Posts with the tag barack hussein obama

Transparency

wboyd58 — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:05:10 EDT

Whatever happened to that transparency promise that Obama made while on his campaign trail? Is this promise just going to be one of the 514 other promises that he made and seems to have slipped his mind? He promised to place each bill that was coming up for a vote to place on a website for five days so that the people would have time to read it and get in touch with their congressmen and tell them how they wanted them to vote. This was going to be the most transparent government in history. What happened to this promise and what else do we not expect to get?

It was never made clear that we were going to be stock holders in the car industry, insurance industry or the banking industry either. This is why Obama will not place these bills online for us to see. The people would not have allowed such tom foolery for one this goes entirely against the Constitution. Everything that this man has done since his first day in office is to shread the Constitution of the United States of America.

The cap and trade bill that the congress passed and will go to the senate in August, does anyone remember seeing it posted anywhere for the American public to reveue? No, you didn't because this in reality is the largest tax increase in the history of this country. And guess what? Our representatives did not read this bill either!

I rattled some cages, on Facebook, because I'm tired of the BS!!!!!!

JeAnna — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:03:44 EDT

On April 10, 2009, Constable Jesse Schroeder closed my rape complaint case. He stated that there was "no male DNA" anywhere on any of my evidence.

I know this to inaccurate. I posted two messages, today, on Facebook in response to this BS.

In my first message, I posted the movie "American Violet" stating that: she was a victim, of authorities, and was forced to take a stand. My situation is similar, only I was raped, not arrested. The police are my business now. What "goes around", my Dear (personal message; recipient knows to whom I am speaking), IS coming around to you. That's a promise. I'm a woman of my word. " This was posted in English and in French.

The second message stated: "Now you are all phoning & saying look what (I) did on FB. Know this, I have not even broken into a sweat, yet. You do what you have to; I'll do what I have to."

Yesterday, I found that three sets of pictures were deleted, from my computer, without my knowledge or consent. As a result, I forwarded all three sets of copies to International Country Leaders, International Human Rights groups, and International media. One set was forwarded by cellphone.

Today, I received a text message with a veiled threat & forwarded that to Country Leaders!

I AM NOT AFRAID OF ANYONE! WHEN THEY TOOK THAT FOSTER BABY & CRUSHED ALL HOPE OF HAVING A FAMILY, EVERYTHING THAT MATTERED (ABOUT ME) DIED THAT DAY. You can't kill a dead woman...you still threaten me, even though I continue to report all of you.

I want all the people, associated with my rape on August 7 2008, arrested; INCLUDING THE FIVE RCMP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm tired. I've been violated on so many levels that it just feels like a bad dream. NONE OF THIS IS REAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Inaugural Unites Millions on the Mall

Lynn in the Heartland — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 21:19:03 EST

What a setting. The magnificence of the Capitol draped in red, white and blue bunting, the Lincoln Memorial with jumbo television monitors so school children could sit at Lincoln's feet while a man with the blood of Kansans and Kenyans swore a sacred oath on Lincoln's bible; the masses of people who were waving silver, blue, yellow and purple tickets in the air, begging the security detail to let them through the gates to witness history; and finally, the profound silence of two million people listening and watching breathlessly until we all heard the words, "so help me God"....

A joyous lifting of hearts and voices exploded then, and fists clutching American flags, cell phones or cameras were thrust into the air as Barack Hussein Obama stepped forward to address the nation as the 44th president of the United States of America.

I turned with tears streaming down my face and began clicking photos of the faces around me, strangers until that moment, now bound to each other in joy and celebration. There was the stunning face of an elderly black woman, light streaming from her eyes, as lit up as a Christmas tree. The fist in the air of a beautiful young woman with a Russian-style hat. The muted sounds of clapping of a gloved man with a cowboy hat, his smile as wide as his face.

Later, as I leaned wearily against a pole on a crowded subway, a woman caught my eye and we both began to grin, then laugh out loud at the sheer audacity of the scene we had played a small role in on the Mall on this cold January day.

Birth of New America; Re-birth of United States of America

Ouarda Ismahan from San Francisco, CA — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 03:17:40 EST

Today shall be remembered as Obama Day forever. The day when America woke up to its new born Dream-Come-True. This is indeed more than just History in The Making, more so a passage of shifting time to a different reality, open doors and bridges of transformation of consciousness from West to East and East to West. An Advocacy of positive change on a global scale. A psychological phenomena of shifting realities, an appearance of possibilities, a disappearance of denial and alienation, A re-defining momentum of unity. Birth of believe in equality, unity, opportunity for all coming from a newer perspective, a divine reality, a higher level.

There're only two Americas now, the Discovery of America 1492 and the Post Barack Hussein Obama President of America - America. What an honor to be alive in new born America. This amazing country will always be full of positive surprises to come, it will never quit, hence America Young Forever! Yet futuristically Historic today more than ever before. Now America belongs to all of us equally. Thanks to the hard work & determination of the new face of Global America & Present U.S.A, a trendy, forecasted, reshaped America, thanks to its new leader: Mr. President Barack H. Obama!

As a new American, I have Never before felt equally belonging to both worlds east and west, as I feel today with the Victory of Barack H. Obama.

Peace to America, the new blessed and beloved Land. Victory of my fellow Americans.

Early Voting

BarackRox — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:38:20 EDT

Well early voting has started! I can't believe it. Also I can't wait for the race to be over.

JohnMcCain BarackObama

John McCain Puts Angry Mobs First

Betty from Torrance, CA — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 23:08:53 EDT

Thought you might enjoy my newest video detailing the angry mobs at McCain's campaign events recently contrasted to Barack's hopeful message. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wmAZUAMG8I

Abstinence policy in action.

Clayton Riggs — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:57:17 EDT

Palin's pregnant child proves abstinence education works!

If keeping our girls pregnant and our teens covered in genital warts and taking Valtrex herpes treatment everyday for life is your goal.

The press kept bringing up Chelsea Clinton's fictional pregnancy and wondering how they (the press) would've handled her fictional pregnancy.

Chelsea Clinton's mother and father educated her on safe sex and proper condom use and it's silly to talk about her fictional situation, when a real pregnant teen and her careless parents attempt to move into the Whitehouse.

While using a condom isn't 100% effective, having sex without any protection or education increases the chances of pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease exponentially.

I know this blog is ugly, but sometimes the truth is ugly.

Jerome Corsi's Hatchet Job

Clayton Riggs — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 21:16:31 EDT

Why has the media embraced this book and it's author?

Corsi's book belongs in the fiction department.

"Fortunate Son" was much more realistic and factual than "Obama Nation," but the media spurned, ignored and crucified J.H. Hatfield until he finally committed suicide.

Corsi is merely an opportunistic writer, not a reporter. Please read the book in the bookstore(a fool and his money). It shouldn't take an attentive reader long to see the truth. While you are there look at his other writings. Corsi's subjects and ideas range from widely ridiculous to just plain foolish.
Don't take him seriously.

Life Ain't Fair.

Clayton Riggs — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 17:14:59 EDT

I'm not sure if a candidate's tax plans are important to your decision making, but if it they are check out this article in "The Wall Street Journal and this article in "The New Standard".

Now here's "Clayton's Most Unprofessional Opinion."

Taxes aren't important to me personally(drum-roll please), because I'm so poor I can't afford to pay attention(and there's the rim-shot). Ha!

But seriously folks, the tax plans are very important to me on a much larger level. Good and fair tax laws increase, reward and encourage the middle-class, ignore the poor and of course punish the rich. I don't want rich people actually penalized for making money, but if some are taxed down into the upper-middle-class(not likely), I know people in much worse situations. Above all, I don't want the middle-class paying as much tax as possible.

Rich people pay lots of taxes and pay lots of money(tax-deductible) to their lawyers and accountants to trim as much as possible off that amount. If we see their "real" income , they pay little or nothing and the super-rich know how to actually receive huge refunds.

I hear people say, "It's not fair to tax rich people, more than poor people." I have an answer for them, "Life ain't fair!" You are fortunate to be a rich person(it doesn't matter how) and have been rewarded "unfairly." Is it fair, that a guy drives a $100,000 car, works 35 hours a week and earns $700,000 annually, but another guy rides a bus, works a combined 60 hours a week from two jobs and makes minimum wage? No, but like I said, "Life ain't fair!"

Life isn't fair, that's why we make laws. Our taxes can't fix everything, but they help.

I played with the IRS tax estimator today and used fictional criteria to come up with the numbers. The fictional information I used is listed at the bottom of the page.

Joseph Magnum-of-Cristal:   Earned 1 million dollars
                                            Pays $45,033
                                                 or .045 of his income for taxes*

Joe Six-pack-of-Bud:   Earned $100,000
                                      Pays $11,794
                                          or .12 of his income for taxes*

That's not cool.

You'll notice that Joseph has more tax credits and deductions than Joe, but I figure in the real world Joseph's CPA would make sure his client gets a few breaks.

I also figured that Joe's CPA (most likely himself or an in-law), wouldn't be clever enough (or maybe brave enough) to take all possible deductions. Joe also makes less and can't contribute as much to his I.R.A. or other tax shelters.

*Clayton's math might not be "correct." If I made an error, please let me know and I'll correct it promptly!

Joseph Magnum-of-Cristal's IRS criteria:

Filing Status: Head of householdSomeone else can claim you as a dependent: NoNumber of jobs: 1Number of dependents: 3Will you be 65 or older 1/1/2009: NoAre you blind: NoChild & dependent care credit qualifying persons: 2 or moreChild & dependent care credit expenses: 15,000Eligible children for child tax credit: 3Other credits: 100,000Total salary: 1,000,000Total retirement plans: 99,999Tax withheld to date: 0Projected withholding for rest of year: 0Total earned income other than salary: Other nonwage income: Adjustments to income: 100,000Total itemized deductions: 308,998

Joe Six-pack-of-Bud's IRS criteria:
Filing Status: Head of householdSomeone else can claim you as a dependent: NoNumber of jobs: 1Number of dependents: 3Will you be 65 or older 1/1/2009: NoAre you blind: NoChild & dependent care credit qualifying persons: 2 or moreChild & dependent care credit expenses: 3,000Eligible children for child tax credit: 3Other credits: Total salary: 100,000Total retirement plans: 1,000Tax withheld to date: 0Projected withholding for rest of year: 0Total earned income other than salary: Other nonwage income: Adjustments to income: 500Total itemized deductions: 0

What To Believe

Dale — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:35:25 EDT

I've had good friends that are very conservative Reublicans/Independents spouting some of the worst gibberish I've heard in years. They forward me e-mails apparently prepared by the Swift Boat writers. Yes you have to check out a candidate's background, voting records and core beliefs, but the e-mails I get all tend to start with "Barack Hussein Obama" and then they trail off into his anti-American views - what anti-American views? Where is their fear coming from - ignorance, racism, - not the people I knew. I think that they were so traumatized by 9-11 that they can't get by Barry Obama calling himself Barack Hussein Obama. Well I'm Dale Robert Shack, I'm a retired Army officer, wounded in Viet Nam. I was responsible for the deaths of over 150 people. Does that make me dangerous. heroic, or stupid for fighting in a war I was against - oh by the way, I'm Canadian Americam, proud of it. I could have left for Canada, legally, and not fought with by multi-racial group of brothers in arms. I am very proud of the men I served with in the Army.

Michelle Obama is right, sometimes I'm not very proud of our nation - this administration has had members of it's cabinet act like Nazi's, in fear of security. They try to abridge our civil liberties that we fought so hard to acheive. That's where Osama Bin Laden has won a big part of his crazy attack on us - FEAR. If people don't understand what Ms. Obama was saying, wake up, put yourself in her place, or my place - I was brought up in a Jewish family and was cursed at, spat on, and looked down on by people in the 1950's.

