fear it will fasten the decent into despair for all nations, including the US. The American dream needs new material, new inventions and new ideas!!

President Obama won the election on the idea that anything is possible, that the American spirit can survive anything. This is a noble idea and in some ways it’s absolutely true. I just hope he doesn’t put too much faith in the premise that the only thing Americans need is more jobs and a house to live in. Investing in the future is a good thing. Giving people jobs is a good thing. But America has lost more than just jobs and houses. And it will take more than what Americans themselves can muster to get out of this recession.

I hope President Obama and his countrymen will realize in time that all humans are a part of this now, the world is one and the American engine needs to run smoothly, not just for its own sake but for all of us.

Road to Recovery was an excellent meeting

freedom4u_n_me — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 11:47:27 EST

Last night I hosted an economic stimulus meeting in West Peoria, IL. I received this email from one of the attendees and with his permission, I'd like to share it with you!He did a much better job summarizing than I could..........and he didn't even take notes! I have made comments throughout this blog adding other opinions that were brought up. Not all of us agreed 100% with every detail. But, unlike the Senate, I'm sure we could have come to a compromise quite easily!! LOL Along with the following info that Harry has shared, as high priorities we discussed community service, education funding and continuing to stay involved, letting our voices be heard and holding our elected officials accountable by sending emails, calling them and watching how they vote!Then spreading the word!
Harry, the author of most of this blog, has great ideas, some of which we'll be sharing with you through events on Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL. I hope each of you will find something of interest that you would like to be a part of! "Hey All,     Your comments/criticisms/recommendations about the economic stimulus spending and tax cuts can be given at the toll free number 1-888-642-4264 or at whitehouse.gov under 'contact us'. (in my words: share your story, how has this affected you, your family and your community)
    14 people attended the house meeting at Gail and Rick Newton's home in West Peoria last night. Some of the recommendations discussed for changing the stimulus bill included:     Increase spending on solar panels and wind turbines to reduce dependency on the dwindling availability of foreign oil. The current plan to double spending on renewable energy is ridiculously small. The current total energy produced by wind and solar is about 3%, doubling it is about 6%. Raising renewables to 75-90% would make the U.S. energy independent, dramatically stimulate the economy with new jobs and the ability to export renewables. There would be proportionate cost savings, energy security, environmental benefits, reduction of greenhouse gases, climate stability, reduction of the likelihood of oil wars, and the improvement of life for future generations. (in my words: This is a great idea and Harry, the author of this blog, knows a lot about this!!)     Increase infrastructure spending and reduce tax cuts. Economist overwhelmingly agree. Currently 58% is allocated for infrastructure and 42% for tax cuts. It is estimated that for every $1 spent on tax cuts, $1.09 is circulated in the economy, for every $1 spent on infrastructure, $1.59 is circulated in the economy. Even a higher rate is circulated with funding for food stamps and extended unemployment benefits, which republicans want to cut. (in my words: This idea is not a unanimous idea. We would agree with more money for infrastructure but not reducing tax cuts because we feel that the tax cuts will help spur the economy from the bottom up!)     Reduce attempts to be bipartisan at the expense of making irrational, ineffective policy choices to appease entrenched republicans, who are still trying to promote 'trickle down economics' with more tax breaks for the corporations and the wealthy (in 2008 the wealthiest 5% became 7% wealthier while 75% of everyone else lost 7%)." (in my words: some of us disagree with the idea of being too bipartisan, mainly because we trust President Obama's judgement. The worry here, is that this will divide the team and cause needless delays.)
    Financial regulation, transparency, and accountability, which includes imprisonment and heavy fines for unethical misuse or fraudulent use of taxpayer bail out money for financial institutions or corporations." (in my words: most of us are not for imprisonment, but we would like to see more regulation and penalties in the way of reimbursing the government for the ghastly way that some of the corporations have spent their government assistance)     Retroactive financial accountability with fines, imprisonment, and repayment for those who have blatantly misused the first $350 billion in tax payer bail out money that was given to financial institutions and corporations before Obama took office. (in my words again:imprisonmnet is not something we take lightly, as a group, and we don't think that we need more laws and our constitution wouldn't allow this!) Harry" I look forward to being in touch with many of you in the next 4 years.We can make a difference
We can bring change to our communities, our government, our country Thank you all!
Gail/freedom4u_n_meObama in the Heart (please join if you haven't already) http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/ObamaintheHeartPeoriaIL

I AM A U.S. CITIZEN...I demand that Republican Tax Cuts Be Removed from the Stimulus Bill

Crystal — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 01:01:05 EST

I am outraged that the Republicans of the House and Senate is taking out all or reducing projects that will directly benefit US, THE CITIZENS, and yet, again, give it to the wealthy who will hoard the money. OUR MONEY!!!! On February 6, 2009, the Senate voted on a Stimulus Bill with 42% tax cuts to 58% spending. Also, two moderate Republicans along with Blue Dog Democrats trimmed an extra $100 billion that would have been an investment on energy, roads, bridges, mass transit, hospitals, schools, etc. Every economist stated that the Stimulus Bill should focus on spending and a larger amount is needed to jump start the ecomony, meaning, NO JOB=NO BUY.

During a Congressional hearing in July 2008 with Mark Zandi, the Chief Economist and Co-founder of Moody’s Economy.com has compared the amount of money that we will get in return for our investment of $1.

So, for every $1we invest in Government Spending, we will receive back:
$1.73 for Temporary Increase in Food Stamps
$1.64 for Extending Unemployment Insurance Benefits
$1.59 for Building Roads, Bridges, Schools
$1.36 for General Aid to State Governments

For every $1 we invest in the Republican Tax Cuts Plan, we will receive back:
$1.02 for Non-refundable Lump-Sum Tax Rebate
$1.26 for Refundable Lump-Sum Tax Rebate

Temporary Tax Cuts
$1.29 for Payroll Tax Holiday (Jobs anyone?)
$1.03 for Across the Board Tax Cut
$0.27 for Accelerated Depreciation ($0.73 Our Loss)

Permanent Tax Cuts
$0.48 for Extend Alternative Minimum Tax Patch ($0.52 Our Loss)
$0.29 for Permanent Bush Income Tax Cuts for the wealthy ($0.71 Our Loss)
$0.37 for Permanent Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Cuts for the wealthy ($0.63 Our Loss)
$0.30 for Cut in Corporate Tax Rate ($0.70 Our Loss)

The Republican taxes cuts = Fuzzy Math with devastating results. Yet, the GOP still wants these same tax cuts that got a us into this mess. What these tax cuts amount to: we pay out money to us and if we don't have jobs or took losses as a small business owners, we don't see a dime of the money. However, if we get the tax cut, then, the treasury calls it income which is taxed....

Now, after all of the drama this week by the Republicans, the Senate passed Stimulus (42% taxs/58% spending) Bill. Get This...only THREE Republican Senators and ZERO Republican House members supported the Stimulus Bill. However, Republican Tax Cut is still 42% of the Stimulus Bill. Why? Over 500,000 jobs were lost in January 2009. ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!

From February 8, 2009 to February 21, the "I AM A U.S. CITIZEN" campaign commences. Let's make the Stimulus Bill work for us, not for Republican political gain. I am challenging each one of us to contact SIX Democrats and republicans members of Congress and the Senate and DEMAND to have the republican 42% tax cut remove completely from the Stimulus Bill.

For good or for bad, the decisions of all members of Congress and Senate, impact all of us. It's time to tell all representatives to STOP PLAYING GAMES with our Lives, Well-being, and Safety. Get on with it.

Got Fear? Get Fired Up!

Mid America Mom — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 22:27:40 EST

The ACT. This is one of the biggest plans to come out of Washington that will probably touch everyone. The size alone is intimidating.

You got fear? So many losing jobs or fearful of it, others seeing their retirement slip away, some losing their home, and then the kids leaving college as their family no longer can help. I feel it. It is one of the things that are keeping me up at night. Thinking how did it get so bad? What could have I done? Why did I make certain choices? But looking back takes time. But I know that to move on I need a plan. Something that I can do that is positive. A plan to get me on the right track and hey bumps and turns will be there but that is OK. It is better than Nothing or sulking! Get Fired Up! Yes time to find that POWER within!

Do not let Congress, President, or the media own this. This moment is OUR moment. This is OUR economic survival- they will still have a job next week. Take 5 minutes or 5 hours to ACT.

Start simple. Truth is we do not like the folks in the Senate and Congress. But it is time for them to earn their keep! No matter what you think of the act- ACT. Let your reps know your feelings! After that maybe you can do a little more. Host a meeting this week for folks in our network, talk to friends and family and encourage them to make a call or email to their reps, send a note to the DNC/RNC, and let the PRES know your thoughts too. Do something that works for you. Do it today.

No matter who you are

where you are

YOU can be the change.

Doubt it? Look at who is in the White House.

Mid America Mom who is FIRED UP and READY to GO!

*Looking to join in an economic meeting in your area? Go to EVENTS on this site*

Organizing HealthCare System, Time is Ripe for Action

Dr. Pathe Sambe — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:03:37 EST

1. Problematic

Economically, with the baby boomers about to retire in growing number, the cost of America’s public- health and retirement programs, if left unchanged will rise from 8% of GDP now to 19% 2050.

The time is ripe for grand bargain that reforms the tax code, entitlements and healthcare simultaneously, boosting productivity, raising revenue, expanding healthcare coverage and putting the budget on the path of long-term balance.

2. Institutional Goals and Solutions

Our approach for this socio- economic crisis must be global with the full participation of everyone following their capacities and not their incapacities. With organization and method by helping any states with tangible policies, and more funding concerning the health care, special education and rehabilitative services issues, as following:

In every county, we must create a “ Social and Health District” with mission to coordinate the prevention, care and rehabilitative services in the framework of a   district area. This will permit to anyone residing in the district to have the opportunities to get all the basic services needed in the field of social, health care or rehabilitative issues.
In these districts, naturopathic and allopathic medicines will work together with other legally licensed professionals in the basic of conventions with the district. This global approach will have the merit to lower the costs and give people more choice for their health care and medical rehabilitative issues.
The Social and Health District will have the responsibilities to protect people and the prevention any diseases as a local public health authority. (The recent case of the   salmonella in a manufacturing plant of peanut is a important evidence for a better prevention with qualified investigators and equiped laboratory at the district level to save many innocent people of the salmonella)
The Social and Health District work with the School District concerning   students with disabilities for their full integration into their respective school at all level. This will permit the students with disabilities to benefit all the services needed for their full participation as a responsible citizen. The best school inclusive integration is the path for a better integration into the workforce.
For persons with disabilities, the local district will have a better control for the respect of the Americans with Disabilities Act. There are a lot of discriminations again people with disabilities in the workforce. It is time to change these discriminations, by tangible policies and controls for the full respect of the law. The local district will help to solve efficiently these problems
The present organization of the US health care system needs tangible reform, and because it is was not planned to serve everyone, but only for people with health insurance. This is a discrimination, as everyone have the right to a better health care based on the WHO rules.The prevention, health care and rehabilitative services issues must be administered and controlled at national level by the federal government and provided at local level by the Health and Social District for to serve the people and not the big insurances and other corporations. The urgent reform of the health care system is on the priority of the President Obama.

