Posts with the tag youth

Programs in Your Community

Voice of Vision 'Nterprise — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:48:30 EST

There are various programs launched in the school system to teach youth and young adults how to become professionals in their fields of interest. Tell us what community programs are in your area that encourage young people to generate revenue for themselves?

Little Black Dress Party for College Affordability

Saint Lucie County Group — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 01:18:49 EDT

Port St. Lucie, August 12, 2009 – Press Release

Port St. Lucie, FL - On Saturday, August 29, Iduka Corporation will hold its inaugural “Little Black Dress Party for College Affordability” event in Port St. Lucie to bring members of the community together to show support for college students with varying financial needs. The event will take place in Saint Lucie West at Elements Martini Bar, 2096 NW Courtyard Circle, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986.

Online registration is available at http://www.iduka.citymax.com/events1.html. Pre-registered participants will pay $5 at the door, all other attendees without RSVP will pay $10 donation for entry. The event will begin at 6:00 p.m. Drink specials and finger food will be served until 10:00 p.m. Ladies in black dresses are eligible to win prizes! Ladies get one free drink. Please register early, as space is limited!

Iduka Corporation is a non-profit organization that has a pending application for 501(c)(3) tax exempt status. Our mission is to promote college affordability by connecting students with lenders, schools, and community service organizations through an Internet based micro-loan program.

Our goal is to provide students and their families one more financial tool to help them in their pursuit of higher education. We make this possible by offering an innovative plan based in a Web-based micro-lending system that connects students with lenders, and incorporates, whenever possible, student volunteerism as a mean for students to pay back their loans.

Media contact:

Darlene Craddock

darlene.craddock@iduka.org

772-284-6455

www.iduka.org

www.iduka.citymax.com

www.facebook.com/iduka.microloans

In Moscow, arrested one of the largest criminal authorities Russia

Unknown user — Thu, 21 May 2009 22:07:40 EDT

Moscow police detained a thief in the law Otar Totochiya Baťa alias, which is considered an influential criminal authorities in Russia.

According to the law enforcement bodies, a man was arrested in the south of Moscow in the house on Kashirskoye N7 highway when it found 3.2 g of hashish.

At Totochii respect of a criminal case on Article 228 part 1 (illegal possession of drugs). The detainee was born 1959, native of Sukhumi, and lived in Moscow since 1993, it has Russian citizenship.

"The thieves' world Totochiya is one of the largest criminal authorities", - said the representative of law enforcement agencies.

Remember, April 17 at the center of Moscow Criminal Investigation Department officers detained the man, known in the criminal world, under the nickname Vova Питерский, on suspicion of stealing bags of food in the supermarket.

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BLACK YOUTH AND CRIME

scorpi2000 — Tue, 19 May 2009 05:37:58 EDT

PLEASE COPY AND SEND THIS TO EVERYBODY

IF I HAD A BILLION DOLLARS I,D BUY CNN AND FORCE THEM TO READ THIS OVER THE AIR

HAVE WE ALL FORGOTEN THAT GANGSTER RAP WAS EMBRACED BY THE MEDIA, AND IN TURN EMBRACED BY OUR CHILDREN, THEN ACCEPTED AS A TREND .THEN OK'ED BY PARENTS. LOOKED UP TO AND PROMOTED AS STARS, GLORIFIED AS BEING A WAY OF LIFE THAT MANY YOUTH TRY TO BE LIKE. WITH CLOTHING TO MATCH, MARKETED AND SOLD. BOUGHT BY PARENTS WHO WANT THEIR KIDS TO KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST TRENDS IN CLOTHING,, BECAUSE THEY ARE BEING PRESSURED BY THEIR KIDS WHO WANT TO BE LIKE EVERYBODY ELSE...MUSIC PLAYED ON THE RADIO ,TV, MTV, MUSIC AWARDS ETC. NOW ITS MANIFESTING IN MANY BLACK CHILDREN LIVING OUT THIS FAD IN REALITY, AND EVERYBODIES WONDERING WHAT HAPPENED, AND ASKING THE POLICE TO SAVE US FROM OURSELVES... ARE WE THAT SCREWED UP AS A SOCIETY ?

NEED I SAY ANY MORE... WHY ARE ALL THESE SO CALLED EDUCATED PEOPLE SCRATCHING THEIR HEADS AND SAYING DUUH ...I DONT KNOW WHY THIS IS HAPPENING..START FROM THE BEGINNING ..UNDUE THE FAD THAT HAS MANIFESTED THIS REACTION

THE POLICE CANT SOLVE THIS PROBLEM ITS AN ENVIRNMENTAL ISSUE.

YES LARRY KING LIFE IS CAUSE AND EFFECT!

SORRY GANGSTER RAPPERS WE DONT WANT YOUR PRODUCT!

A FEW OF YOU HAVE MADE MILLIONS BUT MANY OF YOUR FOLLOWERS ARE LEFT AT DEAD ENDS.

First of all im a nieghbor, of the mother of Blair Holt.We grew up together in the same nieborhood. I am not a perfect person . No one is. BUTThier are too many of our children being killed by other children. Why does this happen? It happens because many of our children have been infuenced by a fad culture that has glorified and lagitimized a gang culture, which has had a very destructive effect on our niebohoods here in Chicago and many other places in the U.S. Do you know how hard it is for a child to go against a popular trend with most of thier peers. In order to survive most parents are at work.Even if they wanted to, they would have to risk thier jobs to stay at home or devote enough time and energy to offset the influence of popular culture.These trends are established and reinforced by companies who make a lot of money creating and selling the latest trend.The parents of these young kids who are in gangs, have missed the oportunity to stop thier children from growing up accepting a destructive trend that makes money for a few and leaves the victoms lifes in turmoil. with hate in thier hearts, and the lack of respect for anothers life. Parents are Too busy at work, in poverty, fathers not there, gangs took over, I did the best I could, can no longer be an excuse. Me, you, us, them, we,the parents are the only ones that can stop this circle of violence. Check your children when they are young and they wont grow up killing other children. Watch what they are being influenced by. Watch who they are being influenced by. Know who the friends are they hang with. use your influence, to influence thier friends and other children. Know what your child is up to and who they are hanging with when they are not at home Dont let children raise children. Work together as a group when they are young, sacrifice if you have too, because the next child that is killed might be your own,killed by your nieghbors child. Or youll be explaining why your child killed someone else.Stop depending on the police or govt. to do our jobs after the fact.We as parents are always responsible for how our children turn out.

BUT WHAT IF ITS AN ENVIRNMENTAL ISSUE?.

OUR ENVIRNMENT INCLUDES THE MEDIA TV, RADIO, MARKETING, FASHOIN ETC.

THANKSSCORPI2000

http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-52245#

http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-254315#

http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-221708#

http://www.myspace.com/scorpi2000radicalroots

Helping Young People

Riquee — Fri, 15 May 2009 09:09:56 EDT

In my city, I see the young people being ignored in a way that hurts my feelings. I want to do something that will make a difference, as corny as that may sound, but someone did it for me when I was young. I could be anywhere, but a one of our friends mom volunteered to be a chaperone for our drill team, The Supreme Stompers, and we went on to win a National Championship in Ohio in 1990.

Although most of us girls on the team had strong upbringings, if it weren't for Mrs. Cheryl Gray taking her time - after work - to organize this group of around 30 young ladies, we could have gone the wrong way. I can't imagine what we would have gotten into if we weren't busy with that drill team. I want to give something like that to someone else if I can. That's what it's all about for me right now.

In Mexico, faced two buses: 18 people killed

Unknown user — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:26:10 EDT

The accident killed 18 people
At least 18 people died today, April 17, in the south-east of Mexico in a collision of two buses.

As reported by Agence France-Presse, citing the police, the incident took place in Chiapas. The bus with tourists drove into the oncoming traffic and collided with a bus.

"According to first data, 18 people were killed and 66 wounded in two buses," - said the representative of the local branch of the Red Cross Rigoberto Garcia, adding that among those killed, 11 women and two children.

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Pemaksa

Unknown user — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 03:12:31 EDT

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Uanehaya

Uanjsak from Memphis, TN — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:48:29 EDT

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Let's OPEN A BIG HEART FOR EVERYONE TO WIN!

as, Tyfundi or Ty — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:19:18 EST

Take a moment and see through the eye's of a child. In every country, every creed and nation, the youth want freedom. The freedom to choose is a right every human has been given. Yet, so little has been utilized. We have seen more abuse than anything, over the years.

President Obama was elected because that abuse has run us in the financial ground. This is not the first time, our nation faced financial corruption. Most every child knows this first hand. There are student who have followed the financial trail for years, knowing all to young the seemingly hopelessness of the future. Why, because of the lack of funds in every home in the world.

The high rise in SCAMMERS around the world, milking anyone who will [in good faith] give them a chance. Thinking they have been befriended by a honest person[s] who will help them grow a family, business, and country. Only to get robbed over and over again.

Most every american and nation can turn this around! There are jobs for our youth and more.

Let's have a BIG HEART FOR EVERYONE TO WIN!

Time For Us All To Win: A Young Girl's Poem

Kamana — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 21:29:36 EST

This was written by my 10-year-old niece, a budding poet and writer, and a HUGE Obama supporter...

