Organizing for America | Obama HQ Blogger: "The Road to the White House" on 60 Minutes Tonight

Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By Fire Is Born Dec 28th 2008 at 6:31 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:31 pm EST)

Thanks, Chris!

We did it!

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By Sandradee believes: Aint no mountain High Enough Dec 28th 2008 at 6:34 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:34 pm EST)

Hi Hannah, and yes thanks Chris.

Happy Links | Report to Admin

By Celtic Dec 28th 2008 at 6:41 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:41 pm EST)

At 104, woman is living U.S. history at inauguration Link

VIDEO- Gaza Explodes: Bush Administration and President-elect Obama Responses Link

VIDEO- Community Political Christmas Song Link

Hawaii blackout left Obama in dark for 12 hours Link

Fitzgerald asks panel not to subpoena Obama aides Link

PHOTOS- Everyone wants Barack to hold their baby edition Link

GOP mum on 'Magic Negro' parody Link

Help Us Keep You Informed Link

Blackout hits Oahu, vacationing Obama Link
PHOTOS- Obamas visit aquatic park, eat shave ice on outing Link
Obama has no plans to visit Iraq before inauguration, say aides Link
VIDEO- AP Exclusive: Caroline Kennedy Talks Senate Seat Link
VIDEO- A Salute To Tito The Builder Link
Candidate For RNC Chair Sends Out CD With Song Called "Barack, The Magic Negro" Link
Americans Choose Obama As Most Admired In The World Link
VIDEO- Obama drops in at Marine base in Hawaii to say Merry Christmas Link
Bidens name new puppy Link
New inauguration plans place thousands of additional buses in DC Link
VIDEO- Joe and Jill Biden Serve Homeless On Christmas Eve Link
Obama influencing reality tv show substance Link
Geek-in-chief or "nerd-adjacent"? Link
PhotObama: Somber good-bye to Toot edition Link
PhotObama: Barack and Michelle edition Link
Mele Kalikimaka! Obama at the Gym on Christmas Eve Link
CNN Poll: Obama transition draws approval of 4 in 5 Americans Link
Bits and Bobs Link
VIDEO- President-elect Obama's Weekly Address, Christmas Version Link
VIDEO- 2008's Sleaziest Campaign Ads Link
Obama's Rules of Scandal Management Link
PHOTO- CNN's idiotc chryon over Obama shirtless pic Link
VIDEO- Rahm's 21 Conversations That Never Happened Link
Going to the inauguration? Link
Best-selling children's book on Obama brings changes for young Texas artist Link
Secretary of the Navy watch: Obama Vetting First Openly Gay Military Chief Link
VIDEO: Tour Obama's Hawaiian digs, plus bonus! Topless Obama and other (less fit) topless presidents! Link
For Obama, Honest Tea is the best policy Link
South Florida Obama supporters are cruising to the inauguration Link
Paparazzo snaps shirtless Obama, website crashes Link
Readers pick Cokie Roberts' "foreign, exotic" Hawaii comments as Most Inane Punditry Link
ObamaDiet Link

Updated Happy Links | Report to Admin

By Celtic Dec 29th 2008 at 10:02 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:02 am EST)

VIDEO- 60 Minutes- Campaign Comeback Link

Chinese teen to attend Obama inauguration Link

VIDEO- 60 Minutes- The Long-Shot Candidate Link

Iffy poll represents troops' support of Obama as iffy Link

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER Dec 28th 2008 at 6:42 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:42 pm EST)

Hi Everyone. Can't wait to watch it. Not having a TV I have to wait until it's over and then catch it on line. This site never fails to amaze me. Christopher just keeps making it better and better!

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By Tamara "Hussein" Dec 28th 2008 at 10:09 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:09 pm EST)

Thanks Celtic for your informative links. I love reading them all.

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 28th 2008 at 10:28 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:28 pm EST)

as the sun shines on us this day
we hope and pray things go our way
another day for us to see our friends
glad for their support that never ends
we hold them in our hearts with care
knowing the love we have must be shared
they bring smiles to our day in a speical way
lets hope our friends come here to stay

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" Dec 28th 2008 at 10:32 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:32 pm EST)

Nice!

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:42 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:42 am EST)

Road to the White House was a journey I will never forget, what a awesome ride!!

Love & Hugs!!

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By !Rhonda - We are President Obama's Secret Weapon & We are going to keep calling and emailing the fence straggling Senators! Dec 28th 2008 at 6:56 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:56 pm EST)

Congrats Hanna!!!!

You are First!!!

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 28th 2008 at 7:01 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:01 pm EST)

hi rhonda nice to see you been awhile lol

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By !Rhonda - We are President Obama's Secret Weapon & We are going to keep calling and emailing the fence straggling Senators! Dec 28th 2008 at 9:32 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:32 pm EST)

hi RJ..ummmm...it's only been a day and a-half lol(hahahaha).
Sorry didn't answer you back but I was looking at 60 minutes and now I am just getting back. What did I miss?.

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 28th 2008 at 10:19 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:19 pm EST)

we feel incomplete when our friends are not here
our strong heart seems to have disappeared
we miss him and keep him in our prayers

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By Eric from Oklahoma City, OK Dec 28th 2008 at 7:17 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:17 pm EST)

CHECK OUT THIS AWESOME OBAMA WEBSITE!!! Link

Re: Road to the White House | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein Dec 28th 2008 at 9:20 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:20 pm EST)

Watched 'Road to the White House'- man, what a journey this has been!

Onward and upward.

Re: bail out | Report to Admin

By Donee from Gibbstown, NJ Dec 29th 2008 at 12:29 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:29 am EST)

We know that it is costing 10million dollars a day in Iraq and the US govt is spending 750 billion to bail out the auto industry. Well, there are NOT a billion US adult citizens so why can't the govt use some of the 750 billion dollars that would be used to bail out one sector of our society and give all US adult citizens 1 million dollars. This would surely bail out the US economy. Many people would buy new cars, new clothes, travel by plane, etc... We would stimulate our own economy! By giving the auto industry soooooo much money this does not help the rest of our economy.

Re: bail out | Report to Admin

By Obamaismyguy! Dec 29th 2008 at 12:55 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:55 am EST)

This has been debunked so many times. If you divided 700 billion among 300 million adults, that would be about $2,333 per person. Not enough to really help the economy long term.

MONDAY MORNING POSTS | Report to Admin

By Stephen C. Rose in NYC Dec 29th 2008 at 7:01 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 7:01 am EST)

Monday Morning Obama Related Posts

Nasty Obama Song Appalls RNC Chair Link

Axelrod: Middle Class Tax Cut Still Alive Link

Recent Obama Related Posts

Obama Science Picks Have Global Reach Link

Barack Shirtless. The Great Transcender. Link

Melissa Ethridge and Pastor Rick Link

All Posts on one page: Link

RSS: Link
RSS COMMENTS: Link

Huffington Post Bio/Menu Link

Re: MONDAY MORNING POSTS | Report to Admin

By Stephen C. Rose in NYC Dec 29th 2008 at 9:13 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 9:13 am EST)

A few more at Link

Obama for America 2.0 AKA Us Link

Obama Bursts Bubble Bristling All The Way Link

NEW THREAD HAS ARRIVED...... | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER Dec 28th 2008 at 6:31 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:31 pm EST)

WOW!! WHO WAS FIRST?

Re: NEW THREAD HAS ARRIVED...... | Report to Admin

By Sandradee believes: Aint no mountain High Enough Dec 28th 2008 at 6:36 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:36 pm EST)

Hey Marilyn.

Re: NEW THREAD HAS ARRIVED...... | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 28th 2008 at 7:35 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:35 pm EST)

OUR NEW PRESIDENT WILL ALWAYS BE FIRST IN MY BOOK. HE IS FANTASTIC amen he's the man

Hello | Report to Admin

By Sandradee believes: Aint no mountain High Enough Dec 28th 2008 at 6:32 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:32 pm EST)

Everybody.

Re: Hello | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 28th 2008 at 6:58 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:58 pm EST)

a new thread we got from chris
now we can say we're moving ahead
always remember to make a wish
when we are granted a new thread

Re: Hello | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 28th 2008 at 6:58 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:58 pm EST)

Hi, too! Finally made it over from the last thread.

Hometown Newspaper Speaks Out | Report to Admin

By Kelly from Illinois Dec 28th 2008 at 6:49 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:49 pm EST)

I posted this toward the end of the last thread (and am very proud of myself that I linked it!.... although I must admit my 16 yr old showed me how)...

It's an opinion piece written by the editor of the newspaper here in Springfield. A good read, if you're interested about this whole Blagojevich situation and the media's reaction.

Link

Re: Hometown Newspaper Speaks Out | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER Dec 28th 2008 at 6:59 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 6:59 pm EST)

That was a great article, Kelly. Thanks.

It's about time someone told a story the way it is. I am so sick of the right wing media. Today when I was listening to the Sunday shows it was so obvious which shows were right and which remained neutral. Even when a Republican is supporting PE Obama these right wingers try their best to bait them.

The more I listen the more Republicans I hear coming over to our way of thinking. That's a good thing.

Re: Hometown Newspaper Speaks Out | Report to Admin

By Kelly from Illinois Dec 28th 2008 at 7:15 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:15 pm EST)

:) I agree, Marilyn. And it is a good thing.

Re: Hometown Newspaper Speaks Out | Report to Admin

By Acorn from Texas Dec 28th 2008 at 7:08 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:08 pm EST)

Good Article. The sole purpose for most of the MSM is to sale newspapers/magazines and/or getting us to watch their programming--that's it.

Re: Hometown Newspaper Speaks Out | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein Dec 28th 2008 at 9:13 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:13 pm EST)

Good piece! Thanks for posting!