Thanks so much for your attention on this proposal and ideas

The Obama Presidency: Day Fifthteen

EsquireUK — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:49:32 EST

Wednesday, 4th February 2009

Washington, D.C.

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

www.whitehouse.comWednesday, 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.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog_post/jobs_in_all_fifty_states/

www.whitehouse.gov

Giving from the Heart continues

freedom4u_n_me — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 20:55:06 EST

Hello fellow Peorians and friends from all of central Illinois.

I wanted to update you on an event that I started a little over 3 weeks ago; Giving from the Heart

This is an ongoing event, every Sunday morning at 8:30am, we head downtown Peoria and take sack lunches, beverages and anything else someone without a place to live might need, ie. blankets, warm socks, warm clothing, any non-perishable food item that doesn't need cooked or opened with a can opener and doesn't require an eating utensil, and backpacks or tote bags.

This is a heartbreaking, yet heartwarming opportunity to do one little thing for those who don't have what we have.

This past Sunday was very special. Some of the people that I've been seeing are starting to talk to me. I even got 2 hugs. This meant a lot to me.

I hope you'll join us one of these Sundays.

There is also a need for this on Mon., Wed. and Thurs. evenings at 6pm. On those days, people who work, yet don't have a place to live, can't check in early enough to receive a dinner. Please let me know if you would be available and interested in helping on those evenings. gail.newtson@gmail.com

thanks to all of our wonderful President's supporters, we are making a difference one little step at a time.

Gail/Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL/Illinois Chapter of Families for Obama and Phi Theta Kappa member 4 Obama.

The Obama Presidency: Day Ten

EsquireUK — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 03:23:03 EST

Friday, 30th January 2009

Washington, D.C.

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

www.whitehouse.gov

Thursday, January 29th, 2009 at 9:21 pm

Shameful

$18 billion.

That’s what Wall Street bankers pulled down in bonuses over the past two months, according to a report from the New York State comptroller -- even as many of these institutions received billions in taxpayer dollars.

"That is the height of irresponsibility. It is shameful," President Obama said today, following a meeting with Vice President Joe Biden, Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner, and the rest of the economic team.

Read the President’s full remarks below.

REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AFTER MEETING WITH THE VICE PRESIDENT
AND THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY
The White House, Oval Office
January 29, 2009

THE PRESIDENT: Well, it's good to see you guys. I just had a terrific conversation with my Secretary of the Treasury, the Vice President, as well as the rest of our economic team, about the steps that we need to move forward on -- not only on the economic recovery and reinvestment package, but also on making sure that we begin the process of regulating Wall Street so that we can improve the flow of credit, banks start lending again, so that businesses can reopen, and that we can create more jobs -- but also to make sure that we never find ourselves in the kind of crisis that we're in again, that we've seen over the last several months.

And Secretary Geithner is hard at work on this process. We expect that even as the reinvestment and recovery package moves forward -- as I said, that's only one leg of the stool, and that these other legs of the stool will be rolled out systematically in the coming weeks so that the American people will have a clear sense of a comprehensive strategy designed to put people back to work, reopen businesses and credit flowing again.

One point I want to make is that all of us are going to have responsibilities to get this economy moving again. And when I saw an article today indicating that Wall Street bankers had given themselves $20 billion worth of bonuses -- the same amount of bonuses as they gave themselves in 2004 -- at a time when most of these institutions were teetering on collapse and they are asking for taxpayers to help sustain them, and when taxpayers find themselves in the difficult position that if they don't provide help that the entire system could come down on top of our heads -- that is the height of irresponsibility. It is shameful.

And part of what we're going to need is for folks on Wall Street who are asking for help to show some restraint and show some discipline and show some sense of responsibility. The American people understand that we've got a big hole that we've got to dig ourselves out of -- but they don't like the idea that people are digging a bigger hole even as they're being asked to fill it up.

And so we're going to be having conversations as this process moves forward directly with these folks on Wall Street to underscore that they have to start acting in a more responsible fashion if we are to together get this economy rolling again. There will be time for them to make profits, and there will be time for them to get bonuses -- now is not that time. And that's a message that I intend to send directly to them, I expect Secretary Geithner to send to them -- and Secretary Geithner already had to pull back one institution that had gone forward with a multimillion dollar jet plane purchase at the same time as they're receiving TARP money. We shouldn't have to do that because they should know better. And we will continue to send that message loud and clear.

Having said that, I am confident that with the recovery package moving through the House and through the Senate, with the excellent work that's already been done by Secretary Geithner in consultation with Larry Summers and Paul Volcker and other individuals, that we are going to be able to set up a regulatory framework that rights the ship and that gets us moving again. And I know the American people are eager to get moving again -- they want to work. They are serious about their responsibilities; I am, too, in this White House and I hope that the folks on Wall Street are going to be thinking in the same way.

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

www.whitehouse.gov

Inauguration Pictures & Videos

Obama-Mamas.com — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 14:13:03 EST

Euphoric! And isn't it mind-blowing to get up every day and say "What Wonderful Thing Did Our New President Do This Morning!" I live on the west coast so he has a few hours head start on me.

Here's some pictures and videos from reactions from around the world.

http://www.obama-mamas.com/inaugural-videos.htm

National Geographic

See my DC Blog here.

Laura Hubka ~From Iowa Where It Started and Will Continue~~~ — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 14:52:18 EST

I dont have pictures up yet because I am not home. But they will be up soon.

http://todcandback.blogspot.com/

An historic day, more than the color of his skin...

Emma — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 18:57:39 EST

I’ve heard over and over today, that Barack Obama is historic because he is the first African-American to be President of the United States. Personally I couldn’t care less if his skin was white, black or green. To me it’s an historic day because he makes me care, because suddenly millions of people all over the world care. We listened to his amazing speech, actually listened. We heard his words, not just casually caught a sentence or two from occasional tidbits on TV. He touches me, us, out here in the world, as well as in living rooms all over America. That is historic! At least it hasn’t happened before in my lifetime.

I just played a few minutes of Bush Jr, inaugural speech from 2001 on YouTube. On a factual level he said almost exactly the same things President Obama did. But he never reached me, never made me believe it. He said things like “Our unity, our union, is the serious work of leaders and citizens in every generation, and this is my solemn pledge; I will work to build a single nation of justice and opportunity.” Sounds good, but not nearly as good as President Obama’s words;

“America; In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested, we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back, nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations”.

These are words to inspire, to reach out and grab you!! These are the words worthy of a President. I even watched Kennedy’s speech to compare but I wasn’t nearly as impressed. Perhaps it just wasn’t my era. Obama will surely be my Kennedy though, and for that I am truly grateful.

As I watched Bush’s speech I noted the comments below it. Apparently there are those Americans who will miss him. One person asked if those who claimed to hate Bush even knew why. I have to confess my main reasons are somewhat childish. I hate how his words belittle me, make me feel less worthy than Americans. I hate it when he says things like Iraq not having weapons of mass destruction was a significant disappointment, as if he thought there should be such weapons in every country and that he was disappointed there weren’t. Of course I know what he meant, but he never said what he meant. Instead he said the most atrocious things and the world suffered for it.

Now we finally have a US President who says the most wonderful things in the most wonderful ways and that, as childish as it may seem, is what makes Barack Obama historic in my mind. He makes me believe, and in doing so he changes me. That’s how you create miracles, how you make the impossible possible! That’s how you go to the moon! You make people believe they can.

Still, there are good reasons for caution, as many have pointed out. If expectations are too high it can create the illusion that the work is already done, that we can sit back and enjoy the ride. But I don’t think President Obama will allow that. Nor do I think the millions of unemployed or suffering Americans would ever believe that. But maybe his words can pull them out of their self-pitying slump so many Americans seem to be in at the moment.

Then again, out of some four hundred thousand votes on CNNs website, almost 40% thought the whole inauguration thing was totally overhyped. Maybe they’re right. Maybe our beloved Obama isn’t all that, after all… Time will tell.

But I will love him anyway. If nothing else I will love him for the beautiful words he says and for making me believe, if only for a day!

Also, thank God! or I should say; Thank Obama! the White House website is finally worth paying a visit to!!! The last one was so sad, all empty and boring. I just hope that maybe in the future they’ll make a little room for us non US citizens. We don’t have zip codes and I hate to have to lie on all of these forms and what not. Maybe in time…

Anyway, time for me to sleep, it’s almost one in the morning here now. It’s been a glorious, amazing, unforgettable day. I hope President Obama (I can’t write that often enough!!) and his family have a great evening ball-hoping!

Future challenges

Emma — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 10:05:25 EST

Depression, recession, war, disease, famine, global warming and total financial meltdown of all economies worldwide and the list goes on and on…

Surely President Obama will wake up with a considerable headache for many days to come. But the key to all of these problems are one and the same; global cooperation across borders and beliefs. In today’s world everything is so interconnected that simply focusing on one thing, one nation or one solution is futile. We need to start thinking of ourselves as one race together on this one planet. Only with that perspective can any actual solutions be found. Thankfully President Obama seems to understand this very thing.

It won’t be easy of course, but then again nothing worth having comes easy. Perhaps this dive into despair is what’s needed for countries like the United States to begin to redefine themselves and their role in the world. We have changed greatly as a race, the past century. With this new millennium we face challenges never before imagined. To deal with this we need new ways of thinking, feeling and relating to each other.

The internet made the world significantly smaller, airplanes narrowed distances between us and the media forged new bonds across all boundaries. The global warming and diminishing energy resources will soon tie us even closer together, billions of individuals as we are, stuck on this tiny planet in infinite space.

To unite a world, the world needs to be inspired to unite. Bullying never works, people will always find ways to fight it. But to inspire such a complex thing as a world like ours, one must have a clear understanding of the path ahead, knowledge of the path behind us and awareness of the strengths and weaknesses of one’s own heart. Only at the highest peak can you make yourself heard by all, and the climb there is thorny to say the least. But I can’t imagine anyone with more promise than Barack Obama.