A Poem on Racial Tolerance

By Sathya Baskaran

My name is Sathya and I’m ten years old,

Some say I’m different but it’s not as it’s told.

Even though I’m Indian I am pretty much the same,

And I shouldn’t feel regret, nor should I feel shame.

Prejudice is being left behind;

This is the time for everyone to shine.

Though some may laugh and some may sneer,

There shouldn’t be anger and there shouldn’t be fear.

The only problem is with people who don’t know

That we’re past the time for people to be low

Because of where they’re from or the color of their skin,

This is the time for us all to win!

I have felt injustice from people like that

Who care if you’re thin or think that you’re fat

But people like that don’t know what’s true

And that’s the person inside of you!

I am EXTREMELY glad Obama won the election. Since he’s African American, and there was prejudice against African Americans (and there still is some!) more people will accept that we ALL DESERVE THE SAME! Just because we look different doesn’t mean we have to separate ourselves into categories. Religion, culture, where you’re from– it doesn’t matter! It’s character that counts!YAY OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Will I be in business next month?

Computer Man — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 21:05:57 EST

Synopsis:

Can a modern small business survive in a small town today by running a youth center and repairing computers and electronics? Why is a youth center needed? Are we doing a good enough job keeping religion out of the schools or is it just God we want out?

For the full story check the Extended Post Text.

It's The Economy, Friend!

Janice C. from Chicago, IL — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 12:04:24 EST

The Committee For Economic Development, Obama for America, Chicago-Hyde Park endorses the “I House at a Time Project” (see below) as a national green community service model for reducing carbon footprint, saving energy, rebuilding low-income communities, helping families save money, and creating green jobs. Our committee also endorses piloting this model in Hyde Park, Chicago and surrounding communities.

When I’ll Know That Barack’s For Real

Abe — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 12:12:53 EST

Sorry folks, I tend to be skeptical. Although President Obama is by far the most promising arrival I've seen in my life-time, I still gotta say "Are you capable of 'Real Change'":

1.A foolproof capping of political contributions for all federal (non-federal?) elections. The test would be: is the cap low enough so that any candidate could fairly win without the support of lobbyists and corporations that now control legislation?

2.Prosecution of all persons for the misuse of federal bail-out money. This law would be made retro-active to include the recent misuse of bail-out funds by banks and financial institutions.

3.The passage of legislation instituting mandatory service for all persons at the age of 18 in a peace corps/military. The individual would have the right to chose which service he/she prefers, except in the time of war. During a war, and this would have to be defined, the president would have the right to change this to a military draft. If all citizens had been actively participating, and thus threatened by, the invasion of Iraq-instead of an army of mercenaries while the majority continued mall-shopping as usual-we may not have had that "tough decision" as Bush calls his big mistake. Also, we would not have shortages of troops when they are needed for our rightful defense. (Note: the draft was ended because it played a large part in the successful protest of the Vietnam War.)

These are the changes I feel need to happen. Other suggestions welcome.

Abe Frankel www.circleofheearth.org

Rochester Youth Means Change

Sun, 04 Jan 2009 15:24:00 EST

Lets get started.

The Right And Torture

Barbara Reid — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 02:44:10 EST

from Andrew Sullivan:

A reader writes:

I'm 18 years old. My politics are still amorphous, shaped largely by my parents' prejudices (both are liberals). I'm pro-life. I come from a prosperous background; I'm suspicious of big government and increasingly likely to support tax cuts. I'm becoming more viscerally opposed to the 'nanny state' as I study law; the rhetoric of many liberals on personal responsibility is becoming increasingly objectionable to me.

And yet, I can not, within the reasonable future, support the Republican Party. Why?

Torture.

I still haven't come to grips with the idea that American soldiers, those who our culture is brought up to value and respect, could commit acts of torture, on the orders of an American administration. The internet is a libertarian place.

Young people are growing up more suspicious of government, more interested in increasing personal control over their lives, more prepared to challenge government bureaucracy. The rEVOLution (which I did not support) captured this perfectly. This could have been a Republican generation -- brought under the big tent under a low-tax, socially moderate, fiscally conservative platform. An earlier John McCain may have been just the man to do this, as he was in 2000. But I cannot imagine how anyone else of my age can look at these reports, look at these pictures -- and then vote for the GOP in the foreseeable future. It's beyond my understanding.

Mine too. Until the GOP purges itself of these fascistic, sadistic elements, lovers of freedom should stay away.

Obama and Social Media

Amandda from Minneapolis, MN — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 21:25:02 EST

I'm doing a research paper for my English II course on the innovative use of social media (Facebook, Myspace, Youtube, my.barackobama.com, etc) in the Obama campaign, and the effect it'll have on future political campaigns. For the fieldwork section of my paper I've decided to run a survey past people on various social networking sites.

If you could take a little bit of time to answer even just a few of my questions it would be greatly appreciated.

1.) How do you think the use of social media has helped the Obama campaign?

2.) Was the accessability of information about Obama on the internet helpful for you when deciding which candidate you would support?

3.) Are you involved with the Obama campaign on any other social networking sites? If yes, which ones?

4.) Have you contributed to the Obama campaign (donations, volunteering, spreading the word, etc.)? If yes, how, and did the internet and/or social media make it easier for you to get involved?

5.) Do you think that internet campaigning helped Obama reach voters?

6.) Do you think that in the future more candidates will use the internet and social media extensively in their campaigns?

Again, any help is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

A BEAUTIFUL TRIBUTE TO THE PRESIDENT-ELECT

Dimples02 — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 21:12:19 EST

CHECK OUT THIS LOVELY TRIBUTE TO THE PRESIDENT-ELECT, NEW ON YOU TUBE,

WHICH HAS BEEN SUBMITTED BY A YOUNG MICHIGANDER:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duhraMOW-80

OR, TYPE IN THE SEARCH FIELD: "truthbetolddotcom" and then, "President-Elect Barack Obama Tribute".

Enjoy, AND PASS IT ON!

Los Angeles youth now believes

Digital Developer — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:05:05 EST

I wanted the world to know Obama made many people believe...

My Story is about my Queen and and her friend.

My Queen of 4 years, wanted to vote and support the change, and become a part of history. He had never voted in her 32 years on earth, as well as I.

But this year she would do so...

I pushed Obama's Message of change to her daily, she then started to beleive, she went out to vote, got rejected by two voting places because of the ignorance of the voting polls operaters. I went to the internet for her answer, and it revealed that she needed a provisional ballet to vote outside her regien, I sent her a text messge to her Metro PCS phone, and gave her the power of knowlege, I then turned to lavote.net for a voting pole location close to her, shot out another text "while I was at home watching the Election day on my 47inch plasma "which gave me a diverse pool of updated information"

She was able to vote around 7:15pm pacific standard time.

She met with a friend who did not want to vote saying Obama is losing and my vote will not count.

"She got on her phone and called until her friend picked up the phone" She met up with her and she voted as well.

at the end, her friend said thank you for making me vote "My vote really did count!"

My Queenwas very exicited about voting for Obama, and she said with so much pride and happiness "THANK YOU THANK MY VOTE REALLY DID COUNT I DID IT!"

All around the City people now feel that the system works, and their voices will be heard, History has been made, and the American people is coming closer, to that more perfect union.

CHANGE IS REAL AND IT STARTS WITH ALL OF US BELEIVING THAT ONE MAN CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

3D: The Digital Developer

Faces of the Youth

Hesham from Staten Island, NY — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:37:06 EST

Faces of the Youth

Dear Mr. President, Did you see the faces of the youth?Did you see the faces of the old?Did you see the faces of the poor?Did you see the faces of the fortunate?Did you see the faces of the Black?Did you see the faces of the White?Did you see the faces of the yellow?Did you see the faces of the brown? Did you see how they filled the park?Did you see how they filled the streets?Did you see how they braved the cold?Did you see how their eyes hung on you?Did you see how their eyes cried?Did you see how their spirits flew? Did you see the pain in their hearts?Did you see the joy in their hearts?Did you see the anguish in their eyes?Did you see the hope in their eyes?Did you see how despaired are their souls?Did you see how relieved are their souls?Did you see how they hunger for change?Did you see how they believe in the dream? Did you see the faces of the youth?Did you see the faces of the future?Please Mr. President, don’t let them downPlease Mr. President, don’t betray themPlease Mr. President, don’t neglect themPlease Mr. President, don’t forget about themI beg you, we beg you, don’t let us downThe faces of the youthBecause after all Mr. President, we won’t let you By Hesham El-Meligy Inspired by Obama’s victory speech &the people who were there.

November 4, 2008.

GOTV for CHANGE - Nov. 1st

The Bulb — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 19:45:11 EDT

Went out twice for two canvass rounds in Northwest Detroit,MI. Everyone was receptive and strongly supportive of Senator Obama for President. A few told me they had already turned in their absentee ballots. We don't have early voting in Michigan unless you go directly to the Department of Elections downtown. But all the "sporadic" voters I canvassed were very definite in their plan to vote on Tuesday.