Senator McCain went back to Viet Nam and worked to normalize relations with our former enemy. Is this consorting with a communist enemy, or a way to acheive long term peace. Ask Senator McCain, I'm getting so many mixed messages from him I find it hard to believe it's the same man that President George W. Bush once trashed so badly on the campaign trail. Senator McCain is a great Americam that lived through hell. If mud slinging begins and Senator MCain doesn't stop it, shame on him.

Everyone loosen up - my heart surgeon is Egyptian and his partner is Jewish. My wifes heart doctor is from Syria, and her heart surgeon is anglo-saxon. If you were in trouble and someone with a different name or different color skin came to save your life what would you do? We're Americans, let's act like it.

Listen and learn, and then vote for Senator Obama.

The Right Candidate

Clayton Riggs — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 01:11:02 EDT

This is it.

I started voting at 18 and never stopped, but seldom felt emotionally and intellectually connected to a single candidate.

H. Ross Perot made me excited about politics. I recognized the smartest candidate running in 1992 and I watched, heard and read everything available to the public. I voted for Mr. Perot in 1992 and again in 1996. I knew he wouldn’t win, but I wanted America to understand, Clayton Riggs votes for the right candidate, not always the winning candidate.

I proudly and fondly tell my fellow Texans about my votes for Mr. Perot. They laugh at me and say “You threw your vote away.” Of course, they are dead wrong. My vote counted and America witnessed the most successful third-party presidential candidate since Theodore Roosevelt in 1912. Mr. Perot earned18.9% of the popular vote and scared the shit out of the Republicans and the Democrats.

I continued voting and waiting for the right candidate.

The right candidate deserves my time, money and most importantly my vote.

On July 27, 2004, the right candidate appeared . . . and he wasn’t even in the race!

He spoke with authority and conviction. His words stuck with me and I couldn’t wait to hear the speech again and again. “The Audacity of Hope” rang in my head. I watched, heard and read the speech countless times.

Barack Obama is the right candidate and with my help, he will also be the winning candidate.

Race IN the Race: Whazzup wid da Media?

SRG_Legal — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 21:32:43 EDT

Did Obama or McCain pull out the race card first?
Does it even matter?
And wasn't Obama speaking the truth: Did NOT Hillary Clinton and John McCain do exactly what he (Obama) told his supporters they would do?

They attempted to make this nation afraid of:
a) His race
b) His name
c) His upbringing
d) His church
e) His religious affiliations
f) His wife
g) His actions (fist bumps, flag pin, hand over heart, his 'confidence factor'-called "arrogant" on a black man and "confidence" on a white man-, and all of that)
h) His African father's heritage
i) And that's just the beginning...

So far, Obama has been challenged on every aspect of his life except the fact that he is a man and on his social work values in Chicago's inner city ghettos, which would be viewed as too charitable to come against and might quickly cost them the election if they tried (squawk! And, and, and "HE HELPED THOSE POOR BLACK PEOPLE IN THE GHETTOS, TOO!!!")

Hillary even came close to trying to call him on the fact that he is a man; BUT for the fact that America has NEVER had a female president and may not any time soon, she might have hit him up on that, too.

If Obama drew the so-called "race card" first, he MOST CERTAINLY CALLED IT RIGHT.

It was better that he do it himself; because that effectively watered it down when they did exactly what he expected and said that they would do.

And why is the news media continually hyping and hawking this old news as if everyone BUT them has not totally put it out of their minds?

Can you say "yellow journalism"?

Media conflict of interest - covering funding of PACs and 527s

Tom Hayes, working for change — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 12:39:24 EDT

Once Senator John McCain and the RNC began circumventing the McCain/Feingold limits via the creation of the “McCain Victory ‘08 Fund” with its $70,000 per individual donations they really left presumptive Democratic nominee Senator Barack Obama with no reason to keep extending his offer to limit campaign spending by accepting public financing. They sprang into faux outrage, of course, ready to accuse him of a flip-flop despite the fact they’d not accepted Obama’s conditional offer. Follow the money, not the spin, and you discover that this has gone virtually unreported. The commercial media outlets have a conflict of interest; reporting on the McCain fund undermines their profits.

Here’s the simple truth:

Disturbing evidence in a search log

Tom Hayes, working for change — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 01:10:23 EDT

I don't know how much thought you give to tags and search terms when you submit a blog entry, but here's one that's got red-flag written all over it. The search was on:

"michelle obama" promiscuous

So obviously somebody is looking for dirt. While I doubt there's any to find, it occurs to me that if a story had both those terms in it then that would make it that much harder on somebody hunting for smear material. Think of it as giving them more to look through.

And the word promiscuous can be worked into a story in a number of ways that have nothing to do with sexuality, obviously.

For instance, promiscuous is a song recorded by pop singer Nelly Furtado and Timbaland for Furtado's third album, Loose, in 2006, or consisting of diverse, unrelated parts or individuals; confused: "Throngs promiscuous strew the level green" (Alexander Pope)... or there's the looser meaning, "not selective" of a single class or person, as in: "Clinton was criticized for his promiscuous solicitation of campaign money."

Kids Want To Party Like A Barack Star! Hip Children's Obama t-shirts

Mark Hussein Barack Star Montalbano — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:53:13 EDT

Here's a Barack Obama political election t-shirt profile. This is the cutest kid's Obama democratic t-shirt around. Barack Star 08 fashion design. This is a unisex t shirt made on a baby blue American Apparel tee - print in red. You can find it at www.barackstar08.com

Product DescriptionKids Barack too! This children's Barack Star Obama t-shirt is political, hip and cute

If your kids are like mine, or if you know people with Obama lovin kids, then these political democratic election t-shirts are perfect!

Kids Wanna Be Barack Stars Too!

Barack Obama shirts made for toddlers and bigger barack star children!

American Apparel 100% cotton, made in the USA, blue tee with red printed on front and back.

The UNITED States of America

Tom Hayes, working for change — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:59:02 EDT

There could hardly be a more fundamental difference between the two candidates for the Democratic nomination.

Having witnessed from close range the stunning effectiveness of the Republican machine at shaving just enough votes in key places in many recent campaign cycles, the Clintons set out to use their hard-won savvy. Arguably comfortable with their data and their sense of how the trends would develop they set out confidently atop a well-tuned campaign machine with a distinctive message implicit in the Senator's campaign for the nomination. It ran something along the lines: The Republican old boy network can't attack the patriotism of a female U.S. Senator who voted to support Bush's Iraq mission.

Yes, it would take work. Still, the country was in a mood to reverse course, the political pendulum was swinging back, and the attacks that had been launched during President Clinton's term in office had cemented Hillary's celebrity, as demonstrated by her success running for the Senate in a "new" home state. Now, having carefully orchestrated her voting record and honed her campaigning and rhetorical skills in the interim, (and make no mistake about it, the skill-set needed to campaign effectively is distinct from what's needed to actually be President,) the Senator Clinton could take back the White House. The Clintons are campaigning with the Rove tactical toolset, targeting whatever gives them leverage within specific groups to shave a few points off their opponent(s) in carefully selected spots, trying to apply just enough pressure to energize specific voters, while the Obama vision of "strength through unity" dictates reliance on an appeal to selflessness, turning on voters who have not been engaged, and a reliance on the intelligence of the voters to consider the issues we must confront, like it or not.

Spotlight on Sound-bites

And now, as Andrew Sullivan has been documenting insightfully for months, those differences are being tested, and the soundness of the forecasts has come to dominate the limelight. The Obama message, which critics have derided via sound-bites combat, is at once both complex and simple, and judging by recent history that's a real gamble. Why craft policy papers and present your stand on the issues in nuanced ways? Simple talking points are what has won elections, after all.

Why? Because Obama has faith in Americans. He has worked alongside the men and women who did not complete college. He understands that it's not indicative of their intelligence, that there are brilliant thinkers scattered throughout rural and urban areas of the U.S., that it's possible to talk to people who have had different opportunities without deprecating their wisdom. In other words, he knows that data-analysis and statistics which refer to groups of voters inevitably diminish the richness of those individuals.

Senator Clinton has recently suggested, for example, that other journalists refer to an Associated Press story including, "how whites in both states who had not completed college were supporting me." Most of those 'uneducated' white voters are capable of hearing the underlying text, and being insulted at the implication that their support is linked to their educational level in a sort of class-based oppression that's familiar to them, but not welcome. Visit any Union hall, or construction site, and you will find that most know who among their "peers" is conversant with the subtleties of any major issue, that there are on-site pundits without college degrees who garner more respect than most of the talking heads and media experts. No, not everybody agrees with them, the differences are present, but that's just the point: differences ARE present, and Senator Clinton arrogantly lumps all of them together as though none will notice.

Obama's experience

Senator Obama, having spent more time in the last 35 years associating with less-educated people, respects the diversity and intelligence of the people he has met. He knows college and grad school afforded him opportunities denied many who don't get that experience, and that while it's not unusual for folks to gravitate to the familiar it's foolish to underestimate individuals based solely, for instance, on their level of education. Sullivan cites an event filled with predominantly black donors and activists, when Obama recounted how a supporter greeted him at the anniversary of Martin Luther King's march on Selma."That was a great celebration of African-American history," the supporter said.

Obama: Proud to be an American

Tom Hayes, working for change — Fri, 09 May 2008 13:20:25 EDT

Have you seen this video yet? Featuring the Lee Greenwood song, God Bless the USA, this is an amazing video. It's circulating around on several blogs, and you should check it out and rate it up at youtube.

Here's the direct youtube URL: www.youtube.com/watch?v=55ZFDUvHj-I

Now, DIGG this!

Clinton Clinging to a margin in PA doesn't mean every white guy will vote for McCain

Tom Hayes, working for change — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:51:31 EDT

One of the enduring mysteries of life in the U.S.A. is that children are taught, routinely, that this is a melting pot country, that we are enriched by the overlapping cultures and traditions, that here anybody can grow up to be anything - yet "like-me-ism" persists as a decision mechanism for so many. I got thinking about this again while reading "Pennsylvania Primary Provides New Litmus Test for Racism" by Marisa Treviño (on her Latina Lista blog.) In fact, you'll find a very similar comment there, beneath her thoughts weaving together threads seen from events in Arizona, Colorado, Wisconsin, and the plight(s) of the children of the FLDS in Texas. We lament the blindness of others Why is there so much tension between Catholics and Protestants in Ireland? They're Caucasian Christians who eat the same foods and speak the same language, yet they perpetrate acts of hatred and terrorism upon their neighbors... Well, thankfully that situation does seem to be moderating, but it's a perfect reminder on how small the differences that lead to strife can be. Neighbors in Iraq who have adopted different versions of Islam have taunted, shunned, and vilified each other in much the same patterns as those Christians in Northern Ireland. Am I more like an Iraqi or a Honduran? Reading my words you don't know. My skin may be darker or paler than yours; I was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in the U.S., so am I more like the Protestant from a large family in Northern Ireland or the kid born in Hawaii and raised by a single mom who moved to Chicago after law school to organize destitute communities ravaged by unemployment - and is now running for President? Like-me-ism is easy to understand. Like-me-ism doesn't ask us to get out of our comfort zones. In fact, it is only relatively recently that we developed many alternatives to being just like our parents were, and their parents before them. If my ancestors were slavers, or crusaders, is there any comfort in that? If my ancestors lived in Moscow, Berlin, Bangkok, or Rome, would I not find a lot more people like me by going back there? No, I would not, because my grandfather's grandfather raised his family here, and while I am visually similar to those ancestors, I am culturally quite different. I am a product of my roots, but I am defined by my experiences, not my ancestors. I like Thai food, but I like Mexican food and Margaritas, too. I like Fettucini Alfredo with Australian wine, and the Ethiopian food at the Blue Nile in Minneapolis. I suppose that the place my grandfather's grandfather was born may even feature "American" restaurants now, but I would not be at home there. No, I am at home here, in the great melting pot, where vestiges of like-me-ism will linger long after I have passed. I am a bit more comfortable around people with similar views and tastes, but I am energized and enlivened by the myriad of choices and differences I encounter when stepping outside my own little world. Diversity is opportunity, and I hope to help those who distrust it discover how much there is to taste in life. The time is now: we must lead by example. Are you like me?