United Nations Food Program (Repost) | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 28th 2008 at 7:02 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:02 pm EST)

There is a website that contributes grains of rice to the United Nations Food Program for every correct answer to a vocabulary/language or math question that you answer correctly. A language arts teacher showed me this web site a couple of years ago that she introduced to her students. I just contributed 1000 grains of rice. Here is the link in case anyone is interested. It's fun for kids, too!!! Link

Re: United Nations Food Program (Repost) | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER Dec 28th 2008 at 8:05 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:05 pm EST)

1200 grains from me!!!

Re: United Nations Food Program (Repost) | Report to Admin

By Doris from MD Dec 28th 2008 at 8:06 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:06 pm EST)

I just contributed over 2300 grains. That was fun.

Re: United Nations Food Program (Repost) | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 28th 2008 at 8:11 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:11 pm EST)

I made it to 1100 grains

keeping up | Report to Admin

By rich Dec 28th 2008 at 7:09 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:09 pm EST)

keeping up :

Link

Will MoveOn live up to its name?

By ANDIE COLLER | 12/27/08 6:22 PM EST

After more than a decade spent railing against the Republican machine, MoveOn wants to move on —even if it means leaving some of its high-minded ideals behind.

Last week, the group’s members chose their top four priorities for the organization, winnowed down from a top-10 list culled from 50,000 suggestions. The decisions they weighed would determine in large part whether the group would become a friend or foe of the Obama administration, a player or a gadfly in progressive politics, a piece of the Democratic machine or a thorn in the party’s side.

What they chose: universal health care; economic recovery and job creation; building a green economy; stopping climate change; and end the war in Iraq.

What they didn’t: holding the Bush administration accountable; fighting for gay rights and LGBT equality; and reforming campaigns and elections.

MoveOn Executive Director Eli Pariser says that this happy alignment with Barack Obama’s agenda — and fortuitous absence of conflict with same — comes in part because “the people he’s listening to and the people we’re listening to are the same people.”

...

Re: keeping up | Report to Admin

By rich Dec 28th 2008 at 7:14 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:14 pm EST)

Link

Official Voting Results

On December 17th, MoveOn members began 2 days of voting to decide our top goals for 2009. Each member was able to vote for 3 goals. Here are the final results, with the percentage of members who included each goal in their top 3. The graph below shows how many votes each goal received, as a share of the total.

Goal

1. Universal health care 64.9%
2. Economic recovery and job creation 62.1%
3. Build green economy, stop climate change 49.6%
4. End the war in Iraq 48.3%
5. Improve public schools 21.6%
6. Restore civil liberties 16.8%
7. Hold the Bush Administration accountable 15.2%
8. Gay rights/LGBT equality 8.6%
9. Increase access to higher education 7.6%
10. Reform campaigns and elections 5.7%

60 Minutes Is On--East Coast Time | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 28th 2008 at 7:27 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:27 pm EST)

Just a friendly reminder!!!

60 minutes | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Dec 28th 2008 at 7:27 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:27 pm EST)

Barack Obama's Road to the White House is now airing on the eastcoast. Full hour.

Re: 60 minutes | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Dec 28th 2008 at 7:44 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:44 pm EST)

Oh man! I missed the 1st part.... watching now!

Re: 60 minutes | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Dec 28th 2008 at 7:47 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:47 pm EST)

I THINK this is a repeat - not sure - so I TIVO'd it just in case.

Am having a great time hooking to to "FreeCycle" (freecycle.com) - a place where you just exchange stuff - no money changes hands.

It's a group of Yahoo's - so you have to become a member, etc. ,etc -

As part of reducing the amount of waste I put into the environment, it's one step.

Another one will be Worms - yummers! I've got to buy a whole bunch, throw them in a tub that's holey, and start tossing in the dry and wet.

A simplified explanation - but that's about it.

I'm having a difficult time tracking down food in bulk - meaning bins and buying by the pound - the stores get their grains delivered in large thick paper sacks.

It would be cool if you could get an Environmental Tax Credit, as a store, for every non-plastic, biodegradable product you provide.

we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By James a Vietnam Vet from NC Dec 28th 2008 at 7:45 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:45 pm EST)

Ben-Gurion and other Zionist leaders prior to the forced establishment of a state of Israel in an Arab country through a UN mandate had initiated a plan to to expand and perform a process of ethnic cleansing in Palestine. The government of Israel has thwarted every effort to end the conflict and utilized its U.S. supported military to drive the Palestinians out of Palestine and to establish the 'Greater Israel'. Every day the Palestinian people are subject to assault, imprisonment, home demolishion, bullets fired, missiles launched, food & water restrictions, no access to hospitals or doctors, body searches, including strip searches of children and endless abuse and cruelty, which includes permissible murder by so called settlers. Israel is no victim here, as the filtered media pretends and in the end the real victims are the desperate Palestinian people needing us to hear their starving and dying children. When no one will listen then missiles are used to wake the world up to the reality of the terrorism of Israel.

“And, what a farce the so-called disengagement in Gaza was. The Israeli government still controls all access to Gaza by land, sea, and air. Bargouthi documented that only 25 of over 150 settlements will be dismantled, and only 8,475 of over 436,000 settlers [less than 2 percent of settlers] have been evacuated. Meanwhile, in the past year, 12,800 new settlers have moved into the West Bank — 50 percent more settlers than were evacuated.”

“This is no withdrawal, this is BS! Until Palestinians have control of Gaza’s borders and a guaranteed passage between Gaza and the West Bank, it is not a withdrawal; it’s just BS propaganda! And Gaza is less than 6 percent of the occupied territories, and that leaves 94 percent of Palestinian territories under the boot of the IDF. The corruption in the PA government and hot tempers from those under occupation are a powder keg that’s getting ready to blow! What’s it going to take to wake the world up to the fact that most of our problems with radical Islamist fundamentalist militants leads us back to the conflict in Israel and Palestine? All roads do indeed lead to Jerusalem. What’s it going to take before the International community gets it together and insists, in unity, upon the upholding of international law as the rule we all live by?
Link

Re: we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Dec 28th 2008 at 7:56 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 7:56 pm EST)

We rarely get to learn the two sides of this controversial area.

The Israelis provide our best intelligence - I have no doubt.

They also have the best trained army, bar none, in the area - because they have to be.

The Palestinians, in my opinion, were simply shoved aside as yet another Western cutting up of lands that they don't understand.

However, the reason for Israel, the annihilation of their people in the 1930's through to the 1940's - and yes many others as well - the mentally ill, any dissident or Jewish sympathizer and many in between - must be taken into account.

The passionate religions of the Islamic and Israelis reflect the passions of Northern Ireland - reflect so many other 'ethnic cleansing' atrocities. There's simply more money invested in the Middle Eastern conflict, thanks to our dependence on oil.

I'm wondering if the successful systems the Clinton Global Initiative have implemented to address hunger and AIDS worldwide would be equally effective on these battlings.

CGI uses a micro/small approach instead of a macro/large approach. It's more effective - it's sort of like the Indian saying, "To eat an entire elephant you must take one bite at a time."

The United Nations needs to be empowered and use their power to assist in working this out.

Re: we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By Greg & Matt in Champions, Houston, TX Dec 28th 2008 at 9:13 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:13 pm EST)

James that was a very inciteful post and I concur with many parts of it.

It is time for a look at all of our nation's relationships with other countries. This includes Israel. The Palestinian people have just as much right to exist as the Jewish people do. Their rage is simmering just below the surface and when it erupts we may be forced to choose between protecting Israel or protecting our economy. I can only hope we make the right choice. Many nations have rethought their blind patronage of Israel in light of the overt oppression Israel brings down on the Palestinian people.

I personally do not believe Israel is sincere in their desire for peace, I never have. This is not a popular view in our country, but a valid one none the less. Remember Israelis honestly believe that they as human beings are more important than any other group of people. I also do not believe Hamas is sincere or the right leadership for the Palestinians as they support terrorism.

Israel has become the oppressor much in the image of those who once oppressed and segregated them. It has a bad image problem, one it has brought upon itself.

Re: we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 28th 2008 at 10:46 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:46 pm EST)

James, this unrest in the Middle East actually dates even further back to the time of Hagar (Sarai's hand maiden, and the mother of Ishmael). It has escalated because both sides refuse to acknowledge the others' right to exist. Israel was given the Land of Canaan by the Most High God, and I will leave it there. The Jews and the Arabs are cousins who must learn to coexist in peace. This really is a battle between the biblical descendants of Shem. As someone mentioned earlier, they have managed to drag the rest of us (descendants of Ham and Japheth) into this family war. The Israelis and the Palestinians must decide collaboratively that they want peace. I am not sure if this will ever occur; yet, I hope that it will one day. It seems as if they only want to fight until they are both destroyed. Strangely, both sides are religious. How they explain all the killings to God is beyond me.

Re: we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By Greg & Matt in Champions, Houston, TX Dec 28th 2008 at 11:36 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:36 pm EST)

"It seems as if they only want to fight until they are both destroyed. Strangely, both sides are religious. How they explain all the killings to God is beyond me."

Wiser words I have not read in a long time. Thank you.