One exchange was extremely heart-warming. I will just use first names. I knocked on the door of one new voter named Michael. Well he told me that yes he supported Senator Obama and that he knew his polling location and planned to vote in the morning on Nov. 4th before work. Then he went on to tell me that his friend on the other end of the block had just had surgery and he wondered if he could vote absentee. Well his friend was on my list also, so Michael and I walked together to Justin's house. While we walked Michael called Justin on his cell phone and said, "Hey listen I am coming to your house with someone and this is IMPORTANT so get to the door.

Obama and the Ten Year Olds

Joline — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 12:19:51 EDT

Obama and Ten Year Olds

Today’s 10-year old is likely to live to 100+

That child, the one we already think of as ‘wired ‘because of their astonishing facility with anything purchased at the Apple Store or Circuit City, may well BE wired in 2048. Neuro-technology is at once promising and threatening to blur the lines of what is human and what is not in 20 or 30 years. That 10 year old will be 40 in 2048. What will being human even MEAN in 2048? And which candidate is best prepared to think about that question? The one who distains learning and curiosity as elitist pursuits, or the one who reaches out across disciplines and worldviews to explore the meaning of that question? This is not abstract navel contemplation in regard to our 10 year old. What are the possibilities, policies, realities and opportunities of technology that may well outsmart those children by the time they are 30? McCain barely understands email, how on earth can he grasp the implications of the wireless, nano-world world our ten year olds are growing into?

Assuming we can avoid environmental catastrophe (I’m an optimist—how else does one get out of bed in the morning?), that same 10 year old, in 40 years, may well share a planet with approximately 6.7 BILLION other citizens. Sustainability will no longer be a concept practiced by Al Gore soldiers, it will be a well-enforced way of life, in which ‘stuff’ has become so 20th century and conspicuous stewardship is the new patriotism. Closer in, we know that the deficits built over the last decade—and the losses of the last few weeks—will be felt by those ten year olds over the next two decades. Which candidate is has a vested interest in and is genuinely looking out for his own ten year olds with an eye to what is not just possible, but necessary for all ten year olds? McCain by all accounts was less than enthusiastic about adopting one child from a developing country, why should we think he has any greater concern for our ten year olds?

Developments in agriculture, energy, and genetics are already mind-boggling. Real news often seems closer to Ray Bradbury plot lines than real life: self-destructing, patent protected potatoes that farmers can’t replant without renewing their ‘license’; energy from seaweed and sun, and genetic profiles that come without moral or medical solutions for whatever information emerges. This is the new normal for our ten year old. Can you even imagine Sarah Six-Pack Palin tackling any one of these issues?

Virtual life, that mysterious nether land in cyberspace, will not just be the novelty of having a pet to train on an entertainment site, or even a virtual address in Second Life. Rather it will be a ‘real’ place where millions of tomorrow’s kids spend time and money as casually as their parents (and certainly their grandparents), visited Paris and Bangkok and Santiago. Language, currency, and culture will blend and mutate in ways we cannot imagine today.

McCain won’t be here to experience their suffering, and Palin has told us she ‘has nothing to lose.’ Those ten year olds do.

And if all this seems just too fantastic, lets talk cash. Mom, Dad, Grandma and Grandpa are all living longer too. This recent ‘correction’ has caused many of them to experience a real drop in assets. Our ten year-old will likely shoulder a bigger tax burden not realize a significant enough wealth transfer. Passing on money to the kids, whether it was a modest sum, saved over a lifetime, or a vast fortune, intended to last for generations, was part tax plan, part life plan. When centenarians were fewer, life cycles shorter, and expectations not quite so rich,

So let’s get real. Any parent or grandparent (aunts and uncles, etc.) who votes for McCain instead of Obama is casting a vote against the future of every ten year old. It’s that stark. Really. On the one hand we have an old guy who can barely keep up with current technology, let alone envision the world in 40 years and his anti-intellectual side-kick Sarah for whom learning i

On the other hand we have a guy who knows how to learn.

Think about it.

Why Barack Obama?

Asher Heimermann — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 23:04:57 EDT

My name is Asher Heimermann, 14, from Sheboygan, Wisconsin. I am supporting Barack Obama because I believe he is the right candidate to bring the change we need. I know that Senator Barack Obama and Senator Joe Biden are best prepared to address our economic crisis by bringing tax relief to working families, protecting American jobs and investing in education and new technology. As a student in a public high school in the Midwest, I understand the importance of education and how my education will lead to my career later in life.

Senator Obama has dedicated his career to bring people together to tackle the large issues facing our country. As a state Senator he worked with Republicans to expand healthcare to 150,000 children in Illinois and passed $100 million in tax cuts for working families. In the United States Senate, Senator Obama worked across the aisle to pass ethics reform leglation that was described as the "gold standard" for ethics reform. He worked with Republican Senator Richard Lugar to pass legislation to secure dangerous nuclear weapons.

As President, Senator Obama will bring the change we need and make this economy work for the middle class families by cutting their taxes and reducing the cost of gas and healthcare. I support Senator Obama and Senator Biden because I want America to be the country of hopes and dreams. I hope that you will join me and support Barack Obama and Joe Biden on November 4th. Time and time again, Senator Obama has proven himself as a leader who can bring together people of all different backgrounds and beliefs to help us address the important problems facing the country. He is the type of leader we need in Washington to get this nation on the right track.

If you’d like more information about Senator Obama or Senator Biden’s positions or would like to get involved in our campaign, you can call 1-866-675-2008 or visit www.BarackObama.com. Only you can decide who our country’s next President of the United States of America will be.

Asher Heimermann is a teenager from Sheboygan, Wisconsin. You can learn more information about Heimermann by visiting his official website at www.AsherHeimermann.com.

MY PERSONAL FUNDRAISING GOAL:
As a young American, I dream of a President who is honest, personable, intelligent, and wise. I want a leader with courage and integrity who has known the struggles of an everyday American. A lot of people have stopped believing that may even be possible. I haven't stopped believing. I support Senator Barack Obama because he is that leader.
http://my.barackobama.com/asherheimermann
Please help donate to personal fundraising goal for Senator Barack Obama and Senator Joe Biden. Every dollar counts. You're not just helping me reach my personal fundraising goal but you're also helping Senator Obama and Senator Biden get elected as our next President and Vice President of the United States of America.

Midwest Teen Raises $13,000+ for Obama

Asher Heimermann — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:27:09 EDT

Once again, I've got some very good news to share with you all! I've been able to reached my $5,000 personal fundraising goal for Senator Barack Obama and Senator Joe Biden last week. As of this point in time, I've raised over $13,000. Like I said last week, I never thought I would be able to raise over $5,000 on my fundraising page, much less, reach my goal before the deadline that was last week.

I would like to thank all of those that have donated to my personal fundraising page on BarackObama.com because it means so much to me, and I'm sure it means a lot to Senator Obama and Senator Biden. I wish that there was something more that I could say. But, I believe I have two thank you gifts that you might enjoy:

Again, I want to once again thank everyone for their support and donations! If you still want to make a donation to my personal fundraising page, please feel free to. Just go to my.barackobama.com/asherheimermann and make your donation there. It would be great to see this community community help me get up to $15,000 before Election Day.

Right now, I'm at the Sheboygan County Democratic Headquarters making calls and putting together lawn signs. I don't have much time to talk this afternoon but I will try to come back this evening. But in the meantime, will you please make a donation to my personal fundraising page to help me reach a grand total of $15,000? If you can't make a donation, please share this with your friends and family and ask them to make a donation. Not only will you help me get closer to raising $15,000 - you are also helping Senator Obama and Senator Biden.

my.barackobama.com/asherheimermann

Go Obama! Go Biden! Go Democrats!

Asher Heimermann is a teenager from Sheboygan, Wisconsin. You can learn more information about Heimermann by visiting his official website at www.AsherHeimermann.com.

What Change Means to Me

Drew — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 18:11:10 EDT

Change---it seems like such a simple word. We use it almost every day, but how often do we stop and reflect upon its meaning? Barack Obama is change; he embodies change. I guess it would help if you understood how I see the world.

I was born on May 20, 1991. Yes, I am only 17. My biological mother was an alcoholic who had no idea who my father even was. Their was a man who raised me though. His name was Tony. Even though he was not my biological father, he loved me like I was his son, and to me, he was my father. Needless to say, my parents (bio. mother and Tony) did not stay together long. The only reason I lived was to see my father, and this became less frequent. In 1996, when I was four-and-a-half, my father died. My mother was so callous, she wouldn't even let me go to his funeral. That was a major turning point in my life. My fathers parents got custody of me and my little half-brother (Tony's son). They later adopted us.

To be blunt, I was so messed up it wasn't even funny. I had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, severely low self esteem, and a horrible stuttering problem. Eventually, through a combination of medicines and therap, I was able to overcome the majority of my problems. I was in Catholic schools, and I loved the idea that when I died I would be in a place full of happiness. Then, 9/11 happened.

15 Days From Change: An Update From the National Student Co-Director

Tobin Van Ostern — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 10:59:52 EDT

Things have been pretty busy lately (needless to say) but I wanted to take a quick moment to give you an update about some interesting facts and stories from the past week or so.