Get a Latina Lista Politics Widget from

A bitter pill to swallow

Tom Hayes, working for change — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 01:02:49 EDT

MISHAWAKA, Ind. - A political tempest over Hillary Clinton and John McCain's faux outraged reactions Barack Obama's comments about bitter voters in small towns has given Obama a new opening to court working class Democrats 10 days before Pennsylvanians hold a primary that he hopes to use to show that his lead is dominant.

Obama enjoyed the furor Saturday, explaining his remarks while also conceding he had chosen his words poorly."If I worded things in a way that made people offended, I deeply regret that," Obama said in an interview with the Winston-Salem (N.C.) Journal.

But the Clinton campaign fueled the controversy in every place and every way it could, hoping charges that Obama is elitist and arrogant will make the swing voters the candidates are vying for not only in Pennsylvania, but in upcoming primaries in Indiana and North Carolina as well, forget that she's almost as rich and elitist as John McCain.

Political insiders differed on whether Clinton's comments would become a full-blown political disaster that could prompt party leaders to try to steer the nomination to Obama who already has has more pledged delegates. Clinton supporters were blind to the possibility, failing to realize that voters are bitter about the sort of insiders who have controlled Washginton for decades, and haven't yet forgotten the previous "out of context" attempt to make Obama look like he can't fit in with the experienced politicos.

Spontaneous celebration

Tom Hayes, working for change — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 09:50:08 EDT

Former PA Senator Harris Wofford was looking on as Barack made an appearance, and Obama's efficient staff got him the information that it was, in fact, Wofford's 82nd birthday. Well, sure, there's a chance Barack just kept that in his head, but I prefer to credit his staff... that's what I expect of a well-run organization, that they get the boss these sorts of details.

Now then, watch a statesman when an appearance takes an unexpected turn:

Feel free to share the link! (If the embed doesn't work, click here. They're tough to work with in this blogging editor!)

Obama's mother

Tom Hayes, working for change — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 12:37:17 EDT

Unlike her son who has been teased and queried about his middle name, Ann Soetoro had an atypical first name: Stanley. Her father wanted a boy.

"It turns out that Obama's nascent career peddling hope is a family business. He inherited it. And while it is true that he has not been profoundly tested, he was raised by someone who was.
In most elections, the deceased mother of a candidate in the primaries is not the subject of a magazine profile. But Ann Soetoro was not like most mothers."

Indeed, her son is not like most sons, either. Time magazine had put Obama on their cover in December 2007. Now, as we head for the Pennsylvania primary on April 22nd, the magazine turns to examine his mother in an article full of information about the woman who first shaped the person we know today as U.S. Senator Barack Obama.

find audacious blogs | read the TIME article | digg story

John McCain has every right to smile

Tom Hayes, working for change — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:33:27 EDT

Senator John McCain is surely delighted to have Senators Obama and Clinton, among others, chide him over his reply when Dave Tiffany asked him how long the U.S. military may continue its occupation of Iraq: “…maybe 100 years.” I’m guessing, of course, because McCain hasn’t talked with me directly; I find no reason to take much of what’s said in most campaigns literally in any case. The majority of those re-elected to the U.S. House and Senate clearly find it conducive their retention of their position(s) to typically limit their candor, relying instead on stock phrases and talking points. They use any expedients deemed necessary to get over the obstacles to reelection, which becomes in point of fact the goal of many who attain an elected office without term limits, while limiting that which an opponent might use to truncate their tenure. Yes, I can understand why John McCain’s smiling more lately.

McCain, in fact, can comfortably ride his presumed affinity for the military as General Petraeus testifies before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee today. The General’s visit will inevitably feature posturing from each Senator. Who can forget, for instance, that Senator Clinton used her time in September of 2007 to imply Petraeus might have misspoken in preparing his reports by asserting it took a, “willing suspension of disbelief,” to accept them? One can hardly expect her to pass up this opportunity to showcase her putative skill as a potential Commander-In-Chief, which needs shoring up in the wake of her deprecation of the judgment of the officers charged with her safety during the trip to Tuzla, Bosnia by repeatedly alluding to non-existent sniper fire when describing her arrival.

Veterans of the Washington political scene are not so different from the rest of us: they prefer working with people they already know, enjoying competency within a system they’ve mastered. It’s fascinating to contrast the manifestations of campaign strategies playing out during the current presidential contest. Three Senators, who might otherwise be expected to avoid jeopardizing their power, are jostling in a contest that only one can win. Obama has built a movement of unexpected dimensions – and while he works hard on the campaign trail he has clearly cast this as an opportunity for voters to express their will. He candidly states his positions, and more so than any politician since the late Senator Paul Wellstone adopted a, “what you see is what you’ll get,” approach, right down to shedding the help of PAC money for this campaign. He’s reshaping the nature of politics and campaigns. Clinton has relied on more traditional, old-school political strategies – she’s got savvy help, wealthy connections, and a tough-minded willingness to do whatever’s expedient in pursuit of her ambition, the very epitome of an eristic politico. If her rival was traditional she might even lead in the polls.

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (1)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 05:00:34 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's what folks are saying:

Wonderful author. Wonderful work of theater. Wonderful candidate. WONDERFUL IDEA!!! (Nathan)
I'm passionate about Obama and I like roses a bunch (AND I live in Portland, which is The City of Roses), so I will follow suit and adorn myself with roses from now on :o) (Nancy)
Great idea, i like the peace rose......a real beauty. (T.)
I have been looking for a way to show my support for Barack, without getting into peoples face, this idea is perfect,thank you and I will be wearing a rose from now until he is in the white house. (Joyce)
I'll be glad to wear a rose for Barack! What a wonderful idea. Thank you. (Merrilee)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (3)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:58:36 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

Great idea! I will start wearing my rose today! (Lee Ann)
As a lifelong Malian, I am proud that we're battling marginalization based on ethnic names. It is a sorry fact that in the narrow view of many who advocate the culture wars, the beauty of a name with an interesting or diverse history is completely invisible. Let's reverse that by celebrating what a great name Hussein is - hey, my uncle is named Hasan and he's a Chinese Christian (Jasmine)
Nice idea (Jessica)
Of course! Thank you for such a simple,effective way to undermine the negativity! Blessings, (Cassie)
Although I do not wear pins. I did use your icon with a link back to the event several times. Thanks, (Mary)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (4)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:50:04 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

I'll wear a rose (Connie)
What an awesome idea !! I will proudly wear a rose !! (Dawn)
I am very surprised that this is an issue. Equal opportunity and a right to pursue happiness, justice for all? I have believed in this ever since I read the U.S. constitution a couple of decades ago. It never mentioned only folks with Western, Christian names were included in the equation. There is a lot in a name, and for me, Barack Hussein Obama as the name for the one who is uniting us is the best name there can be. I will wear my rose proudly! (Kirsten)
Great Idea (Karanja)
i like this..thank you (Roseann)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (5)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:49:13 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's what folks are saying:

I love this idea. I will wear a rose proudly wherever I go and welcome the chance to explain why I'm wearing it. Thank you for organizing this. (Jody)
Great idea. I love it. Will pass the word. sTAY iN pEACE (Zax)
Finally, an event that does not require a gas guzzler to attend! (Karen)
simply brilliant! (Julie)
This is an amazing idea. You are doing a wonderful thing! (Holly)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (6)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:48:11 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

More feedback. Why? The more, the merrier!

Thanks - I dehydrate and preserve roses ... so this is a special action with many blessings. With Love - (Devavati)
I won't be able to do it constantly but I will make an effort to do it some and to explain to people what it stands for and why I am doing it. (George)
great idea! (Darlene)
Great idea! (Kristine)
I still have hope in my heart. "I'm In" for the duration. (Elizabeth)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (7)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:47:31 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

Great idea! (Tresa)
I will proudly being wearing a rose pin - the National Flower of the United States right next to my Obama '08 pin! What a beautiful idea! (Christine)
YES! A rose indeed will sit on my desk as a reminder. Now until election day!!! (Bethany)
How sweet it is!!! (Kathleen)
A beautiful idea, and I imagine very effective. I'm looking forward to responding to questions about it! (Lauren)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (8)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:46:15 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

I love Roses! I will spread the word! (Vicki)
Thank you for this wonderful idea! :) Greetings from Brazil to you! (Marta)
I am glad to be part of this Movement with all the special people of this country (Roxanna)
This is a great idea. We need all the ideas that we can think of to keep the energy moving for this future of our country! (Mikel)
Thanks ... a great idea. (Joyce)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (9)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:45:22 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's what folks are saying:

Hi! I've been trying to find an origami folding instruction on how to make a rose. None of the books I've looked at have one. Can you send us diagrams and instructions please? Thanks (Elizabeth)
Lovely idea! (Denise)
Great idea, even though I feel the negativity is stupid. Would anyone think that Barack was a serial killer if his middle name was Ted (Bundy)? Someone should clue in England as well. After all Prince Charles carries the same first name as "Manson". My mother, neice, and myself will be wearing a different color rose on our lapels for each day of the week. Obama Supporter (Lisa)
What a wonderful idea! We need to find a way to carry it through to the general election!! Let me know if I can help! (Jill)
Great, easy way to talk about this message! Thanks (Martha)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (10)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:44:31 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

More feedback. Why? The more, the merrier!

Thanks! (Adam)
What the American people, especially me, the disinterested voter, truly cares about is the integrity and intelligence of Senator Obama. For sure, he will still be the inspiring leader that he is even if you change his name to John Doe! Let us reframe the issue surrounding Senator Obama's middle name. Won't it be something if we all, supporters of the Senator Obama Movement, put "Hussein" as we blog or log in into our webpages as our middle name? That will send our message to the entire nation and to the world at large for all Americans worldwide to see that his integrity and concern to change the government to a good is what matters! We all know that what really matters is the content of his character. Shakespeare said so! "Barack Obama, regardless of his name, would still be the same leader who has inspired a whole nation with hope and instilled in us a real sense of agency by his exemplary dedication to public service." As what the Senator said, "Let's all SPEAK for the best interest of our country
This is the best idea I have heard since a few minutes ago when Barack said in response to Hillary's offer of VP that He was running to be COMMANDER IN CHIEF !!!!!!!!! I am thrilled to be a rose wearer for this important purpose and will pass the invitation along to my groups. I recieved the email smear the day before the New Hamshire Primary and have been waging my fight for the truth ever since. It is great to have so many united for this purpose. I want to send Michelle and the girls and dozen roses on March 11 at 12:oo a.m. (Karen Chapman)
Beautiful idea.(Amylouise)
God Bless You! (Phoenix)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (11)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:43:49 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

I think this is just a wonderful idea! Thanks for thinking of it! I will wear my rose with PRIDE! At my county convention, that is!!! GO HOPE!!! (Mindy)
Be safe, strong, and encouraged! (George)
This is an AWESOME idea! Could I put this link on our website which will be dedicated to all efforts to support Sen. Obama. It is called nationforchange.com and will be up this week. I would also like to add this link to on our Facebook Group called "Nation for Change --Yes We Can" page? If you would e-mail me personally to let me know, I would greatly appreciate it. (Tracy)
Love the idea and we are in. Beautiful!!! (Laura)
Awesome! (Diana)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (12)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:43:07 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

Awesome Idea!
I'll wear my rose at work (barn yard) on my coveralls at the store and to church (Ronald)
His middle name comes from a HERO of ancient Islam. Husayn same as Hassein/Hussein, common as "JACK" or "JOHN" in the western world, the whole idea of demonising him for that name is stupid. Don't feed the problem, teach the truth. (Jeff)
This is very timely. I was just leaving El Paso after having volunteered with the camppaing there. I was carrying a large Obama poster. A man in the security line loudly asked me "Is that Obama or Osama?" I really even louder, I don't care if his name is Mohammed or Sadam he IS THE BEST PERSON WE COULD HAVE AS PRESIDENT! I got quite a few laughs for my boldness! (Maria Julianna)
I hope everyone ROSE to the occasion... (Gordon)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (13)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:42:23 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's what folks are saying:

OK where is this? I'll wear my rose tomorrow (Patricia)
I will have silk roses for all of our guests at our Phone bank to PA this weekend in San Jose, Ca 95123. Great idea! I will type up a paper with your explanation and distribute to my guests. I will also distribute at eh California State convention on Mar 27 (Mari)
I shall wear it with honor! (Peter)
I will wear a silk red, white, and blue rose with pride! (Brandon)
Personally I see no reason to somehow try to submit to the bigots out there. Hussein is a fine name, it is the name his parents gave him, and as such should wear with pride. (Kristin)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (14)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:41:27 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

More feedback. Why? The more, the merrier!