Re: we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By JonnieRae Dec 29th 2008 at 2:16 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 2:16 am EST)

I pray that Obama sides with the oppressed. The Israelis are starving out the people of Gaza, denying them food and medicine. Those brought in wounded today are "better off dead" according to doctors in Gaza, because they have no medicine to treat them. the tunnels from Egypt, which Israel bombed, brought in food. They bombed a mosque, a university, killing at least 300 people, among them women and children, and wounding at least 400. They pledge not to stop. They are using AMerican bombs, 100 ton bombs, to effect this genocide. Hamas was a democratically elected government. Obama must note that using an elephant to stamp out a mouse is over reaction. The peace iniative was going so well in the West Bank. Now this. The Israelis do not care about the US standing in the world. Only their own hegemony. Obama faces a much more difficult situation now. WhY? Because one Israeli was killed by a rocket attack. I pray Obama, while recognizing the importance of one human life, also recognizes the importance of Palestinian lives. They have a right to work, to eat, to go to school, to go to pray, to build their own businesses and life. Obama, take the high road on this, please, Do not cave to AIPAC.

Re: we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By Vancouverfan Dec 29th 2008 at 9:00 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 9:00 am EST)

Excellent post JohnnieRae. The weapons sold to the Israelis have created a David and Goliath situation in the region and though I empathize with the people enduring missle attacks I do not understand their lack of concern for the causes.

Israel has bascially imprisoned the Palestineans in both Gaza and the West Bank. The attacks are also tied to their upcoming election.

Re: we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By Wael from St. Paul, MN Dec 29th 2008 at 10:28 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:28 am EST)

I totaly agree with you James. The only country inthe world that gives Israel complete blind support is the US. The Israeli government understands that they don't need the rest of the world, as long as they have the US on their side. Israel spends more money lobbying our congress more that any other country.
The questiion that nobody dares even to ask is the following. Can the Congress and the Wite House be ever free from AIPAC influence.
The US policy in the Middle East has been held hostage to the AIPAC for decades now. AIPAC represents the most extreme hawkish elements of Israel. Unlike most Israeli people, AIPAC is not interested in peace.
Until our government is able to free itself from AIPAC, there will never be peace in the Middle East. The sad reality is that we are as Americans paying the price for the continuing violence. We are held accountable for the actions of Israel by the Arab world.
Read more about AIPAC
Link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v =uNQv5YSg_YA

Re: we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 29th 2008 at 1:39 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 1:39 pm EST)

I cannot wait until Susan Rice takes over as Ambassador to the UN. Zalmay Khalilzad, the current ambassador, sided with Israel in this current crisis in Gaza unlike UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon who correctly chastised both sides---Palestine for the constant rocket firing into Israel, and Israel for using excessive force to protect itself. Protection is one thing; annihilation is another. Khalilzad should have taken an aggressive peacemaking position instead he has only fueled more Muslim hatred against the US. This is just a typical Bush Administration concept of handling the problem. Both sides need to stop!!! Interestingly, the Palestinians are the descendants of Goliath of Gath (as in David and Goliath). Israel of the Old Testament comprised the "Lost Tribes" that were taken by the Assyrians. Israel today is Judah (David's relatives) of the Old Testament. Yes, we are back to David vs. Goliath. The Israeli newspaper has condemned the force that Israel used citing it as the "neighborhood bully". It will take pressure from the international world for both sides to stop. They have been fighting since BC. If you think that I am kidding, peruse the books of Samuel in the Old Testament which are loaded with battles between the two sides. The Palestinians are the Philistines of the Old Testament. They were originally descendants of Ham. They are over 93% Muslim which means that the Arab world sides with them. The Arabs and Jews are descendants of first cousins so this current crisis leads to more hostility among the cousins. Please God, "LET THERE BE PEACE ON EARTH"!!!

Re: we need a change of American policy towards Israel-Palestine | Report to Admin

By go obama!!! Dec 29th 2008 at 2:29 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 2:29 pm EST)

You are correct. But unfortunately there will never be peace on earth. Things are going to get worse before they get better, and they will not get better until Jesus comes again.

Hello Obama Landers | Report to Admin

By Megan in Northwest Indiana Dec 28th 2008 at 8:09 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:09 pm EST)

* Dec 28 (6)

o Setting a Journalist Example: Rachel Maddow looks...Link
o John and Yoko Link
o National Archives Overwhelmed by Bush Terabytical ... Link
o Being an 'Obama' in South Florida is not the same ... Link
o Darkness in Hawaii: That was the night the lights... Link
o Front Pages: The Pulse of the National Link

ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Doreen D IOWA Dec 28th 2008 at 8:10 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:10 pm EST)

IOWA in the house til 1:30am. Howdy all. Whose out there? watching 60min right?

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Lace; Yes We Did Dec 28th 2008 at 8:15 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:15 pm EST)

Wisconsin, present for Obama!

I won't be watching but I'll catch it on youtube.

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Doris from MD Dec 28th 2008 at 8:21 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:21 pm EST)

Maryland here too. Ready to rock and roll into the new year with President-elect Barack Obama!!!

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Donna No Shock Barack No Drama Obama of MD Dec 28th 2008 at 8:24 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:24 pm EST)

Double rocking and rolling here in MD.
Hi Doris....You've got O-Mail

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Doris from MD Dec 28th 2008 at 8:27 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:27 pm EST)

Got it, you have O-mail, lol.

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Doreen D IOWA Dec 28th 2008 at 8:34 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:34 pm EST)

I like that, rocking and rolling into the new year, yes we can!! hey Nan, are you out there?

You guys, my daughter got me "The Audicity Of Hope", my son, got the coins for me, I was so happy, I started reading the book, I feel so connected to our man's thoughts, so far its an awesome book!!!

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Doris from MD Dec 28th 2008 at 8:35 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:35 pm EST)

Yes it is. He is awesome!!! Come on 2009!!!!!!

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Obamaismyguy! Dec 29th 2008 at 12:49 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:49 am EST)

I already had "Audacity of Hope" but got "Dreams from My Father" and both the Time and Life books on the campaign. Very cool. I didn't even know they were out yet. Can you tell my family knows I'm a Barack supporter? lol

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Anthony in N.C. Dec 28th 2008 at 8:42 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:42 pm EST)

Good Evening Obama Family!!!

I cannot wait to hearing about details of President Elect Obama's economic stimulus plan so that we can have discussions about substantive issues.

Also, I want to see how the Republicans going to react and hear what alternatives they will offer. It seems that the only thing they can offer is making George Bush's tax cuts for the rich permanent. Their idea of trickle down economics and giving more to the wealthy turns out to be a bust for economy and helping us to respond to the current recession.

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Doreen D IOWA Dec 28th 2008 at 8:49 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:49 pm EST)

Anthony, look at where the tax breaks taken us for the rich, it doesn't work, I hope they realize it, and that PE sticks to his guns.

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 28th 2008 at 8:37 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:37 pm EST)

I'm here to join in the roll call LOL

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By "Grab a Mop" Regbon, a real "czarina" who is happy about change we all believe in!!! Dec 28th 2008 at 8:35 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:35 pm EST)

Va Beach, VA in the house and just finished watching 60 minutes. It was great!!

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Dec 28th 2008 at 8:36 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:36 pm EST)

New York in the House -

and ready to party New Year's Eve

until 10PM - what a party animal!
Maybe one drink - Maybe..

Over the top man, over the top!

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Doreen D IOWA Dec 28th 2008 at 8:42 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:42 pm EST)

NY Women, I don't drink, but I just may tie one over this time, I have wine, champagne in my home that has been given to me as gifts, but never do I crack the bottle, so I just may this time, it is something to be thankful for, so I have a little bit of thinking to do.

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Anthony in N.C. Dec 28th 2008 at 8:45 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:45 pm EST)

Doreen,

You realize that we only have 23 more days to the swearing in of the 44th President of the United States of America.

Sounds great to me!!! LOL

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Doreen D IOWA Dec 28th 2008 at 8:52 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:52 pm EST)

Yes Anthony, what are you saying, go for it!!

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Sandradee believes: Aint no mountain High Enough Dec 28th 2008 at 8:44 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:44 pm EST)

Long Island, NY here grooving to the Obama beat lol

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Connie_W in Arizona Dec 28th 2008 at 8:47 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:47 pm EST)

Arizona is here. I'm watching 60 minutes right now.

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Stacey Dec 28th 2008 at 9:00 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:00 pm EST)

San Francisco Bay Area here!

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 28th 2008 at 9:36 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:36 pm EST)

Peach State of GA in the house!!!

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By David Hussein Hopkins Willingboro,NJ Dec 28th 2008 at 10:07 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:07 pm EST)

New Jersey in the house Yes We Did!

Link

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" Dec 28th 2008 at 10:40 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:40 pm EST)

Florida here!

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER Dec 28th 2008 at 11:07 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:07 pm EST)

From one sister to another, Florida in the house. Marilyn is here.

I hope everyone is fine tonight.

Re: ROLL CALL! | Report to Admin

By AlaskaObamaLady Dec 29th 2008 at 11:37 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:37 am EST)

Alaska is here....well, it is thirty below this morning heading to forty below, so hunkered down, but here for Obama!

Change.gov Website | Report to Admin

By Anthony in N.C. Dec 28th 2008 at 8:49 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 8:49 pm EST)

Do any of you go to the change.gov website and participate on the blogs?

What is your opinion of the blogs and the ease in participating on the blogs?

Re: Change.gov Website | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 28th 2008 at 9:45 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:45 pm EST)

Anthony, I think that I did this about a month ago. If I recall correctly, you can select which area that you are interested and participate. I handled the blog, but I remember thinking that it took some manipulating. When I contributed information on health care, I responded via E-mail when it was sent to me. Patriot2008 in the Peach State (GA)

Obama needs to break the mold when it comes to the Israeli/Palistinian Conflict | Report to Admin

By ZAZ Dec 28th 2008 at 9:00 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:00 pm EST)

Obama needs to think outside the box when it comes to the Israeli /Palestinian conflict.
There is no question that Israel is militarily and economically powerful. There is also no doubt that the Israeli support in the US is extremely powerful. This is not limited to support by the Jewish people but rather Israel enjoys the support of all American politicians of either party.