Voter Registration:

The Obama-Biden campaign is committed to enabling as many people as possible to exercise their fundamental right to vote. But you have to registered in order to vote, and the campaign has been very successful in ensuring that every eligible voter is on the rolls.

Taking Virginia as an example, just a week ago a group of committed HS students travelled down to Virginia from Maryland where they knocked on an astounding 12,000 doors in a single weekend.

It's this kind of hard work that has resulted in the numbers described below.

Virginia now has more than five million registered voters, a new record, as of the deadline for registration for the fall election closed on Oct. 6th, according to the Virginia State Board of Elections.
The total number of registered voters in Virginia is now 5,021,933.
Since January, Virginia, a swing state this cycle, has experienced a net gain of 436,000 new voters, including what they call an "onslaught" of new voters in the last week of registration.
Nearly 40 percent of the newly registered voters across the state are under the age of 25. Trends show that, regardless of age, females represent the majority of new registered voters.
Source: http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/10/15/1549807.aspx

VoteforChange.com

One of the key components of our voter registration efforts has been www.voteforchange.com

This website is a one-stop shop for voter registration.

This website also will allow you to request an absentee ballot, check your registration status, and even find your polling location for election day.

You can check it out on Facebook as well at http://apps.facebook.com/obama/

Debate

Near the very end of the final presidential debate last Wednesday night, Obama stated:

"I also have to disagree on Sen. McCain's record when it comes to college accessibility and affordability.
"Recently his key economic adviser was asked about why he didn't seem to have some specific programs to help young people go to college and the response was, well, you know, we can't give money to every interest group that comes along.
"I don't think America's youth are interest groups, I think they're our future."

From Day 1 through the present, Senator Obama has understood that investing in young people is an investment in our future. As President, he will follow through on his promises to make college accessible and affordable to all Americans.

Campaign Is Putting Their Money Where Their Mouths Are

In addition to our strong field outreach, our campaign has been doing a variety of innovative advertising designed to reach out to younger voters and make sure we don't leave anyone out. We're continuing this commitment through the end, and are excited to see the initial result of our efforts both on the ground and on the air on Election Day. You may have read recently that the Obama-Biden campaign is the first presidential campaign to take out virtual advertisements in video games.

The Talk

The campaign recently unveiled this website about having "The Talk" with your parents and grandparents. This may not be "The Talk" you're thinking about though...instead it's about talking to your parents and grandparents about supporting Senator Obama. While intimidating for many young people to initiate, I think we've already seen the impact of these cross-generational conversations. You can check out the whole website here at: my.barackobama.com/thetalk

Blog

Finally, I'm very proud of the blog we have up and running at students.barackobama.com, it's being constantly updated with stories and anecdotes relevant to youth on the campaign trail, I hope all of you continue to regularly check it out.

Barackroll'd

Barack Roll'd — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 03:49:01 EDT

http://www.youtube.com/swf/l.swf?video_id=_TiQCJXpbKg&rel=1&eurl=&iurl=http%3A//i4.ytimg.com/vi/_TiQCJXpbKg/default.jpg&t=OEgsToPDskJfAlAYzbOk0ZEdeMVVNXxO&use_get_video_info=1&load_modules=1&fs=1&hl=en

Wanted - Conservative/Republican endorsements of Obama

Barbara — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:37:05 EDT

MakeFloridaCount.com archives articles, videos and other organizing resources to use with undecided voters.

I am developing section on Conservative and Republican endorsements of Obama. Please send me your suggestions (by e-mail or by commenting on the blog).

See extended blog for more detail of what is available on the site.

New organizing resources are added daily.

In unity.

Barbara Myers

barbmyrs@gmail.com

Resources to convince the undecided

Barbara — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 11:22:15 EDT

Need an article or video to convince an undecided voter to vote for Obama/Biden?

MakeFloridaCount.com archives articles, videos and other organizing resources so that people making calls and going door to door can have easy access to the latest material.

Organizers should look carefully at the left hand column of the site for useful resources.   Here's a breakdown of some of what's there.

Character Counts - What to expect from Barack Obama
    * The New Yorker endorsement
    * Press Conference on State of the Economy
    * Chicago Jews on their experience with Obama
    * Obama's speech on race and reaction to Rev. Wright Uproar
    * SFGate - Obama profile
    * NYTimes Obama archive

Character Counts - What to expect from John McCain
    * John McCain's Rage
    * NYTimes - Politics of Attack
    * Keating Economics
    * The Straight Talk Express (exposed)
    * NYTimes - McCain lifelong gambler
    * George Will - Can a dismaying temperment be fixed?
    * Nicholas Kristof - Impulsive, Impetuous, Impatient

New organizing resources are added daily - MakeFloridaCount.com.

In unity.

Barbara Myers

please see extended post for more resources.

The Genius of it All!

Yinka from Kirkland, WA — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:03:58 EDT

The blue ocean strategy suggests that when a market is saturated, the best way to enter such market is to create a new source of consumers for the goods offered in the market. A good analogy is the Wii. The computer game industry was already saturated by XBOX and Play Station, and yet, not everyone had a game console. So the makers of the Wii created a completely new group of consumers for gaming consoles, old folks, children and people that felt that the traditional gaming console was a complete waste of intellectual capacity.

The Obama campaign, in this election, has managed to create a completely new and energized group of consumers of politics; the youth.

It is critical to understand that without the youth vote, Obama will not be in the position he is today, at the cusp of becoming the first African American president. The get out the vote drive and the aggressively courted youth of Iowa helped swing the primaries in that state and gave the nation a moment to pause and take a second look at the then challenger and underdog in the primary race.

The concept is quite simple, sometimes too simple. The electorate as it stood was deeply divided and had pre-existing allegiances. Trying to convert them to the Obama camp would be similar to the makers of Wii creating a game console that looked like the XBOX and PS2, only with different and maybe better features, but marketed it to the same group of consumers. It would be possible but it would take time, lots of resources and maybe they get a 30% conversion rate, not bad for a business looking to make profits.

However, in elections 30% conversion rate would not win you the state, so the campaign did the smartest thing they could come up with, create a completely new electorate and work hard to make sure they turn out and vote. They tapped into something no other presidential candidate has been able to do thus far; get the youth out to vote.

Granted the maturity of the internet has provided them with tools and mechanism that has helped the campaign to be extremely successful. But these tools still had to be used effectively and strategically to produce the kinds of effect we see today. I am amused when I watch the pundits on cable news. They make all sorts of assertions and analysis, thinking that they may influence the electorate. Well the real news is that the people the Obama campaign targets don’t even have cable. Most don’t even have time to watch these programs, their interests lie elsewhere and they get most of their news online.

What is even more interesting is that the pundits and political “experts” discount the youth vote. Despite the facts on the ground and the displayed ability of the Obama campaign to turn out the youth vote as evident in Iowa and many other states across the country. To me this is the genius of this strategy. Everyone else, including the republicans, do not even try to court this group as aggressively as they should because of their lack of faith in the persistence of the youth vote. Some even contend that the Obama campaign is wasting its time with this strategy.

Well, I say that the numbers you see in the polls will be nothing compared to what the final results will be, if we all do our part and work towards making sure that we get out as many people as we can to the polls. The potential is great, the prospects are bright and if we keep our focus in the right place, the rest of the nation will follow as we have seen in the past. Don’t let the news cycle and the attacks from the republicans distract you. They are just that- distractions. We have seen and heard Obama’s plans for the nation, his optimism about the future and his trust and belief in the American people. We can be all we dream and aspire to be, if we all do it together and not despair.

Yes we can!

We Are Ready For A Change

Asher Heimermann — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 05:59:50 EDT

Let's be very clear about what's at stake this November. We're either going to get ourselves back on track or we're gong to face another round of the same failed policies we've had for the last eight years.

I don't know about you, but I'm ready for a change. That's why I'm so excited about Senator Barack Obama.

So, here's what I want you to do. Click Here, and join me in making a contribution to elect Senator Obama this November. With the support of hundreds of Democrats across the nation, I have already raised $4,400! I still need to raise $500 more to reach my fundraising goal.

I believe we're about to elect one of the greatest presidents in a long time -- Barack Obama. But if his campaign is not funded until Election Day, his agenda to help middle-class families is going to run into a roadblock.

http://my.barackobama.com/asherheimermann

I know that politicians are constantly asking for your money and support. But you have to remember that Senator Obama is not a career politician. He's a man who knows what America needs are and knows what he's fighting for. And, with our help, he'll be a President we can be proud of.

http://my.barackobama.com/asherheimermann

Midnight Tuesday, September 30th, is the financial reporting deadline for this month. The resources we have on hand going into October will determine our ability to compete in key battleground states. Your donation today will help fund time-sensitive voter registration and Get Out The Vote operations.

Asher Heimermann is a teenager from Sheboygan, Wisconsin. You can learn more information about Heimermann by visiting his official website at www.AsherHeimermann.com.