I found a nice enamael red rose pin and am wearing it with pride! (Jessica)
I've pinned a rose pin from the Rose Bowl right next to my Women for Obama pin. (Janet)
Fired Up! (Michelle)
COUNT ME IN!!! (Evelyn)
The problem is some people don't know a rose even when they smell one! (Arlenia)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (15)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:40:41 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

What a great idea. I love it. A suggestion for campaign fundraising would be to sell lapel pins, maybe even use Barack's logo-they could sell them on his website. (Lisa)
Delightful idea. Thinking I'd like to go for a walk through the Rose Garden at our White House with We The People and President Obama. Anyone care to join me? (Joanie)
Thank you.I agree entirely with these sentiments and will get my rose ready! (Joan)
Getting out the lapel! (Finn)
Nice, positive action. Please consider the issue of addressing poverty across ALL of america - and increasing economic insecurity (ie. a slippery slope to poverty). Its a BIG (2 century old) role in race relations of this country. (Sarah)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (16)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:39:47 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

The rose idea is a lovely one and gives us a chance to share our feelings of support for Obama with those who comment on the lovely flower!Have an awesome day! (Denise)
A rose will bloom in the highlands of Scotland, in the snow. Obama's message is clear and sound, Scotland also needs to examine its dealings with lobbyists and the new level of accepted corruption of big buiness at every level. The intergrity of Obama's message makes us all consider the reasons why numbers of those voting in elections is falling in my country. The effect that the USA has in a world context is felt here. This man must win for us all. We have the chance ourselves to do this at last. (Hazel)
I wore a rose pinned to my dress collar at church a week ago. After I signed up for your event I could not wait to purchase my roses. I told my friend about your event because I thought it was such a great idea! (Becky)
Amen (Roy)
This is so awesome!!! (Sherri)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (17)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:38:51 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's what folks are saying:

I believe I have a rose pin at home. I'll be sure to add it to my wardrobe. (Casi)
A great idea--one that shows that we are all different and therefore, symbols convey different meanings for us. A rose as the national flower speaks to me of inherent beauty. Perhaps the peace rose would be a good pin instead of a flag lapel pin when the flag has been used to support war and violence in so many instances. How creative that we can support a candidate whose beautiful name can not be used to denigrate or demonize him but instead to reflect the content of his character. (Susan)
Absolutely, as a landscaper I can really go to town on this one! (Amanda)
Thanks!!! :) Great Graphic! (Shelley)
I just bought a pretty red rose pin that I will start wearing everyday when I go out of the house. Count me in! (Michele)
I will not be able to attend - But I will help spread the word. Also - a simple suggestion - How about some bumber stickers and a rose pin? (Warrior)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (18)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:38:04 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

More feedback. Why? The more, the merrier!

Wonderful idea! It is uncanny that I live in the Portland Metro area of Oregon... Portland is coined as "The City of Roses". (Joanna)
I'm taking care of my mum with cancer,but if possible,I shall definitely attend.But if not there in physical form,you can count on me in Spirit1(Hey!At least that's something!)And i shall PROUDLY wear a variety of sizes,colours,and materials of roses all~the~while.What an inspired thought!!! Namaste' (Audrey)
I don't wear lapels but I get it. Wear a pin whenever you are in public. I have to get one. I don't get out much. (Donald)
AWESOME! (Mayra Angelica)
Fabulous idea! Especially since I am an Obama Mom living in England. I have just joined an Obama group and I'll be sure to bring roses to our meeting tonight in London! (Carol)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (19)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:36:55 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

Great idea! I will start wearing my rose today! (Lee Ann)
As a lifelong Malian, I am proud that we're battling marginalization based on ethnic names. It is a sorry fact that in the narrow view of many who advocate the culture wars, the beauty of a name with an interesting or diverse history is completely invisible. Let's reverse that by celebrating what a great name Hussein is - hey, my uncle is named Hasan and he's a Chinese Christian (Jasmine)
Nice idea (Jessica)
Of course! Thank you for such a simple,effective way to undermine the negativity! Blessin gs, (Cassie)
Although I do not wear pins. I did use your icon with a link back to the event several times. Thanks, (Mary)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (850... and counting) (20)

Adoyo — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 04:35:29 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

I'll wear a rose (Connie)
What an awesome idea !! I will proudly wear a rose !! (Dawn)
I am very surprised that this is an issue. Equal opportunity and a right to pursue happiness, justice for all? I have believed in this ever since I read the U.S. constitution a couple of decades ago. It never mentioned only folks with Western, Christian names were included in the equation. There is a lot in a name, and for me, Barack Hussein Obama as the name for the one who is uniting us is the best name there can be. I will wear my rose proudly! (Kirsten)
Great Idea (Karanja)
i like this..thank you (Roseann)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (800... and counting) (5)

Adoyo — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:03:16 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's what folks are saying:

This is very timely. I was just leaving El Paso after having volunteered with the camppaing there. I was carrying a large Obama poster. A man in the security line loudly asked me "Is that Obama or Osama?" I really even louder, I don't care if his name is Mohammed or Sadam he IS THE BEST PERSON WE COULD HAVE AS PRESIDENT! I got quite a few laughs for my boldness! (Maria Julianna)
I hope everyone ROSE to the occasion... (Gordon)
OK where is this? I'll wear my rose tomorrow (Patricia)
I will have silk roses for all of our guests at our Phone bank to PA this weekend in San Jose, Ca 95123. Great idea! I will type up a paper with your explanation and distribute to my guests. I will also distribute at eh California State convention on Mar 27 (Mari)
I shall wear it with honor! (Peter)
I will wear a silk red, white, and blue rose with pride! (Brandon)
Personally I see no reason to somehow try to submit to the bigots out there. Hussein is a fine name, it is the name his parents gave him, and as such should wear with pride. (Kristin)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (800... and counting) (4)

Adoyo — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:03:11 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

Be safe, strong, and encouraged! (George)
This is an AWESOME idea! Could I put this link on our website which will be dedicated to all efforts to support Sen. Obama. It is called nationforchange.com and will be up this week. I would also like to add this link to on our Facebook Group called "Nation for Change --Yes We Can" page? If you would e-mail me personally to let me know, I would greatly appreciate it. (Tracy)
Love the idea and we are in. Beautiful!!! (Laura)
Awesome! (Diana)
Awesome Idea!
I'll wear my rose at work (barn yard) on my coveralls at the store and to church (Ronald)
His middle name comes from a HERO of ancient Islam. Husayn same as Hassein/Hussein, common as "JACK" or "JOHN" in the western world, the whole idea of demonising him for that name is stupid. Don't feed the problem, teach the truth. (Jeff)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (800... and counting) (3)

Adoyo — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:03:07 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

Great, easy way to talk about this message! Thanks (Martha)
Thanks! (Adam)
What the American people, especially me, the disinterested voter, truly cares about is the integrity and intelligence of Senator Obama. For sure, he will still be the inspiring leader that he is even if you change his name to John Doe! Let us reframe the issue surrounding Senator Obama's middle name. Won't it be something if we all, supporters of the Senator Obama Movement, put "Hussein" as we blog or log in into our webpages as our middle name? That will send our message to the entire nation and to the world at large for all Americans worldwide to see that his integrity and concern to change the government to a good is what matters! We all know that what really matters is the content of his character. Shakespeare said so! "Barack Obama, regardless of his name, would still be the same leader who has inspired a whole nation with hope and instilled in us a real sense of agency by his exemplary dedication to public service." As what the Senator said, "Let's all SPEAK for the best interest of our country," which is the best way to show that we truly care, and we want CHANGE! (Marinell)
This is the best idea I have heard since a few minutes ago when Barack said in response to Hillary's offer of VP that He was running to be COMMANDER IN CHIEF !!!!!!!!! I am thrilled to be a rose wearer for this important purpose and will pass the invitation along to my groups. I recieved the email smear the day before the New Hamshire Primary and have been waging my fight for the truth ever since. It is great to have so many united for this purpose. I want to send Michelle and the girls and dozen roses on March 11 at 12:oo a.m. (Karen Chapman)
Beautiful idea.(Amylouise)
God Bless You! (Phoenix)
I think this is just a wonderful idea! Thanks for thinking of it! I will wear my rose with PRIDE! At my county convention, that is!!! GO HOPE!!! (Mindy)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (800... and counting) (2)

Adoyo — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:02:58 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

More feedback. Why? The more, the merrier!

I am glad to be part of this Movement with all the special people of this country (Roxanna)
This is a great idea. We need all the ideas that we can think of to keep the energy moving for this future of our country! (Mikel)
Thanks ... a great idea. (Joyce)
Hi! I've been trying to find an origami folding instruction on how to make a rose. None of the books I've looked at have one. Can you send us diagrams and instructions please? Thanks (Elizabeth)
Lovely idea! (Denise)
Great idea, even though I feel the negativity is stupid. Would anyone think that Barack was a serial killer if his middle name was Ted (Bundy)? Someone should clue in England as well. After all Prince Charles carries the same first name as "Manson". My mother, neice, and myself will be wearing a different color rose on our lapels for each day of the week. Obama Supporter (Lisa)
What a wonderful idea! We need to find a way to carry it through to the general election!! Let me know if I can help! (Jill)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (800... and counting) (1)

Adoyo — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:02:40 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's what folks are saying:

Great idea! (Tresa)
I will proudly being wearing a rose pin - the National Flower of the United States right next to my Obama '08 pin! What a beautiful idea! (Christine)
YES! A rose indeed will sit on my desk as a reminder. Now until election day!!! (Bethany)
How sweet it is!!! (Kathleen)
A beautiful idea, and I imagine very effective. I'm looking forward to responding to questions about it! (Lauren)
I love Roses! I will spread the word! (Vicki)
Thank you for this wonderful idea! :) Greetings from Brazil to you! (Marta)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (11)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 14:04:33 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

A great idea--one that shows that we are all different and therefore, symbols convey different meanings for us. A rose as the national flower speaks to me of inherent beauty. Perhaps the peace rose would be a good pin instead of a flag lapel pin when the flag has been used to support war and violence in so many instances. How creative that we can support a candidate whose beautiful name can not be used to denigrate or demonize him but instead to reflect the content of his character. (Susan)
Absolutely, as a landscaper I can really go to town on this one! (Amanda)
Thanks!!! :) Great Graphic! (Shelley)
I just bought a pretty red rose pin that I will start wearing everyday when I go out of the house. Count me in! (Michele)
I will not be able to attend - But I will help spread the word. Also - a simple suggestion - How about some bumber stickers and a rose pin? (Warrior)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (10)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:12:19 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

Thank you.I agree entirely with these sentiments and will get my rose ready! (Joan)
Getting out the lapel! (Finn)
Nice, positive action. Please consider the issue of addressing poverty across ALL of america - and increasing economic insecurity (ie. a slippery slope to poverty). Its a BIG (2 century old) role in race relations of this country. (Sarah)
The rose idea is a lovely one and gives us a chance to share our feelings of support for Obama with those who comment on the lovely flower!Have an awesome day! (Denise)
A rose will bloom in the highlands of Scotland, in the snow. Obama's message is clear and sound, Scotland also needs to examine its dealings with lobbyists and the new level of accepted corruption of big buiness at every level. The intergrity of Obama's message makes us all consider the reasons why numbers of those voting in elections is falling in my country. The effect that the USA has in a world context is felt here. This man must win for us all. We have the chance ourselves to do this at last. (Hazel)
I wore a rose pinned to my dress collar at church a week ago. After I signed up for your event I could not wait to purchase my roses. I told my friend about your event because I thought it was such a great idea! (Becky)
Amen (Roy)
This is so awesome!!! (Sherri)
I believe I have a rose pin at home. I'll be sure to add it to my wardrobe. (Casi)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (9)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:12:16 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

More feedback. Why? The more, the merrier!