Insecurity, distrust and fear have spread like wildfire across the globe in recent years. Wars and painful conflicts seem present or unavoidable everywhere you turn. The US is no longer the guaranteed peacekeeper it once was and President Obama is not a miracle worker. No outsider can ever bring peace. But he can, and must, rebuild mutual respect. This does not mean nations will suddenly become eternal friends, nor will they trust each other blindly. But for diplomacy to work, some degree of trust is essential. This will be President Obama’s greatest challenge; to build bridges, within his own country and between many others.

If President Obama can manage to get people talking again, get them to move forward instead of this stagnated depression, no challenge is too great to overcome. This is a simple fact. There are some six billion of us here, there’s nothing we can’t do.

But making this happen, uniting enemies and reconnecting old allies, will require a very special touch, a fingertip sensitivity to what each and all need to hear. There are keys to unleash every human’s inner creativity. But we each have a different key, so anyone desiring to inspire, has to understand our differences and adapt. A challenge worthy of any hero!!

It’s a good thing our new President is young! He’s got time… I’m looking forward to his eight years in the White House and the subsequent (?!) decades in charge of a new and reformed United Nations!

Inauguration, a day to celebrate!

Emma — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 06:19:59 EST

During the horrors of Bush’s reign I slowly began to come to the dreadful realization that before long the world might actually find itself in the midst of a third World War, something that had seemed unthinkable for many decades. But the new millennia seemed to hold far more frightening scenarios than ever before imagined and the outcome of all these fears would rest in the hands of the future President of the United States.

For so long it felt like disaster was inevitable, as the hope of all civilized nations, the country that held so much promise, had begun to act so erratically, irresponsibly and impulsively. This was cause for great concern, since the world needed a unifying force more than ever before. The challenges we all faced could not be solved alone and the United States of America was the only potential candidate to unite an unruly world. But President Bush, supported, at least in the beginning, by large numbers of his people, made it clear that the US thought nothing of the rest of the world or the wisdom that had evolved within it.

Then suddenly there was a young Senator from Illinois with the strange name of Barack Obama. It’s hard to believe how far we’ve come since then.

When Obama won in Iowa, it was like the fog finally lifted after so many years of impenetrable darkness. There was hope and possibilities again, a chance at least for peace and prosperity. But going through my own blog posts, as they depict this incredible journey, I can’t help but marvel at the challenges he faced and obstacles he overcame. All of it converging on this day, in this moment in time, when I can finally write the words I have so longed to write; President Obama. It’s enough to take your breath away. But despite the fact that my belief in the possibility of this moment and my faith in this man has never wavered, I have to admit most days it did seem like an impossible dream.

Yet here we are. Today impossible has been proven null and void for all to see. Faith has finally prevailed over despair, commitment and dedication has prevailed over the age old prejudice of money and breeding, and the ethereal experience of hope became an actual beacon in the darkness.

Today millions all over the world enjoy the sensation of victory, the sweat aroma of joyous celebration. It is truly remarkable how many of us became personally invested in this campaign and shared in the struggles and woes of our fellow humans. Never before has the election in nation become such a shared endeavor for so many, so far apart!

Even though I’m unable to be a part of the celebrations in Washington DC today, I will be there in heart and spirit, for this day feels like it belongs as much to me as it does to the American people and others across the globe. It’s more than just the swearing in of yet another President. It’s the pinnacle of a collective journey, where accepted truths were tested and faith challenged, with victory the final outcome. It has been a journey so much greater than one man or one voice.

Barack Obama became the focus point of a world full of hope, dreams and fears and he carried it all without faltering or wavering. I have never been more proud of a single individual before, and elated that he has not yet allowed my belief in him to be in vain.

As countless Americans proudly, and rightly so, declare themselves winners, not just of an election, but rather winners of the battle against the hopelessness and crippling fear that has held the nation in its grip for so long, we should all remember the fragility of this victory. The celebration is well deserved and should be a moment worthy of the history books. But tomorrow the true test and challenge begins.

(More to come… I will continue to blog throughout the day, my small way of being a part of this joyous occasion)

event; Giving from the Heart, a heart warming experience

freedom4u_n_me — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 10:58:55 EST

Yesterday, Sun. Jan. 18th, 5 Peorians, met downtown and searched for homeless and/or hungry people in our community. We handed out 35 sack lunches, 48 bottles of water and 3 bags of clothes to those in need. This was our service project for today's National Day of Service called for by our, soon to be, 1st Family.

We met 28 men, 5 women and 2 children in downtown Peoria. It was heartbreaking while it was heartwarming, as well. It was a small deed. But to see their smiles, and hear their words, is an experience that I will not forget, nor will my niece, age 19, and her boyfriend, age 23(who started this project over a year ago), my daughter, age 20 and my 'adopted' granddaughter, age 10. It was a family affair! I am thankful and proud of my family. I wonder where the families of those we met are.

We will continue to try to end hunger one little step at a time. Fellow Peorians, will you join us?

I know that many of you have or will be participating in a service project that is near and dear to your heart. Let me say to you, keep up the good work, don't slow down, continue to spread the word and the love to others. TOGETHER we can "be the change that we've been looking for."

Tomorrow Be the Change

Mid America Mom — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 21:18:47 EST

Tomorrow our next President will be out in the roots.

Did you know? Fresh out of school Barack Obama could have chased the dollar but the roots is where he found a place to connect as an organizer. It was not glamorous, didn't really pay, but there was something in doing something good with others for others. It was in this job he found a community and sense of pride and ownership. Many of us wish to connect more or do more for our community but find the BUT. Well tomorrow take the time! President Elect Obama is. Yes during this economic mess and transition he is spending a little time in the community doing some good.

BUT NO! No excuse today as it has never been easier. Take 15 minutes or hours. From home or not. Join something organized (if you want to find an event near you try this site or usa service ) or not. The secret? What you choose to do is up to you.

Tomorrow Be the Change.

So for those of you looking for ideas I have posted an earlier thread but put this together tonight.

*Shovel the drive of a neighbor or maybe give them some seeds for their garden.

*Give some time to a local shelter (be it animal or person!) or $44.

*Visit some old folks and watch TV or play a game with them at the local home or senior center.

*Donate goods, food, or services to homeless or community food bank or outreach center (Yes you can buy a big mac or sandwich and give it to a homeless person).

*Are you going to the grocery, buying gas, or going out for fast food tomorrow? Pay some toward the purchase of the person behind you in the line.

*Write a letter to someone in the military or send them a care package.

And even if none of the above appeals to you there is something out there that does. Ask us on the headquarters blog, maybe a coworker -family- or neighbor (or read the story below). You will find something.

Thing is Do something, one thing, to help your town
and your one, and mine, and others
will add up to CHANGE.

Tomorrow Be the Change.

Mid America Mom

*Inspiration from Michele in 'burbs of Chicago below

First Trip To See the President Elect Ended up in the ER

jewelty — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 15:34:19 EST

Hello, I was so excited about taking my 2 youg boys to see President Elect Obama in Baltimore yesterday and making sure they were dressed warm that I didn't make sure I was ddressed warm and hydrated. Mom being Mom. We arrived early and got thru security and were up in front of the podium and as the choir sang and the heilcopters circled I began to feel dizzy and passed out. The next thing I remembered I was on the ground and my husband was yelling at the police for an ambulance. As they were putting me in I could hear " Hello Baltimoire!" I begged my husband to stay so the boys wouldn't miss it but he wouldn't listen. I was heart broken they missed it because of me. I should have known better. If anyone has any pictures from yesterday can you please send me t some. The last thing I have is of teh choir and a a couple things I found on CNN.

PARTY!

Susan Cole — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 13:37:54 EST

What an atmosphere this weekend leading up to The Inauguration! Can you believe the overwhelming feeling of joy, hope and unity that this country is experiencing? Regardless of the terrible circumstances and challenges we face? Wow! I agree with Michelle Obama. This is the first time in my adult life that I have been REALLY proud of my country.

Let's stay in touch

freedom4u_n_me — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:47:12 EST

To all of my friends on this website:

You have worked so hard, met so many other people with the same goals, became active in your communities and united around a common goal................and you did it!

Please find me and add me as a friend on any or all of these websites:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/profile.php?id=651620712&ref=profile

http://www.change.org/profile/my_profile

Please add me as a friend so that we can stay in touch and continue being a part of this amazing change in America!

Gail

Bank of America Needs a Bail-Out?... What Did They Do With The TARP money?

MoorAmerican — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:15:18 EST

Is anybody asking these questions? Wheres the free press?

There is a story here that needs to be told.

The American people need to know how the United States Currency Board is the best long-term solution to the present economic recession.

Feed The Homeless on King's Day Waiikiki!!!

Victoria Shabazz — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:14:53 EST

Let's join together and feed the homeless on Dr. King's Day, Wooo Hooo!!!

Inauguration Provides Teaching Opportunity

Obama-Mamas.com — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:46:59 EST

It isn’t often that a teacher gets to educate kids on a topic that already has them captivated and enthused. The Inauguration of Barack Obama is just such an occasion and presents a number of avenues a teacher can take, from civil rights to government to Presidential history. Children have been involved in this election in a huge number and in so many creative ways. Some sang songs of courage and unity, some sang rounds of “yes we can”, others did their own version of “baracknroll”. They drew pictures and sold their home-baked cookies and some even emptied their piggy banks. Little Damon William even got a press credentials to the inaugural activities.

With kids already this excited, introducing lessons on the Presidents, the Inauguration, or the Government has never been easier. The Presidential Inaugural Committee has joined with the two teachers unions to present lesson plans, as have a number of other organizations. Obama-Mamas.com has compiled a list of resources that are free and have downloads and complete lesson plans.

the Obama-Biden Transition Team released a video

David Crawford -Manager — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 14:55:15 EST

the Obama-Biden Transition Team released a video in which President-elect Barack Obama's nominee for Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, Dr. Christina Romer, discusses The Job Impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan, a report released on Saturday by the Obama-Biden Transition Team. Dr. Romer's video can be viewed here: http://change.gov/JobImpactReport. The full report can be read HERE. President-elect Obama directed Dr. Romer and the Vice President-elect’s Chief Economic Adviser, Dr. Jared Bernstein, to conduct the report so that the American people can see what an American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan will mean for their families, their communities, and our economy. In this week's Democratic Radio Address, President-elect Obama discussed the report. The radio address can be viewed at www.change.gov.

