Posts with the tag DISCUSSION

This is crazy! IMPORTANT! Discuss and forward!

EMK — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 04:12:19 EDT

Watch and research for yourself. Start from 2:00:00 hrs and go to about 3:00:00 hrs;

http://rss.nfowars.net/20090903_Thu_Alex.mp3.

What is your take?

"The society's deprivation relies/ not on our differences/ but the separation within."

--Linkin Park, "Frgt/10"

"Watch Your Rights!" (YT's StahrT)

EMK

Just listen to the first hour.

EMK — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 19:34:52 EDT

Hmm... a four-hour show: http://rss.nfowars.net/20090828_Fri_Alex.mp3. Take a listen to the first hour right: it's pretty important!

What does that mean?

"Watch Your Rights" (StahrT)

"The society's deprivation relies/ not on our differences/ but the separation within."

--Linkin Park, "Frgt/10."

EMK

Blocked Bloggers? Discussion Post

EMK — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 02:16:03 EDT

Just read this post a while ago: http://markcrispinmiller.com/2009/08/att-blocking-dissidents/ about a blogger who was denied access to certain sites during the 2004-2005 elections. Well then, the block was due to his ISP, AT&T, that required him to use an annonymous proxy to get to his sites.

Anyway, is there a pattern here? People like JFK Fan and Taz gets put down while hacker blogs take free reign of the Community Blogs. Strange blocks, take downs, and post blocking (blog posts that fail to show up) on the Community Blogs, and the final blow with the shut down of the Community Blogs, well, could this be a pattern to a complete Internet shutdown?! Like a Prison Planet?

Something to think about.

EMK

"The society's deprivation relies/ not on our differences/ but the separation within."

--Linkin Park, (Frgt/10)

A 50-year-old cartoon. What does it mean for us? Discussion thread.

EMK — Sun, 10 May 2009 01:54:16 EDT

Available @ YT: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WB6p5QPVhPI. Apparently, this has a view of the U.S. from 50 years ago. Pay attention to the bubbles embedded into the vid.

What do you think?

EMK

Pastor gets beat up! Discussion thread!

EMK — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 01:13:14 EDT

What do you think about this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUzd7G875Hc?

Please discuss!

EMK

Debate Question: Tea, Anyone?

EMK — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 19:34:23 EDT

In leiu of the Tax Day Tea Parties, as well as the MSM reaction, the Alternative Media reaction, and some politicians' reactions, what do you think about them?

I'm curious. However, feel free to put up any links from any source you like. Also, feel free to scrutenize whatever links you like with a logical argument.

I want an informed, educated discussion, with everyone listening to each other's point of view.

Keep it real, folks!

"The society's deprivation relies/ not on our differences/ but the separation within."
--Linkin Park, "Frgt/10"

EMK

Who's holding the debt: Discussion Questions.

EMK — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 16:28:04 EDT

I wonder how we will work to pay it back.

From CNBC: http://www.cnbc.com/id/29880401. It's a slideshow of all the people, countries, and institutions holding the US debt. Take a look at it.

If we have a loan or credit card payment that has to be paid, how do we -- as individuals -- get the money to pay it back? What happens if we -- as individuals -- can't pay it back?

Now, what happens when the U.S. has to repay it, what could happen? How does the money to pay it back the debt earned? What if the debt cannot be paid back?

...

"The society's deprivation relies/ not on our differences/ but the separation within."
--Linkin Park, "Frgt/10"

EMK

Hmm... Intersting, Politico! Discuss!

EMK — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 20:04:32 EDT

What is going on? Read, watch the vid, & discuss: http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0309/Geithner_open_to_China_proposal.html?showall.

Info?

EMK

Bernanke vs. Larry Kudlow: FRS all over the MSM; Debate & Discussion Question.

EMK — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 18:57:44 EDT

I ran accross the 3/15/09 60 Minutes show online, http://beta.sling.com/video/show/130320/87/60-Minutes,-031509, and I find the show pretty interesting, though Bernanke doesn't go through the entire history of the FRS. (I won't go through all of it here, but there are plenty of links and sources about the full story, if you're willing to know. Remember, Woodrow Wilson regretted creating the FRS).

About Bernanke's policies, though, IMO, he's either fooling himself or he's a pretty shrewd actor, as he seems emotionless throughout the piece (or it could be the editing).

It could be global warming, or even the solar system heating up (Yes, apparently, it's not just the Earth that's heating up, http://www.livescience.com/environment/070312_solarsys_warming.html.), but this guy, who's not a college undergrad, has his own opinion about Bernanke's policies: http://capitalbeat.com/?p=2647.

Uh, why is all of this talk about the FRS and its policies becoming so popular on the MSM now, even though it's been all over the indy media for years?

Very interesting indeed...

EMK

Hmm... Is this going to become a Gibbs vs. Santelli? C'mon! Can we talk about this calmly?

EMK — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 03:33:02 EST

MyBO: Robert Gibbs on the President's Housing Plan

C4L: Member Blog Spotlight: Santelli Responds to Gibbs

One thing for everyone to know, hearing the two of them combined is funny, but it reminds me of people going after each other on the show, Yomamma. (Look, both of them are talking about drinking coffee while criticizing sarcastically each others' opinions about the housing plan.)

Both of them bring VALID POINTS THAT *EVERYBODY* NEEDS TO CONSIDER!!! Disagree with me if you like, but how they are going about it seems immature.

Another point, I am critical about the MSM's influence on issues and opinions, and I've made this really clear on many of my pre-election posts. Also, due to the biasing that the MSM has done, it is understandable that Obama's staff have been really edgy. However, in this case, the concerns from people like Santelli are from a point of view that happened to start off as off the mainstream, but it managed to become a signal that the MSM is paying attention to on its radar!

In my opinion, I am happy that Rep. Paul's supporters are getting some well-deserved MSM coverage, but also, that Pres. Obama is also doing what he can under the stressfull and intimidating conditions he has been going through.

HOWEVER, ONE THING MUST BE KEPT IN MIND, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER OR NOT YOU SUPPORT OBAMA OR PAUL OR ANYONE ELSE, MAINSTREAM OR OTHERWISE: THE MSM, OR CORPORATE MEDIA LOVES IT WHEN A DEBATE OVER AN ISSUE DISSOLVES INTO A HISSY FIT BECAUSE IT MAKES GOOD RATINGS, AND THE SUPPORTERS OF EITHER SIDE BECOME SO POLARIZED INTO SUPPORTING THEIR PERSON OR ISSUE THAT THEY BECOME UNWILLING TO HEAR THE OTHER SIDE OUT, WHICH IS ALSO WHAT THE COPORATE LEADERS WANT IN ORDER TO KEEP THE *TRUTH* OF THE SITUATION SILENT!!!!!

I know that some MyBO members may disagree with me, while people who are C4L members that casually read MyBO might take my post as ridiculous, but granted that there are bills like HR 645 that are out there that no one is paying attention to, and there are several other events called out on blogs like MyBO and C4L, it would be nice that people remember to actually calmly and open-mindedly speak to each other.

Because it requires open and honest discussion and the issues at hand are worth looking into, I say that it is necessary that supporters from MyBO and supporters from C4L, as well as supporters from other sites have an open dialogue about this before we become too polarized!

Agree or disagree, but this is my opinion based on my observations on the video links.

Thank you for hearing me out.

Sincerely,

EMK

"The society's deprivation relies/ not on our differences/ but the separation within."

--Linkin Park, "Frgt/10"

Open for debate and discussion: What is his concern with the Draft?