I found a nice enamael red rose pin and am wearing it with pride! (Jessica)
I've pinned a rose pin from the Rose Bowl right next to my Women for Obama pin. (Janet)
Fired Up! (Michelle)
COUNT ME IN!!! (Evelyn)
The problem is some people don't know a rose even when they smell one! (Arlenia)
What a great idea. I love it. A suggestion for campaign fundraising would be to sell lapel pins, maybe even use Barack's logo-they could sell them on his website. (Lisa)
Delightful idea. Thinking I'd like to go for a walk through the Rose Garden at our White House with We The People and President Obama. Anyone care to join me? (Joanie)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (8)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:07:49 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's what folks are saying:

This is very timely. I was just leaving El Paso after having volunteered with the camppaing there. I was carrying a large Obama poster. A man in the security line loudly asked me "Is that Obama or Osama?" I really even louder, I don't care if his name is Mohammed or Sadam he IS THE BEST PERSON WE COULD HAVE AS PRESIDENT! I got quite a few laughs for my boldness! (Maria Julianna)
I hope everyone ROSE to the occasion... (Gordon)
OK where is this? I'll wear my rose tomorrow (Patricia)
I will have silk roses for all of our guests at our Phone bank to PA this weekend in San Jose, Ca 95123. Great idea! I will type up a paper with your explanation and distribute to my guests. I will also distribute at eh California State convention on Mar 27 (Mari)
I shall wear it with honor! (Peter)
I will wear a silk red, white, and blue rose with pride! (Brandon)
Personally I see no reason to somehow try to submit to the bigots out there. Hussein is a fine name, it is the name his parents gave him, and as such should wear with pride. (Kristin)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (7)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:07:45 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

Be safe, strong, and encouraged! (George)
This is an AWESOME idea! Could I put this link on our website which will be dedicated to all efforts to support Sen. Obama. It is called nationforchange.com and will be up this week. I would also like to add this link to on our Facebook Group called "Nation for Change --Yes We Can" page? If you would e-mail me personally to let me know, I would greatly appreciate it. (Tracy)
Love the idea and we are in. Beautiful!!! (Laura)
Awesome! (Diana)
Awesome Idea!
I'll wear my rose at work (barn yard) on my coveralls at the store and to church (Ronald)
His middle name comes from a HERO of ancient Islam. Husayn same as Hassein/Hussein, common as "JACK" or "JOHN" in the western world, the whole idea of demonising him for that name is stupid. Don't feed the problem, teach the truth. (Jeff)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (6)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:07:40 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

Great, easy way to talk about this message! Thanks (Martha)
Thanks! (Adam)
What the American people, especially me, the disinterested voter, truly cares about is the integrity and intelligence of Senator Obama. For sure, he will still be the inspiring leader that he is even if you change his name to John Doe! Let us reframe the issue surrounding Senator Obama's middle name. Won't it be something if we all, supporters of the Senator Obama Movement, put "Hussein" as we blog or log in into our webpages as our middle name? That will send our message to the entire nation and to the world at large for all Americans worldwide to see that his integrity and concern to change the government to a good is what matters! We all know that what really matters is the content of his character. Shakespeare said so! "Barack Obama, regardless of his name, would still be the same leader who has inspired a whole nation with hope and instilled in us a real sense of agency by his exemplary dedication to public service." As what the Senator said, "Let's all SPEAK for the best interest of our country," which is the best way to show that we truly care, and we want CHANGE! (Marinell)
This is the best idea I have heard since a few minutes ago when Barack said in response to Hillary's offer of VP that He was running to be COMMANDER IN CHIEF !!!!!!!!! I am thrilled to be a rose wearer for this important purpose and will pass the invitation along to my groups. I recieved the email smear the day before the New Hamshire Primary and have been waging my fight for the truth ever since. It is great to have so many united for this purpose. I want to send Michelle and the girls and dozen roses on March 11 at 12:oo a.m. (Karen Chapman)
Beautiful idea.(Amylouise)
God Bless You! (Phoenix)
I think this is just a wonderful idea! Thanks for thinking of it! I will wear my rose with PRIDE! At my county convention, that is!!! GO HOPE!!! (Mindy)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (5)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:07:35 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

More feedback. Why? The more, the merrier!

I am glad to be part of this Movement with all the special people of this country (Roxanna)
This is a great idea. We need all the ideas that we can think of to keep the energy moving for this future of our country! (Mikel)
Thanks ... a great idea. (Joyce)
Hi! I've been trying to find an origami folding instruction on how to make a rose. None of the books I've looked at have one. Can you send us diagrams and instructions please? Thanks (Elizabeth)
Lovely idea! (Denise)
Great idea, even though I feel the negativity is stupid. Would anyone think that Barack was a serial killer if his middle name was Ted (Bundy)? Someone should clue in England as well. After all Prince Charles carries the same first name as "Manson". My mother, neice, and myself will be wearing a different color rose on our lapels for each day of the week. Obama Supporter (Lisa)
What a wonderful idea! We need to find a way to carry it through to the general election!! Let me know if I can help! (Jill)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (4)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:07:28 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's what folks are saying:

Great idea! (Tresa)
I will proudly being wearing a rose pin - the National Flower of the United States right next to my Obama '08 pin! What a beautiful idea! (Christine)
YES! A rose indeed will sit on my desk as a reminder. Now until election day!!! (Bethany)
How sweet it is!!! (Kathleen)
A beautiful idea, and I imagine very effective. I'm looking forward to responding to questions about it! (Lauren)
I love Roses! I will spread the word! (Vicki)
Thank you for this wonderful idea! :) Greetings from Brazil to you! (Marta)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (3)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:07:22 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

simply brilliant! (Julie)
This is an amazing idea. You are doing a wonderful thing! (Holly)
Thanks - I dehydrate and preserve roses ... so this is a special action with many blessings. With Love - (Devavati)
I won't be able to do it constantly but I will make an effort to do it some and to explain to people what it stands for and why I am doing it. (George)
great idea! (Darlene)
Great idea! (Kristine)
I still have hope in my heart. "I'm In" for the duration. (Elizabeth)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (2)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:06:43 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

What an awesome idea !! I will proudly wear a rose !! (Dawn)
I am very surprised that this is an issue. Equal opportunity and a right to pursue happiness, justice for all? I have believed in this ever since I read the U.S. constitution a couple of decades ago. It never mentioned only folks with Western, Christian names were included in the equation. There is a lot in a name, and for me, Barack Hussein Obama as the name for the one who is uniting us is the best name there can be. I will wear my rose proudly! (Kirsten)
Great Idea (Karanja)
i like this..thank you (Roseann)
I love this idea. I will wear a rose proudly wherever I go and welcome the chance to explain why I'm wearing it. Thank you for organizing this. (Jody)
Great idea. I love it. Will pass the word. sTAY iN pEACE (Zax)
Finally, an event that does not require a gas guzzler to attend! (Karen)
Click here to read more reactions -->

A Rose by any other Name (750 ... and counting) (1)

Adoyo — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:06:32 EDT

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

More feedback. Why? The more, the merrier!

Fabulous idea! Especially since I am an Obama Mom living in England. I have just joined an Obama group and I'll be sure to bring roses to our meeting tonight in London! (Carol)
Great idea! I will start wearing my rose today! (Lee Ann)
As a lifelong Malian, I am proud that we're battling marginalization based on ethnic names. It is a sorry fact that in the narrow view of many who advocate the culture wars, the beauty of a name with an interesting or diverse history is completely invisible. Let's reverse that by celebrating what a great name Hussein is - hey, my uncle is named Hasan and he's a Chinese Christian (Jasmine)
Nice idea (Jessica)
Of course! Thank you for such a simple,effective way to undermine the negativity! Blessings, (Cassie)
Of course! Thank you for such a simple,effective way to undermine the negativity! Blessings, (Cassie)
I'll wear a rose (Connie)
Click here to read more reactions -->

Who is the real Barack Obama?

Tom Hayes, working for change — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 14:13:02 EDT

In the attempt to distract voters from learning about Senator Barack Obama before the next primaries, the media narrative has turned back to the provocative rhetoric of Jeremiah Wright. Rather than present us with issues, they prefer to revive a smear which is at best a “guilt by association” tactic (and if we use that logic there’s likely not a politician in the country that would be left in office.)

But not only is the old-school tactic old news, not only is the attempt to use Wright’s rhetoric old news, but Wright himself is old news - he’s been slated to retire for close to two years now. So before we worry about how gullible a Harvard Law educated U.S. Senator might have to be to fall under the influence of religion (are we really worried about a Democrat being too Christian? Didn’t Kennedy put that to rest in 1960?) let’s meet Obama’s pastor, shall we?

Meet: Reverend Otis Moss…

Reverend Moss probably hadn’t imagined the sudden notoriety that would engulf him when the limelight first swung onto Wright’s rhetoric, but he seems to have stepped up to the challenge.

Meanwhile, the real questions for voters are:

Why cover a smear again, when there are issues that matter today?
Who decides which story to promote at various media outlets?
What matters most to us: the War in Iraq, the economy, health care, or the ratings of a “news service”?
Where can we learn what we need to know, not what they want us to think?
How is this story more important than Darfur, Afghanistan, poverty, pollution, or the price of gasoline?
When will objectivity be valued by news agencies more than smear mongering?

Is this the sort of political advantage Ms. Ferraro alluded to when she tried to backhand Senator Obama’s ethnicity into the narrative again un-noticed?

a rose by any other name

A.Ley — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 23:19:11 EDT

I ran across this fabulously clever and powerful idea and wanted to share it...
(please click on the banner to link to a locale-less event hosted by Adoyo of Scholars for Obama)

It's 3 a.m. and Hillary's Dreaming

natalie gould — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 14:04:37 EST

It's 3 a.m. and Hillary's Dreaming

Posted March 5, 2008 | 01:38 AM (EST) by Marc Cooper

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/marc-cooper/its-3-am-and-hillarys_b_89936.html

To be a winner you have to win. And Tuesday night Hillary Clinton unreservedly won three out of four states. Barack Obama, however, has won twice as many primary and caucus states overall, leads substantially in the popular vote and continues to hold a mathematically insurmountable lead in elected delegates.

For two or three days, the Clinton campaign will spin itself -and the media--silly, breathlessly celebrating her overwhelming victories in Rhode Island and Ohio and her squeaker in Texas.