The Palestinians and the Israelis are locked in lopsided struggle. We have watched the status quo for years, which only leads to radicalization of the Palestinians and the Muslim world.
We need a coalition of progressives of all stripes and backgrounds including progressives within Israel, Palestine and the Arab world. When it comes to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, it appears that there are more progressives in Israel than in the US. I am no expert on the issue, but I do know that this conflict is at the root of the animosity towards the US. The perceived unfair treatment of the Palestinian and the unbalanced firepower between the two groups is providing fodder to the fundamentalist in all Muslim countries.

The Israeli/Palestinian conflict need to be addressed beyond the usual narrative and approaches. It is not just that far off "poor Palestinian civilians and besieged Israel" conflict. It is "The Conflict."

And Yes, the US can be an honest broker but only if the progressives take the lead. This conflict is a "black-hole, that is sucking us all down the drain. This mini-war is a dream come true to the terrorist. It threatens to tip the good will feeling the US may have enjoyed with the Obama win. It also undermines the voices of all of the moderates in the Arab and Muslim world. I don't know what a Hillary Clinton SOS will entail, but Obama needs to break the mold. PE Obama needs to define a vision for resolution of the Palestinian/Israeli conflict.

Re: Obama needs to break the mold when it comes to the Israeli/Palistinian Conflict | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Dec 28th 2008 at 9:09 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:09 pm EST)

Good Post.

Re: Obama needs to break the mold when it comes to the Israeli/Palistinian Conflict | Report to Admin

By Anthony in N.C. Dec 28th 2008 at 9:32 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:32 pm EST)

I guess people realize that this conflict between Arabs and Israelis has been in existence since Biblical time. This conflict will not cease until both groups decide to sit down and work out a resolution which means letting go of some tranditional beliefs. The conflict seems to be over land and where people have the right to live.

It seems the only out of the box solution is to move the Palenstians to a place where their population can expand and they can create an independent nation.

Re: Obama needs to break the mold when it comes to the Israeli/Palistinian Conflict | Report to Admin

By JonnieRae Dec 29th 2008 at 2:21 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 2:21 am EST)

unfair treatment is not "perceived." These people have been living in refugee camps for over 50 years. They cannot travel freely because they have no passports. They are used by the Israelis as servants. (Remember the remarks of Rahm's father, who is Israeli) Their houses are blown up. They cannot fish beyond 3 miles. They cannot use the beaches. They cannot work without Israeli permission. It is Apartheid and US sponsored genocide. Obama HAS to get this one right.

YES WE CAN! | Report to Admin

By joe ruwe Dec 28th 2008 at 9:15 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:15 pm EST)

impeachment? war crimes trials? crimes against humanity tribunals? public humiliation/stoning?

YES WE CAN!

(it's not too late)

you know they deserve it.....

Bush/Cheney - most brazen criminals ever.

Re: YES WE CAN! | Report to Admin

By Greg & Matt in Champions, Houston, TX Dec 28th 2008 at 9:21 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:21 pm EST)

And let me tell you there are plenty here in Texas who would be more than willing to host the trials and serve on the jury. Those two War Criminals have tainted the name of our state and neither one is a native Texan.

Re: YES WE CAN! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Jacqueline O'Boomer - "O' beautiful, for spacious skies" Dec 28th 2008 at 10:42 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:42 pm EST)

Understand - and when Jeb Bush was to become governor here in Florida, I almost considered moving! (Jeb turned out to be much better than expected, especially following hurricanes, but I was still tempted to roll on out of here!)

Re: YES WE CAN! | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 28th 2008 at 11:28 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:28 pm EST)

Ha! Ha! I still don't trust any Bush!!!

Re: YES WE CAN! | Report to Admin

By Kelly from Illinois Dec 29th 2008 at 1:57 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 1:57 am EST)

Hey, Joe. Miss you around here.

As for your suggestions.... yes it's not too late, yes they deserve it, and yes Bush/Cheney are the most brazen criminals ever.

I'm also going to add Rumsfeld, Gonzales, and my personal all time favorite criminal mastermind... Karl Rove (who was one of the crew that was allowed to just ignore a congressional subpoena).

No one talks about any of them anymore, except on some of the progessive talk shows I listen to. The arrogance of these outgoing interviews that Bush and Cheney are giving... the blatant twisting of the constitution and attempt to revise the history of the last 8 years... the abuses of power...

I guess my worry is that Democrats are going to let all of this go because of so many other high profile crises occurring simultaneously as Obama will take office. (Planned by the outgoing administration? Yup, in more instances than we want to believe).

My hope is that Obama will let the new AG and his Justice Department loose and give them free reign to investigate and prosecute where appropriate. Because if he doesn't, it's going to happen again in some future Republican Administration... the precedent will have been set.

Re: YES WE CAN! | Report to Admin

By joe ruwe Dec 29th 2008 at 12:28 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:28 pm EST)

great post!!!!!!!!!!

New York | Report to Admin

By sheilasnewyork Dec 28th 2008 at 9:24 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:24 pm EST)

New York here

Wishing all a happy Chanukah!!

Thank you Cilia | Report to Admin

By ZAZ Dec 28th 2008 at 9:29 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:29 pm EST)

I just found out that PE Obama in a interview with CNN Zakaria had stated that there needs to be a bold move in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. That is heartening. I am going to look for it now.

Re: Thank you Cilia | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Dec 28th 2008 at 9:40 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:40 pm EST)

ZAZ,

Look at this as " a new face of an old conflict".You also have to put into perspective the"New Administration" that will Handel the Conflict in that region: Hillary Clinton will be the one who has to go head to head with Both Sides on this one.

This will be an interesting story to watch unfold as the U.S. is always "pro Israel" and has struggled with "the peace process" in that region for half a century.

Barack Obama will be watched carefully during this dust up to see how his administration will side. So far NOT A WORD.

Re: Thank you Cilia | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein Dec 28th 2008 at 9:49 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:49 pm EST)

I'm guessing the Obama Admin. will have a more 'Pro-Israel' stance, but that they (Israel) will no longer receive a blank check for their behavior- just guessing.

I'm a bit neutral on this matter. I don't really expect any drastic changes in the region- at least not right away.

Re: Thank you Cilia | Report to Admin

By Loretta Dec 28th 2008 at 11:21 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:21 pm EST)

There will never be a peace between the Israeli and Palestinian people as long as there are violent organized extremist groups like Hamas who are denying Israels right to exist. Israel will fight to the death for that right. Hamas should stop the attacks and stop providing Israel with an excuse to hold onto land that does not belong to them.

Re: Thank you Cilia | Report to Admin

By Greg & Matt in Champions, Houston, TX Dec 28th 2008 at 11:34 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:34 pm EST)

Although Hamas is not the the leadership Palestinians need, Israel is doing itself no favors either.

I can only hope our new leader takes a more neutral and thoughtful approach. We can no longer afford to blindly support Israel and have our nation associated with the photos of bloodied innocent children being rushed to hospitals. Photos like those just perpetuate the horror filled images coming from Iraq for the past 5+ years. After all it is our munitions provided to Israel that is doing the damage to Palestinian children and homes. They don't make their weapons...we do.

Re: Thank you Cilia | Report to Admin

By marti Dec 29th 2008 at 12:22 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:22 am EST)

I heard Israel warned and warned Hamas to STOP the rocket attacks or else.... I cry for the Palestinians, and I cry for the people of Israel too. Some where there has to be an answer that is fair and acceptable to most.

Re: Thank you Cilia | Report to Admin

By Vancouverfan Dec 29th 2008 at 9:09 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 9:09 am EST)

Unfortunately Israel did this as they denied food, medicine and movement for all Palestineans. They have imprisoned these people and are able to do this with weapons and support from countries like yours and mine.

Who can judge how a people will react when they are imprisoned like animals with no future. Jimmy Carter was condemned when he tried to explain the situation in Gaza and the West Bank just like PE Obama and others were scorned by the Republicans and the press for standing up against the war in Iraq.

Hello Obama Landers | Report to Admin

By Megan in Northwest Indiana Dec 28th 2008 at 9:30 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:30 pm EST)

Sunday, December 28, 2008
60 Minutes December 28, 2008 - Road to The White House --Nobody thought 'That One' would be/could be President Link

Wanna Poll? | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein Dec 28th 2008 at 9:36 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 9:36 pm EST)

FDR Edges Out Reagan As Better President:

It’s a showdown between the two most influential presidents of the 20th Century. Franklin D. Roosevelt versus Ronald W. Reagan.

Forty-five percent (45%) of U.S. voters say FDR, the Democratic father of the big government New Deal who led the country to victory in World War II, was the better president of the two.

But 40% say Reagan, the Republican champion of small-government conservatism and the winner of the Cold War, was a better president. Fifteen percent (15%) aren’t sure which of the two they like better in a new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey.

Link

Hello everyone | Report to Admin

By James Brown.....Proudly Voted For President Obama ! Dec 28th 2008 at 10:15 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:15 pm EST)

Checking in from Eugene,Oregon. Setting here on the west coast watching "Road to the White House".

It still amazes me when i think about the long journey through the primaries , and General election.

Looking forward the the Inauguration.

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas , and all the best to you and yours in the New Year.