EMK — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 02:42:20 EST

He's bringing this up, so I've decided to bring this up for disucssion. The draft. The closest thing that I have is H.R. 645.

Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nYPfpGL5TE.

Your thoughts? My thoughts are in the extended post.

EMK

Intriguing: vid about Iranian recent history? Discussion thread.

EMK — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 15:05:28 EST

See this clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJRcOF7rEfQ.

If you'd like, check out the blog posts by Amuaor.

What do you think? Opinions?

EMK

Discussion Thread: Links about and Israel-Gaza...Your Thoughts...

EMK — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 15:16:43 EST

I was mulling around and I found this page with a YouTube link: http://palestinian.ning.com/video/propaganda-promised-land.

Watch it and what do you think.

I've also found another link within that site with photos, but some of the images are a bit disturbing.

That link is in the extended post, but please read the note before viewing.

What are your thoughts about them?

EMK

(NOTE: Please let me know if the links don't work. Thank you.)

[UPDATE: YT DISABLED THE VID LINK, DUE TO "A VIOLATION OF TERMS OF SERVICE," BUT I DIDN'T SEE ANYTHING THAT WAS A "VIOLATION." A SAD EXCUSE!]

CHANGE.GOV REGISTRATION

WEBMASTER — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 04:13:29 EST

If you would like to comment on CHANGE.GOV you will first need to signup on INTENSE DEBATE. Intense Debate is the backbone software owned by the AUTOMATIC GROUP. This registration process allows you to comment on the official CHANGE.GOV website.

I have tested the system and everything seems to be in order. The technology team at INTENSE DEBATE seems to have it together. And I like the rating system.

Due to the fact personal extensions will go fast I recommend grabbing 'YOUR SEAT AT THE TABLE' as quick as you can click on INTENSE DEBATE.

'Create an Account' is at the top right corner of the page.

Please share this message with your friends and the groups you are associated with.

Thank you,
David Apperson

Articles for discussion: Telegraph & MSNBC.

EMK — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 16:13:52 EST

Whoa! The Pentagon seems serious about this: Pentagon to detail military to bolster security; Plan would dedicate 20,000 uniformed troops inside U.S. by 2011 -- http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27989275/

What is Citigroup talking about with the gold??? Citigroup says gold could rise above $2,000 next year as world unravels -- http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/comment/ambroseevans_pritchard/3526645/Citigroup-says-gold-could-rise-above-2000-next-year-as-world-unravels.html. They've been bailed out already! *Errgh!*

See also: Vid clip from Democracy Now! Seriously??? (http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/emk/gGgYfB)

EMK

Discussion Thread: News report about the Dollar.

EMK — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 01:36:08 EDT

From: AljazeeraNewsChannel (via Kestrel)

American Dollar Total Collapse worth less than toilet paper: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ItC_nT4rS8

Concerning the Dollar.

Feel free to discuss and bring your opinions! Any ideas, too?

EMK

Poll & Chat: Black in America - on PRIDE ROCK

Marjani — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 11:40:20 EDT

RSS FEED

Motivational Note

Friends of President Barack Obama — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:19:02 EDT

Even though it may not look like it or feel like it, you are making progress.

Continue working towards progress instead of perfection.

Nothing or no no one is perfect.

Just keep taking steps.

Keep making those phone calls.

Continue following your plan.

Remain focused on your goal.

Do what you have to do right now to get to the next level.

Complete every task.

Keep every promise and commitment.

Don't look back.

Stay on track.

Let no one weaken your walk of faith and determination.

Remain teachable.

Place yourself in a blessing position by associating with people on-the-grow.

Talk with teachers.

Walk with winners.

Climb with champions.

Study successful people.

Something great is about to happen for you!

Start giving thanks right now before you can even see the outward manisfestation of your prayers and desires.

Everything you do from this day forward will take you further away or closer to your potential for successful living.

-by Dr. Jewel Diamond Taylor, Motivational Speaker & Author

Discussing ideas for strategy on general election

Doni from VA — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:27:44 EDT

I wanted to share some of my personal ideas for strategy on the campaign, as well as discuss some other things with those who are available.

Debate Thread: S. 1959

EMK — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:46:24 EDT

http://www.petitiononline.com/drop1959/

THOMAS: S.1959

U.S. Constitution

Okay, this is very important. Please take a look at the petition link at the top of the page, then look up the bill that I have, as well as the link to the Constitution.

DEBATE, DISCUSS, AND IF YOU LIKE, SIGN THE PETITION!

I'm sorry to get all worked up, but I don't like how they started this CBS story making the Internet look bad! (It's a bit personal because it is smearing my alma mater indirectly as well, as well as they are starting to use the story to smear the Internet!)

Disclosure: I did sign the petition!

I apologize for any misunderstandings, and thank you for taking a look at the information provided in this post.

Sincerely,

EMK

Fighting McCain, How You Can Help

China from Chicago, IL — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 14:11:35 EDT

Before we begin, I hope that posts to this blog will be of a consultative nature and as well thought out as possible. This blog should be a kitchen cabinet that offers advice to the campaign from the local, district and regional level across the nation. Obama has leveraged the internet to reach new heights in campaign finance; now let's see if we can do the same in providing the candidate with local intelligence that stresses the needs of the street, the district and the region so the candidate can develop responses to address them. Be sure to include intelligence on the McCain side that you observe or hear. With that said, let's go with the inaugral blog post.

Arthur Culvahouse. Culvahouse is a registered lobbyist who had represented Fannie Mae, Johnson's former firm, and is chairman of Omelveny & Myers, a lobbying firm that has represented Exxon-Mobile and Enron.

This is the text of a CNN report for June 13 (http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/06/13/campaign.civility/index.html). Where Robert Gibbs correctly keyed on the fact that they are lobbyists. He should begin banging away at the fact that they are Exxon-Mobile and Enron lobbyists.

It is obvious that the McCain camp understands that Obama has a superior staff that is very politically sophisticated. The McCain people who have sense know that they don't have the numbers of quality political staffers at the senior and managerial level and have, henceforth, launched an attack at the command and control level of the Obama camp.

It is imperative that to win, the senior Obama people NOT allow them to succeed by innuendo and double entrendre's in their report to the newsmedia. This attack will of course be undercover and transmitted through the news media as most people still have a jaded sense of politicians and have already discounted the fact the average senior political operative won't be cherry clean. The Republican operatives in the media will then begin a combination of covert and overt whispering campaigns so that the dirt comes out through naive journalists and is joined in through opportunist journalists so that it has the appearance of coming from a disinterested third party, only doing their job.

CNN has correctly identified the fact this type of campaign in the opposite of the genteel, issues orientated campaign John McCain agreed to run over several days in the past month. The counterweight to this would be to put this view of reneging on this pledge out to Democratic and independent journalist as well as regular campaign publicity.

An opportunity has presented itself to deal a setback to John McCain in his reach for instransigent Clinton supporters. Of course at the street level, McCain is going for those who supported Clinton because of race and because of gender. Here is the inherent opportunity. As long as McCain attempts to woo these people, he can be charged at the street level, the neighboorhood level and the district level of race baiting. Obama can remove the Clinton supporters who supported her on the basis of gender by reminding them that their support for Clinton was positive and forward but the progressive nature of that support is in danger by being included in the McCain camp with racists and bigots that sullied the Clinton camp and was partially responsible for her downfall.