After the confetti is swept and the champagne bottles are tossed a more sober reality will take hold. Not just that her net gain of delegates this week will be, at most, in the single digits. But worse. There is no plausible scenario in which Clinton can win the nomination. At least not democratically.

Seven more weeks of campaign slog through Wyoming, Mississippi and into Pennsylvania. And then maybe tack on six more weeks, if you can believe it, into Indiana , West Virginia, and a handful of other states and into Puerto Rico on the 7th of June, quite literally into D-Day. Whatever the outcome, even if Clinton wins all 16 remaining contests -and some of them by veritable landslides, she will still be dozens of elected delegates behind Barack Obama.

She will not be the winner because she will have not won the majority of elected Democratic delegates. Clinton will be exactly where she was the night before Ohio and Texas: in second place and with no way to become the nominee unless enough unelected Superdelegates defy the popular will of the electorate and throw her the nomination (or unless you somehow believe that she can every coming primary with a 20 point margin).

Indeed, as Jonathan Alter has pointed out, Clinton can't win an elected majority even if she triumphs in what are now likely to be re-scheduled primaries in the cranky states of Michigan and Florida. Again, we'd be back to the Superdelegates and, therefore, back to a dicey game of chicken by the Democratic Party elite. How many Superdelegates are willing to politically die, or willing to spark an intra-party party civil war, just to save Clinton's bacon?

"The 1968 Chicago convention would look like a picnic compared to what Denver would become," a long-time political biographer said on election eve, predicting a youth uprising at the site of this summer's Democratic Convention if the election is thrown to Clinton. "This isn't 40 years ago," he said. "Now, everyone's got a car. And everyone who believed in the change that Clinton scoffs at would wind up surrounding that convention."

Maybe. Maybe not. Who am I to predict that the Democrats are too smart to self-destruct in what should be, by all other measures, a watershed year? The more steely-eyed amongst us, then, would do well to psychologically prepare for the nomination going, somehow or another, to Hillary Clinton. Which means, in turn, that Democrats ought to simultaneously prepare to be beaten by John McCain.

Clinton regained her footing this past week primarily by running a classic, Republican-style campaign of negative, fear-based ads. She blanketed the airwaves with a detestable spot that, stripped to its core message, warned that if Obama were selected, your children could be murdered in their beds in the middle of the night. Somewhere up above (or more likely from down below), departed GOP mudmeister Lee Atwater is cracking a grin.

The spot worked so well - with exit polls showing that voters who made a last-minute decision went in droves for Clinton-- that she couldn't resist reprising the line during her Tuesday night victory speech delivered to a cheering throng in Columbus. "When that phone rings at 3 a.m. in the White House," she said. "There's no time for speeches or on on-the-job training."

Perfect. Clinton's done McCain the favor of cutting his best general election campaign spot for him. All he has to do is cut her answering the phone out of the last 5 seconds of the ad and splice his own mug in there instead. If Clinton succeeds in making what's politely called the "national security issue" the center of the campaign by arguing she's a safer choice than Obama, then why wouldn't McCain argue that he's even better than she? McCain's already begun that effort. If Hillary's nominated, he'll most likely succeed.

Hope springs eternal!

Adoyo — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 10:29:30 EST

Hello Everyone,

What a day it's been! Things are only going to get rougher from now on - all the more reason to spread the word and get more people involved in reclaiming the high ground! For too long, unscrupulous scandalmongers have been allowed to appropriate almost everthing and corrupt it for their own ill conceived purposes. We saw it happen all last week. This time we are not just sitting by and letting them do it.
We are not just letting them be the ones who set the agenda and define the terms of discourse and perception for everyone. We are, at the very least, going to offer a viable alternaive idea for our fellow citizens to consider. At the most hopeful best, we are going to reclaim our candidate's good name, not only for the sake of the campaign, but for the sake of our vision of the world in which we want our children to grow up.Let us do everything we can to shift perception back from the dank shadows of fear and hopelessness into the open light of possibility and hope.

Imagine - in just three day, over 600 people signed up for to "A Rose by any other Name" with overwhelming enthusiasm.

Now, thanks to Billy from Online Obama on My.BarackObama.com, you can help spread the word through your MySpace page or your blog. Just copy one (1) of these 'snippits' to your blog or page to place an "A Rose by any other Name" button that links directly to the event announcement.

You have a choice of a Lavender, Red or Yellow rose for your page!

RED ROSE BUTTON
<A href="http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4rfjv" target=_blank><IMG src="http://photos-a.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v196/143/41/35262/n35262_34004920_8248.jpg" alt="red"></A>

YELLOW ROSE BUTTON
<A href="http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4rfjv" target=_blank><IMG src="http://photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v196/143/41/35262/n35262_34004922_8549.jpg" alt="yellow"></A>

LAVENDER ROSE BUTTON
<A href="http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4rfjv" target=_blank><IMG src="http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v196/143/41/35262/n35262_34004919_8079.jpg" alt="lavender"></A>

The lovely banner design is courtesy of Lynn from Mississippi. Thank you Lynn and Billy!

I've been posting some of the comments you've sent on my blog. Check out what your fellow suporters are saying ->

The creativity has also been off the charts on this one: some folks are crochetting roses; some are embroidering them; folks have found rose pins on ebay... we've only just begun...

Cheers to all!

Help Spread the Roses!

Adoyo — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 22:44:59 EST

Hello Everyone,

Imagine - in just three day, over 600 people signed up for to "A Rose by any other Name" with overwhelming enthusiasm.

You have a choice of a Lavender, Red or Yellow rose for your page!

RED ROSE BUTTON
<A href="http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4rfjv" target=_blank><IMG src="http://photos-a.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v196/143/41/35262/n35262_34004920_8248.jpg" alt="red"></A>

YELLOW ROSE BUTTON
<A href="http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4rfjv" target=_blank><IMG src="http://photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v196/143/41/35262/n35262_34004922_8549.jpg" alt="yellow"></A>

LAVENDER ROSE BUTTON
<A href="http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4rfjv" target=_blank><IMG src="http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v196/143/41/35262/n35262_34004919_8079.jpg" alt="lavender"></A>

The lovely banner design is courtesy of Lynn from Mississippi. Thank you Lynn and Billy!

I've been posting some of the comments you've sent on my blog. Check out what your fellow suporters are saying ->

The creativity has also been off the charts on this one: some folks are crochetting roses; some are embroidering them; folks have found rose pins on ebay... we've only just begun...

Cheers to all!

A Rose by any other Name (500 Strong and counting) (2)

Adoyo — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 00:36:17 EST

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

Wonderful effort....I signed up as a "Rose by any other name"...couldn't resist, especially since my name is Rose and my Russian Jewish grandmother's name was Rose. One thing bothers me, though...I find it regrettable, as I'm sure you all do, that we even have to create this kind of diversion from the name Hussein, or any name....or even, God forbid, Islamic ties! Good work! (Rose)
Here's another way of looking at it: for too long, unscrupulous scandalmongers have been allowed to appropriate almost everthing and corrupt it for their own ill conceived purposes.This time we are not just sitting by and letting them do it. We are not just letting them be the ones who set the agenda and define the terms of discourse and perception for everyone. We are, at the very least, offering a viable alternaive idea for our fellow citizens to consider, and at the most hopeful best, reclaiming our candidate's beautiful name, not only for the sake of the campaign, but for the sake of our vision of the world in which we want our children to grow up. So wear your name proudly, Rose, Grandaughter of Rose. And yes, I do believe that America IS ready for an intelligent president! Cheers (Adoyo)
I will be honored to sport a rose in the name of the next great President of the United States!! (Leonard)
Extraordinary (LEC) (Clark)
Happy to wear a rose for Barack! (janet)
Wonderful idea! Thanks you! (Nancy)
Ah, this is a beautiful wonderful magnificent thing to do don't cha know!! I'm already smellin the coffee, now with roses I'll be set fer life!! Bless us Everyone... and hugs around the world... (Jeanbrown)
Surely people will ask why we're wearing a rose, so this provides an excellent opportunity to start a discussion about Senator Obama. Pretty, too! :) (Terri)
This is a fantastic idea and I am honored to be a part of it. (Andrea)
Read some more reactions here -->

A Rose by any other Name (500 Strong and counting) (1)

Adoyo — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 22:27:48 EST

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

As of this posting, 512 people have signed up.

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Great, Can I get a t-shirt, keychain button or hat with this on it! (Victoria)
Great idea that keeps it simple. I will wear my rose proudly ! (Delores)
Great concept; I'm in!! (Anthony)
Great idea! Thanks. (Debrosha)
Brilliant! (Suzanne)
Lovely! (Esther)
This is a beautiful idea!!! (Cristine)
I love this idea. If I hear one more person sa y "he doesn't wear a flag lapel pin" or "his middle name is Hussein", my head is going to explode! Are there no intelligent people left on this Earth? Can't anyone see that if these are the issues that are being brought up there ARE NO ISSUES? Wow, that felt good! Can't wait to get a rose to wear :-)
What fun! (Georgette)
Heck yes. Great idea. (Insa)
My husband thinks this is really cool too and I'll try to figure out how to include our sons (ages 3.5yrs and 8mo) - just have to figure out how to do it without choking hazards... maybe time to whip out the crochet hook and find a rose pattern! (Ahmie)
Read some more reactions here -->

A Rose by any other Name (400 Strong and counting) (4)

Adoyo — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 12:40:35 EST

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

More feedback. Why? The more, the merrier!

I will be wearing a rose proudly. When and where can we get rose lapel pins, since lapel pins seem more important than integrity to some folks??? Sign me up. (Wendy)
I think this is a wonderful idea and yes I will participate. In fact, I have a ceramic rose pin that I will wear on my Barack Obama t-shirt every day. Also, wanted to add, it might also be worth mentioning the names or sporting photos of other Muslim named celebs that no one ever questions such as Kareem Abdul Jabar and Muhammad Ali. Making such associations further nullifies any negative associations with Barack's name taking it away from Middle Eastern terrorism and placing back to 'just a name' status!!! (Alisa)
What a terrific Idea. Count me in!! (Mary)
Sounds like a great idea! You have a rose "sporter" in Michigan! (Amanda)
I just won a couple red rose lapel pins on ebay for my gal and I. (Kenny)
This is a wonderful idea I will wear mine with pride (Angel)
This is brilliant and wonderful. Bless you. (Stanley)
I am going to pass this on to everyone I know! I will also make some roses to give to people to wear. (BJ)
Wonderful, simply wonderful!!! (Kelly)
Yes! Sheri Who's Sane Obama (Sheri)
Awesome! (Rev. Jessica)
Read some more reactions here -->

A Rose by any other Name (400 Strong and counting) (3)

Adoyo — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 01:20:20 EST

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Here's evem more of what folks are saying:

What a creative way to show our support for our Country and our future President! Thanks for coming up with a way we can all help! (Jenny)
That's an amazingly creative & effective idea! I even have rose bushes in my yard. I'll spread the word. (Douglas)
In addition to wearing a real rose, I'm going to look for a rose jewelry pin to wear, too, since that will go better with a lot of my clothing. Great idea! (Stephanie)
I absolutely love the Roses for Barack idea! Stylish, sophisticated, and wonderfully simple at the same time. numerous levels of interpretation: a rose for america, a rose for "love thy neighbor", and then there is the Shakespeare and Umberto Ecco thing of course :). what color? according to wikipedia: Red & White Together or White Roses with Red Edges signify unity and togetherness. Also, using Hussein is a good idea. that way everybody who could potentially be scared by the name will have time to calm down way before the general election (thinking ahead here, with optimism) (Virginia)
This a great idea! Who better than the Bard of Avon to speak for the great political poet of the 21st century? Like Shakespeare, Obama speaks to our noblest instincts yet retains the common touch. (Lowry)
Sounds like a great plan. My daughter's middle name is Rose and her daughter's middle name is Rose and that name came from my favorite aunt, Rosa. We're in. (Nancy)
Read some more reactions here -->