Vice President-Elect Biden Announces More Key Staff for the Vice President's Office

David Crawford -Manager — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:24:33 EST

Vice President-Elect Biden Announces More Key Staff for the Vice President's Office WASHINGTON – Vice President-elect Joe Biden today announced the following staff for the Office of the Vice President: Elisabeth Hire, Director of Scheduling; Pete Selfridge, Director of Advance; Anthony Bernal, Director of Scheduling for Dr. Jill Biden; and Sam Myers Sr., Trip Director for the Vice President. "All four of these indivuduals will bring a wealth of experience and a tireless work ethic to the Obama-Biden Administration," said Vice President-elect Biden. "They will be tremendous assets and additions to the team we are building." The Vice President-elect’s Staff Announcements are below: Elisabeth Hire, Director of Scheduling Elisabeth Hire most recently served as director of scheduling to Vice Presidential candidate Joe Biden on the Obama-Biden campaign. A veteran of the past three Presidential election cycles, Hire served as the deputy director of scheduling for Hillary Clinton's 2008 primary campaign; scheduled for Kerry/Edwards 2004; and served on the advance staff of Kerry/Edwards 2004 and Gore/Lieberman 2000. When not working in politics, Hire has worked at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on a variety of projects including the Suzanne Farrell Ballet, the Festival of China, the Millennium Stage, and in its nationally recognized Education Department. A Bexley, Ohio native, Hire is a classically trained ballet dancer and has performed with BalletMet Columbus. She graduated with an A.B. in English from Kenyon College. Pete Selfridge, Director of AdvancePete Selfridge served as deputy director of advance, heading up Vice Presidential candidate Joe Biden's advance operation during the Obama-Biden campaign, a position he has retained during the transition process. Selfridge has worked in city government, public affairs and communications throughout his professional career. Prior to joining the Obama-Biden campaign, he served as the City Director in Los Angeles for the Clinton Foundation's Climate Initiative. Selfridge lived in Washington D.C. from 1994 through 1997, where he worked in the office of Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) as well as in the scheduling office of President Bill Clinton at the White House. Selfridge is a native of Minnetonka, Minnesota and a graduate of the University of Iowa. He also received a management of information systems certificate from Columbia University in New York. Anthony Bernal, Director of Scheduling for Dr. Jill BidenAnthony Bernal serves as director of scheduling to Dr. Jill Biden on the transition team, a position he held during the Obama-Biden campaign. Bernal began his professional experience at the White House serving both President Bill Clinton and Vice-President Al Gore in their respective offices of scheduling and advance. Following the 2000 election, Bernal joined the Coca-Cola Company’s office of international affairs in Washington, DC and then AARP. In 2004, Bernal served as Director of Financial Administration of the Democratic National Convention Committee, Inc. Following the 2004 DNC Convention, Bernal was chief of staff at the ALS Therapy Development Foundation, a Cambridge-based non-profit biotechnology company. Bernal, a native of Tucson, Arizona, earned his Bachelor's Degree in History and Philosophy from the University of Texas at El Paso and studied at Carleton College in Northfield, MN. Sam Myers Sr., Trip Director for the Vice PresidentSam Myers, Sr. is a veteran of eight presidential campaigns and has worked closely with presidents and presidential candidates for the past thirty-five years. Most recently, Myers worked as a key press aide for the Obama-Biden campaign, serving as a press logistics liaison aboard Vice Presidential candidate Joe Biden’s campaign plane. Before joining the Obama-Biden campaign, Myers worked with the media covering Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton's primary campaign, traveling with Senator Clinton through June of 2008; and he had previously served as Trip Director for Senator John Edwards during his 2008 primary campaign. During the 2004 presidential election, Myers worked for the Kerry-Edwards campaign, traveling aboard the vice presidential candidate's airplane. Myers traveled with Vice President Al Gore during his 2000 presidential campaign serving as the press logistics liaison and worked at the White House for President Bill Clinton, traveling around the world, managing press logistics for presidential events. Born in Quincy, Illinois and raised in Edina, Missouri, Myers is a graduate of Northeast Missouri State University (now Truman State University) in Kirksville, Missouri. He is married to Dr. Vicki Myers and has four children. ### FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 8, 2009

David Crawford

The People's Business

Linnie Frank Bailey — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 12:25:27 EST

I voted for change, and so did most of the people around me. Here in Western Riverside County California we have been hit hard by the economic crisis – with some of the highest foreclosure and unemployment rates in the country. We want change and we want it now!

Not just change in the office of the Presidency, but also a change in the tone and behavior of our government leaders. We are sick of partisan politics and finger-pointing. We have no use for pundits and politicians—many of whom are totally out-of-touch with everyday Americans—giving us the same old buzz words, labels, and spin.

We want action. We want to move forward. We want a new game plan. We want solutions.

Barack Obama is a smart guy who has a good grasp of our current situation in America. We have given him the ball and we need to let him run with it.

He is doing the people’s business and Congress needs to get on board or get out of the way.

We voted for change.

Questions on Change.gov

Trisha — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 03:22:36 EST

I have been reading through so many questions on Change.gov, and I have noticed so many questions that I look at and wonder...what was this person thinking.

So here are some thoughts I would like to express...

One...so many have asked the question "why do I have to pay for individuals who did things wrong, when I did everything right?" My question is why, because someone is caught up in this economic downturn, do you automatically assume that the person has done something wrong? What about the people who did everything right, but because of others greed, they are in trouble...why do you assume the people asking for help do not fall into that category?

My second thought...Maybe we should all take a step back and understand what a President can truely do. I understand, and partake in the excitement of a President who promises change from the same old politics, but all of the questions requesting things completely out of the control of a President does nothing to advance the cooperation that will be needed between the Government and the communities they serve. I understand that everyone has the right to ask what they choose, but questions that request the President to do things beyond his control are not productive.

Common questions I have come across...and my thoughts on them...Please give me your input...these are meant to get ideas going, so that we can be more proactive in our Government...

I have come across several questions that have had to do with legalizing Marijauna and taxing it the same way we tax cigarettes and alcohol. The common argument is that this would give an instant boost to the economy, both by the tax revenue this would raise and also by the billions of tax dollars saved in law enforcement costs each year. I personally see the argument, whether or not I believe in the cause, as a plausible way to stimulate the economy. What are your thoughts on this?

The next question that I have seen over and over is in regards to U.S. stimulus...Why not give a stimulus check to each American adult...the amount varries based on the questioner, but range from $30,000 each to 1 million each...included in the stimulus package to be voted on later this month. The arguement...That giving that much would allow those who have been hit hard to pay their mortgage payments and get bills caught up, and will then continue to stimulate the economy by spending, saving, or investing the rest. What are your thoughts on this?

The last question I am going to address here is whether or not we should abolish the current tax system and go to a sales tax instead of income tax system? I would like to hear all your ideas on this subjects as I am still trying to weigh the pros and cons of each. What are your thoughts on this?

The great part about this is that you can vote on which questions you want the Obama team to answer...with the questions that get the most votes being the ones they answer...if you have time you should stop by change.gov and answer a few...

America Responds To Obama's MLK Day Call To Service

Obama-Mamas.com — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 13:27:52 EST

The response to President Obama’s call to serve is already taking off in a big way, according to Nicola Goren, of the country’s service organization, The Corporation for National and Community Service. They are working with the Presidential Inaugural Committee to organize the greatest day of service in the country’s history. President-elect Obama, Vice President-elect Biden, and their families will also serve on the January 19 holiday in the Washington D.C. area.

New Year's Resolution

Mid America Mom — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 03:32:54 EST

Tonight I watched that new ball at Times Square drop on the TV. What a sight- the different panels and all the lights! With most changes it takes some getting used to and a leap of faith.

And then tradition takes over. It is that time once again for The New Year Resolution. Will it be- eat better and exercise? Take that trip you have dreamed of but never could get the plans together? Spend more time with the family or in church. Eat out less? Buy a family pet ;) ?

Let's Help Young Damon Get an Interview with President Obama

Crystal — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 20:53:28 EST

Damon Weaver is a go-getter and asks better questions than some of the grown-ups. Check out his video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akgYH6l9YYo) and read the Huffington Post article (www.tinyurl.com/damonw), even the Miami Heat got in on the action. CNN American Morning interviewed him, but I sent Twitter replies to Don Lemon (@donlemoncnn), Rick Sanchez (@ricksanchezcnn), Rachel Maddow (@Maddow), and Keith Olbermann(@keitholbermann) to interview Damon. You can also email Senate Gallery (Mike_Mastrian@saa.senate.gov, Obama's Transition Team (press@ptt.gov). More exposure he gets...better chance at an interview with President Obama.Cross Posted at iseecolor.com and crtnewsonline.blogspot.com

Tears of Joy

Dawn in Arizona — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 10:27:50 EST

for aperson who hardly ever in her life has cried this has been interesting to say the least! The speeches from Obama, winning the right to run for President, and winning!! the tears came and many times would not stay in my eyes but flowed freely down my cheeks.

I am going to record the swearing in ceremony because I know it will be hard not to cry again and then hard to see, but they are tears of joy as my dear country goes in a correct direction. Hard, yes but I have total faith Obama can and will get done what needs to be done.

I refused to fly the American flag early on when baby Bush was elected, a flag my father died for. Now it is the ready...as soon as Obama is sworn in, out goes the flag. It is brought in at sunset and put out at sunrise. How beautiful our flag is!!! in the Arizona sun.

Can't be soon enough for me!

Below is a statement from President-elect Obama:

David Crawford -Manager — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 21:31:35 EST

Below is a statement from President-elect Obama:

"Roland Burris is a good man and a fine public servant, but the Senate Democrats made it clear weeks ago that they cannot accept an appointment made by a governor who is accused of selling this very Senate seat. I agree with their decision, and it is extremely disappointing that Governor Blagojevich has chosen to ignore it. I believe the best resolution would be for the Governor to resign his office and allow a lawful and appropriate process of succession to take place. While Governor Blagojevich is entitled to his day in court, the people of Illinois are entitled to a functioning government and major decisions free of taint and controversy,"

President-elect Obama.