In the states that are considered toss ups; McCain is weak on delivering economic gains to them. At the street and neighboorhood level; his version of tax cuts won't make a difference. It may be considered simply pandering as the buzz at that level has been of the economic stimulus payments. At the district, state and regional level companies and their leaders are more concerned about deficits that restrict access to capital and the potential of the Fed to raise interest rates to fight inflation. That's where you hit him. Let them know that McCain's economic plan for the average person is (albeit welcome) chump change and an insult. Tell the medium and larger businesses that the Bush-McCain policy will necessairly lead to interest rate rises; stagflation and falling demand for their products. Stress that Obama has a plan to stimulate consumer demand for their products while addressing the capital sucking deficit.

That's all for now. What other strategies can you think of that can help. Remember to approach this as if you're the adviser for Barack Obama. It's fun and collective brainstorming can help the candidate. - China Nolan

Be Informed! Read Our Platform for Change.

Quinn McCourt — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:15:15 EDT

I think, as Obama supporters, it is imperative to be informed as much as possible on our platform for change. I created this blog with two goals in mind: to inform others and myself on the platform of the campagin and to discuss these individual issues as voters, Democrats, citizens, and individuals. The Democratic Party should be a party that embraces discussion of its platform.

Read my post, read the piece of policy I talk about, and post comments about it. We may not all agree, but it is through our discussion of issues we can unearth something special.

Also, if a reporter ever comes up to you and asks you to talk about Obama's policy you can feel comfortable answering the questions.

What is the first step for you? Download "The Blueprint for Change" from here: http://www.barackobama.com/pdf/ObamaBlueprintForChange.pdf

I have some ideas for some cool stuff to do on this blog; leave some comments if you have any ideas to improve it.

Myspace users, join this group!

Jason Harter; Stop Hate — Sat, 03 May 2008 18:49:23 EDT

You can't win a debate or bring about a discussion if nobody takes the discussion seriously. Too many people simply ignore alternative views, and often merely bad mouth, name-call, and mock people with other political stances. Also, How can we reach people who are just getting interested in politics, who have only been influenced by negative propaganda but not by rationality? I have created a group for this very purpose.

With the proper discussions, I have faith that we would choose the best Candidate; I have faith that our Candidate is right, and therefore with proper discourse on the actual issues we could bring others to the same conclusions. I have created a group for opening up that middle ground. Please, join up and share your views with the members (must have/create a myspace account to be able to join).

Group URL: http://groups.myspace.com/stophatej

Profile URL: http://myspace.com/barbarosj

Child Abusing Clinton Pastor Debate

Obamanizer — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:15:43 EDT

I just saw this comment on the blog.

My issue with this old biblical "eye for an eye, tooth for an tooth" smacking is that it lowers the campaign of Senator Obama. Should the Obama campaign start fighting as mean spirited as others? The answer must be "no" when they want to define themselves as a different movement.

...and as one of the comments points out: Of course it's of foremost importance finding out if this accusation is even accurate ... which appears not to be the case ...

Obama's Chuch Calls for Nationwide Race Discussion

Soldierette!! (CENSORED) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 01:44:21 EDT

Thu Apr 3, 5:02 PM ET

Rev. Otis Moss III, pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ, accompanied by Rev. H. John Thomas, General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ, left, and Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon, General Secretary of the National Council of Churches, speaks at a press conference at his Church Thursday, April 4, 2008 in Chicago announcing that the UCC , joined by the NCCC in the USA are calling for a nationwide 'sacred conversation' abut race in the United States. (AP Photo/M. Spencer Green)

UCC calls for nationwide race discussion

By CHRISTOPHER WILLS, Associated Press Writer

The United Church of Christ, the parent denomination of Barack Obama's church, announced Thursday that it will begin a conversation on racial issues beginning next month in response to sermons by Obama's pastor that were critical of the U.S.

Leaders of Obama's church, Trinity United Church of Christ, meanwhile, asked reporters for respect, saying threats and a media onslaught are disrupting worship at the South Side church. The church has increased security in response to threatening telephone calls, letters and e-mails, they said.

At a news conference, the United Church of Christ's national leadership said the furor over comments by the Rev. Jeremiah Wright demonstrated the complexity of racial issues in the country and the need for churches nationwide to talk about them.

"The members of Trinity United Church of Christ are going through a very difficult time right now. The intersection of politics, religion and race has heightened our awareness of how easy it is for conversations about race to be anything but sacred," said the Rev. John Thomas, the denomination's president.

The Rev. Michael Kinnamon, general secretary of the National Council of Churches, echoed the call for a national discussion, beginning May 18. Kinnamon said he objects to seeing Trinity portrayed as an extremist sect, saying it and the UCC "are part of the wider Christian community."

With more than 8,000 members, Trinity is the largest United Church of Christ congregation in the country.

Wright, whose comments sparked the discussion, did not attend Thursday's news conference. He has remained out of public view since snippets of his sermons began appearing on cable news and the Internet, creating a political problem for Democratic presidential candidate Obama. The clips show Wright saying God should damn the United States and calling the country the "U.S. of KKK-A," among other things.

In response, Obama gave a speech about race in which he denounced Wright's comments but didn't turn his back on his longtime pastor.

The Rev. Otis Moss III, who is replacing Wright when he retires June 1, defended Wright's comments.

"One of the roles of the prophets: Sometimes you offend. You afflict the comfortable but comfort the afflicted," Moss said.

Moss wouldn't provide details about threats to Trinity, but church officials offered one example — a call saying Wright would meet Jesus sooner than he thinks.

The church has stepped up its security. Chicago police are monitoring the situation but have no reason to believe the congregation or the neighborhood are in danger, spokeswoman Monique Bond said.

Moss also complained that some reporters have annoyed Trinity congregants and disrupted worship. They have called sick members at home and bothered others during services, he said, asking that reporters treat the church's "sacred space" with more respect.

___

Associated Press Writer Sophia Tareen contributed to this report.

have you been BRAINWASHED???

Madama Ambi — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 20:31:56 EDT

So there I am at Radio Shack buying an audio dubbing cable for these telephone interviews I'm doing with Obama supporters, and the guy helping me wants to know why I'm recording phone conversations with lots and lots of people. I tell him I'm interviewing people about why they think Barack Obama should be President, and the next thing I know I'm having a real political discussion with the two guys who work there. They're definitely NOT gonna vote for McCain because they've had enough of Bush and McCain is more of the same.

They're not crazy about Billary and they have to admit that every time they see Obama they are knocked off their socks...BUT...they think Obama supporters have been BRAINWASHED.

So, I said, "Hey Dudes...I went to college and I went to grad school and I've got a head of gray hair! Me, brainwashed? Get serious."

Well, one of the guys kinda hangs his head in acknowledgement that I might not be an idiot, and then he says that Hitler was the most brilliant speaker of all time...

OK...I know the difference between an orator like Hitler and a speaker like Obama, and he does, too. He does not want to vote with his heart. He is afraid of voting his heart. The other guy will probably vote Obama because his wife is on his case.

Obviously, I don't seriously think Obama supporters have been brainwashed...and I've been thinking about what I'll say the next time this dichotomy comes up in conversation, because I'm pretty sure it will. Some people really resonate with Obama's personality, his platform, his vision, his speeches, and others are actually afraid of a man who is such a powerful motivator of people. They told me that they read on the internet just today that someone is calling Obama the "anti-christ."

I think this is something to pay attention to and to learn from...what is powerful and moving to one person can be threatening to another, even people who are in agreement with you on many core issues.

It's the old HEAD VS. HEART...if you've got alot of heart, you must not have alot of head...