A Rose by any other Name (400 Strong and counting) (2)

Adoyo — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 01:03:53 EST

graphic design by Lynn Griffin

> - CLICK HERE TO JOIN US AND WEAR A ROSE FOR OBAMA! - <

Some more of what folks are saying:

Awesome idea! I will be happy to participate and pass it along to all my friends. (Neeru)
As a Tennessee woman for Obama, I choose a yellow rose! The yellow rose was the symbol of the American suffragettes. The Nineteenth Amendment, specifically intended to extend suffrage to women, was proposed on June 4, 1919. It was ratified on August 18, 1920, upon its ratification by Tennessee, the thirty-sixth state to do so. Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby certified the ratification on August 26, 1920. (Emily)
Great idea. Let's do the same thing earlier also! Get some publicity, perhaps NY Times and London newspapers, and African newspapers. (Kevin)
Great idea ! I love the encouragement to be creative with this ! I'll participate too. Hey, does this make me a new-milenium "flower child"? (Bob)
Unable to join you in USA but will wear a rose brooch of my Mother's. Hazel Ross-shire, Scotland (Hazel)
Yes,I will wear it proudly, thank you for the chance to change the world one rose at a time. (Sylvia)
This is a perfect idea! The rose is a symbol of purity and beauty, and for me, that is what Senator Obama repersents! Plus, it is lovely excuse to buy my favorite flower. Excellent Idea! (Erin)
Click here to read more reactions -->

Barack HUSSEIN Obama

Penny Ronning — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 23:58:14 EST

Barack Hussein Obama.

Just checking...and nope, doesn't matter how many times I write it or hear it I don't feel any fear.

I'm not sure what Ann Coulter and others with similar interests to her are trying to accomplish. Yes, I understand they are fear mongers, but seriously, Hussein is just a name like Jesse or James or Bonnie or Clyde or Al or Capone or Ted or Bundy or Lee or Harvey or Oswald or Butch or Cassidy or Sundance or Timothy or McVeigh or Terry or Nichols and this list could go on and on.

The character behind the name is what matters.

And as I observe the actions of Ann Coulter and the like, I question their character... and intelligence.

I often wonder if Ann Coulter and the like have ever studied American history or world history. If so, they would surely notice that each outlaw, criminal, murderer, terrorist, etc., had a name. And many of those people had somewhat common names.

If we are to be so gullible to succumb to the fear mongering manipulations of the Ann Coulter's of the world, what's next? A ban on all names of those that kill, murder, rape, rob, steal, etc., or perhaps we should ban names all together and simply allow the governments of the world to assign people numbers when they are born.

NO. Those are not the solutions.

If they were, could you imagine a world in which we did not laugh at TED Danson in Cheers or the Bundy's on Married With Children?

OR enjoyed the rapid beating of our once young girl's heart's over the former teen idols Shaun and David CASSIDY?

OR be mesmerized by the wonderful, Pulitzer Prize winning play turned into a movie HARVEY?

OR celebrated the success of independent film at the SUNDANCE Film Festival?

OR watched AL Roker deliver the weather each morning on the Today show or learned about global warming from Noble Prize winning, Vice President AL Gore?

OR held your stomach while laughing through the films by director TERRY Gilliam?

OR applauded the films of Spike LEE or Ang LEE?

OR sang along with smooth styling's of BONNIE Raitt?

OR enjoyed the writings of JAMES Fenimore Cooper and OSWALD Chambers and TIMOTHY Leary?

OR have been motivated and inspired by JESSE Jackson?

OR have cheered on NBA star CLYDE Drexsler?

OR clapped at the graduation of the students from NICHOLS School?

OR listened to a message of healing by Kate McVEIGH?

OR voted for the Governor of Idaho C.L. "BUTCH" Otter?

OR played pool with one of Mike CAPONE's custom cues?

OR dream with Barrack HUSSEIN Obama?

A Rose for Obama - what folks are saying (6)

Adoyo — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 13:16:12 EST

Two days ago I sent out a message about "A Rose by any other Name", inviting folks to reclaim and reframe the questions about Senator Obama's middle name with a poetic symbolic gesture of patriotism

Folks keep on spreading the love...

What a creative way to show our support for our Country and our future President! Thanks for coming up with a way we can all help! (Jenny)
That's an amazingly creative & effective idea! I even have rose bushes in my yard. I'll spread the word. (Douglas)
Great idea! I love it!! (Heidi)
In addition to wearing a real rose, I'm going to look for a rose jewelry pin to wear, too, since that will go better with a lot of my clothing. Great idea! (Stephanie)
Yes, I will wear the rose, but in this day and age what ignoramus has a problem with Barack's name??? You don't have to answer that. Having worked in the African American community my whole life, taught NYC high school students from the world over, I'm still floored. Maybe it's my time to migrate to Mars? Best, (Dorothy)
I absolutely love the Roses for Barack idea! Stylish, sophisticated, and wonderfully simple at the same time. numerous levels of interpretation: a rose for america, a rose for "love thy neighbor", and then there is the Shakespeare and Umberto Ecco thing of course :). what color? according to wikipedia: Red & White Together or White Roses with Red Edges signify unity and togetherness. Also, using Hussein is a good idea. that way everybody who could potentially be scared by the name will have time to calm down way before the general election (thinking ahead here, with optimism) (Virginia)
I LOVE IT!!! I am looking for a rose for Tuesday!!! (Mary)
read some more reactions ->here ->

As you can see, the faith Senator Obama has repeatedly expressed about the decency of the American people is well founded"

I think the American people, at their core, are a decent people. I think that we still have prejudice in our midst but I think that the vast majority of Americans are willing to judge people on the basis of, you know, their ideas and their character. Barack Obama

A Rose for Obama - what folks are saying (2)

Adoyo — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 13:11:17 EST

Two days ago I sent out a message about "A Rose by any other Name", inviting folks to reclaim and reframe the questions about Senator Obama's middle name with a poetic symbolic gesture of patriotism

The joyful responses are still rolling in...

Creative collaboration by the supporters of Obama is what sets this campaign apart from all the rest. This is change at its best. Congratulation for a fabulous idea! (Janet)
A ROSE for Barack Obama for ALL OF US MAKING HISTORY! (John)
Brilliant. I was wondering what options people would exercise in neutralizing the negativity surrounding possible Islamic ties, the name Hussein, blackness, etc.... The rose idea is great. (Kevin)
This is an awesome idea, THANKS! (Heather)
Very special idea and yes, I will participate. (Harriet)
Most of my lapels aren't suited, but I love it. (Tom)
Fabulous idea! (Julie)
It sounds like a wonderful idea to me. (Andrew)
Creative collaboration by the supporters of Obama is what sets this campaign apart from all the rest. This is change at its best. Congratulation for a fabulous idea! (Janet)
I think the rose idea is excellent! (Jab)
read some more reactions ->here ->

As you can see, the faith Senator Obama has repeatedly expressed about the decency of the American people is well founded"

A Rose for Obama - what folks are saying (3)

Adoyo — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 13:10:16 EST

Two days ago I sent out a message about "A Rose by any other Name", inviting folks to reclaim and reframe the questions about Senator Obama's middle name with a poetic symbolic gesture of patriotism

Even more joyful responses keep rolling in...

Count me in! (Dale)
Wonderful idea! (Andrew)
Great Idea! I am also adopting the middle name Hussein through November. (Tara)
Brilliant! (Jennifer)
Yes am in! United we shall remain, as we conquer all obstacles. (Admo)
Awesome idea! I will be happy to participate and pass it along to all my friends. (Neeru)
Fantastic idea! Thank you. (Rebecca)
Great idea... I'll be happy to participate. (Martin)
As a Tennessee woman for Obama, I choose a yellow rose! The yellow rose was the symbol of the American suffragettes. The Nineteenth Amendment, specifically intended to extend suffrage to women, was proposed on June 4, 1919. It was ratified on August 18, 1920, upon its ratification by Tennessee, the thirty-sixth state to do so. Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby certified the ratification on August 26, 1920. (Emily)
read some more reactions ->here ->

As you can see, the faith Senator Obama has repeatedly expressed about the decency of the American people is well founded"

A Rose for Obama - what folks are saying (4)

Adoyo — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 13:09:21 EST

Two days ago I sent out a message about "A Rose by any other Name", inviting folks to reclaim and reframe the questions about Senator Obama's middle name with a poetic symbolic gesture of patriotism

Here's some more of what folks are saying...

Yes, I'll join. You most likely know about this article: Informed Consent: Barack Hussein Obama, Omar Bradley, Benjamin Franklin and Other Semitically Named American Heroes by Juan Cole. It's a great article, and "should" lay to rest the question of Obama's name, patriotism, goals and motives. You can find it at http://www.juancole.com/2008/02/barack-hussein-obama-omar-bradley.html (Martha)
This is great. I also think we can point out that Barack means "blessed" and Hussein means "good or handsome one". Barack is certainly a reflection of the REAL meaning of his names. (Christian)
Fantastic idea. (Janet)
My adopted middle name from now on is "Hussein"! (Ralph)
Creative! True! (Jennifer)
Great idea. Let's do the same thing earlier also! Get some publicity, perhaps NT Times and London newspapers, and African newspapers. (Kevin)
Brilliant! (Joan)
Great idea ! I love the encouragement to be creative with this ! I'll participate too. Hey, does this make me a new-milenium "flower child"? (Bob)
Rose Quote:"The fragrance always remains in the hand that gives the rose."
Great idea... thank you! (T.J.)
What a great idea. I will definitely participate. Thanks. (Rhonda)
read some more reactions ->here ->

As you can see, the faith Senator Obama has repeatedly expressed about the decency of the American people is well founded"

A Rose for Obama - what folks are saying (5)

Adoyo — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 13:07:27 EST

Two days ago I sent out a message about "A Rose by any other Name", inviting folks to reclaim and reframe the questions about Senator Obama's middle name with a poetic symbolic gesture of patriotism

Folks keep on spreading the love...