James

Re: Hello everyone | Report to Admin

By V-Day Dec 28th 2008 at 10:50 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:50 pm EST)

Hi. Thank You and back at you. Yes. it has been very nice. My friend from Florida flew in for a visit. Glad that Florida made us all proud. ;)

Watching a Movie And Thinking About Our Democracy!!! | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 28th 2008 at 10:23 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:23 pm EST)

I'm watching the Princess Diaries 2. Right at the beginning, the character Mia mentions that there are over 500 years of Grimaldi Family history on the walls of the palace. Suddenly, I thought to myself what it would be like in a country where the same family rules forever. Would there be freedom of speech, religion, and the rest of the Bill of Rights? Hardly! I suspect that I would be on the first boat out of there. This democracy of ours is special, and must be protected by all. It is rare, and unique because it is "of the people, by the people, and for the people". It is the land of those who went before us who struggled to make it a more "perfect" union. We have inherited this task, and we must continue to make it a more "perfect" union for those who will come after us regardless of whether they are our kin---they are Americans. It is our Earthly legacy and destiny.

DC | Report to Admin

By President Obama - I Like the sound of that! Dec 28th 2008 at 10:38 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:38 pm EST)

From Obama's future home in Washington DC, I saw the tv special and it was so awesome! so much stuff I had not seen before. I even taped it.

Please check out my blog about Obama "Mutt like me" Link

Wall St. closes out on 2008, year of record losses | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein Dec 28th 2008 at 10:38 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:38 pm EST)

Investors are preparing to close out the last three trading days of 2008, a year in which Wall Street has logged its worst performance since Herbert Hoover was president.

The ongoing recession and global economic shock pummeled stocks this year, with the Dow Jones industrial average slumping 36.2 percent. That's the biggest drop since 1931 when the Great Depression sent stocks reeling 40.6 percent.

Link

Re: Wall St. closes out on 2008, year of record losses | Report to Admin

By V-Day Dec 28th 2008 at 10:56 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 10:56 pm EST)

The past does not equal the future. Confidence going forward will be key.

Re: Wall St. closes out on 2008, year of record losses | Report to Admin

By Greg & Matt in Champions, Houston, TX Dec 28th 2008 at 11:25 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:25 pm EST)

Buy Ford (F). They are not taking bail out money and they have the cash available to survive.

We have been selling others in our portfolio and shifting to Ford. We have averaged our cost per share down to 1.47 in the past month. I think it will be a wise investment for our family and yours too.

Re: Wall St. closes out on 2008, year of record losses | Report to Admin

By V-Day Dec 28th 2008 at 11:40 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:40 pm EST)

Yes, Hey you are dead on. My brother taught me about getting after it. In other words, don't believe the sales person who states that it only comes standard with an interior color. No matter what, my Brother states, get me involved. I went on the internet and sure enough the sales guy was dead wrong. My Brother laughed soooo hard. It was good stuff.

tv | Report to Admin

By President Obama - I Like the sound of that! Dec 28th 2008 at 11:06 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:06 pm EST)

BET, TV One plan extensive inauguration coverage
By DAVID BAUDER – 2 hours ago

NEW YORK (AP) — BET and TV One, the television networks aimed primarily at a black audience, haven’t paid much attention to presidential inaugurations before. This time will be different.

Both are planning extensive coverage for Jan. 20, when Barack Obama is sworn in as the nation’s 44th president. While it will be followed as a news event, network executives said the installation of the first black president will be as much a celebration as a story.

“This is an opportunity to be the best we can be,” said Stephen Hill, BET’s programming chief. “We see this as an opportunity to inform and inspire our audience, which is what we always try to do.”

BET marked President George W. Bush’s last inauguration with a news brief, to say “Oh, it happened. What a shame,” he said.

This time, BET will cover the swearing-in and parade from four locations, including ground and rooftop sites on Pennsylvania Avenue. Anchoring the coverage will be Hill Harper of CBS’ “CSI: NY,” former CBS “The Early Show” host Rene Syler and Jeff Johnson, who hosts a weekly BET news program.

The networks will take a particular interest in speaking to people who have traveled to Washington to witness the event. On election night, their ratings peaked shortly after the general news networks declared Obama the winner — when black viewers turned to the stations to soak it in with the people on the air.

“They talked about the emotion of it,” said Johnathan Rodgers, TV One’s president. “Everyone talked about their own relatives and how they grew up. Almost everyone could not believe that it happened in our lifetime.”

TV One plans to follow the inauguration for 21 straight hours, from 6 a.m. EST on Jan. 20 to 3 a.m. EST the next day. Radio talk-show host Joe Madison and Art Fennell of CN8, the Comcast Network, will be the hosts. It’s already a big week for TV One: Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday the weekend before marks the fifth anniversary of the network’s launch.

With all that time on the air, TV One will do its best to give its audience a real flavor of being there, Rodgers said.

read the rest here Link

Re: tv | Report to Admin

By V-Day Dec 28th 2008 at 11:25 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:25 pm EST)

Change. Is it me or what, however will say have already noticed change in many small ways. Makes me proud. ;)

Good-Night | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Dec 28th 2008 at 11:31 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:31 pm EST)

Good-Night to all bloggers!!! Pray for the Middle East, please.

It was a long road..... | Report to Admin

By Lisa Holmes - Obama Precinct Captain #3361 Dec 28th 2008 at 11:34 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:34 pm EST)

My goodness...I think back on the primary here in Texas.

Thanks to all the folks who helped him get elected: through working the phones, going door to door, donations, blogging, voter registration, get out the vote campaign.

Thanks goes to the voters who turned out in the most historic election ever....!

Barack and Chris...I am still Fired up, Ready to go...!

Re: It was a long road..... | Report to Admin

By ♫ Cynthia ♫ championing choice, affordability and quality Healthcare in all 50 states Dec 29th 2008 at 5:22 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 5:22 am EST)

Hello from a fellow Texan.

I love the pictures on your blog page.

Throw a shoe at Bush | Report to Admin

By Morgan in Seattle..... ¨ ¨°º¤ ★ Yes We Did! ★ ¤º°¨ ¨ Dec 28th 2008 at 11:37 pm EST (Updated Dec 28th 2008 at 11:37 pm EST)

Here is your chance to throw a shoe at Bush....

Link

Still soaring high because... °º¤ ★ President Obama ★ ¤º°

¨°º¤ ★ Yes
¨°º¤ ★ We
¨°º¤ ★ Did!

Re: Throw a shoe at Bush | Report to Admin

By Loretta Dec 29th 2008 at 12:03 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:03 am EST)

Ha! That's a little mean don't you think? I don't want to throw a rock at Bush. I just want him to leave.

Re: Throw a shoe at Bush | Report to Admin

By Morgan in Seattle..... ¨ ¨°º¤ ★ Yes We Did! ★ ¤º°¨ ¨ Dec 29th 2008 at 12:24 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:24 am EST)

Sorry, I didn't mean to offend. I found it funny and I thought other people would too. It's been a very sad and frustrating 8 years with Bush.

A new day Jan 20th!

¨°º¤ ★ President Obama ★ ¤º°¨

¨°º¤ Yes
¨°º¤ We
¨°º¤ Did!

Re: Throw a shoe at Bush | Report to Admin

By grettyforObama Dec 29th 2008 at 12:47 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:47 am EST)

I thought it was fun!! Not that I would throw a shoe at any President, but I thought the game was fun!!

Re: Throw a shoe at Bush | Report to Admin

By Loretta Dec 29th 2008 at 2:40 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 2:40 pm EST)

No...no need to apologize, you haven't offended me sweetheart. :) and yes, it has been a very sad 8 years.

Re: Throw a shoe at Bush | Report to Admin

By Victoria Dec 29th 2008 at 2:20 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 2:20 am EST)

A new low. I wonder how much lower things will go before they get better.

Israel force vs Palistine is way to much! | Report to Admin

By Dan The Man Dec 29th 2008 at 2:36 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 2:36 am EST)

My last name is Berkowitz but I actually think that Isreal is going way overboard with the violence they are showing against Palistine.

Its almost the exact same thing that Russia was doing to Georgia, and the world was outraged.

I wish Obama would also break the mold and say that what they are doing is excessive and tell them to back off. they are starting a war that is unnessesary. This is the worst possible time for such a conflict, and I wish Obama would step up and say that things have to change for rea. Not just words. that he will be a president that will see both sides.

I dont know. It just seems to me that the deaths, and injuries suffered by one side, are way too much for what was done to them to provoke it.

This is coming from a Jew.

Re: Israel force vs Palistine is way to much! | Report to Admin

By grettyforObama Dec 29th 2008 at 2:56 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 2:56 am EST)

I agree 100%. Would you mine posting your comment to Change.gov, it may be more affective there. I am supporter for peace in any region of the world and I am also a supporter of every ethnic group who has been subjected to hate and violence. But this time around I do not support the actions of Israel, I think their actions are very extreme and hundreds of Palestinians’ lives have been lost because of the recent attacks. PE Obama should not support Israel.

Re: Israel force vs Palistine is way to much! | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:39 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:39 am EST)

Good points Gretchen, only thing I will say is that in order to get good results we have to treat people like we wanted to be treated. Both sides are to blame and the USA cannot show favor to one side or the other!

Love & Hugs!

Re: Israel force vs Palistine is way to much! | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:38 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:38 am EST)

Good points Dan. I will say is that in order to get good results we have to treat people like we wanted to be treated. Both sides are to blame and the USA cannot show favor to one side or the other!

Love & Hugs!

get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Deborah from Wichita, KS Dec 29th 2008 at 2:43 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 2:43 am EST)

I heard David Axelrod on t.v. this a.m. defending Israel, while it commits war crimes in the Gaza Strip. If Obama doesn't shift U.S. policy but merely reiterates the Bush administration's free pass to Israel to do whatever it wants, whenever it wants, U.S. longterm interests will suffer. What is more, Israel does not seem to ever learn anything from its own history. Anyone who thinks that Hamas will not come out of this stronger politically has forgotten that it was Hezbollah that came out the main winner from Israel's invasion of Lebanon in 2006.