So I'm asking all of you if you have seen what I've seen: fear of being motivated by feelings, the very feelings that Obama is stirring up in people like you and me.

yours, MadamaAmbi, Artists & Writers for Zeitgeist Obama

intelligent discussion of Obama's speech

Madama Ambi — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:57:15 EDT

if you want to listen to an intelligent discussion of Obama's speech, below is the link to this morning's Diane Rheem show on NPR...

http://wamu.org/audio/dr/08/03/r1080319-19155.ram

Guide to Progressive News and Politics on the Web

Paul Evans — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 15:48:17 EST

This was first "published" as a diary on Daily Kos.

Here we will explore where to look on the web for political content and news content which have a progressive flavor. Since this is an introductory article, we will not be covering RSS feeds, newsgroups or environmental websites, although you can certainly find out a lot about the environment at some of the websites mentioned.

Let’s start with AlterNet, http://www.alternet.org/. This is one of the largest, most highly regarded progressive websites, with truthful news, columnists, videos and blogs. Sign up for email newsletters on the topics which are of interest; you can do that with almost all of the websites listed here. There are many “threads” of discussions going on at any given time over quite a few of the articles. You can email or print anything and pages print with print large enough to read, even with Internet Explorer (6 or 7). One of the finest blogs in existence for us progressives and for anyone concerned with the truth is Daily Kos, http://www.dailykos.com/, which is hosted by one Markos Moulitsas Zuniga. It gets a hefty traffic of a half a million readers per day. He and his contributors really tell the truth without embellishment, and this website can be counted on to separate the chaff from the wheat. Be sure you check out the "diaries". As with many of these websites, you need to register with your email, often providing a username and almost always a password, for full-featured access. Another great one is Common Dreams, http://www.commondreams.org/, the non-profit news and views website with a couple of hundred links to news and blog websites and columnists. I must be an old curmudgeon; I liked their old page format better.....but it's absolutely one of the best liberal web sites out there.

If you want a good dose of the real left, try http://www.truthout.org/, which has hundreds of news stories and turns up a LOT of dirt on the Administration. I understand America Online has restricted their users on this one.

Now, about "the truth." There are a few websites which make it their business to check the media, politicians and candidates' statements and tell YOU, the (news) "consumer" just what is true and what is false, and to what degree. Here are a couple of the best: http://www.factcheck.org/ (sign up for the email newsletters from this one) and from down in St. Petersburg, Florida (yes, Florida), http://www.politifact.com/. You won't always see what you want. If you are a Clinton OR (even) an Obama supporter you may find a few lies exposed, and if you are any kind of a progressive, you may dislike finding some of the claims made against McCain debunked. But you will always get the truth from these two websites.

One of the best progressive magazines is The Nation, http://www.thenation.com/, and if you are of an intellectual bent you will like Harper's, http://www.harpers.org/, which magazine has been around since 1850. Both of these are also print magazines, and the websites want you to subscribe but you can still read them online for free. One of my very favorite places to stop by is Talking Points Memo, http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/, where you have your own profile and blog. Be sure you read the news and check out such features as Muckraker, Election Central, the Café, and by all means read "The Horse's Mouth." If you care about the "spinning" of the news and corporate control over content, be sure to check out Media Matters for America, http://mediamatters.org/index.

Also check out The Nation Institute, http://www.nationinstitute.org/, which is a very impressive website where you can learn a lot. A little more arcane is The Rockridge Institute, http://www.rockridgeinstitute.org/, which is about "framing" the debate in American society from the progressive point of view. The Republicans were framing the debate before progressives knew what framing was!!

Let me take a moment to relate something I referenced at FactCheck.org. Washington lawmakers are notoriously influenced by lobbyists, so I want to show how that pertains to the upcoming Presidential election. Lobbying is a regulated profession; you have to be registered to be an active lobbyist. Let's look at Obama and Clinton, versus the leading Republican candidate, John McCain, in terms of the number of lobbyists working on the candidates' campaign staffs. There are 59 registered lobbyists working on McCain's staff, 20 for Hillary Clinton, and ten who were formerly registered as lobbyists working on Barack Obama's campaign staff (Public Citizen, January 29, 2008). John Edwards had three “bundlers” (fundraisers) working on his campaign who were ex-lobbyists. You can find Public Citizen (founded by Ralph Nader) at http://action.citizen.org/. Be sure and check the Press Room for current stories. The preceding should give you an idea of just who -- and how much -- each candidate is "influenced" by corporations, but it is this plus the donations themselves which tell the full story. It is very useful and convenient to have the two resources, www.factcheck.org, and www.politifact.com (which is a page of the St. Petersburg Times), at one's fingertips to check the facts out and have the truth at hand.

Here are some more serious, very good progressive blogs and websites. You may ask, if these blogs are just online diaries, what can I really learn from them? Ah, grasshopper, you are showing your online naiveté. A blog can be just as much a serious vehicle as The New York Times (http://www.nytimes.com) is as a newspaper and (conventional) website. It's just that ANY website which takes the form of a dated series of communications, usually with an archive, and with the newest entry at the top is a blog, or weblog, by definition. A great blog you will want to check out is The Huffington Post, http://www.huffingtonpost.com, and it's always a good idea to stop by Fire Dog Lake, http://firedoglake.com/. If you want to check out the people who absolutely infuriate conservatives in the know, go to MoveOn.org, http://www.moveon.org/. Seventy percent of the 3.2 million members of MoveOn.org who voted, asked the site to publically back Barack Obama, and they are actively campaigning for him as well as other progressive candidates. This is also the site for people who want to get involved and put their name and email on petitions; just click the "Campaigns" button at the top. A great resource is The American Prospect, http://www.prospect.org/, whose slogan is “liberal intelligence.”

Perhaps you’d like to see speeches by Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama (or be infuriated by those of Bush and Cheney). Google’s video website YouTube, http://www.youtube.com/, has free registration, after which you can search many millions of videos, make comments, save the ones you like or download them in Real Player format, and share links to them. A search for “Barack Obama” yielded about 43,100 results, but the links to the most relevant videos are on the results page provided.

If you feel so inclined and are among those who are getting up in years, try AARP, the American Association of Retired People, http://www.aarp.org/. Be sure to visit the magazine, http://www.aarpmagazine.org/, and especially the Bulletin, http://www.aarp.org/bulletin/. You can join for a modest fee if you are 50 or older. AARP has been extremely successful at lobbying Congress about social programs. Back at the beginning of 2006 when the Bush administration was trying very hard to privatize Social Security, AARP ran a singularly effective campaign which squashed this attempt. Another great website to visit is http://www.now.org, for the National Organization of Women. There is a lot of real news and factual information to be found here. They support Hillary Clinton.

Another group the Bush administration hates is the American Friends Service Committee. That’s right, the Quakers. You can find them and join their efforts for peace and relief at http://www.afsc.org/. Apparently being against the war in Iraq is enough to make you an enemy of the administration even if you are a notably Christian group! Ah, but not the right sort of Christian. All conservatives reserve a special venom for the ACLU, the American Civil Liberties Union, http://www.aclu.org/. When you’ve joined the ACLU, you’ve reached a certain level of status in the progressive movement. I will only note that this group defends the civil rights of everyone, including conservatives. Related is TalkLeft, http://www.talkleft.com/, which is about the politics of crime and injustice.

The New York Times infuriated its online readership when it began charging for full access a couple of years ago; the current day’s news is still free. The Washington Post is still completely free; you will find it at http://www.washingtonpost.com/.