President-Elect Barack Obama and Vice President-Elect Joe Biden Announce Key Members of National Security Team

David Crawford -Manager — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 20:40:07 EST

President-Elect Barack Obama and Vice President-Elect Joe Biden Announce Key Members of National Security Team CHICAGO – Today, President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden announced the nomination of key members of their national security team, including James B. Steinberg for Deputy Secretary of State, and Jacob Lew for Deputy Secretary of State, and the appointment of Thomas E. Donilon as Deputy National Security Advisor and Antony “Tony” Blinken as National Security Advisor to the Vice President. President-elect Obama said, “The team that we have assembled is uniquely suited to meet the great global challenges facing us today. They join a strong team of leading experts and accomplished managers and I look forward to working with them in the years ahead.” Vice President-elect Biden said “Tony Blinken has been my most trusted advisor on the most important issues we've faced in the areas of national security and international affairs over the past six years. His broad experience in foreign policy and his sound judgment will be invaluable to me and to the President-elect in addressing the challenges ahead.” The following White House announcements were made today: James B. Steinberg, Deputy Secretary of StateJames B. Steinberg became dean of the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs on January 1, 2006. Before joining the School, he was the vice president and director of Foreign Policy Studies at the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C. (2001-2005), where he supervised a wide-ranging research program on U.S. foreign policy. From December 1996 to August 2000, he served as deputy national security advisor to President Bill Clinton. During that period he also served as the president's personal representative ("Sherpa") to the 1998 and 1999 G-8 summits. Prior to becoming deputy national security advisor, he served as chief of staff of the U.S. State Department and director of the State Department's policy planning staff (1994-1996), and as deputy assistant secretary for analysis in the Bureau of Intelligence and Research (1993-1994). Steinberg is a member of the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists' Science and Security Board, the President's Council on International Activities of Yale University, the board of directors of the Pacific Council on International Policy, the senior advisory council of The American Assembly's Next Generation Project, the board of advisors of the Center for a New American Security, the board of advisors of The Yale Journal of International Law, and the editorial board of The Washington Quarterly. He also is a member of the D.C. Bar. Steinberg is the author of and contributor to many books and articles on foreign policy and national security topics, including Difficult Transitions: Foreign Policy Troubles at the Outset of Power, Protecting the Homeland 2006/2007 and An Ever Closer Union: European Integration and Its Implications for the Future of U.S.-European Relations. Steinberg received his B.A. from Harvard in 1973 and J.D. from Yale Law School in 1978. Steinberg is married to Ms. Sherburne B. Abbott, director of the Center for Science and Practice of Sustainability at the University of Texas at Austin. They have two daughters, Jenna and Emma. Jacob Lew, Deputy Secretary of StateJacob J. "Jack" Lew is a Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Citi Alternative Investments, where he is responsible for operations, technology, human resources, legal, finance and regional coordination. Previously, Mr. Lew was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of New York University, where he was responsible for budget, finance, and operations (including capital projects and human resources). Prior to joining NYU, Mr. Lew served in President Clinton's cabinet as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and led the Administration budget team, from the preparation of the President's budget through final negotiations with Congress. He was also a member of the National Security Council. From 1979 to 1987, he was a Senior Policy Advisor to House Speaker Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr. Mr. Lew serves on the Corporation for National and Community Service Board and chairs its Management, Administration, and Governance Committee. He co-chairs the Advisory Board for City Year New York and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the Brookings Institution Hamilton Project Advisory Board, and the National Academy of Social Insurance. He is a member of the bar in Massachusetts and the District of Columbia. Thomas E. Donilon, Deputy National Security AdvisorThomas E. Donilon is a Partner at the law firm of O’Melveny & Myers and serves on the firm’s global governing committee. Most recently Mr. Donilon co-chaired the Obama-Biden State Department Agency Review Team and the Obama-Biden general election debate preparation effort. Mr. Donilon served as Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs and Chief of Staff at the U.S. State Department during the Clinton Administration. In these capacities, he oversaw the development and implementation of the Department’s major policy initiatives. He was deeply involved in a range of policy issues, including the Bosnia and Middle East peace negotiations, the expansion of NATO, and US-China relations. He was awarded the Secretary of State’s Distinguished Service Award -- the Department’s highest award -- in November 1996. Mr. Donilon is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, where he has served on Task Forces on State Department Reorganization and Transatlantic Relations, the Brookings Institution Board of Trustees, where he co-chaired the Institution’s 2008 policy development effort, the Miller Center of Public Affairs Governing Council, the Aspen Strategy Group, the National Security Advisory Group to the Congressional Leadership, and the Trilateral Commission. Mr. Donilon received his B.A., summa cum laude, from the Catholic University of America and his law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law. Antony “Tony” Blinken, National Security Advisor to the Vice PresidentAntony “Tony” Blinken was appointed Staff Director of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee in April 2002. From 1994 to 2001, Mr. Blinken served on the National Security Council staff at The White House. He was Senior Director for European Affairs (1999-2001) and Senior Director for Strategic Planning and NSC Senior Director for Speechwriting (1994-1998). He also served as Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs (1993 – 1994), and was a lawyer in New York and Paris. Mr. Blinken was a Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (2001 to 2002) and a Senior Foreign Policy adviser to the Obama-Biden presidential campaign. He has been a reporter for The New Republic magazine and has written about foreign policy for numerous publications, including The New York Times and Foreign Affairs Magazine. He is the author Ally Verses Ally: America, Europe and the Siberian Pipeline Crisis (1987). Mr. Blinken is a graduate of Harvard College and Columbia Law School. ###

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Emma — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 14:56:19 EST

Wishing everyone a
MERRY CHRISTMAS and a
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Here’s a little Christmas song I found

Barack wants us to . . . just believe . . . .

Shea — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 14:49:35 EST

We were dreamers, not so long ago . . . .Destinations are where we begin again . . .

You have everything you need, if you just believe!

Believe in what your heart is saying, hear the melody thats playing, there's no time to waste,

there's so much more to celebrate.

Trust in starlight, to get to where you need to be.

Believe in what you feel inside and give your dreams the wings to fly,

You have everything you need, if you just believe!

Happy Holidays and blessings to you and yours!

YES WE CAN! YES WE DID! YES WE BELIEVE!

click below

Polar Express - Believe (Josh Groban)

Homemade videoclip of the movie "The Polar Express" (2004).

All video footage belongs to the Warner Bros. Company

Rick Warren?!?! Are You Trying To Tell Me Something?

deliziosa: 8 is Enough — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 20:02:40 EST

I am not gay nor lesbian. I am not far left or extremist in any way. So I personally don't like the media and others narrative of only Gay and Lesbian far left groups being upset about this Warren thing.

So Mr. Obama... are you trying to tell me something? Are you trying to tell me that this is the beginning of the end of my parade? Are you trying to tell me that your attempts to win over the "blue collar white reagan hannity anti-government etc etc" Americans has yet to end? Your avoidance of mosques and Muslim girls in your background will continue? Your move to the center will never cease? Your presidency will be four years of planning how to win the next election?

I feel like I've been sitting around patiently yet anxiously for the promises made to me as a supporter to be realized. They weren't large promises just bring trust, integrity, and honor to the office of the presidency that has been missing for so long, if ever present in my lifetime. I elected a man wh o is honest & respectable. At this moment I feel like I elected a man who just laughed in my face & told me I've been punked!!

My intelligence was quite insulted at Obama telling me that Warren displays his attempt to unite us? Who is he trying to unite? Has he not looked at his favorability ratings? 70% approving of his transition! C'mon. Don't play me for a fool Obama, not after you've been so direct thus far. I don't know what this Warren thing is about, but it's not about uniting. I mean besides his recent publicity for being so outspoken in his opposition to the Gay and Lesbian lifestyle & their rights, not only is he a complete hawk when it comes to foreign policy, not only this, but he didn't even support Obama. The Saddleback forum was a sham w/ question geared to benefit McCain in his "cone of silence", not to mention the next day he's on Hannity's radio show w/, at best, lukewarm oppostion to Hannity's attacks on Obama and an all but endorsement of McCain.

If the idea is unite, why not put a bunch of heads of various religions w/ great civil service records to lead the inauguration. Why not let an Imam give a prayer, and a priest, and a Rabbi,etc. etc. then I could understand the pick of Warren amongst those. But to have him highlighting this inauguartion as though he earned an honor beyond any other out there, Everyone will be watching, and most importantly I will be watching. I worked my butt off as many of us did, and I don't want Warren representing me, or my government, or the president I elected.

I can't wait to be talked down, as Ms. Maddow likes to say. I can't wait to be proven wrong!!

Change

Emma — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:49:31 EST

I attended a funereal today. A close friend of the family died unexpectedly last month from cancer. I had known him all my life, but never really knew him. We’d meet at various festive occasions, share pleasantries, exchange brief updates on our lives and always part with a warm embrace. That’s what I remember the most about him, his great, big hugs. He was a man with a big heart and in church today there was no doubt he had been, and always will be, deeply loved by many.

I sat there in church, watching his wife of some forty years struggle to hold the turmoil of emotions in check while the sun made a rare appearance in the darkest days of the year. I’m not a religious person and while the priest went on about Christian things, I pondered the meaning of change.

Change can probably mean a billion things and more. If you search Google for the word Change you actually get over a billion results. Change can be welcomed, when life is hard and suddenly gets easier. It can also be cursed when a good life turns into pain and suffering. We change as human beings, as life runs its course. We change as a race through the eons and call it evolution.

Change is the thing that happens when atoms merge and create the building blocks of our existence. Change is what happens when our cells slowly decay and we finally draw our last breath. Change is what happens when cells mutate into cancerous tumors and ends our life too soon. But Change is also what happens when the sperm leaves the comfort of its origin, finds an egg and life begins anew.

It’s amazing how much meaning there can be in one single word.

Change is not something we can ever avoid. It will come in one form or another. The only thing we can do is humbly and bravely endeavor to shift this change in a direction we feel is good and right.

I began following Obama because I needed to change my life. I was stagnating, obsessing about all negative things and needed something positive to shift my focus. I used him to try to change my life to the better and it worked. I feel free now, free to do what I always wanted to do. Politics was never my passion, writing fictional stories are. That’s what I can concentrate on now, that’s the freedom Obama gave me.

But regrettably I need to let some things go. I can no longer spend weeks on one single posting here. I have to move on. I will continue to stay updated on Obama’s progress, but the journey he’s on is the journey of the citizens of the United States. This journey will undoubtedly affect us all profoundly but in truth, as much as I wish I could help, I have to accept the fact that there is nothing I can do. And today I was reminded of just how short and fragile life is and I how important it is for each of us to experience our own journey as fully as possible while we still can.

I can never fully express the gratitude I feel for the privilege of sharing thoughts, dreams and fears with everyone on this site. It really did change my life. I will keep blogging now and then but not the way I did. I have stories to write, characters to create and other galaxies to explore! But none of that could have been possible if Barack Obama hadn’t stood up and said “Change is possible in America”. For a while there I had almost given up…

Health Care and Cost

Dawn in Arizona — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 10:06:15 EST

In January the company my husband worked for went out of business. We bought into the health care with Blue Cross Blue Shield. fine. Then my husband looked for work all this year finally landing a part time position with no benefits.

The big problem is not only was he out of work most of the year and I am disabled but now Blue Cross keeps rasing our monthly rates!..plus they added another deductible that started not at the first of the year but in September!

Is there no stopping the insurance companies from this greediness??

New Ideas???