REMINDER:
Go to store.barackobama.com, and shop normally, placing shirts, magnets, or any of our other merchandise in your cart. When you're finished, proceed to checkout. On your shopping cart page, enter this coupon code: GFC08 and then proceed to the next checkout page, and under Referral, enter Asher Heimermann as the GFC member who referred you.
The coupon code is only active until October 15th so you will have just a couple weeks to use it toward to get 15% off. Just make sure that you enter GFC08 as the code and enter Asher Heimermann as the Referer. This is my way of thanking all of those that have supported Senator Obama and myself the past few months.

A Tiny Ripple Of Hope (Audacity)

NTodd — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 20:29:36 EDT

In which NTodd looks at the chaos of now and then through the words of RFK. (23:55)

Features: Allman Brothers, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Animals, Doors. And don't forget PaxLive Friday at 3pm Eastern!

ntodd

(x-posted at Pax Americana)

Polling Expert Says Youth Vote is Being Under Counted

JeffW — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 02:39:17 EDT

Also on FiveThirtyEight.com, there is a short posting about Ann Seltzer's view that most pollsters are under counting the youth and black vote. You may have also have heard that many polling organizations have changed the weighting they are giving to Democrats. They are giving Democrats less weight and Republicans more. This, despite the wide-spread reporting of record voter registration for Democrats all over the country. There must have been millions of Democrats who showed up to vote in their primaries for the first time. A whole lot of them came out for Obama. Do those folks stay home in November? I don't think so.

Do NOT Wear Politcal Clothing to the Polls!

Mister Anderson — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:43:20 EDT

This was just brought to my attention yesterday, but in many counties throughout the United States, it is ILLEGAL to wear political clothing and other items such as buttons to polling places when you go to vote because it’s considered “PASSIVE ELECTIONEERING.” As most people know, you’re not allowed to campaign within so many yards of a polling place during Election Day as they don’t want anyone to feel pressured to vote one way or the other while at the poll. Wearing political clothing and the like is considered a form of campaigning in many places whether you agree or not.

Keeping an eye on the Progressive Media

Enid from San Leandro, CA — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:07:05 EDT

Mr. Obama and staff,
I know your young aware staff must have their eye on the progressive media outlets. I am aware that the mainstream media's response to Progressive or Left thinking observers, is that the left is extreme or too idealistic or whatever other non-sense and subterfuge they can hide behind.

The more than obvious truth is this country is being robbed by the corporate elite twice without any limit, any oversight or any transparency. The virtual money made over the last 12 years, and now the hard currency they will walk away with now. This 7+ or more like 14+ billion dollar bail-out, corporate welfare fraud, that will be paid for on the backs of the POOR and Middle Class.

I hope that there is a effective strategy for the review of programing like Democracy Now! the clip attached features Sen. Bernie Sander, this man should be a close adviser on the Obama team. It is my opinion that if Sen Obama really wants to win this election he would veer hard Left, the way to get beyond the stumbling block of the unconscious racial bias, is to offer a stark contrast for those who are really feed up with the manifestations of Right wing ideology which the country and world are in agreement have taken us to the brink of destruction; however you want to define destruction. Go Left the direct opposite of what the last 20+ years have produced. More transparency, bail out the POOR and Middle Class first, restore the Bill of rights and Constitution, end all WAR, and level the playing field for everyone living and working in the US. These policies have something in them for everyone; if real protest is launched it must be from or on behalf of the Corporate Elite; so use that protest to strength the position of Progressive or Left positioned others and Win this election.

In light of the Financial news of the last weeks this clip provides all the talking points needed to really bring the American Public to its senses. As someone recently said about Barak Obama being our next President, "I always felt it was his [barak] to lose" the words of my life long, 78 year old, Republican African American father.

http://play.rbn.com/?url=demnow/demnow/demand/2008/sept/video/dnB20080922a.rm&proto=rtsp&start=10:59

Obama's Youth Movement - the Nation

Christopher Martin — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 20:36:59 EDT

By Peter Dreier

September 15, 2008

Peter Dreier's 11-year-old twin daughters, Amelia and Sarah, are volunteering for the Obama Campaign.

Twenty-year-old Tobin Van Ostern finished his sophomore year last spring at George Washington University, but this fall he's enrolled in the Barack Obama campaign as a full-time organizer. The Richmond, Virginia, native started Students for Obama on his campus last year as a Facebook group. It now has chapters on 800 campuses, Van Ostern said, and the campaign has recruited thousands of college students and recent graduates to work as both paid staffers and unpaid volunteers through the November election.

Democratic Party strategists believe that in key swing states, a dramatic increase in turnout among young voters--and African-Americans--can be the key to victory for both Obama and the party's candidates for Congress. Campus activists, meanwhile, view the Obama campaign as a means to catalyze a new progressive youth movement among the Millennial (18- to 29-year-old) generation that they hope, unlike the political crusades of the 1960s youth rebellion, will be part of a broader, multigenerational coalition.

Ever since 18-year-olds won the right to vote in 1971, their elders have been disappointed by their level of voter turnout, which has typically been about half the rate of other voters. But after steady declines in turnout since 1972, young voters reversed the trend in the 2004 presidential and 2006 mid-term elections. This year, however, is likely to see a particularly significant increase in voting among Millennials.

VOTING IS SEXY: The Guardian Comes To Kutztown University

Erika Reinhard — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:34:23 EDT

On Monday two reporters from the Guardian, a newspaper based in the UK, came to our voter registration table and they posted an artice and video about our group and the youth vote on their website.

Check out the article

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/sep/16/uselections2008.socialnetworking

and the video

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/video/2008/sep/17/young.voters.us.elections

We are a student run organization whose goal is to help get Obama elected through the youth vote. Check out our facebook group, we have 950 members.

http://www.new.facebook.com/inbox/#/group.php?gid=10629102510

We have had and are having more events to get students fired up about voting. We are currently trying to register 1000 on campus voters.

Obama Will Win Virginia

Lewis — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:11:45 EDT

Look Out Now-- New Folks Are Comin' to the Process: Increases in the percentages of young voters and African-American voters will push Obama over the top. In 2004, Kerry garnered 45% of the vote, losing to George Bush by 260,000 votes. But since the 2004 election, 456,000 eighteen year olds, way more than the spread between Kerry and Bush, have reached voting age. Some of the latest VA polls show Obama winning 60% of the youth vote; if those percentages hold and Obama is even able to register and turn out 20% of those newly registered young voters, then he decreases Bush's lead by about 50,000 plus votes. On top of that, the CDC estimates that we have about 2 million deaths a year, with most of those being individuals 65 years old and older, McCain's age group (don't have the specific number for Virginia, but VA has a lot of older veterans). Keep in mind, these numbers are based solely on those who have reached 18 that were living in Virginia in 2004. It does not include all of the young people between 18-34, Obama's principal age group, who have moved to Virginia since 2004 because they have started school here or begun working in the area .
But there is even more reason to be optimistic. As stated before, Kerry lost Virginia by 260,000 votes. Today, there are 965,000 eligible African-American voters in VA!!! If 60% of those persons vote and Obama takes 87% of the vote as Kerry did in 2004, Obama cuts into McCain's lead by about 38,000 votes (this calculation is based, in part, on the number of AA's that voted in 2004 in VA). And those numbers are conservative. According to the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, Black turnout in Virginia in 2004 was low, accounting for only 50% of the African-American voting age population. Given the regular voting trend increases and the excitement surrounding Obama's candidacy, that number is likely to be higher. Between 2000 and 2004, the African-American share of the overall vote totals increased by 5% from 16% to 21%. Obama estimated that African-American turnout would increase by about 30%, minimum, nationwide. More conservative estimates from the Jointer Center for Political and Economic Studies predicts that turnout will increase by 20% nationwide. Considering these estimates and the Obama camp's intense voter registrations and turnout efforts in the AA community in Virginia as well as the previously low participation of Virginia Blacks, it is not out of the question to assume that the Black share of the overall vote in Virginia will increase between 12-15%. Even a 10% net increase in the Black share of the voting totals in 2008 would net Obama enough votes to erase Bush's margin over Kerry. In addition, we can expect that Obama will likely garner more like 90% of the Black vote like Gore, since he garnered that much against Hillary, 74% of Blacks identify themselves as Democrats, and Obama will more than likely get a significant amount of African-American cross-over vote. Moreover, the number one issue, the economy, is weighing heavily on African-Americans. Forty-two percent of Blacks have said that the economy is the number one election issue; 65% have said it is in the top three of the election issues.
Nevertheless, i should point out that just as the Black and youth vote will increase, so will the white vote, perhaps limiting somewhat Obama's gains ( a recent poll showed Obama losing the white VA vote by 19 points). Notwithstanding these increases, Obama is likely to get a significant bump, especially since a large part of these increases will probably be due to the increase in the white population in Northern and Central Virginia, voting groups thought to favor Obama.
It's the Economy Stupid: In 2004, 79% of those who said the economy was the number one issue voted for Kerry; of those who said terrorism was the number one issue, 88% voted for Bush. Of those who said their economic situation was worse, 86% voted for Kerry. Of those who said their situations were the same or better, 49% and 82%, respectively, voted for Bush. These data show that by overwhelming margins those who were concerned about the economy voted for Kerry. So, why did Kerry lose? Because only 17% of Virginians in 2004 thought the economy was the number one issue and only 21% of Virginians thought their financial situations were worse off. By contrast, 22% believed terrorism was the number one issue and 72% were "worried" about terrorism. This time those numbers are likely to be reversed. If the economy ranks number one, more people are worse off than they were, and McCain is not seen as any better at handling the economy than Bush, then Obama is likely to gain more votes than Kerry even if the electorate in VA stays the same as in 2004. However, one worrisome spot for Obama is that in 2004 an equal number of voters saw terrorism and "moral values" (i.e. evangelicals) as being the number one issue. [Enter stage Extreme Right Sarah "the proselytizer" Palin].