Although you will not find too much news there with a progressive slant, there is good general news coverage at Yahoo news, http://news.yahoo.com/. It's certainly not a progressive source per se, but they do a pretty good job with the news. The progressive coverage is at the bottom of the page. Yahoo, fighting off a $44.6 billion takeover attempt by Microsoft, is in talks with the media giant Rupert Murdoch (see http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2004/07/b122948.html). If Yahoo goes that route, you can expect any remaining evenhandedness in their news coverage to go out the window. The Center for American Progress, http://www.americanprogress.org/, referenced above, is the website of a think tank that has, besides the homepage, sections on national security, domestic and economy, media and culture, and others.

If you just want a summary of the news, with links to the full articles, try the Progressive Blog Digest, http://pbd.blogspot.com/. Recently it has been the number one website listed in the search results for "progressive blogs" from Google. There is good news coverage and there are some great blogs at Mother Jones News, http://www.motherjones.com/. Fareed Zakaria of Newsweek called OxBlog, http://oxblog.blogspot.com/, "a great read," and you should also check out Buzzflash, which is a whole family of websites. Try http://www.buzzflash.com/ and http://www.buzzflash.com/articles/. A favorite of mine here is Buzzflash.com’s GOP Hypocrite of the Week, http://www.gophypocrites.com/index.php.

Finally, let me conclude this survey of the progressive scene with Tom Paine's, "common sense," which can be found at http://www.tompaine.com/. It's a gritty, well thought out website which should not be passed up. Thomas Paine, more than any other thinker, motivated citizens of the British colonies in America to rebel in the American Revolutionary War. A pamphlet called Common Sense was perhaps most influential. One of his sayings was, “When the government fears the people, you have liberty. When the people fear the government, you have tyranny.”

I might note that this discussion entirely omits foreign websites, of which there are several excellent sources.

Cabinet and other Posts List

A.D. — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:34:29 EST

I am aggregating all of the suggestions for cabinet and other post appointments in one place. To add a name please run an Obama blog search using 'cabinet' as a key word and then add your ideas. This should not be viewed as presumptuous: in fact this is meant to bolster the view that Obama is all talk no and no plan. Here is what we have so far:

The aim is not to argue but to take as many suggestions as possible.

VP: Edward Kennedy (D); Anthon Zinni (?); Wesley Clark (D); Jim Webb (D); Tim Kaine (D); Kathleen Sebelius (D)

House Speaker: Nancy Pelosi (D); Hillary Clinton (D)

Senate Pres: Harry Reid (D)

Secretary of State: Joseph Biden (D) (try again!); Bill Richardson (D)l Wesley Clark (D); Sheldon Whitehouse (D)

Secretary of Treasury: Michael Bloomberg (I); Warren Buffet (?)

Secretary of Defense: Wesley Clark (D, but barred by 10 year rule); Colin Powell (R); Jack Reed (D); Joseph Biden (D); Richard Danzig (D); Scott Gration (D, barred by 10 year rule); Clifford Alexander, Jr.

Attorney General: John Edwards (D); Elliot Spitzer (D); Sheldon Whitehouse (D); Patrick Fitzgerald (?);

Secretary of Interior: Christine Gregoire (D); Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R); Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. (D); Ron Kirk (D);

Secretary of Agriculture: Tom Harkin (D); Ray Mabus (D)

Secretary of Commerce: Warren Buffet (D); Michael Bllomberg (I); Lincoln Chafee (R)

Secretary of Labor: Antonio Villaraigosa (D); Edward Kennedy (D); John Edwards (D); Richard Gephardt (D); David Bonior (D)

Secretary of Health: Anthony Fauci (N/A); John Kitzhaber (D); Howard Dean (D); John Edwards (D); Shirley Franklin (D)

Secretary of Housing: David Gottfried (N/A) (Developer and Founder of US Green Building Council)

Secretary of Transportation: Nick Rahall (D); R.T. Rybak (D)

Secretary of Energy: Al Gore (D); Bill Richardson (D);

Secretary of Education: Chris Dodd (D); Inez Tennenbaum (D); Mike Easley (D)

Secretary of Veteran Affairs: David Petraeus (R); Tammy Duckworth (D); Max Cleland (D)

Secretary of Homeland Security: Arnold Schwarzenneger (R); Tim Roemer (D)

EPA Administrator: Barbara Boxer (D); Christine Gregoire (D)

World Bank President: Jeffrey Sachs (N/A)

UN Ambassador: Dennis Kucinich (D), Bill Clinton (D); Carol Mosely Braun (D);

FBI Head:

CIA Chief: Richard Clarke (?);

NSA: Anthony Zinni (?)

FEMA: Mary Landrieu (D)

CPSC: Ralph Nader (I)

NASA: Rick Tumlinson (?); Peter Diamandis (?)

NOAA: Carl Safina (?)

FCC: R.T. Rybak (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Homeland Security

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 20:18:54 EST

Suggestions for Sec of Homeland Security

Arnold Schwarzenneger (R)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Education

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 20:14:00 EST

Suggestions for Sec of Education

Chris Dodd (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Energy

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 20:11:43 EST

Suggestions for Sec of Energy

Al Gore (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Transportation

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 20:08:50 EST

Suggestions for Sec of Transportation

Nick Rahall (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Housing

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 19:56:26 EST

Suggestions for Secretary of Housing

David Gottfried (?) (Developer and founder of US Green Building Council)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Health

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 19:53:52 EST

Suggestions for Sec of Health

Anthony Fauci (?)

John Kitzhaber (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Labor

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 19:46:31 EST

SUGGESTIONS FOR SEC OF LABOR

Antonio Villaraigosa (D)

Edward Kennedy (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Commerce

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 19:44:17 EST

SUGGESTIONS FOR SECRETARY OF COMMERCE

Warren Buffet ($)

Michael Bloomberg (I)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Agriculture

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:36:00 EST

SUGGESTIONS FOR SEC OF AGRICULTURE

Tom Harkin (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Interior

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:31:34 EST

SUGGESTIONS FOR SEC OF INTERIOR

Christine Gregoire (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Attorney General

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:27:16 EST

SUGGESTIONS FOR AG

John Edwards (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Defense

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:25:34 EST

SUGGESTIONS FOR SEC OF DEFENSE

Wesley Clark (D)

Towards the Popular Selection of the Secretary of Treasury

A.D. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 10:31:58 EST

Michael Bloomberg (I)

Warren Buffet ($)

Sharing is Caring

Alia Marie — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 11:21:58 EST

I was speaking today with an Assistant Principal from a school in the Bronx about how exciting this race is and about the importance of educating ourselves about each candidate to ensure that we make the best decision for this country, especially considering where we are now. He made a very profound statement: "It takes one idiot to cancel your vote." I thought about this on the train home. I thought about all the ways my vote could be cancelled. By not sharing who I'm voting for and why, I may miss the chance to sway someone who may be "torn" or "on the fence." I may forfeit the opportunity to educate someone who may not know about Barack Obama's experience or where he stands on certain issues . Someone may not even bother registering to vote or voting because I didn't communicate how critical this election is and why Barack Obama is the best candidate. I urge you all to do what you can to make sure that your vote isn't cancelled or ineffective because it wasn't enough. Please encourage others to vote or register to vote. Please have discussions about this race with your friends (in public even, you never know who's listening). Healthy debate is good for the soul. This is a moment that may never come again. We must seize THIS moment!

Discussion

XY Hyphen Mann — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 10:34:30 EST

Discussion
A Poem by X Y

There needs to be a discussion in America.

There needs to be a repercussion in America.