Mickiboop (P.O.B.) Be the Change — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 01:09:05 EST

At the Change is Coming meetings I attended, I noted that half of us didn't know our local or state officials, their jobs & missions, nor their responsibilities of staying connected to We the People at the district levels. I think we should begin using sections of this site to teach, share important information, show teaching webinars, list city, county, state and federal officials of each state, etc. What do you think about changing or adding a tab across the top (e.g. ACTION or STATES) that list the elected officials and their contact info for each state. We could also list links to other relevant government info and sites.

This may be more work than our webmaster wants to do on this site, but I believe we need more shared educational efforts than we currently have here. I believe one of our goals must be to GROW an educated and informed electorate for the 21st Century. Wouldn't it be cool to have some highly informed folks from varying fields, volunteer to teach via webinar or video, or to show a power point, for one hour a month or more just to help educate those who are interested. Wow - we could immediately begin to grow a highly trained, technical and analytically educated workforce for the 21st Century. We might even be able to create a new show for America titled "The Real News".

I know this is missing a lot of detail, but about ideas along these lines - What Say You Obama Family???

Now what?

Mid America Mom — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 02:54:54 EST

It is winter. The cold settles like a blanket over the bed- the air softly whistles through the trees- and you look outside your window and see no one or living thing.

Is anyone doing anything?

Responsible consumption

Emma — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 17:16:08 EST

Here in Sweden the Nobel celebrations are always a welcome sign of the approaching holidays, especially with the dreary rain outside. We are treated to an enchanting night of royalty, fancy dresses, great performances and speeches.

With all the gold and sparkling diamonds on our screen it’s hard to believe we’re in a recession. So far nothing feels any different but we’re constantly told by well-meaning experts that it’s going to get worse. I can’t help but feel a strange sort of comfort in that knowledge. We know next year will be tuff and with that knowledge we can prepare. Ironically it is the slowing down of our hunger for things and experiences that will cause this recession to worsen.

Our modern world today seems to rest solely on our ability to consume. This fixation is the core of most economic theories and political plans. I buy a CD for a friend as Christmas gift. The money I spend on it will go to paying the salary of the person who sold it, the person who made it and the person who recorded the content. Three separate groups of people get paid a salary simply because I bought this CD. That’s how the world goes around.

It’s a bit mindboggling to realize how deeply entrenched we have become with this consumer focus. It’s even gotten so bad that we now consume things that barley exist. People speculate in bonds, currency and stocks, buy loans and mortgages, making money on anything and everything. The very act of selling can generate money even with nothing tangible actually being sold!

What’s even more frightening is how difficult it is to imagine a world functioning any other way.

Those who can’t keep up in this fast paced world of buy and sell quickly fall behind, becoming the invisible masses of the poor and suffering, hovering just at the edge of our awareness. We pat ourselves on the pack when we pay tribute to them occasionally or donate a dollar or two. But their lives have very little to do with us. We, the powerful consumers, are invincible, except of course when the dreaded recession roles in...

I can’t help but think there is a much needed equalizing force in these recessions. They force people to think before consuming, force them to reevaluate what they really need. Obviously it’s not so easy for those at the bottom of the food-chain who may very well go hungry, but if we don’t balance ourselves and our lives, nature invariably finds a way to do it for us.

At least I will think a bit more before consuming during this year’s great spending spree. Spend on things that matter, things that help preserve our planet or bring true joy to family and friends. Giving responsibly can be very rewarding, and it is after all what makes the world go around…

Inauguration Request - An Open Letter

Laura — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 14:53:31 EST

This is an open letter to all those attending next month's inauguration.

In just over a month, millions of Americans will be flocking to Washington, DC to celebrate this historic Presidential Inauguration. As an early and enthusiastic supporter of President –Elect Obama, I welcome my fellow celebrants to the party. As a DC resident, I’m thrilled that so many of my friends from all over this great nation will be joining in the fun.

However, as a DC resident, I am deeply concerned about my city council’s decision to keep Washington bars open 24 hours during the days preceding the inauguration.

Since I can’t do anything to stop the decision, I am writing this letter as a concerned mother and fellow Obama supporter.

Please do not come to my town and get so drunk that you litter my streets or drive drunk on my roads. The roads you use to return home from the bars are the same ones that take my kids to school.

Please do not engage in crass behavior that will embarrass me in front of my children. Don’t make me explain explicit adult behaviors to my five year old son and his three year old brother.

Please do not get into fights or start screaming matches with McCain supporters. While these people may be your political adversaries, they are my neighbors.

You see, for many, Washington is just host to the Party of the Century. For me, it’s the city where my kids go to school, the home where I rest, the roads I drive and the parks where my children play.

Please remember that there will be families working, going to school and living at this party venue. We deserve the kind of dignity and consideration our President-Elect has modeled during the two years of his campaign.

Thank you.

Laura Owen

Washington, DC

Obama Inaugural Balls and Parties???

Mickiboop (P.O.B.) Be the Change — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:56:13 EST

Are there any Obama Inaugual Balls or Parties or Watch parties going on in Northern Cal 1/20/09??? Some of us who have to work that week are still looking for events to attend. Please post or send email through this site. I'll help contribute as needed. I feel the need to share my noise ~ Thanks!

That TRUST thing again

Mid America Mom — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:50:36 EST

Once again the MSM and other folks are at it again. Can you believe he picked so and so? They are not x and x enough or they did x and x and still were picked? What is he thinking?

Folks where is the TRUST?

Jobs Baby Jobs!!!

Mickiboop (P.O.B.) Be the Change — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 10:30:04 EST

Regardless of the congress feeling reticent about the BRIDGE LOANS (not bail-out) that Detroit's Big 3 is requesting, they MUST provide the loans and keep the industry from dissolving. This morning's job loss numbers for November 2008 are astoundingly high, 533,000, putting our nation's unemployment rate at 6.7%. That's up from October's 6.5%. THERE HAS BEEN 1.9 MILLION JOBS LOSS THIS YEAR AND DECEMBER HAS THREE WEEKS TO GO...

Congress should immediately put safeguards in place and distribute the loan money. They can then work with the Obama Administration to retool at least one division of each auto plant to immediately begin manufacturing the rails, rail cars, engines, etc. to build our much needed High-Speed Railways (HSR). Obama and Biden can have the Governors of states like CA, FL, IL and other Mid and Northwestern regions that have already been working with transportation engineers and have plans ready to go, to put out Request for Proposals (RFP). The states can begin to get their construction, transportation, education/training, fleet & city service companies prepared for hiring thousands of workers across the nation. Please read about HSR here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-speed_rail_in_the_United_States and help to push implementation as soon as possible.

In addition to the Big 3 retooling for HSR, they along with small automotive and auto engineering companies should begin a switch/trade off program with all states to change their public and commercial transportation vehicles such as city and school buses, taxi cabs, delivery trucks & commuter vans over to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). The technology already exists and is currently being used here in CA, but not widely used enough. We need to build thousands of CNG fueling stations across America along with switching over all public and commercial transportation vehicles. The CNG stations should be built to include the wiring for future cars that will be battery driven. This project will put people back to work immediately. Please read about CNG here http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/transportation/afvs/cng.html and promote the switch over so we can put people back to work and immediately begin to reduce our carbon footprint.

Just think about all of the small businesses and long-term contract work that can be created with these two projects. We can create tons of jobs and the businesses will hire and/or do business with suppliers of various other goods & services. Here's some examples: combination CNG station & convenience stores, restaurants, catering & food services; CNG buses, vans and taxi cab lines for connecting HSR services; training centers, shopping centers and entertainment centers along all of the HSR lines. These lists can go on and on. There are thousands of jobs to be created and sought but we the people must demand that action is taken now. We cannot afford to wait until P.E. Obama takes office in January.

Managing an economic stampede

Emma — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 14:52:29 EST

I attended my first Sunday service at a local church a few weeks ago. A friend of mine was going to speak and she wanted me to be there. But as the service was underway a man suddenly came in, walked up the aisle and declared he had something to say. Before I knew what happened, the people in front of the church rose from their seats and as one charged towards the exit, pulling me and everyone else with them. Once we were outside word spread that the man, clearly mentally unstable, had been carrying a can of gasoline and an axe with him. Fortunately nothing happened and the police soon showed up and took the man into custody, as the rest of us went back inside and the service resumed.

I had been sitting too far from the aisle to see the man clearly and was utterly unaware of the danger. But I ran because everyone else ran and had this man intended harm this act clearly would have saved my life. The collective instinct to follow the pack is the most primordial of our defense mechanisms and it has kept us alive through eons. But how do you know when to stop running?

The stampede in the market is a frightening sight to behold; millions of faceless investors running back and forth like headless chickens, frantically searching for safety and stability. Calming them down isn’t much easier then controlling a mass of stampeding bulls.

The Market is a strange thing, an almost ethereal creature with seemingly a mind of its own. But it’s really just a part of us, a part of this thing we call human society. Every loaf of bread we buy, every car we build, every flower sold, is a part of this complex machinery. With all the talk of greed and cold hard cash, it’s a bit curious to realize that at the heart of this machine is something as basic as trust. Trust that a company is worth what its owners claim, trust that the loaf of bread is produced as efficiently as possible, and as for the credit card industry; trust that money lent will be returned with a profit. This is what makes the wheels go round, the oil that allows inventers to afford inventing, entrepreneurs to afford dreaming and simple workers to afford houses and cars. Now the trust is gone and the instincts that have served humanity for so long have become the one thing that might shatter life as we know it.

President-elect Obama is doing his best to stop the stampede, to calm the Market and restore trust. The Powers That Be, in the US as well as in many other countries, have infused the Market with money, desperate to restore balance, to get the wheels turning again. The Market seems to like it, but what worries me is that instead of regaining trust between the various players within the Market, governments all over the world have created a false sense of security in the notion that the governments themselves are Gods in this game and will actively monitor and babysit every single one of the incalculable transactions taking place within the Market. The inhabitants of the Market still won’t trust each other as capitalism dictates they have to, but instead trusts only the Governments to provide them with what they need. This is a dangerous precedence.

I understand the idea behind the bailouts, and it’s quite possible there are no other options. But for how long will these bailouts continue? Everyone already knows the money the US government is offering comes from the magical kingdom of fairies, not actual products that can be sold, or land that can be developed. Obama and Bush are borrowing money in the name of American taxpayers to pay for the “oil” that will grease the wheels. But what if the wheels aren’t in motion to begin with? What use will oil do to an engine that has run out of fuel?

As far as I can tell there’s really only one way out of this mess for President-elect Obama. He has to find a way to tap into the resources of the rest of the world. America can’t run on borrowed money for much longer, especially since it’s largely borrowing from enemy countries. But the only way we, as in the global citizens of the world, will be willing to pour our hard earned cash into the American machinery, is if America is selling us something we need. Offering us fancy words and hopeful phrases is all well and good, but it won’t generate the cash the US needs to survive.