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Victoria Dec 29th 2008 at 3:45 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 3:45 am EST)

Hamas has been shelling Israeli cities for months now with little response. Can you imagine trying to live that way? Afraid to even go to the market, etc., out of fear for your life from Hamas terrorism?

Israel is now retaliating. This response was carefully planned and is aimed at Hamas installations. Of course, Hamas says it is Palestinian civilians being killed but other intelligence says the vast majority of those killed are Hamas military combatants.

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:36 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:36 am EST)

Victoria I can understand your viewpoint, only thing I will say is that in order to get good results we have to treat people like we wanted to be treated. Both sides are to blame and the USA cannot show favor to one side or the other!

Love & Hugs!

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Greg & Matt in Champions, Houston, TX Dec 29th 2008 at 10:44 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:44 am EST)

Israel has been occupying Palestinian territory they took by force in 1967. Innocent Palestinian civilians have been living without the basic necessities of life for the past 40 years..clean water, electricity, jobs, food, hospital supplies....hope.

I'd be shelling too at this point. Israel has not delivered on their promise to return ALL of the land they stole. In fact they continue to settle it aggressively.

Hamas is not the leadership the Palestinians need for sure. However Israel has become just the oppressive regime that once persecuted and segregated them.

Two wrongs will never make a right and personally I am sick of my tax dollars being used to perpetuate this human atrocity.

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:46 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:46 am EST)

I agree Greg!!

Love & Hugs!!

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:35 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:35 am EST)

Deborah I can understand your viewpoint, only thing I will say is that in order to get good results we have to treat people like we wanted to be treated.
Both sides are to blame and the USA cannot show favor to one side or the other!

Love & Hugs!

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Nacola Dec 29th 2008 at 11:19 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:19 am EST)

I agree, Israel can't just do whatever it wants to because America has there backs. They should stand down now.

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 11:35 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:35 am EST)

I agree Nacola!!

Love & Hugs!

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Loretta Dec 29th 2008 at 12:46 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:46 pm EST)

Yes, Israel needs to leave Palestinian Lands.

Israel HAD pulled out of Gaza...have said that they do not wish to re occupy Gaza, but Hamas did not honor the cease fire agreement. Hamas has been firing missiles into Israeli territory for over a month now.

How long should Israel sit back and endure missile attacks from Hamas? I agree that Israeli retaliation has been too extreme, but let us be fair and unbiased....it was provoked by Hamas.

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 12:58 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:58 pm EST)

I can agree with that Loretta! Let's be fair to both sides of the issue. This is a touchy issue for alot of people. I pray that the fighting stops in Jesus Name!

Love, peace, joy, health, hugs and hope!

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By KJ Dec 29th 2008 at 2:49 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 2:49 pm EST)

I'm not 100% sure but I think in the bible GOD says HE would protect Israel. Being a believer of GOD's word I hope Pres Obama protects Israel. I just wish they all could just settle down and get along and live peacefully. Have a wonderful day everyone.

Re: get Israel out of Gaza | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 6:49 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 6:49 pm EST)

Ka yes we should protect Israel, but that goes for any place that are in need of our help. God is not a respecter of a person. We are to love everyone just like Jesus did and that means even our enemies.

Love, peace, joy, health, hugs and hope!!

obama on chicago public radio | Report to Admin

By President Obama - I Like the sound of that! Dec 29th 2008 at 3:39 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 3:39 am EST)

You guys have to hear this. Chicago Public Radio interview with Barack Obama from September 2001.
Link

Also here is another Chicago Public Radio segment with Senator Obama on a comedy show called "Wait wait don't tell me". Obama's very funny here.
Link

Re: obama on chicago public radio | Report to Admin

By Sandradee believes: Aint no mountain High Enough Dec 29th 2008 at 11:00 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:00 am EST)

Thanks for links Maria, I enjoyed listen to both.

Re: obama on chicago public radio | Report to Admin

By Marita Dec 29th 2008 at 11:53 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:53 am EST)

Yes, thanks - enjoyed them both.

Here's one of Obama's speech at the Gridiron Dinner - quite funny! Link

Re: obama on chicago public radio | Report to Admin

By Marita Dec 29th 2008 at 12:01 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:01 pm EST)

Does anyone know if there is a video of Obama's speech at the Gridiron Dinner?
Link

Re: obama on chicago public radio | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 11:41 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:41 am EST)

Thanks Maria!!

Love & Hugs!

Spelling | Report to Admin

By Anne West Dec 29th 2008 at 4:39 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 4:39 am EST)

As far as I know, the third person singular of debut is debuts not debutes. However, it is an uncomfortable French word and perhaps should not be used as a verb in a website which is, like the president-elect, noted for its beautiful English.

Re: Spelling | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 29th 2008 at 7:09 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 7:09 am EST)

our man looking like a diamond in the ruff
his smile that can soften many hearts
he is brave he is wise he is also tuff
we whatched as he played politics very smart
he won our support he won our hearts
he is always kind and sincere to all he meets
his wisdom gives him strength and vision
he worked for the poor and never fealt defeat
he found in his heart to take on this mission
his mind was set on changing our countrys future
he said yes we can and showed us yes we can

GOOD MORNING....... MONDAY AM ROLL CALL....... | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER Dec 29th 2008 at 6:57 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 6:57 am EST)

Another day is upon us
So one more day has past.
January 20th is that much closer
How will we ever last?

For two long years
We worked so hard,
We had Obama signs
In our front yard.

Along the way
We added a name,
When we welcomed Joe Biden
To our wall of fame.

When we canvassed and phoned
We used our voice,
We told everyone in our path
There was only one choice.

On November 4th
Our wish came true,
We watched our nation
Turn from red to blue.

Our "yes we can"
Became yes we won,
But our work is not over
It's only just begun.

GOOD MORNING EVERYONE!!

Re: GOOD MORNING....... MONDAY AM ROLL CALL....... | Report to Admin

By Livvy Dec 29th 2008 at 7:16 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 7:16 am EST)

Sydney, Australia..morning all from down under

Re: GOOD MORNING....... MONDAY AM ROLL CALL....... | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 29th 2008 at 7:22 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 7:22 am EST)

good morning to all in my opinion. the poem I wrote this morning. didn't come out so good.
but I guess they all can't be good. because I consider myself an amature. I must have been trying to hard lol

Re: GOOD MORNING....... MONDAY AM ROLL CALL....... | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER Dec 29th 2008 at 7:31 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 7:31 am EST)

RJ, you did just fine. Every thing you or any of us have to say is good. Stop putting yourself down. I know I speak for everyone here, we love your poems.

Here's something for you to ponder on. I wonder what Laura Bush was thinking or better yet, who was she talking about!

Mrs. Bush: Bush presidency not a failure

WASHINGTON (AP) - First Lady Laura Bush disagrees with critics who call the presidency of George W. Bush as failure.
"I know it's not, and so I don't really feel like I need to respond to people that view it that way," Mrs. Bush said in an interview that aired Sunday. "I think history will judge and we'll see later."

Re: GOOD MORNING....... MONDAY AM ROLL CALL....... | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 29th 2008 at 7:47 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 7:47 am EST)

I feel that bush let chenny and rove distroy his presidency. he was more or less bullied into invading iraq. because all his advisors came from his fathers admin. sadam was a terible man. who killed his own people and wanted to distroy america.so I guess it was either them or us in bushs eyes. history will determine bushs legacy
good or bad. it doesn't fix what is going on now
or bring back all the lives lost on both sides

Re: GOOD MORNING....... MONDAY AM ROLL CALL....... | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Dec 29th 2008 at 7:47 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 7:47 am EST)

How can you get better unless you keep on trying right?

Last night I watched part of the 60 Minute piece on Obama - and Obama's start as a Presidential Candidate was an admittedly shaky one.

He was DETERMINED, however, to perfect it, to hone it. It took him two years.

Read the poem I submitted below - I didn't write it - a 'real' poet did.

You're doing fine - and remember - you never have to rhyme - rhythm comes from how a word is spoken - you will find your music -

You're doing just fine - Don't Give Up!

Re: GOOD MORNING....... MONDAY AM ROLL CALL....... | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:31 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:31 am EST)

Debbie in the house and hollering a Good Morning to all!

23 More days to go fired up and ready for change!!

Love & Hugs!!

Poetry: American Style | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Dec 29th 2008 at 7:42 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 7:42 am EST)

"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." -Audre Lorde (1934-1992)

BIO: Candidate for the Notable Book Award, Recipient of Walt Whitman Citation of Merit recognizing Poet Laureates, feminist, writer, activist, educator, world lecturer, forming coalitions between Afro-German and Afro-Dutch women, founded a sisterhood in South Africa and began Women of Color Press.

This Poem is like Espresso - it will wake us RIGHT up.

Coal

I
is the total black, being spoken
from the earth's inside.
There are many kinds of open
how a diamond comes into a knot of flame
how sound comes into a words, coloured
by who pays what for speaking.

Some words are open like a diamond
on glass windows
singing out within the crash of sun
Then there are words like stapled wagers
in a perforated book-buy and sign and tear apart-
and come whatever will all chances
the stub remains
an ill-pulled tooth with a ragged edge.
Some words live in my throat
breeding like adders. Other know sun
seeking like gypsies over my tongue
to explode through my lips
like young sparrows bursting from shell.
Some words
bedevil me

Love is word, another kind of open.
As the diamond comes into a knot of flame
I am Black because I come from the earth's inside
Now take my word for jewel in the open light.