They call it evolution, but we got pollution,

Writ of execution,

Ridiculous income distribution,

Another penal institution,

Never saw retribution,

All locked in a constitution.

There is a concussion in America.

There needs to be a change in America.

I'm sick of this strange America.

A deranged America.

An arranged America.

They say things changed when they heard our cries.

Then why are people still quoting "Still I Rise?"

And why don't our schools have enough supplies?

Is this some type of American salvation in disguise?

Looks like we got the crumbs and someone else has the prize.

I'm sick of these lies.

It's all within my visual range in America.

There needs to be a change in America.

There needs to be reflection in America.

We need a fair election in America.

Our kids need direction in America.

Someone needs inspection - in America.

There needs to be a discussion in America.

I hope you show up.

© 2007 X Y [revised]

Québécois for Obama!

Christian — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 09:55:00 EST

Hi!

This is the first entitlement of Québécois for Obama, a blog meant to engage the people of Québec and their friends from around the world in the discussion about Barack Obama's campaign as well as US politics in general.

It encourages discussion, exchange of ideas but not useless ranting.

Obviously, it is also supporting Barack Obama's campaign all the way to the US presidency!

I can't wait to hear from you!

Growing the movement with civil persuasion (Tips for discussion and response: focus on the message)

Adoyo — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 04:19:49 EST

As this movement to reclaim the best of America continues to grow, more and more people are paying closer attention to Barack Obama's call. We have already seen opposing campaigns become more reckless and agressive as they turn up the rhetorical heat - a tactic which has the potential to draw equally reckless reactions from us, Barack Obama's supporters.

But we need not play that game. In fact, quite the opposite. Like Barack Obama said at the 100 Club dinner, we can bring more light instead of heat to this part of the process by keeping our calm and staying on message.

I'm reposting a blog entry from a few months ago with suggestions about how to keep cool especially as Barack Obama and his family will become the targets of rhetorical propaganda in the rising heat.

These basic guidelines (compiled with notes from Todd Smyth) are meant to help us communicate Senator Obama's message better and respond more effectively to both creditable challenges and unfounded attacks.

I know we can persuade our fellow citizens - by engaging their friends, neighbors and co-workers one at a time - to join us in reclaiming the nation by electing Barack Obama to the Oval Office.

Tips for discussions and response: focus on the message

Always ask questions like: "What issues are most important to you?"
Listen and learn from the people you talk to. Listening builds trust, respect and empathy. If you listen to others, they are more likely to listen to you.
Pay attention and do not interrupt.
Pause before you respond and think about what they said.
Try to summarize what they have said in a few words and emphasize those points that you have in common. Nice segues include: "I see that we agree that..." / "Yes, you mentioned some of the things that I really care about, too..."
Disagree with the argument, not the person. Possible segue: "The difference here is..."
Be respectful, not angry or condescending.
Respond with brief answers (limiting the length of your answers forces you to focus on what is most relevant and important at that time).
Be polite and receptive and do not be afraid to be humble, or to concede.
If they raise their voice or get agitated, lower your voice and stay calm. Reassure them that you hear what they are saying.
When you speak, speak with calm, conviction and confidence. Show no doubt or hesitation.

I added the following details:

Talk consistently about Senator Obama's strengths and remain silent on the weaknesses of opponents (any energy you spend casting the other candidates in shadow is energy you could otherwise spend shining more light on Senator Obama).
Answer every question directly and truthfully.
When you don't know the answer, simply say "I don't know, but perhaps we can find out..." - great segue to the BarackObama.com website and other media about Senator Obama if you are near a computer with an internet connection.
At the end of your exchange, thank the other party for telling you their views (now you know more about what they care about) and ask them to consider the fact that Senator Obama is the kind of leader who can effectively bring about the changes they care about.

So, for example, when someone brings up experience in any form, it's important to get a clear idea of what they mean by 'experience'. Ask them directly. You now have a great opportunity to talk about Senator Obama's work as:

a dedicated law maker who brought new ethics reform legislation to a state senate that had balked for twenty five years and brought new laws to ensure the civil liberties for citizens (videotaping interrogations);
a Civil Rights lawyer in Chicago and as a Professor of Constitutional Law at University of Chicago Law School;
a young man mobilized ordinary people to bring about change on issues they most cared about;
a community organizer who ran wide voter registration drives to empower more people in the democratic process.
In addition to all this, he brings new, much needed energy to the national political arena. He understands conventions yet is nimble enough to think outside the box for innovative and effective solutions to the challenges the country faces.

Above all, he is a trustworthy leader whose good judgement we have seen throughout his pubic life:

He is the person who could get difficult things done - like Universal Health Care - because he is an effective consensus builder.
He was elected President of the Harvard Law Review in one of the most hotly contested years in a politically volatile moment at Harvard Law School.
He listens to everybody: his direct constituents as well as those who represent others. He approaches every discussion with the assumption that the other legislators care as much about their positions as he does his. Just as they did at Harvard, they listen to him in the Senate because they know that he is listening to them and is attentive to what they care about.
He is calm, thoughtful and decisive. When he speaks, he has already asked the tough questions and thought about the problem deeply to gain a thorough understanding of complex issues. He can therefore speak responsibly and with authority and does not contradict himself.
This is how, in 2002, he opposed the Iraq after examining the situation and seeing that the case had not been made. He was therefore able to predict - almost to a tee - just how the situation would play out. (Watch the video of his interview in 2002)
He has lived abroad and intuitively understands how cultures throughout the world are different from one another, yet see clearly that human beings intrinsically share more in common.
Throughout this campaign, Senator Obama has been entirely consistent in his message and in his positions. He has already raised the bar significantly when it comes to civility and clearly sees what is best about America and its potential to be even greater.

Ultimately, Senator Obama is the best and most reliable source for where he stands, what he believes and what he has done. Get to know his legislative record and his speeches in particular. Quote these speeches, recommend them to others and encourage everyone to listen to him for themselves. In the end, try to always steer the discussion or the argument in the direction of the issues and make sure that the context of any given quotation is always front and center.

We all know how much the press enjoys fanning the flames of apparent conflict and strife among the candidates. We also know that many of these 'dust-ups' are really just rhetorical. There is really no reason we should be starting or getting into fights over the campaign.

I hope some of these tips are useful to you. Go Obama '08!

Stay Positive, Folks!

Rena — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 16:46:01 EST

There have been a lot of negative troll attacks on the community blogs today... so I think reposting this blog is in order:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/ScholarsForObama/CJmY

By Adoyo - Aug 25th, 2007 at 1:48 pm EDT

Sometimes it's not easy to keep a cool head in the middle of a passionate political discussion - and even less so during a campaign when your candidate and his family become the targets of rhetorical propaganda. Well, a couple of us compiled some basic guidelines to help us communicate Senator Obama's message better and respond more effectively to both creditable challenges and unfounded attacks. Todd Smyth provided the first part of the guidelines:

Always ask questions like: "What issues are most important to you?"
Listen and learn from the people you talk to. Listening builds trust, respect and empathy. If you listen to others, they are more likely to listen to you.
Pay attention and do not interrupt.
Pause before you respond and think about what they said.
Try to summarize what they have said in a few words and emphasize those points that you have in common. Nice segues include: "I see that we agree that..." / "Yes, you mentioned some of the things that I really care about, too..."
Disagree with the argument, not the person. Possible segue: "The difference here is..."
Be respectful, not angry or condescending.
Respond with brief answers (limiting the length of your answers forces you to focus on what is most relevant and important at that time).
Be polite and receptive and do not be afraid to be humble, or to concede.
If they raise their voice or get agitated, lower your voice and stay calm. Reassure them that you hear what they are saying.
When you speak, speak with calm, conviction and confidence. Show no doubt or hesitation.