If I were in Obama's place I would commission NASA to use whatever means necessary in order to build that illusive battery that can store energy from the sun’s rays and power a ten ton truck or even an airplane. We already know how to harness the energy of the sun, we just don’t know how to transport it to where it’s needed. This will be the invention of the millennium and it would solve all of the financial problems the US faces. Personally I can’t imagine any other company, organization or group of individuals in the world that are better suited for this task then the people at NASA. After all, they were the ones who found a way for mankind to travel into space. Clearly they don’t understand the term impossible.

May We Be The World?

Khin Oo Sabai — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:35:25 EST

We,

Myanmar people;

Now, in trouble.

They attack us,

For the years more than 20 years and above

Started at 1958,

With the title"Caretaker Government" for the sake

Led by Hard liner Ne Win & assiciates

That's the turning piont for our fate.

Then next breaking period at '88

So-called free ,market economy after decades

But not truly freely trade

End result has been struggling stae.

Since we could not bear and nust fight

At September'07 strike

Buddist-monks also up their lives

Then again natural disaster, nargis

And then man-made disaster, negligence of Junta hit

Lives of farmers and fisher-men had to be added at death-lists,

Do you know how amny lives lost by junta?

Don't you know how much daily-life suffered?

Where are your help?

What is your support?

We are brave.

We are not slaves.

We are patriotic.

We are not catabolic.

Our vioces for freedom,

To fight till it's gained.

Within several gunners,

Among terrible killers,

We, no weapons in our hands

Also the monks of Myanmar land.

May we be the world?

The world with wonderful technology

With proper leadership

Then good decision & intervention

Could they help us?

Would the nations take care of us?

May I repeat my word?

"The World"

American Automotive Industry

Mickiboop (P.O.B.) Be the Change — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:08:28 EST

Although I don't like the idea of "bailing out" any more American companies, I believe that we MUST give the bridge loans (with restructuring) to our auto industry. There are many arguments on both sides, pro and con, for allowing these companies to fail, but the ONLY argument that stands out above all others in my book concerns the American people and how the Big 3's failure will affect the lives of families, friends, neighbors and communities. Here's some of the consequences of shutting down America's Automotive Industry:
* Loss of 3 + MILLION American JOBS
* Loss of 3 + MILLION Americans covered by employer based Health, Dental & Vision Care Plans
* Loss of 3 + MILLION Americans paying Mortgages, Insurances and House-hold Utilities
* Loss of 3 + MILLION Americans paying Soc Security, State, Local and Federal Taxes
* Loss of 3 + MILLION American Incomes assisting in reviving our economy through purchasing goods such as Food, Clothing, Houseware and services such as Beauty care, Child care, Entertainment, Travel and Restaurants.

Now, if you consider all of the jobs that may be peripherally dependant on the American auto industry, failure could mean the devastation of more than Four (4) MILLION American Jobs!!! Do we really want to venture into devastating lives in order to make a point concerning bail outs? Should we refrain from trying to help our economy in the long-term?

I think we should have stood up in strong opposition to the REAL bail out of the banking industry when we had the chance, but most of us were in Full-blown Shock and had not really taken the time to research all that should have been demanded before the congress signed the bill. This time We the People, Congress and the Pres. Elect's Economic team are demanding accountability and restructuring for a 21st Century transportation product that will bode well for America's future.

Therefore, I believe we must support the bridge loan. What say you my fellow Americans???

Obama’s national security team; a reassuring achievement

Emma — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:20:28 EST

It is a strange feeling to watch a man I have put so much faith in, not only meet my expectation but exceed them. President-elect Obama presented his national security team today and did so with extraordinary vision and confidence. I have never hidden my dislike for Sen. Clinton but if Obama believes she can rise to the challenge, then I will give her the benefit of a doubt. As for the rest of the team I felt they represented not only the change from Bush we all so desperately desire, but also the pragmatism, intelligence and focus that I have come to respect in Obama.

Robert Gates has proved to be a stabilizing and reassuring force in the uncertain and erratic Bush years. It wouldn’t surprise me if history shows he alone kept the world from the brink of disaster as Bush stumbled and rambled. Gates also represents a comforting continuity in the Defense Department. I’m sure the idea of any kind of disruptive or destabilizing element to the US military at this point in time, is probably as frightening to world leaders as it is to ordinary citizens like me. Gates puts most of those concerns to rest and gives us a chance to breathe a little easier tonight.

Susan Rice offers the potential for a much needed effort, and a personal desire of mine, to empower the United Nations after almost a decade of pure neglect. During the disastrous years of Bush we saw the UN falter and fade and the world became increasingly unstable and less safe because of it. The UN is an organization that grew out of the dream that shaped the United States of America, a dream where all humans are created equal and deserve equal right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness. It is an organization that cannot exist without the leadership of the country that spawned it. We need a platform for human dialogue, across borders and cultures and we need America to host this platform. I firmly believe that the UN needs to be enforced not dismantled, to allow us all to live in a world that is safer and better and I’m relieved to hear that President-elect Obama and his chosen UN ambassador agrees with this view.

This team may not be the dream of a diehard socialist (!) but I believe it is the dream of anyone who desires peace and stability in the world. I have no illusions about the challenges the US will have to tackle in the years to come, and the recent attacks in Mumbai shows us with painful clarity the fragility of the world. But today President-elect Obama put a strong and confident face to the future of American leadership and that is profoundly encouraging. To chose powerful individuals with strong opinions is dangerous and can easily cripple weak leaders, as was the case with Bush Jr. But in his briefing today Obama effectively eliminated any such concerns and the team he assembled will undoubtedly help empower him as he struggles to resolve the damage done and restore the balance to the world.

I can’t wait for the day when I no longer have to use the phrase “President-elect” but can finally call him; President Obama.

Dreams From Obama

Khin Oo Sabai — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 03:55:18 EST

There are many articles about Obama in Myanmar magazines and journals today. The one I like most is book written by Obama" Dreams From My Father", published in Myanmar language translated by editors, publicated in The Flowers News Weekly Journal this week.

If it would be the best, if I could read this book in our website originally.

And I can support Obama if he wants to write about Asia,Burma more.

Thank you.

Wishing You Oceans Of Joy...Happy Holidays

EsquireUK — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 11:57:05 EST

"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

www.change.gov

www.barackobama.com

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

www.barackobama.com

Lost in the economy noise - Part 4

Mid America Mom — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 15:40:07 EST

Earlier this month President-Elect Obama had his first press conference. And yes discussion did come up on that nagging problem- the dog situation - and Obama called himself a "Mutt" ;)

Sidebar: now how many of us have had to discuss having a dog with our family? Besides the fun and joy ---there is all that the kids fail to acknowledge- the potty training and cleaning up the yard--who is going to feed it. I feel for the Obama's!

But that comment brought back to mind the historic nature of his election and how race still does play a part in our country. A point that has been lost in the economy noise. I could write a whole blog on this, but true to this series, we share two blogs... our stories from the roots.

Moms for Obama rally on November 1st in SLC

mfsomom — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 20:43:47 EST

My speech at rally...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xz1XC6vpgdo

Inauguration Day should be free of charge!

Emma — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 06:40:37 EST

The news of the insane prices for tickets to the Inauguration even reached the Swedish news media last night. There’s been tales of this madness for weeks now but I guess it didn’t really hit home with me until I heard how much a ticket sold for counted in Swedish currency. It’s ludicrous! Is anyone actually paying these sums? Surely not the hard working American who dared dream of better days ahead, who was the sole reason Barack Obama got elected in the first place.

That’s what I’m having a hard time understanding. President-elect Obama campaigned on change, on common hope and mutual efforts. Why is it that this, the most longed for day in many of our life’s, has not been handled with the same care and consideration as everything else in his campaign? Does he think victory somehow put him above such petty considerations?

Undoubtedly there are endless historic reasons for why the new President can only swear the oath of office on a spot that can’t take more than a handful of people. Truth be told, I doubt anyone has ever cared that much before.

But this time it’s different, this time everyone with half a brain will care. I won’t be there unfortunately, but millions will. Obama and his people know that! So why not change the venue, pick a large field or a park, somewhere people of all incomes can actually converge and hear the first real hope we’ve seen in America in decades, deliver his first speech as President of the United States!

I really don’t understand.

I’m starting to feel like this might be the first big mistake he’s made so far (unless he picks Hillary Clinton for State, that would be an even bigger mistake).

Underestimating the needs of his people the first day on the job is not a good beginning…

Lieberman is a Short-Timer...

Mickiboop (P.O.B.) Be the Change — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:10:47 EST

Right now the Dems are playing nice and holding their cards close to the vest because they don't have a "Filibuster proof" voting block.

I believe the Dems will keep Two-Faced Joe (TFJ) in place until the new senate comes to town. After that, they will probably hard kick TFJ's dastardly behind to the curb - with much pleasure!

Not happy with the cabinet rumors?

Mid America Mom — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:46:26 EST

YEP all the cabinet talk. Dominates the news, the HQ thread, and some of our conversations at home and with friends.

I do not know about you but part of the appeal of Barack Obama is I can trust him. He admits he is not perfect and mistakes will be made. He is one of those natural leaders with a style that is not out of fear or intimidation but from ... what a change... getting along or working together to achieve success. And though he has stumbled he does have good judgment. Maybe his kids got it right when they think dad is "boring". As the man that is about to enter the white house is at his core still the same.

The same one that worked for a community instead of the dollar, helped to change the laws in IL so our kids have healthcare- tackle racial profiling - and brought ethics reform. Taught kids the constitution and practiced law for equal rights. The same one that in the MIDDLE of his Senate campaign spoke out Against the war and in the primary gave a speech on RACE despite the risks.

Is it agreed we made the right decision to put him in the white house? I hope so or it makes no sense you are here. We all can be armchair pundits and nervous nellies... it is our nature. We are masters of our destiny and we have a choice. What do you see when you reflect? I look back and it gives me peace. It is time for us to make that leap of faith once more. Let him use those skills, provide us with direction, and show us what he can do and what we can do together.

If I need a reminder all I need to do is look at this photo from the night where this began - the Iowa caucus - Link

Mid America Mom

No rooms for Inauguration Day...

Emma — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:59:12 EST

The first week after the election I was kind of in a daze. The second week I spent most of my time trying to find a room for Inauguration Day.