Re: Poetry: American Style | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Dec 29th 2008 at 7:53 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 7:53 am EST)

I think that is what's wrong. I always try to rhyme. and it gets confusing for me. lol thank you for the critque and incouragement much appreacited

Re: Poetry: American Style | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Dec 29th 2008 at 8:06 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 8:06 am EST)

Believe in yourself - Believe, believe, believe -

Study poets - American Poetry is hugely diverse and available for free online - or you can scope out the library.

Find out who won awards - or were candidates to win.

I was lucky enough to go to Paris a decade or so ago. In the Louvre there are young artists, with their easels, sketching the masters right in front of the canvas.

Sketch at the canvas Ron
-Meredith

Re: Poetry: American Style | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:29 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:29 am EST)

Thanks for sharing that Meredith!!

Love & Hugs!!

Palestine, Israel, Hamas | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Dec 29th 2008 at 8:00 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 8:00 am EST)

Let's look toward the United Nations to assist in reviving the Cease Fire.

Both sides claim that they didn't break the Cease Fire.

It appears that the deaths on the Palestinian side far outweigh the deaths on the Israeli side -

but I don't know if we're getting accurate information from either side.

When I watched the raw footage, it appeared that Palestine was getting the worst of it by far.

However, the Israeli's were able to bomb some tunnels running from Egypt to Palestine -

While we experience conflict and horrors in this country - we are VERY fortunate that our country is large, and basically, we aren't killing one another.

I would like to see the United Nations become a reflection of our States' Union - each State having specific passed laws unique to their state - yet Federal laws in place that protect all citizens.

There must be a checklist of actions that are considered unacceptable in any country.

The Torture that our administration agreed to and acted upon was a breach of trust - so we're just as guilty as a country at this moment.

Re: Palestine, Israel, Hamas | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:28 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:28 am EST)

I agree Meredith!!

This needs to stop!!

Love & Hugs!

Loved it.... | Report to Admin

By Renee - It's A New Day Dec 29th 2008 at 8:13 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 8:13 am EST)

loved watching this and re-living the journey we all went through with Obama.

Happy New Year!

Re: Loved it.... | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Dec 29th 2008 at 9:00 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 9:00 am EST)

On Long Island - I TIVO'd the 60 Minutes piece - and because of the timing glitch - a football game prior to the show? I only got one half!

I was furious - of course I should have just watched it God Forbid...

I'll find it when it comes up again -

Because my favorite speech, my pivotal moment, was 'A More Perfect Union' -I've overlooked other great speeches Obama has made - and will be re-reading the one in Iowa -

Re: Loved it.... | Report to Admin

By Hoople for Obama Dec 29th 2008 at 9:20 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 9:20 am EST)

I watched it this morning. Googled "Sixty Minutes" and it's posted on the CBS Website. Well worth watching.

Re: Loved it.... | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Dec 29th 2008 at 12:24 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:24 pm EST)

I'm going to have to watch it there I guess - and thanks so much for the information

Re: Loved it.... | Report to Admin

By ♫ Cynthia ♫ championing choice, affordability and quality Healthcare in all 50 states Dec 29th 2008 at 9:56 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 9:56 am EST)

you can find other Obama speeches here at BarackTV

you can either watch or you can click download and click video to download some.

Re: Loved it.... | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:27 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:27 am EST)

Me too Renee what a journey and I will do it all over again!!

Love & Hugs!!

IS EVERYONE UP THERE OK?????/ | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER Dec 29th 2008 at 9:43 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 9:43 am EST)

WOW! Just read this on my e weather news. I hope everyone in this area is ok...........

Nearly 200,000 without power in Michigan
Published: 12/29/08, 9:05 AM EDT

DETROIT (AP) - Crews were working to restore electricity to nearly 200,000 Michigan homes and businesses early Monday, a day after strong winds knocked down tree limbs and power lines, while residents in parts of the Northwest braced for another winter storm.
Meanwhile, flood warnings were posted throughout the Midwest as temperatures rose after a week of heavy snowfall. Forecasters said flooding was possible in areas of Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and northwest Ohio.
Winter storm warnings were issued throughout the Northwest, which has been hammered by storms in recent weeks. The National Weather Service said northeastern Washington and the Idaho panhandle could expect 3 to 7 inches of new snow in the valleys, and 6 to 10 inches in the mountains through Monday evening.
In Michigan, winds gusting more than 60 mph knocked out power Sunday as temperatures dropped back into the 20s and 30s. Parts of the state also got about 4 inches of snow.

Re: IS EVERYONE UP THERE OK?????/ | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:26 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:26 am EST)

I hope so too Marilyn. I'm from Ohio so I know all to well about snow storms and winter weather. I pray that everyone stays safe.

Love & Hugs!

Obama steps into our nation's history | Report to Admin

By meta Dec 29th 2008 at 10:02 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:02 am EST)

Let us all be aware of this historical moment:

At Capitol, slavery's story turns full circle
Historians hope significance comes to light as Obama takes office

Link

Re: Obama steps into our nation's history | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:24 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:24 am EST)

Thanks for sharing that article Gayle!

Yes I know it is a Historic moment, one
we will never forget!

Love & Hugs!

Daily Prayers For President Obama! | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:22 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:22 am EST)

Daily Prayers For President Obama!

I pray that Jesus Lead and Guide President Obama in the right direction, I pray that he gives him wisdom, knowledge and understanding on the issues he will face. I ask that He help him make the right decisions during the most difficult times and crisis. All these things and more I ask in Jesus Name!

Love & Hugs!

Re: Daily Prayers For President Obama! | Report to Admin

By Sandradee believes: Aint no mountain High Enough Dec 29th 2008 at 10:37 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:37 am EST)

amen

Re: Daily Prayers For President Obama! | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 12:59 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:59 pm EST)

:-)

Love, peace, joy, health, hugs and hope!

Re: Daily Prayers For President Obama! | Report to Admin

By Rhonda for Barack Obama in Montgomery, Alabama Dec 29th 2008 at 11:52 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:52 am EST)

AMEN Debbie!!!! AMEN!!!

Re: Daily Prayers For President Obama! | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 12:59 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:59 pm EST)

:-)

Love, peace, joy, health, hugs and hope!

Cheney cannot be this stupid | Report to Admin

By Donna No Shock Barack No Drama Obama of MD Dec 29th 2008 at 10:37 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:37 am EST)

Good Morning O-Family I pray everyone had a joyful Holiday.

Now Cheney says: He doesn't have any idea why he is so unpopular(Duh)Link

Took our country to the toilet and flushed.....What a loser!

Re: Cheney cannot be this stupid | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 10:50 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:50 am EST)

Good Morning Donna. I hope your Christmas was blessed mines was thanks!!

Now that is a joke!!

Denial, denial, denial!!

Love & Hugs!

Re: Cheney cannot be this stupid | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Dec 29th 2008 at 10:54 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:54 am EST)

LMAO!!!! Gee, Darthvader can't figure out why he is so unpopular.....

Re: Cheney cannot be this stupid | Report to Admin

By Donna No Shock Barack No Drama Obama of MD Dec 29th 2008 at 11:02 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:02 am EST)

Morning Tracy!

Special prayers continue for your Dad.

Can you believe this jerk (Cheney). He is indeed one for the history books. From the Energy policy he was involved in to the Valerie Plame mess to this stupid war in Iraq he is along with his counterpart part of the WORST ADMINISTRATION in history and that is NO JOKE!

Is everyone still here?? | Report to Admin

By Jessica_"I am completely in love with Keith Olbermann"_in_IOWA Dec 29th 2008 at 10:55 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 10:55 am EST)

Good morning Obama Family!

Haven't been here for awhile as I promised my husband he would get me back after the election :)

Hope everyone is having a fabulous Holiday!

Things in the ME aren't looking to good. Please pray for the innocent lives that are being destroyed.

When will there be peace on earth?

Re: Is everyone still here?? | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 11:18 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:18 am EST)

Good Morning Jessica!

Good to see you back. My Christmas was a blessing and I hope yours was too!

Always praying for all!

Keep the faith and keep looking up!

Well I pray that there will be peace soon!

Love & Hugs!

20/20 vision | Report to Admin

By rich Dec 29th 2008 at 11:10 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:10 am EST)

20/20 vision :

Link

My year in politics

...

By Joan Walsh

Dec. 29, 2008

...

Obama wasn't the über-progressive his lefty supporters claimed.

...

At any rate, Obama's deputy campaign manager, Steve Hildebrand, said it best in an open letter to progressives on Dec. 7: Suckers! No, what he really said in "A Message to Obama's Progressive Critics," was:

This is not a time for the left wing of our Party to draw conclusions about the Cabinet and White House appointments that President-Elect Obama is making. Some believe the appointments generally aren't progressive enough. Having worked with former Senator Obama for the last two years, I can tell you, that isn't the way he thinks and it's not likely the way he will lead.

It's fascinating, now that I've become a passionate Obama admirer, to find that a lot of his early acolytes on the left are already mad at him. David Corn himself laid out their disappointment recently in a Washington Post Op-Ed, "This Wasn't Quite the Change We Pictured." I think you can understand a lot of the political dynamics playing out today by looking back, soberly, at the ups and down of the primary campaign, particularly at how the left projected its own hopes and dreams on Obama. The left believed he was a great progressive savior sent to rescue the country not only from George Bush, but from a boring, centrist, hawkish Clinton restoration. It's clear they weren't looking clearly at Obama.

...

From the start Obama was better than I thought he was -- and he got even better during the campaign. He was also smarter than I was. He knew how to win, and maybe I didn't. Specifically, I failed to sufficiently value the attractiveness of his calm, problem-solving demeanor in a crisis. He never became the fighter I wanted him to be, the partisan brawler who'd smack McCain around — but I was apparently wrong to want that, especially from our first black male presidential nominee. Race aside, Obama understood that the public wanted a thoughtful, centered, reassuring leader in these unsettling times. I remember watching the three presidential debates ... thinking sure, Obama was smart and thoughtful, but we wished he'd hit McCain harder on his bailout high jinks, his closeness to Bush, etc. Then the debates would end and the polls would show undecided voters thought Obama had won

...