I added the following details:

Talk consistently about Senator Obama's strengths and remain silent on the weaknesses of opponents (any energy you spend casting the other candidates in shadow is energy you could otherwise spend shining more light on Senator Obama).
Answer every question directly and truthfully.
When you don't know the answer, simply say "I don't know, but perhaps we can find out..." - great segue to the BarackObama.com website and other media about Senator Obama if you are near a computer with an internet connection.
At the end of your exchange, thank the other party for telling you their views (now you know more about what they care about) and ask them to consider the fact that Senator Obama is the kind of leader who can effectively bring about the changes they care about.

So, for example, when someone brings up experience in any form, it's important to get a clear idea of what they mean by 'experience'. Ask them directly. You now have a great opportunity to talk about Senator Obama's work as:

a dedicated law maker who brought new ethics reform legislation to a state senate that had balked for twenty five years and brought new laws to ensure the civil liberties for citizens (videotaping interrogations);
a Civil Rights lawyer in Chicago and as a Professor of Constitutional Law at University of Chicago Law School;
a young man mobilized ordinary people to bring about change on issues they most cared about;
a community organizer who ran wide voter registration drives to empower more people in the democratic process.
In addition to all this, he brings new, much needed energy to the national political arena. He understands conventions yet is nimble enough to think outside the box for innovative and effective solutions to the challenges the country faces.
Above all, he is a trustworthy leader whose good judgement we have seen throughout his pubic life:

He is the person who could get difficult things done - like Universal Health Care - because he is an effective consensus builder.
He was elected President of the Harvard Law Review in one of the most hotly contested years in a politically volatile moment at Harvard Law School.
He listens to everybody: his direct constituents as well as those who represent others. He approaches every discussion with the assumption that the other legislators care as much about their positions as he does his. Just as they did at Harvard, they listen to him in the Senate because they know that he is listening to them and is attentive to what they care about.
He is calm, thoughtful and decisive. When he speaks, he has already asked the tough questions and thought about the problem deeply to gain a thorough understanding of complex issues. He can therefore speak responsibly and with authority and does not contradict himself.
This is how, in 2002, he opposed the Iraq after examining the situation and seeing that the case had not been made. He was therefore able to predict - almost to a tee - just how the situation would play out. (Watch the video of his interview in 2002)
He has lived abroad and intuitively understands how cultures throughout the world are different from one another, yet see clearly that human beings intrinsically share more in common.

Ultimately, Senator Obama is the best and most reliable source for where he stands, what he believes and what he has done. Get to know his legislative record and his speeches in particular. Quote these speeches, recommend them to others and encourage everyone to listen to him for themselves. In the end, try to always steer the discussion or the argument in the direction of the issues and make sure that the context of any given quotation is always front and center.
The press has worked hard to create the illusion of conflict and strife among the candidates, yet many of these 'dust-ups' are really just rhetorical. There is really no reason we should be starting or getting into fights over the campaign.

I hope some of these tips are useful to you.

Obama's plan in Iraq: Devil's in the details

Michael Weiksner — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 23:20:03 EDT

Yesterday, I started a conversation on e-thepeople.org about Obama's new plan for Iraq. I wanted to summarize the interesting feedback that I've gotten from these discussions.

First, I raised the question: how does Obama plan to fix the oil sharing problem? No one responded, but I think Chris Dodd has the best proposal on this subject yet, whereby the oil revenue would be split among the federal government of Iraq, regional governments and directly to Iraqis.

Second, bocamp22 asked whether partitioning proposed by Biden should be part of the solution. CatsAngel responded by questioned how Shiites and Sunnies could really be separated and Kent Wicker worried that partitioning could lead to ethnic cleansing. Personally, I am not a fan of partitioning and I think it can't possibly solve anything if the oil issue isn't resolved first.

Third, several members asserted their belief that military withdrawal would threaten our security. My personal belief is that the state of Iraq poses no threat, but that the terrorist activity within Iraq may pose a threat. I think the innovation of Obama's plan is that he offers an alternative to a military presence -- namely, humanitarian aid and diplomacy -- to mitigate this risk.

Fourth, several members questioned whether humanitarian aid and diplomacy would work. Chickmd called diplomacy with Iraqi's neighbors an "error in judgment" because these neighbors are our enemies. I agree that this is a risk, so I'd like to how Obama wants to go about this delicate task. As for humanitarian aid, Chickmd believes that Obama like "all other democrats he does not care how he wasts other peoples tax dollars." He wants out now and to cut our losses completely, but when I pressed him, he preferred Bush's plan to Obama's if he were forced between those two unsavory choices.

But the highest rated comment by d_jinx says that Obama's strategy is risky and uncertain, but better than not trying anything different: "Gotta get started because what we what we're doing now ain't encouraging."

Amen to that, brother!

(Originally posted here on my blog, weiksner.com)

Obama's Iraq policy

Michael Weiksner — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 23:17:59 EDT

Please see a discussion I've started on e-thePeople.org for my full thoughts, and hopefully, the comments on it from the community. In a nutshell, I agree with Obama on Iraq (see his plan here). Our security is no longer threatened by the state of Iraq, so our military should come home. In its place, we should use humanitarian aid and diplomacy to fix the mess we've made. Its only flaw: it does not address how oil revenue should be distributed within Iraq, the root cause of the instability in Iraq now in my opinion.

(Originally posted here on my blog, weiksner.com)

Tips for discussions and response: focus on the message

Adoyo — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 13:48:35 EDT

Sometimes it's not easy to keep a cool head in the middle of a passionate political discussion - and even less so during a campaign when your candidate and his family become the targets of rhetorical propaganda. Well, a couple of us compiled some basic guidelines to help us communicate Senator Obama's message better and respond more effectively to both creditable challenges and unfounded attacks. Todd Smyth provided the first part of the guidelines:

Always ask questions like: "What issues are most important to you?"
Listen and learn from the people you talk to. Listening builds trust, respect and empathy. If you listen to others, they are more likely to listen to you.
Pay attention and do not interrupt.
Pause before you respond and think about what they said.
Try to summarize what they have said in a few words and emphasize those points that you have in common. Nice segues include: "I see that we agree that..." / "Yes, you mentioned some of the things that I really care about, too..."
Disagree with the argument, not the person. Possible segue: "The difference here is..."
Be respectful, not angry or condescending.
Respond with brief answers (limiting the length of your answers forces you to focus on what is most relevant and important at that time).
Be polite and receptive and do not be afraid to be humble, or to concede.
If they raise their voice or get agitated, lower your voice and stay calm. Reassure them that you hear what they are saying.
When you speak, speak with calm, conviction and confidence. Show no doubt or hesitation.

I added the following details:

Talk consistently about Senator Obama's strengths and remain silent on the weaknesses of opponents (any energy you spend casting the other candidates in shadow is energy you could otherwise spend shining more light on Senator Obama).
Answer every question directly and truthfully.
When you don't know the answer, simply say "I don't know, but perhaps we can find out..." - great segue to the BarackObama.com website and other media about Senator Obama if you are near a computer with an internet connection.
At the end of your exchange, thank the other party for telling you their views (now you know more about what they care about) and ask them to consider the fact that Senator Obama is the kind of leader who can effectively bring about the changes they care about.

a dedicated law maker who brought new ethics reform legislation to a state senate that had balked for twenty five years and brought new laws to ensure the civil liberties for citizens (videotaping interrogations);
a Civil Rights lawyer in Chicago and as a Professor of Constitutional Law at University of Chicago Law School;
a young man mobilized ordinary people to bring about change on issues they most cared about;
a community organizer who ran wide voter registration drives to empower more people in the democratic process.
In addition to all this, he brings new, much needed energy to the national political arena. He understands conventions yet is nimble enough to think outside the box for innovative and effective solutions to the challenges the country faces.