“Sorry, we’re full!” must be the most frustrating phrase I’ve ever heard. I really wanted to go, to be a part of it, to be there together with everyone else. But as I’m starting to accept that it probably won’t not happen I’ve found myself in an increasingly contemplative mood and have begun to ask myself why. Why does it feel so important to spend a cold January day on the streets of Washington DC along with a few million others, following a car making its way through the city to a place I’ll never get close enough to see? My friends think I’m crazy as usual and there’s no doubt that I will see more, hear more and be lot more comfortable in my own home. So why do I want to go?

Because the Inauguration Day of January 20th 2009 is so packed with symbolism it can make your head spin!

For those who haven’t been as invested in this process as us MyBo bloggers, it probably seems strange, but Inauguration Day will be more than just a shift in the White House, or a minimal chance to see a glimpse of the new President. It’s about the process that President-elect Obama allowed us to be a part of and on January that particular process comes to an end. It becomes a historic moment of closure for those of us who were there for the first tentative steps of the campaign, for those of us who watched intently as he delivered the victory speech in Iowa and the tantalizing possibilities painted with such magnificent colors in the speech; “A more perfect Union”.

It is the power of hope, possibilities and the prayer of change that has formed a bond between strangers across states and oceans and by constantly managing to put much needed words to our own fears and concerns, Barack Obama has earned our loyalty and compassion. That’s not the same as agreeing with everything he says, or being naïve about the challenges he faces. Rather it’s the careful choice we made, to have faith in the possibility of a better future, a better world.

Barack Obama has said frequently that this victory belongs to the American people. Those Americans who cast their vote for him has become an intricate part of the path he will walk the next four years (and hopefully four after that). But as a foreigner I’m left in limbo.

There was going to be a gathering of veteran MyBO bloggers in the vicinity of Washington DC the day before and I would have loved to meet everyone, just to get a chance to be in a room with other people who cares as deeply as I do. I’ve always felt very strongly that I’m not actually a part of this process, although I have probably spent more time focusing on it than most Americans. My friends here in Sweden all seem to operate on the age old mind game of “out of sight out of mind”. They prefer to stick their heads in the sand and pretend the world doesn’t exist. I don’t blame them, but I can’t live like that.

My future is as dependent on the actions of the US President as any American, but my perspective is very different. I wish the world to be a safer place for my sake, for the sake of my family and friends. At the same time I’m painfully aware that this can never happen without the good-will, intelligence and positive aspirations of the leadership and citizens of the United States of America.

I doubt Americans can fully understand the sense of vulnerability that comes with that understanding. My safety is in the hands of strangers many miles away, strangers I have no way of influencing or helping, as they stumble along this thorny path. I guess that’s why it felt so urgent for me to be there in that moment when change becomes as real as it ever will.

On January 20th 2009 the all human endeavors, aspirations, present and future will converge on one small step in infinite space. It can either bring us to a worse fate or a better one. No human can know which future Obama will bring. But as fearful as the conservative right may be, I choose to have faith that President Obama will deliver us the option for a better life all around the globe.

I may not be able to be there in person, but in spirit I will never be far away.

Ps. If anyone happens to know of somewhere to stay, please send me an e-mail ( emmalindelius@hotmail.com ). Hope is after all the last thing that dies…

Request from the Los Angeles Times: What's an interactive presidency?

David from Los Angeles, CA — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 02:53:31 EST

Dear all,

I'm a journalist for the L.A. Times and I write about new media and online culture. I'm working on a story about the idea that Obama's presidency will be 'interactive,' and that it will make use of some of the same Internet-based tools that the campaign harnessed for GOTV, fundraising and info awareness purposes. In the spirit of that topic, I'm using this network itself to ask users for their thoughts.

I'm trying to boil it down to a few questions. By all means please answer some or all in the comments, if you're inclined.

1) What would an 'interactive' presidency mean to you?

2) Has your time on my.barackobama.com given you a sense that Obama and company are monitoring the groups and threads to see what voters are concerned about? Or is it mostly a place for voters to interact with one another?

3) If you were President-elect Obama, what kinds of things would you do, technology-wise, to directly interact with Americans?

4) What kind of activity dropoff have you seen in the myBO blogs and groups since the election? Will the administration-to-be still be able to tap into this network in a couple of months?

And certainly add any other thoughts you might have on the topic. I'll be writing this story today (Monday), so I encourage anyone interested in sharing their ideas to respond fairly soon.

Many thanks for your time and patience, and apologies for this semi-spamming of your group blogs.

Best,

David Sarno

Los Angeles Times

Happy Thanksgiving 2008

EsquireUK — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 12:55:14 EST

www.barackobama.com

Dear Americans,

Our thoughts now turn to the Thanksgiving Holiday. Let us take this precious time together with family, friends, our dearest and nearest...to pause and give thanks for an extraordinary year of blessings and history making. Let's try to widen the circle of old and new friendships.

The Great Tablecloth

by Pablo Neruda

"Hunger feels like pincers,
like the bite of crabs,
it burns, burns and has no fire.
Hunger is a cold fire.

Let us sit down soon to eat
with all those who haven't eaten;
let us spread great tablecloths,
put salt in the lakes of the world,
set up planetary bakeries,
tables with strawberries in snow,
and a plate like the moon itself
from which we can all eat.

For now I ask no more
than the justice of eating."

www.barackobama.com

Have a Happy Thanksgiving,

Raphael Holoman-Franklin

President-Elect Barack Obama Supporter

http://www.projectbread.org/raphael

p.s. It all begins with food. Good food nourishes the body and the spirit. With regular meals, a child is free to grow, to think, to ask a question, to tell a joke. Being chronically hungry is the fate of thousands of children in Massachusetts. Help us change that http://www.projectbread.org/raphael

As the state’s leading anti-hunger organization, Project Bread is dedicated to alleviating, preventing, and ultimately ending hunger in Massachusetts. Learn more about our mission.

Through The Walk for Hunger, the oldest continual pledge walk in the country, Project Bread provides millions of dollars each year in privately donated funds to more than 400 emergency food programs in 126 communities statewide. Project Bread also advocates systemic solutions that prevent hunger and that provide food to families in natural, everyday settings, including schools. Over the last four years, the organization has invested over $2 million in grants to community organizations that feed children where they live, learn, and play.

http://www.projectbread.org/raphael

"Your own story and the American story are not separate - they are shared. And they will both be enriched if we stand up together, and answer a new call to service to meet the challenges of our new century ... I won't just ask for your vote as a candidate; I will ask for your service and your active citizenship when I am president of the United States. This will not be a call issued in one speech or program; this will be a cause of my presidency."

- President-Elect Barack Obama

Why I don’t want Hillary Clinton as Sec of State

Emma — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 17:47:49 EST

(Commenting on the unsubstantiated rumors of Hillary Clinton in President-elect Obama’s cabinet.)

I don’t really care if he puts her in the cabinet, as long as it’s not in any prominent position, such as Secretary of State.

A list of a few of the reasons why Hillary Clinton should not be Sec. of State:

1. She’s not much of a diplomat, the primary told us that.

2. Her ties to Bill Clinton would weigh her down and along with her the crucial efforts of the Obama administration. Bill might be well liked in some circles “out here”, but he doesn’t command much respect, and that will affected her by proxy.

3. She has no actual experience with foreign policy, at least not on the level that will be required considering the dangers we face.

4. Hillary, like most women in her age group, has a tendency to try too hard. It makes them appear desperate and weak. These are not good qualities in a Secretary of State, a position that is very similar to a soldier in the midst of a battlefield, except you use words and psychological manipulation instead of guns and missiles. Obviously the Sec of State can’t be an actual soldier, if you are no one will trust you not to use guns and missiles…

I kind of like the idea of Bill Richardson as Sec of State, but mainly because of his experience in the UN, brief as it was. In my opinion, anything that pushes President-elect Obama closer to the UN is a move in the right direction.

Choosing John Kerry would be disaster though. The last thing we need is another military man in the US State Department! He has campaigned too convincingly on his war record and it will be very difficult to ignore. The world will not trust a soldier to be a US representative of peace ever again.

But the only American I would really trust handling the deceptive waters of high state diplomacy is James Baker. Unfortunately he is far too Republican for comfort. Anyway, I hope President-elect Obama at least calls him on the phone often.

I do hope, however, that President-elect Obama keeps Robert Gates as Sec. of Defense. There’s no reason not to (that I can think of), and many, many reasons to keep him. Most importantly, the US will be extremely vulnerable for the first year of Obama’s presidency. The less strain put on the military community the safer we’ll all be. Considering the situation the US military is in at the moment and will continue to be for a foreseeable future, I’d strongly advocate not rocking the boat.

Anyway, that’s my two cents’ worth.

Now I’m off to bed.

Good night.

The Currency Board Creates Jobs and Expands Industries

MoorAmerican — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 07:50:00 EST

And above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it’s been done in America for two-hundred and twenty-one years – block by block, brick by brick, calloused hand by calloused hand. – Barack Obama, Election Night 2008

The present economic crisis is the only argument needed to support Reason and Cause for the currency board for the American working Class. Get a copy of the constitutional lawyers letter of opinion regarding the currency board for the American working class.

It creates consumer demand for United States Treasury notes for the general circulation money supply: M0, M1... This will establish a unit account for the public obligation paper - Federal ReserveBank notes; U.S. Banknotes. Consumer confidence will grow.

It is structured to restore unit of account to the monetary base of the economy. Taxable revenues are generated by the local community bank sector and the Federal Reserve Bank. The currency board drives taxable revenues from the financial service sector of the economy. The U.S. government just needs to collect the taxes from the banks and the Federal Reserve Bank.

This act by 50 million American workers will break the liquidity trap. The revenues generated for the banks will enable them to loan credit to the local community they service. The demand deposits will increase adding more liquidity to loan credit to the local community.

The general circulation money supply for the American working class becomes permanent and readily accessible via the currency board.

The currency board officially opened effective November 11, 2008. American workers can register through www.my.barackobama.com

Just Google the phrase slogan… “POPLUV THE PAYGO”

Join the group “POPLUV THE PAYGO” and receive additional information how to create jobs. The currency board is an instant job creator for the security service industry; the human service business industry; the not-for-profit charitable foundation industry.

“POPLUV THE PAYGO” promotes the currency board for the American working class. The currency board is structured with one or more free enterprise trust organizations in simple estate. The currency board offers a home-based business opportunity to the American working class to develop and expand the monetary base of the economy.

The currency board will drive local community-based community focused small business development that will employ more people; expand the human service business industry to employ more people that pay good wages with health and retirement benefits indexed to inflation and other cost of living indicators.

The act of 50 million American workers will wipe out unemployment. The currency board is structured for 50 million American workers. It is fixed. First come first serve. It’s an equal opportunity. That’s what free market capitalism is supposed to do… create competition.