Re: 20/20 vision | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 11:20 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:20 am EST)

Thanks for sharing that Richard!

Love & Hugs!!

Re: 20/20 vision | Report to Admin

By shawnmarie Dec 29th 2008 at 11:50 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:50 am EST)

Good article rich!

Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By Mattcarr80 Dec 29th 2008 at 11:17 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:17 am EST)

Link

The Obama team, pledging the ''most open and transparent transition in history,'' gets and ''A'' for disclosing donors to the Jan. 20 inauguration and a ''F'' when it comes to revealing transition meetings with groups. Contrary to its own ''seat at the table transparency policy,'' meetings are not posted on a Web site.

I'm giving a ''B'' to the Obama transition report on staff contacts with Gov. Blagojevich. The report was a summary narrative released last week of an internal inquiry into Gov. Blagojevich's selling-of-a-Senate seat scandal. While the Obama team deserves credit for disclosure -- including that President-elect Barack Obama and incoming White House staffers Valerie Jarrett and Rahm Emanuel met with federal prosecutors -- offering some notes or transcripts to support the conclusions would have been helpful.

During the presidential primary campaign, then candidate Obama, still an Illinois senator, made a pledge I heard for the first time on Oct. 24, 2007. In a school gym in Dover, N.H., Obama said if president, he would post his meetings on the Internet. That was interesting to me because Obama's Senate staff had been very selective about what Obama Senate-related meetings they disclosed and seemed to be guided by a ''less is best'' policy.

A month after the election, on Dec. 5, John Podesta, a transition co-chair, issued an Obama transparency policy. When it comes to meetings, ''the date and organizations represented at official meetings in the Transition headquarters or agency offices'' would be ''posted on our Web site,'' at www.change.gov.

Indeed, the ''seat at the table'' section states ''on this page, you can track these meetings, view documents provided to the Transition and leave comments for the team,'' but the statement is only partly true.

What is posted are materials -- for example, briefing or position papers -- submitted by groups in connection with a transition meeting. There is no list of meetings on the site, with a meeting defined in the policy as having three or more participants.

Spokesman Nick Shapiro, asked why the meetings are not posted despite the policy, said, ''This policy is part of President-elect Obama's commitment to run the most open and transparent transition in history. The transition staff has been instructed that this is a floor and not a ceiling.

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 11:21 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:21 am EST)

Thanks for sharing that Matthew!!

Love & Hugs!

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By Anthony in N.C. Dec 29th 2008 at 11:24 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:24 am EST)

If what you wrote about the transition meetings is true, you need to go on Change.gov and make your feelings known to them. I do know that they reported on one meeting regarding a Jewish group but I have not seen or heard of any other groups meeting with the Transition Team. Of course, I have not been following that closely either.

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By Nacola Dec 29th 2008 at 11:31 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:31 am EST)

me either, it just seems I am hearing about meetings every day with some one or another from the team. You guys are soilders, foot soilders.

Re: the American public and the media get an F for letting Bush off the hook | Report to Admin

By rich Dec 29th 2008 at 11:46 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:46 am EST)

Re: the American public and the media get an F for letting Bush off the hook ...

... Who is the President now ?

... Why is not President Bush asked about his meetings now and what he will say and do about the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas ?

... If all eyes and criticism is now focused on the P-elect Obama, then why is Bush still President ?

(today, three NFL coaches got fired -- Detroit's 0-16 record, Cleveland's 4-12 record and NY Jets's 9-7 record)

Re: the American public and the media get an F for letting Bush off the hook | Report to Admin

By shawnmarie Dec 29th 2008 at 11:56 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:56 am EST)

good point rich and I agree!

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By shawnmarie Dec 29th 2008 at 11:37 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:37 am EST)

Matthew-this is still an ongoing investigation and I don't understand what you mean not disclosing "meetings". Perhaps there weren't any. I don't think it was any secret in Chicago that this Governor was up to no good so maybe PE Obama and his team did try to distance themselves from him as much as they could being that the Gov was in charge of assigning Barack's seat. That doesn't mean they had meetings and Fitzgerald said Obama was not involved, so what "meetings" are you referring to???

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-"O"-wing Dec 29th 2008 at 11:45 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:45 am EST)

Heard it was a well known fact the Illinois Gov had been under Federal Investigation for at least three years... Even the Gov. knew his phone was being wire-tapped-recorded....

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By Sandradee believes: Aint no mountain High Enough Dec 29th 2008 at 11:52 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:52 am EST)

Matt did not write the item pls see link, it was written by Lynn Sweet of the Chicago Tribune Times. To recap she is saying that we were promised video of meetings with transition team and different types of special groups. I work for a women's health clinic and we were asked to put a meeting together of concerns about reproductive health we have and need addressed in the new administration.

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By Sandradee believes: Aint no mountain High Enough Dec 29th 2008 at 11:56 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:56 am EST)

Oh and our meeting took place 2 days before christmas.

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 12:08 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:08 pm EST)

I know Marie Matt did not write it, some think that when you post something off the web you automatic agree with it and for me that is not always true.

Love,Hugs,Peace, and Hope!

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By Anthony in N.C. Dec 29th 2008 at 12:31 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:31 pm EST)

Debbie,

Thanks for clearing it up for me.

I guess it bothers me that Lynn Sweet is trying to hold President Elect to a much higher standard when he has done more to be open during this transition than Bush has done over the last eight years.

Of course, President Elect Obama has indicated that he wants us to hold him accountable.

Re: Obama gets an F when it comes to revealing transition meetings | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 1:03 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 1:03 pm EST)

You are welcome Anthony. I agree Anthony Bush is nothing compare to President Elect Obama in openness. Yes we have to hold all elected officials accountable that I agree.

Love, peace, joy, health, hugs and hope!

December 29, 2008, 9:16 am The Early Word: Obama and Israel | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 11:48 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:48 am EST)

By Michael Falcone

It may be the first major foreign policy challenge of his presidency, and though a lot can happen between now and Jan. 20, President-elect Barack Obama is circling his top advisers in response to the continuing violence in Gaza.

But other than internal discussions, Mr. Obama has not made any public comments about the recent Israeli air strikes, deferring, as The Times’s Steven Lee Myers and Helene Cooper note, to the Bush administration. Even so, they write, his election “has raised expectations, among allies and enemies alike, that new American policies are forthcoming, putting more pressure on him to signal more quickly what he intends to do.”

Link

Re: December 29, 2008, 9:16 am The Early Word: Obama and Israel | Report to Admin

By rich Dec 29th 2008 at 11:59 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:59 am EST)

Debbie -

Thanks for posting that article.

However, IMO, the American public and the media get an F for letting Bush off the hook ...

... Who is the President now ?

... Why is not President Bush asked about his meetings now and what he will say and do about the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas ?

... If all eyes and criticism is now focused on the P-elect Obama, then why is Bush still President ?

(today, three NFL coaches got fired -- Detroit's 0-16 record, Cleveland's 4-12 record and NY Jets's 9-7 record)

IMO, the way that America, the media in particular and many bloggers, are pressuring PE Obama right now (he deserved a vacation to pay his respects to his deceased grandmother, to unwind after one of the most tortourous-long campaigns in American history, etc.), you'd think he was not on vacation and was president and that P Bush was already out of office vacationing at his ranch in Crawford, TX.

Re: December 29, 2008, 9:16 am The Early Word: Obama and Israel | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 12:06 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:06 pm EST)

I agree Rich Bush get a failing grade and much more it's just part of the news and President Elect Obama is going to have to deal with this issue when he takes office.

Wow I was expecting the Browns couch to get fired that is my home team. I hope they do better next year!

I hear you Richard!!

Peace, love, hugs and hope!

Re: December 29, 2008, 9:16 am The Early Word: Obama and Israel | Report to Admin

By Greg & Matt in Champions, Houston, TX Dec 29th 2008 at 12:48 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:48 pm EST)

Why doesn't San Antonia have a professional football team???

Because then Houston would want one too!!

(evil grin)

Re: December 29, 2008, 9:16 am The Early Word: Obama and Israel | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 1:04 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 1:04 pm EST)

LOL!!

Love, peace, joy, health, hugs and hope!

Completely Off Topic......Man in Attic | Report to Admin

By Donna No Shock Barack No Drama Obama of MD Dec 29th 2008 at 11:59 am EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 11:59 am EST)

This is so wierd that I had to share:Link

Re: Completely Off Topic......Man in Attic | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 12:24 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:24 pm EST)

Wow thanks for sharing Donna!

Something that makes you say Hum....

Love, Peace, Joy, hugs, and hope!

Obama could inherit Gaza crisis | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Dec 29th 2008 at 12:26 pm EST (Updated Dec 29th 2008 at 12:26 pm EST)

(CNN) -- As the violence rages in Gaza, President Bush is putting the blame squarely on Hamas, while President-elect Barack Obama is keeping a low profile and sticking by his belief that "there is only one president at a time."
Barack Obama reiterated his support for Israel when he visited Sderot in July.

Barack Obama reiterated his support for Israel when he visited Sderot in July.

But with less than a month until the inauguration, the president-elect could inherit an international crisis -- one he will not be able to defer to Bush.

Israeli airstrikes pummeled Gaza for a third day Monday as part of what Israel's defense minister called "an all-out war" with Hamas. Israel says the attacks are a response to escalating rocket attacks against southern Israel.

Link