He's Skinny But He's Strong: Even after the Republican convention, Obama is polling ahead of where he has been polling nationally and where he has been polling in other battleground states. This suggests that his support here is not weak as in places like MT where he was running ahead of McCain but suddenly found himself down by 20 after the Repulsive-can convention. Virginia is one of the only states where Obama's numbers have increased since the convention.

Reading is Fundamental: This sounds weird but hear me out. The Washington Post has a huge circulation here in VA. Overall, the post reaches over 1 million people a day. I was reading the Post the other day and all of the editorials on McCain were negative. Plus, the Post is one of the few papers that have done in-depth, somewhat negative pieces on Palin and McCain. Here's my point, unlike other states where McCain may be able to get away with saying crazy things without the state's voters being made aware of it, here the Washington Post, for the most part, has been and will likely continue to keep McCain honest. Virginia is lucky to have a hometown newspaper, of sorts, that is financially able to do good reporting.

Let Me Go Ahead and Conclude This Thing: Putting all of these things together plus the fact that Obama has spent so much time here I think Obama will take the state. And if he takes the state, he wins. As I have said before, if Obama takes all of Kerry's states plus Iowa and New Mexico, he nets 264 of the required 270 electoral votes. Virginia has 13 electoral votes. If you take away New Mexico and NH, both of which have shown McCain and Obama alternatively taking the lead, Virginia still puts him over the top. Virginia is so crucial.

One More Thing: By the way, i was wondering why Obama was spending so much time in Missouri even though he has been polling behind consistently by a statistically significant margin. This may be the reason. In 2004, Missouri had an extremely high turnout rate amongst African-Americans. 73% of African-americans turned out during that election. That number eclipsed the percentage of white turnout during the election. The same was true of North Carolina, which might explain why Obama is still battling it out there.

If you're a fan of Barack Obama- You'll love this video

Arturo Perez — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 17:02:41 EDT

This video is dedicated to the movement that has taken place in this country. We couldn't have done it without Barack Obama and the millions of people who work for change everyday...

This year for the first time since the 1960’s many young people have become engaged in politics and now comes a new documentary film that compares today’s youth movement to the one of forty years ago.

The Bay Area’s own Arturo Perez showcases WHERE HAVE ALL THE FLOWERS GONE? You'll journey with him as he takes you down a hilarious and emotional roller coaster as he and his two friends search for the voices of the future. WHERE HAVE ALL THE FLOWERS GONE? premiered at the Wine Country Film Festival, and is being showcased online at www.FlowersTheMovie.com

Like Michael Moore's SLACKER UPRISING Arturo is streaming the entire film online for all to see for FREE with the hopes that even more people will become energized about voting for Obama this November!

Watch the entire film for FREE now at: www.FlowersThemovie.com

The DNC, Illinois, and Group Empathy; a theory

Ella Mae — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 01:26:45 EDT

The following is meant to be more in the nature of a sociological essay than a political one. It is primarily about my unique (I think) point of view of the situation, and due to my current (and probably unhealthy) obsession with everything election related. Comments are welcome.

Approximately nine years ago I had the good fortune to hear Barack Obama give a talk at a small youth conference I attended when I had just started counseling teenagers. He was a state senator then, and though I didn’t pay much attention to what his role was I did notice that the way he was introduced was as if he were someone very special. He spoke about youth – particularly inner city youth, as was appropriate – with knowledge and empathy. Not knowing his background I assumed he had been raised on the South Side of Chicago. One of the things that really stuck with me was how he discussed the (false) viewpoint that African American boys don’t read, and that it’s not considered cool by their peers to be a reader. This was one of those vague concepts I think I knew but had never heard anyone speak out loud.

How about Chelsea?

Colette from Denver, CO — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:55:46 EDT

People are asking, "Where's Hillary?" as a counterpoint to Palin's aggressive, bitchy, naive, ignorant presence.

How about Chelsea does an ad where she is superimposed in front of Palin's more ignorant, strident remarks, saying something to the effect: "My parents raised me to be a free thinker. Yes, to think for myself...to research and thoroughly understand the issues that matter to me...Sara Palin's selection as candidate for VP is pandering of the highest order, insulting to assume that intelligent, caring, informed voters, would vote according to gender? Really?"

And thereby give up and disregard all that my mother, Hillary Rodham Clinton, and Michelle Obama stand for? Or the insights of all the outstanding women from history or who live and work among us today? Or for that matter for any man in history whose values you admire and hope to emulate? If Sara Palin was a man who was this uninformed and this inexperienced and this astoundingly ignorant, yet this (show strident, overconfident comment by Palin as Chelsea watches) egomaniacal...the man would be a laughingstock...!...I'm not buying it...What do you care about?"

Note: This presentation would appeal to the younger generation and all thinking women...and men. Why not give it a shot?

Obamas education policy for dummies...

Jose — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 21:02:20 EDT

For your convenience, you may skip over the BOLD AND ITALIC AND UNDERLINED material (can i get a highlighter tool in this HTML editor PLEASEEEEE pretty please). It is redundant to the points on his education policy, and serve as just reinforcement to those points. I do encourage you to read them though, they are written with my own personal real life experience.

OBAMAS EDUCATION PLAN

TOTAL ESTIMATED COST: $18 billion per year.

TOTAL ACTUAL COST OF IRAQ WAR TODAY: $5.1 billion per month, and a staggering $61.2 billion per year.

Some would say that Obama makes outlandish promises. Well i think if we can spend $61.2 billion a year in iraq sitting in a desert fueling extremism, we certainly can spend $18 billion a year on our future; the youth of the united states.

0 - 5: Quadruple the funding for "Head Start", an already VERY successful program. Head Start is a program that provides education, and other important services to low-income children and their families.
K-12 grades: Reform no child left behind act: Obama thinks, like me, that teachers shouldnt be focusing ALL their attention on getting kids to fill in bubbles during their 4 years in high school. He also thinks that those schools that score badly shouldnt be punished by reduced budgets, but improved through increased budgets.
Improve After school programs: Obama will double funding for the 21st Century Learning Centers program, to serve one million more children and give them constructive after school care.
Address the drop-out crisis through intervention plans in MIDDLE school before you ever think about dropping out. Increasing budgets for programs like TRIO or upward bound that already does a successful job at encouraging people from low income families to join college.yep thats me, a high school drop out, and its also a staggering 1 out of 3 Class of 2006 students in america)

Recruit, Prepare, Retain, and Reward America's teachers

5) Obama will create new Teacher Service Scholarships that will cover four years of undergraduate or two years of graduate teacher education in exchange for teaching for at least four years in a high-need field or location. We pay your school, you then come teach our kids that most need it. If you want to teach, and in all honesty only teachers that love their jobs should be teachers, then under obama believe me youll get what you want.

6) Obama will also create Teacher Residency Programs that will supply 30,000 exceptionally well-prepared recruits to high-need schools. He will require all schools to be accredited, which means no more "hawk academy" or a christian charter school that mails you a high school diploma test for 200 bucks.Accreditation is the process of reviewing a school's programs and policies to see if its meets the criteria set by outside agencies like the US department of education. When a school is found to meet the minimum criteria set by an outside agency, it is granted accreditation. If not accredited your high school diploma wont allow you to get into college, or get the same paying jobs as other hard working graduates. THERE IS NO SHORTCUT TO THAT DIPLOMA.

HIGHER EDUCATION

7) American Opportunity Tax Credit - This will help ME get back into college. This will cover in full the average community college (like miami dade community college) and almost 2/3rds of the average public university with a 4k tax credit. This will be in addition to the grants and aide available already through FAFSA.

8) Simplifying the financial aide process - LOL wow do i love this one, its just a no brainer. Obama will streamline the financial aid process by eliminating the current federal financial aid application and enabling families to apply simply by checking a box on their tax form, authorizing their tax information to be used, and eliminating the need for a separate application. in the words of my wonderful baby niece DUH!!! anyone who reads this and has applied for financial aide will love this idea.

http://www.barackobama.com/issues/education/ - This is his detailed written policy on education

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGcr1UZpBfA - Great speech where obama lays out his entire education plan in 36 minutes today (september 9th).