Above all, he is a trustworthy leader whose good judgement we have seen throughout his pubic life:

He is the person who could get difficult things done - like Universal Health Care - because he is an effective consensus builder.
He was elected President of the Harvard Law Review in one of the most hotly contested years in a politically volatile moment at Harvard Law School.
He listens to everybody: his direct constituents as well as those who represent others. He approaches every discussion with the assumption that the other legislators care as much about their positions as he does his. Just as they did at Harvard, they listen to him in the Senate because they know that he is listening to them and is attentive to what they care about.
He is calm, thoughtful and decisive. When he speaks, he has already asked the tough questions and thought about the problem deeply to gain a thorough understanding of complex issues. He can therefore speak responsibly and with authority and does not contradict himself.
This is how, in 2002, he opposed the Iraq after examining the situation and seeing that the case had not been made. He was therefore able to predict - almost to a tee - just how the situation would play out. (Watch the video of his interview in 2002)
He has lived abroad and intuitively understands how cultures throughout the world are different from one another, yet see clearly that human beings intrinsically share more in common.

The press has worked hard to create the illusion of conflict and strife among the candidates, yet many of these 'dust-ups' are really just rhetorical. There is really no reason we should be starting or getting into fights over the campaign.

I hope some of these tips are useful to you.

Week 3 Questions

Veronica Mars — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 16:25:59 EST

These are no questions for week 3 out of respect for the death of Sheriff Don Lamb.
R.I.P.

Week 2 Results

Veronica Mars — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 16:22:35 EST

Questions:
1) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could ask Veronica Mars one question, what would it be? Why?
2) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could ask Logan Echolls one question, what would it be? Why?
3) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could ask Keith Mars one question, what would it be? Why?
4) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could ask Wallace Fennel one question, what would it be? Why?
Bonus Question:
1) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could only buy three episodes of Veronica Mars off the iTunes Music Store for his iPod Video to take with him on a desert island, which episodes would he choose? Why?

Answer Key:
1) He would ask her to vote for him because he needs votes in order to become President of the United States of America.2) He would ask him to vote for him because he needs votes in order to become President of the United States of America.3) He would ask him to vote for him because he needs votes in order to become President of the United States of America.4) He would ask him to vote for him because he needs votes in order to become President of the United States of America.
Bonus Question
1) He would buy "Clash of the Tritons," "Ain't No Magic Mountain High Enough," and "Not Pictured" because those are his favorite episodes (probably) because they're really good.

Week 2 Questions

Veronica Mars — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 03:06:03 EST

These are the questions for Week 2. If you did badly last week, try to do better this week:
1) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could ask Veronica Mars one question, what would it be? Why?
2) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could ask Logan Echolls one question, what would it be? Why?
3) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could ask Keith Mars one question, what would it be? Why?
4) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could ask Wallace Fennel one question, what would it be? Why?
Bonus Question:
1) If Senator Barack Hussein Obama could only buy three episodes of Veronica Mars off the iTunes Music Store for his iPod Video to take with him on a desert island, which episodes would he choose? Why?
Your answers are due Tuesday.

What We Learned 2004

Joseph Leary — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 01:36:40 EST

It didn't matter that the Democrat platforms were well-reasoned and attempted bi-partisan solutions. The Bush Administration had Karl Rove. How does any candidate counter his breed of campaigning? Character wasn't enough. Nor was logic. But Kerry certainly didn't have Obama's charisma or sense of self and purpose, and I think this will be a completely different story. But what other pitfalls can we avoid, as Obama's campaigners, by discussing them now?

Let's Mobilize!

Elaine Stoerzinger — Wed, 14 Feb 2007 14:35:08 EST

Hello everyone!

I have an idea. I think we should use this group as a forum for discussion and mobilization for Barack.

Fundraising is only one aspect of a presidential campaign; just as important is the dissemination of information. Therefore, I propose that we collaborate here to write letters to the editor, come up with policy suggestions, and share information so everyone can use the great ideas!

Reply to this post if you have ideas, or use your blog to start a new discussion thread about a specific topic.

Let's mobilize!

Opposition

Cailin — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 22:41:40 EST

So I have only been openly supporting one person in this election for a few days. Do not get me wrong, I have been with Obama for a long time, but I felt that it was in my best interest to keep my mouth shut, incase something unexpected arose. Therefore, it humors me when some of my fellow students choose to challenge my choices to support him, as though I have been pushing it in their faces. Take, for instance, a friend that I have known since I was 9 years old (being 16 years of age at this present time). When she heard of my political stance, she responded with "So you are a Democrat now?" to which I replied "I don't support someone for what party they belong to, but what they themselves stand for." Her next response shocked me, "Ha psh. Don't make me laugh. How about not supporting the democratic party. ha." Now, I know for a fact that this girl was initially supporting President Bush, but where she stands now, I care not to know. Yet, the fact that she supported him in the first place almost gives me a reason to disregard any political standpoint she may have taken in the past.

But then you have the completely uninformed, ignorant teenagers. One of which I spoke to this morning announced to our group at breakfast, "Hey guys, did you hear that someone is running for president names Borat!?" To which everyone laughed. I let out a chuckle, and then realized that he was being completely serious. I took a moment and processed this, and then informed him that he may be, in fact, thinking of Barack Obama. And he was. It amazed me how serious this boy was being, and how misinformed and suseptible to "gossip" he was. I thought this was the end of this "political discussion" (If it could even be called that) until another boy, who I have always regarded as immature and prone to arguement, said, "Well either way, I won't vote for someone who's name sounds like Borat Osama." And there you have it folks, I lost it. Tapping into my inner child, I snatched my books off the table and proceeded to my first period class. I guess it seems we all have a little immaturity in us somewhere.

Thanks for reading =]

Regards,

Hello Everyone. =]

Steed Sanders — Sun, 11 Feb 2007 15:02:33 EST

I honestly do not know where to begin! I'm overly excited about this presidential race, as it will be my first to vote in! Barack Obama has my support, 100%. I've started the group Oklahoma Students For Obama on this website for other students like myself who support Barack, and have also started one up with the same name on Facebook [click]. If you are a student from Oklahoma, be sure to sign up!

Welcome

Veronica Mars — Sat, 10 Feb 2007 23:53:11 EST

Welcome to the Veronica Mars and Senator Barack Hussein Obama but mostly Veronica Mars discussion blog. Every week we will discuss Veronica Mars issues and news and discussions and sometimes discuss Senator Barack Hussein Obama issues and news and discussions.

Question of the week:

1) Was Veronica Mars too hard on Logan Echolls for cheating on her? Why?

Bonus Questions:

1) Would Veronica Mars vote for Senator Barack Hussein Obama? Why? Would Logan Echolls cheating on her make her not want to vote for Senator Barack Hussein Obama in any way? Why?

2) Would Logan Echolls vote for Senator Barack Hussein Obama? Why? Would Veronica Mars being sad cause of his breakup make him not want to vote for Senator Barack Hussein Obama in any way? Why?