What a creative way to show our support for our Country and our future President! Thanks for coming up with a way we can all help! (Jenny)
That's an amazingly creative & effective idea! I even have rose bushes in my yard. I'll spread the word. (Douglas)
Great idea! I love it!! (Heidi)
In addition to wearing a real rose, I'm going to look for a rose jewelry pin to wear, too, since that will go better with a lot of my clothing. Great idea! (Stephanie)
Yes, I will wear the rose, but in this day and age what ignoramus has a problem with Barack's name??? You don't have to answer that. Having worked in the African American community my whole life, taught NYC high school students from the world over, I'm still floored. Maybe it's my time to migrate to Mars? Best, (Dorothy)
I absolutely love the Roses for Barack idea! Stylish, sophisticated, and wonderfully simple at the same time. numerous levels of interpretation: a rose for america, a rose for "love thy neighbor", and then there is the Shakespeare and Umberto Ecco thing of course :). what color? according to wikipedia: Red & White Together or White Roses with Red Edges signify unity and togetherness. Also, using Hussein is a good idea. that way everybody who could potentially be scared by the name will have time to calm down way before the general election (thinking ahead here, with optimism) (Virginia)
I LOVE IT!!! I am looking for a rose for Tuesday!!! (Mary)
read some more reactions ->here ->

As you can see, the faith Senator Obama has repeatedly expressed about the decency of the American people is well founded"

A Rose for Obama - what folks are saying (1)

Adoyo — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 12:38:35 EST

Two days ago I sent out a message about "A Rose by any other Name", inviting folks to reclaim and reframe the questions about Senator Obama's middle name with a poetic symbolic gesture of patriotism

The response has been overwhelming! The enthusiasm breathtaking! The joy - well, see for yourself:

Looking for a lapel pin? ->Rose pins
Sounds great to me! The Yellow Rose of Texas!!! (Linda)
What a beautiful and original idea. I'm going to buy a new rose every day and wear it proudly. (Lara)
My rose is ready. Barack Hussein Obama is ready TO BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT! (Martha)
We're having a rally today. I'll pick up a lapel rose and bring my rose garland with me :) (Diane)
I think this is a Super idea. Let's continue to BARACK THE VOTE ! Pphillip)
Brilliant. I was wondering what options people would exercise in neutralizing the negativity surrounding possible Islamic ties, the name Hussein, blackness, etc.... The rose idea is great. (Kevin)
GREAT IDEA! Also deals with the false patriotism of wearing the flag on one's lapel. (Gretchen)
read some more reactions ->here ->

As you can see, the faith Senator Obama has repeatedly expressed about the decency of the American people is well founded"

Barack Hussein Obama (What's in a name?) Redux

Adoyo — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 22:42:38 EST

Back in August I posted this summaryfor those who wonder about the real significance of Senator Barack Obama's name:

Barack:

baraka: blessing (Kiswahili)
baraka: also berakhah , in Judaism, a blessing usually recited during a ceremony
baruch: Also related to "berakhah" or bracha (Hebrew: berakhot), which is a blessing.
baraka: also barakah, in Islam and Arab-influenced languages, meaning spiritual wisdom and blessing transmitted from God
"Baraka", a rarely used French slang term for luck, derived from the Arabic word
Baraka, aka Nigella sativa , a spice with purported health benefits

Hussein:

an Arabic name which is the diminutive of Hasan, meaning "beautiful" or "handsome".

Obama:

a Luo name (male) from Western Kenya (Nyanza Provice) which may derive from "obam," which conotes "bending" or "leaning".
also a surname in Japan and Equatorial Guinea

All told, Senator Obama seems to be a living embodiment of the name his parents gave him: he has lived a blessed life and seeks to share his blessing; he is beautiful to behold and to listen to - people are drawn to him and inspired when they hear him speak and consider his ideas; and in public life he is flexible and dedicated to leaning where necessary to help uplift others.

How about you? Do you embody your name's meaning?

Sources: Wikipedia (baraka, baruch, hussein, obama)

Other sources: My mother; multicultural childhood & education including Luo and Kiswahili.

Jim Wallis of Sojourners: Defending the facts

Sierra Hussein Cajun — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 14:38:10 EST

Jim Wallis is an evangelical Christian, the founder of Sojourners, a former professor at the Harvard Divinity School, and the author of seven books, including "God's Politics: Why the Right Gets it Wrong and the Left Doesn't Get It." This message was sent to Sojourner members on Thursday, Feb. 28.

Defending the Facts on Obama's Faith

I don't endorse political candidates, but I will defend them when it becomes necessary. On this, I agree with my friend Richard Land, the conservative Southern Baptist leader who is often identified with the Religious Right. Richard and I agree that faith has a place in politics and, when we agree on fundamental moral questions, have worked together. Richard says, "I have defended various candidates from time to time when I've felt that they have been unfairly or inaccurately criticized. At other times, I have been asked by the media for my assessment of a particular candidate's chances or weaknesses and strengths. Neither defense nor assessment should be confused with endorsement. As a matter of policy, I have not endorsed, do not endorse and will not endorse candidates."

So I am going to defend my friend, Barack Obama, from an increasing number of ridiculous and scurrilous attacks on the Internet and in the media. The latest incident occurred when a loud-mouth radio talk show host in Cincinnati let loose with a barrage of disparaging remarks against Senator Obama and kept using his middle name—Barack HUSSEIN Obama—over and over, seemingly to tie into the Internet accusations that Obama is really a Muslim who, as a child, attended a Muslim "madrassa" school in Indonesia that taught Islamic fundamentalism, etc. As a Chicago Tribune blog piece commented, "Anyone who uses Obama's middle name repeatedly, like Cincinnati radio host Bill Cunningham the other day, knows what he or she is doing and what feelings they are trying to evoke. There's simply nothing innocent about it."

The occasion for the shock jock's diatribe was his introduction of Senator John McCain at a rally. To his great credit, McCain denounced the remarks when he heard about them, disassociated himself from this kind of attack, and reaffirmed that his campaign would be conducted on higher ground. Good for you, John McCain. So of course, the local loud-mouth, Bill Cunningham, quickly withdrew his support from McCain and now is denouncing him too; which, of course, was quickly picked up by his mentor, the national radio loud-mouth Rush Limbaugh (whom the local Cunningham seems to desperately "wannabe"). And, of course, Rush is now denouncing both Obama and McCain.

I watched last night as other cable news shows told this story and subtly tried to add more fuel to the fire. Lou Dobbs downplayed the Cincinnati outburst as unimportant and suggested it was no different that telling the world that John McCain's middle name is "Sydney." Sure Lou; and it was interesting that Dobbs followed with more innuendos and rolled eyes over the moment in the Tuesday Democratic debate when Obama was asked about Louis Farrakhan, about suspicions that Barack's home Trinity Church on the south side of Chicago was "black nationalist," and about why Obama's pastor, Jeremiah Wright, wouldn't come on Lou's show to discuss his alleged sympathies for Farrakhan, etc. It is certainly no mystery why Pastor Wright didn't cancel his retirement celebrations and drop everything to come on Lou's show. Would anyone?

An Associated Press story entitled, " Obama Fights False Links to Islam," commented on the new flare-up, "For Barack Obama, it is an ember that he has doused time and again, only to see it flicker anew: links to Islam fanned by false rumors, innuendo, and association."

During the Democratic debate, Obama again "denounced and rejected" the ugly anti-Semitic comments that Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan has often made, as he had done many times before. Farrakhan hadn't actually endorsed Obama, but recently said, "This young man is the hope of the entire world that America will change and be made better." Asked on Tuesday night about whether he would accept Farrakhan's support, Obama said: "I live in Chicago. He lives in Chicago. I've been very clear, in terms of me believing that what he has said is reprehensible and inappropriate. And I have consistently distanced myself from him."

So let's set the record straight. I have known Barack Obama for more than 10 years, and we have been talking about his Christian faith for a decade. Like me and many other Christians, he agrees with the need to reach out to Muslims around the world, especially if we are ever to defeat Islamic fundamentalism. But he is not a Muslim, never has been, never attended a Muslim madrassa, and does not attend a black "separatist" church. Rather, he has told me the story of his coming from an agnostic household, becoming a community organizer on Chicago's South Side who worked with the churches, and how he began attending one of them. Trinity Church is one of the most prominent and respected churches in Chicago and the nation, and its pastor, Jeremiah Wright, is one of the leading revival preachers in the black church. Ebony magazine once named him one of the U.S.'s 15 best Black preachers. The church says it is "unashamedly black and unapologetically Christian," like any good black church would, but is decidedly not "separatist," as its white members and friends would attest.

And one Sunday, as Obama has related to me and written in his book, The Audacity of Hope, the young community organizer walked down the aisle and gave his life to Christ in a very personal and very real Christian conversion experience. We have talked about our faith and its relationship to politics many times since. And after he gave his speech at a Sojourners/Call to Renewal conference in June of 2006, E.J. Dionne said that it may have been "the most important pronouncement by a Democrat on faith and politics since John F. Kennedy's Houston speech in 1960 declaring his independence from the Vatican."

Like his politics or not, support his candidacy or not - but don't disparage Barack Obama's faith, his church, his minister, or his credibility as an articulate Christian layman who feels a vocation in politics. Those falsehoods are simply vicious lies and should be denounced by people of faith from across the political spectrum.

Blame it on Hussein

Sierra Hussein Cajun — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 02:34:20 EST

There has been a huge amount of press this week about Sen. Obama's middle name. A Time op-ed points out that the Obama campaign's reaction to it -- essentially trying to sweep it under the rug -- could simply feed the fire of racism and back-room fearmongering.

But Barack has nothing to be ashamed of. His name is Barack Hussein Obama, Jr. End of story; he has no ties to Saddam Hussein or Osama bin Laden, and everyone who has been paying attention knows that. (Although I must say it's fodder for some excellent Jon Stewart one-liners.)

The Osama/Obama rhyme has run itself out in the press; likewise, surely if we all say "Hussein" enough, by November the American electorate (the part that hasn't been paying attention), as Time says, will be able to learn the difference between a Hawaiian-born Christian-American -- as opposed to the Butcher of Baghdad. Then we'll all laugh about how silly it was -- "Remember when the Tennessee Republicans issued that press release? Ha! Ha! How naive we were back in February."

People make fun of names all the time, from kids to grownups. ("Billary," anyone?) Just like the Ohio union member quoted in The Nation as saying he won't vote for a black, there will be people who will never be converted -- who apparently want to believe that Obama is the Antichrist or some other nonsense. But I vote for taking the sting -- and the stigma -- out of the Hussein. It's just a middle name.

(And by the way, the title of this blogpost works much better if you sing it to Milli Vanilli's 1987 hit, Blame it on the Rain.)

A rose by any other name

Tom Hayes, working for change — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:20:10 EST

The attempts to feign plausibility while employing "Hussein" to imply connections between Senator Obama and fundamentalist Islamic extremists fall apart when compared to behaviors by those writers and/or speakers in analogous situations. Political candidates are referred to by any serious commentator in whatever way the campaigns prefer. It's respectful to not refer to Senator Clinton as Hillary Diane Rodham Clinton even though she employed Rodham deliberately earlier this decade. Willard chose to be known as Mitt Romney, and that wish was respected. Some years back now, J. Danforth Quayle was greeted by the pundits and columnists on both ends of the political spectrum as "Dan" which was obviously a political decision to make him sound less snobbish (or more folksy and normal.) How many voters today know that Senator McCain's middle name is Sidney, or that he's John Sidney McCain III?

Why don't we hear these full names? Primarily because it's not respectful. We all know that.

Excellent article on Senator Obama's name....

Donn Cook — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 23:39:19 EST

This is an excellent article on Senator Obama's name. Read it and pass it along. We need to diffuse whatever BS the right will try to spread about it. I am sure Senator Obama is not ashamed of his name. As his supporters, we need to know what his name means (Barack: Blessing, Hussein: Good, handsome) and this article is great for that. It also gives information about the number of patriotic and wonderful Americans with similar names. We need to be able to spread this information around. :) Happy Reading!

http://www.juancole.com/2008/02/barack-hussein-obama-omar-bradley.html

JULIO HUSSEIN BARTHSON

N. Julio Barthson - E-Campaign Leader — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:02:47 EST

Shall we sit by and let the fearmongers win by toying with the Arabic-sounding name of a devoted Christian? No we won't!

"Hussein"

Nasir from Ashburn, VA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 12:26:07 EST

As the "battle" get's heated, more mud slinging and moves of desperation seem to be rearing their ugly heads. Inevitably, Barack's middle name will be focused on to allude that he is in fact a Muslim terrorist. I'd like to give everyone breif background on the name Hussein.

1. The Great Martyr of Karballa who fought bravely with his 72 companions against the same Al-Qaida/Talaban elements we see today almost 1400 years later. I encourage all to watch this short introduction about Imam Hussein http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncARFhe_cFw.

2. The names of Moses's (PBUH) sons were Shabar, Shubayr, and Mushabir. The arabic equivelents are Hasan, Hussein, and Muhsin. These are the names the Prophet Muhammad called his Grandsons.

3. Shabar/Shubayr/Hasan/Hussein mean 'Beautiful' in Hebrew and Arabic respectively.