Obama lays out a well known fact that the world as it exists today has never encountered the challenges we are facing. 18 years ago (when i was 2 years old) the internet was just a small local network in a university laboratory. It has changed the world by creating a global economy, because now a business can operate from anywhere there is an internet connection. This means that where in the last half of the 20th century wealth was the real way to ascertain power, in the 21st century its all about information.To survive in this new world we need to be the worlds leader in education.
In miami springs senior high school and in every single public school PERIOD in florida, schools are given a grade on performance. Based on that grade in performance, the schools budget is allocated by the superintendent. The lower the grade, the lower the budget. The performance is measured, and this is a fact, by 2 factors. first factor is the schools overall test results for ONE SINGLE test called the CAT test; FCAT here in florida. Second factor is overall student attendance.
    *!!!WARNING; JOSE'S FACT ALERT !!!the important stuff was up there numbered. Reading further exposes you to REAL facts. Conservatives, beware. LOL
What happens as a result of the failed "no child left behind act", which is what happen to me during my high school years, is that instead of focusing on class subject matter, schools FORCE you in french class, in arts, in computer class, in history class to take constantly 5 or 6 Practice fcats a week, your writing a weekly 3 paragraph composition (usually with the same topics lol) and the teachers are STRICTLY forbidden to veer off those topics. You go to high school for four years to learn how to take an fcat pretty much. If your peers in high school dont give a rats ass about the test and they do bad, and we know that kind of attitude in a high school is very contagious, then you will be affected, because your schools budget will be decreased and you will have more bitter teachers who didnt get a raise, Old locker rooms to put stuff in, DISGUSTING bathrooms to do your business in, 8 to 10 year old math books (can you believe that my algebra 2 book in 2003 was the SAME EXACT book my older brother used in springs when he took the class in 96-97?). None of you know this unless ofcourse you went to high school during the bush administration, and got to witness this whole CRAZY plan to give schools their ever so necessary budgets based on ONE stupid test. Best part, the test only counts for 12th graders and 10th graders, so you waste your entire freshman and junior year preparing for a test that over the summer you forget all about. WTF IS WRONG WITH THIS SYSTEM CAN ANYONE GUESS?
Did you guys know that McCain at one point supported ABOLISHING the department of education. "I would certainly favor doing away with the Department of Energy and I think that given the origins of the Department of Education," the Senator (McCain) said on CNN's Late Edition in December 1994. "I would favor doing away with it as well." for full article: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/09/mccain-backed-abolishing_n_125096.html .

on the wrong side

dharmas — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 20:15:19 EDT

we need to improve education

we need to advance medical science , find new cures, expand and explore stem cell research .

, motivate and educate teenagers to think of the role they have in building a nation and hence to put their mind into education and not fall into starting families at young age.

What is so hurtful in this common sense approach to improving the quality of life?

Oh no sarah (and the GOP) takes it all too personally?

This is not personal madame governor, this is about the growth of the USA.

Educated young minds have the power to make informed decisions .

Our educated Leader will be OBAMA.

IT'S MY PARTY AND I'LL CRY IF I WANT TO

Kaz — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 20:43:07 EDT

"The republicans win by throwing the first punch. They win by not being defensive. And they win by not punching back. They always start the attack, and follow it up until you cry uncle and admit defeat. They don't get in a defensive posture, mainly because one has to be attacked first in order to defend ones self. And they certainly never go over and over and over what their opponent's talking points are in a whiny, silly attempt to defend ones self!"

"Go, OBAMA, go!! Take them down with those one liner's your so good at. Why does your opponent keep attacking you? Because it works. They win the news cycle and make you look weak because now you have to defend yourself or come off as looking weak. Where are those brilliant come backs? Those one liners that shut them up and make them look stupid! To win the news cycle is to win the day!!"

The first time we lost to Bush was an outrage. They lied and cheated and stole and WON.

The second time we lost to Bush was ridiculous, to know that that many people actually voted for Bush and not Kerry. It was absurd. It was a time of great cynicism in politics and America and the future.

The third time we lose to Bush? I will be so angry at the Democrats for being given the white house on a silver platter. And still losing. I was angry the first two times. Every time I hear about some Republican outrage ( Iraq, Iran, the constitution, the federal corporate bail outs, the lies and indifference about the economy, etc., etc.) I get more cynical and disillusioned. Are there really that many people in this country that don't know a terrorist from a Muslim?

To put salt on the wound is the fact that we now know that they stole the 2000 election. We now know they sanctioned torture. We know that there were no weapons of mass destruction and THERE NEVER WERE. We know that Carl Rove and Cheney bullied the press into passively going along with their outing of Valerie Plame. We know that they wiretapped us illegally. And WE let them. So whose to blame for the sad state of affairs? And we seriously wonder why there are so many disenchanted, apathetic youth in this country? Maybe because they see Republicans lying and us Democrats hoping that if we fight for what is right, that people will be drawn and inspired to us. UM...newsflash! This is not working!

Democrats, heck even Republicans are angry at the way this country has been mishandled. We're frustrated.

It's time to teach the world how to win the good fight. Democrats say, don't attack a woman, it's un presidential for the presidential candidate to go after the vice president, people are tired of division and scare tactics. Well, have fun losing another election to a bunch of lying thugs.

Why is it wrong to expose Republicans of all their wrong doing? Why do we think that we can beat them on the issues when the average American on the street doesn't know what Obama's stance on taxes is? Why do we stubbornly stick to the issues and only the issues when no one listens? Have these last eight years really taught us that little? We are tired and angry and fed up. We have not waited this long to see another gentlemanly debate about issues. We want to see them sweat. Heck, after all the money the campaign has raised, you owe it to your supporters to at least go down swinging. This is not some academic historical exercise.

So what do I suggest? Change the topic, please!! Before it's too late. Make this campaign about their failures, not personal attacks, or underhanded viciousness. There are a bazillion ways to show the Republicans' mistakes in a honest, straightforward, no nonsense way. Barak did it during his convention speech. The crowd loved it when he took a punch. It was a punch for all of us who have had to simmer on the sidelines. And it felt good! The crowd loved it. The press loved it.

How is this election going to be won? By who wins the news cycle. Their attacks are going to get more vicious because the press and public are loving it. And they have always worked. Always.

Go, OBAMA, go!! Take them down with those one liner's your so good at. Why does your opponent keep attacking you? Because it works. They win the news cycle and make you look weak because now you have to defend yourself or come off as looking weak. Where are those brilliant come backs? Those one liners that shut them up and make them look stupid! To win the news cycle is to win the day!!

The republicans win by throwing the first punch. They win by not being defensive. And they win by not punching back. They always start the attack, and follow it up until you cry uncle and admit defeat. They don't get in a defensive posture, mainly because one has to be attacked first in order to defend ones self. And they certainly never go over and over and over what their opponent's talking points are in a whiny, silly attempt to defend ones self!

Oh, and don't underestimate Palin's ability to hold her own in a debate or interview. She can't be worse than Bush and he beat Gore AND Kerry.

ATTENTION ALL OBAMA SUPPOTERS!

Stephanie — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 20:27:01 EDT

Hi Every one! :)

I know this seems very odd, because most of you didn't even know I was alive.. However, I do a few times a week do a video/radio type show about
American politics and more pointedly, what can *I* do, to do my part in helping ensure that Obama becomes the next president of the USA this November.

Tonight on my show I will be having a guest (via telephone) who will read a statement to McCain. More of an open letter. I have to tell you, it's good!
In fact very good. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor after she read it to me. She says she wrote it in 20 minutes. And that is also about how long it is
when she read it to me. Quite frankly it's brilliant!

I want you to hear it. She needs you to hear it. If you would be willing tonight at around 10 PM EST
to tune into my show on the net I would be very grateful and I have no doubt that you will be remarkably moved with her words. If you never listen to my show again, or if you leave right after she reads it, that is okay with me. She is so full of passion and insight I was literally floored! I can tell you in all honesty, that doesn't happen to me easily. I have no doubt that if you are a true believer as I am in this movement and cause you won't be able to walk away without being breathless either.

I really hope you at least come to check it out and see and hear for yourself. If you think I'm crazy afterwards, so be it and you can ignore me till the end of time.

However, I think you might like to hear this. You can get to my show by going to:

http://www.stickam.com/politicallysound

If you go look now, I know, it's a little lame, but I do it on my own dime and don't have any fancy set up. But I am not asking you to come listen to me. I'm
asking you to come listen to her. (Liz)

Show will start between 10.00 PM & 10:30 PM. We are aiming for 10 PM EST, but I do have kids.. the realities of life. I know every one thinks they have heard some thing that floors them, but I don't think I'm wrong about Liz.

I really hope to see you there. You can just lurk, or feel free to come into chat. Whether you lurk outside the chat, or come into the chat you'll still be able to see and hear the show. I of course would prefer you came into chat because I would love to hear all points of view and all opinions. But lurking is fine too.

Thank you for letting me take up a moment of your life you will now never get back.

Thanks!
Peace - Stephanie.
http://www.stickam.com/politicallysound

Opening Blog in Belfry MT

Change In Belfry — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 08:32:25 EDT

Hi all,

Just wanted to start my Blog on here. You will probably find some very opinionated, and some very "reasonable" blog entries from me on here. I hope I can help get the true agents of change, Obama-Biden, get elected this year.

I think the youth of our state and nation will help elect our candidate. Get out and get the youth vote energized!

Barack the Youth Vote

Brett D. — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 01:53:59 EDT

I teach high school civics and history to 11th and 12th graders in central Washington State. For those of you who aren't familiar with Washington politics east of the Cascade Mountains, that's the red half.

Yes, this is the home of red wine and red state viewpoints here in my beloved 4th District, which has been run by none other than Doc "Rubber Stamp" Hastings since 1992. He ran the Ethics Committee in the House for some time, or rather, he sat in a chair on the Ethics Committee and did nothing while his pals ransacked the country. Unfortunately, he doesn't have to work that hard to keep his job, and every Democrat that runs against him gets a solid 40% of the vote and nothing more. The DCCC abandoned us years ago, and great guy that George Fearing is, even in an Obama-mania year, I again have to look forward to this balding blowhard hypocrite of a man being my "representative" for another term.

The latest hottest movie everyone should watch ===SLACKER UPRISING

Emma Ruben — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 21:47:48 EDT

No way...No how...No McCain-Palin

http://slackeruprising.com/

http://www.michaelmoore.com/

Obama/Biden '08

Democratic National Convention 2008 in Denver...Our Story So Far

Jen on a Mission — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:00:46 EDT

Hi, all!

This has been a WHIRLWIND, and I thought I'd have a LOT more blogs up by now, so I apologize for my lack of communication.

Here is a brief synopsis of events so far.

Sunday, 8/24/08
8/24/08 at 2:12 PM Mountain Time:

I mentioned this briefly in my “video blog,” but I was really astounded by how beautiful the land around Kalispell is. Lakes that are actually turquoise around the shore, rolling tree-covered hills, the patchwork quilt of farms where humans have molded the land around them. And I silently went through the same process of discovery that the items dotted across one of the fields were not moving at all….and were therefore hay bales…and not sheep, as it sounds like many of us on the flight from Seattle first assumed. Who knew I had such strong stereotypes about Montana?

I must mention though (even though I’m sure I shouldn’t) that I’ve driven through Montana twice in a 15-passenger van on the way to conferences while I was in college, and both times slept through the “Welcome to Montana” sign. I did, however, wake up both times to see the “Next Exit: Rocky Mountain Oysters” sign both times, which has now become inextricably linked in my head with this bastion of western pride. Bull Testicles = Montana. At least it’s a strong connection, linked to the ranching heart of the people…. It could be worse….the Fish Eye State?

We finished the day off (after checking in at the hotel and unpacking the WAY too much stuff I brough) at the WA, OR, AZ Reception at the hotel. Met fantastic people, and saw my first example of the "toothpick rule"...that we can't be sitting down at meals, or it violates lobbying laws. I also decided that I was going to have everyone in the WA Delegation sign the delegation book, so that process began...and one delegate drew fake facial hair on another delegate's pic. They shall remain nameless, but are well aware that they are BUSTED.

Monday, 8/25/08
First day at Convention and navigating Denver (I'm chickening out on the whole Light Rail thing, and splitting cabs...MUCH more predictable).

Convention Center (NOT the Pepsi Center)
Youth Press Availablity...learned about the BUS Project, cheered on Planned Parenthood...and oh, yeah...SAW WILL.I.AM FROM THE BLACK EYED PEAS! He told the story of how he developed the "Yes We Can" video from Obama's speech, and how inspired he was at a down time in his life to live the dream that Obama inspires people to join. Fantastic! AND Qvisory.org was given a great mention....if you haven't checked it out yet, DO SO!!!!!!!!!

I also BRIEFLY checked out the Rural Caucus, and the National Jewish Democratic Caucus vote panel...I at least got signed up with them so I can continue this association in the future...

Lesson Learned You CANNOT go to everything you want unless you can simultaneously be 4 places at once...so don't wear yourself out trying!

Pepsi Center
The actual Pepsi Center is a pretty fascinating place! And TOTALLY surreal...I have a more complete list I'll post later, but on Monday Maria Shriver, Richard Schiff (TOBY FROM THE WEST WING!!!!), Susan Sarandon, Tim Daily, Gov. Bill Richardson, Keri Washington, Pick Boy from Nickeoldeon (I may be on...), Mo Rocca, Cyndi Lauper....all just bopping around, loving Democratic politics. Sweet.

More on speeches and actual convention business later...but remember...VIVA MICHELLE OBAMA! She brought down the house.

And BEWARE of sharp campaign signs. Oh, the carnage.

Couldn't even get in to the PPFA "Sex and Politics" Party...which is a great thing. The more support the better! We found a random little bar that was a BLAST and met CA and CO delegates who are huge proponents of electric cars. I hope I can check out their test drive site.

Tuesday, 8/26/08

More Caucus, Convention, and Celebrity love to follow, all! I'm fighting to get pictures up. Long story short before I edit and add more:

Women's Caucus and Cecile Richards, President of PPFA-FANTASTIC!PPFA President Cecile Richards

WE LOVE HER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hannity: sucks

NY Gov: GroovyNY Governor Patterson:NY Governor Patterson

Tatiana Ali: moves fast

Actress from Sabrina the Teenage Witch: Very nice...does anyone know her name? :-)

Hillary Clinton delivered on an ASTOUNDING level yesterday. I was in tears almost the entire time!

Wednesday, 8/27/08
I started the day with an accidental NPR/APB Interview, so we'll find out what airs. Awesome time though, and hooray for me being pushy!

Tonight's the BIG night. Nominations, speeches, and votes on President and VP. I'll have more later. For now, watch CNN and CSPAN, and SEND MONEY and VOLUNTEER for local campaigns! Make the difference we've been waiting for!

Love,

Jen on a Mission

Hillary supporters for McCain: What to do about them?

Golem — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:54:36 EDT

The polls are reporting about 27% of Hillary supporters who say that they will now vote for McCain. I would submit that these fall into 4 categories.

1- Those who would never vote for a black candidate.

2- Those who were never Democrats in the first place. For example, those used by Rush in his attempt at electoral fraud.

3- Independents who are clueless about political facts.

4- Those who are still living in the primaries.

There is nothing we can do about groups 1 and 2. They never had any intention of voting for Obama, and never will.

As for group 3, McCain has been drowning them in ads full of lies. And every time a lie is exposed, there are 4 more new ones waiting in line. They just throw whatever they can come up with hoping that some of it sticks. We just have to hammer them with facts. And point out that there is no "sitting this one out We should encourage those who like the way things are going to vote for McCain.

Group 4 is a bit more complex. I think that most of these simply don't have enough information about Obama yet. If they understand that the issue is not Hillary, but the economy, the war, energy independence, healthcare, women's rights, etc. they will come around. But right now its just "comfortable" to say to the pollster on the phone that they are voting for McCain just to "get even". All of them will look at the issues, look at Obama's proposals, and they will choose wisely.

The rest in this group are people who will just absorb the swiftboating campaign. They have made up their minds to become Republicans. Let's face it: they are probably lost forever. So we need to substitute them. And there are huge numbers of young voters who have registered in record numbers. They don't show up in the polls you see on TV, because traditionally they don't vote. What we need to do is to get them to the voting booths.

THE SUITOR

push pin — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 22:49:45 EDT

My son and I were talking politics one night, discussing Barack Obama’s campaign for President, when he revealed that he had broken up with his girlfriend. It was pretty painful for him, his first relationship that seemed to have depth and serious potential, touching on love. They’re only 21, barely at the beginning of their life journeys, and there is so much more to learn. I advised him that this blow was just one of life’s lessons: Youth and the confusing interplay of love and lust, passion and compassion, friendship and companionship. They had been close for only a few months, but at their age time is fleeting and emotions run high. My suggestion was that this experience would help him grow.

Always in the background of a new relationship is the echo of a hope that this is real, serious, and will last forever. Youth is impatient for forever, not realizing that life will be full of brief encounters, with many disappointments and surprising satisfaction.

We talk politics fairly often. He's been pursuing an English major with a minor in political science and he has some pretty strong opinions, especially on international affairs. We’re both big Obama fans, and on this night the subject was Barack’s struggle for acceptance among voters who are ready to believe the worst about him. Our candidate often declares his wholehearted love and admiration for America and his readiness to take on the awesome responsibility of leadership. Yet his critics paint him as shallow and pretentious at best, traitorous at worst, sowing the suspicion that he doesn’t really honor America.

Our greatest frustration with this campaign is the ease in which Barack Obama is cast as alien and suspect. How many times does he have to loudly, bluntly declare, “This is the greatest nation on Earth; nowhere else could a story like mine even be possible”, “This country is not perfect, but it is perfectible”, “It’s not about me; it’s about us; together, we can solve the momentous problems that we face”, before the mass of Americans take him at his word? The mere hint that he has a secret intent or hidden motive injures him. As in any courtship, whispers of doubt can be deadly.

My son needs conversation above the level of gossip and trivia, and his girlfriend was good for that. But more then that, he says the attraction was based on the idea that they could help each other achieve their respective dreams. Yang and Yin. What one lacks, the other provides. Like Obama’s petition to American voters, my son tried to convince her that, together, they could achieve great things. But, as he came to learn, suspicion can destroy a budding relationship.

I tried to encourage him by pointing out that his attitude showed a distinct level of maturity. It’s frustrating, I told him, but love is not the initial goal. It’s the final one. The more immediate task in any relationship is the establishment of trust, each convincing the other that vulnerability will never be taken advantage of. If there’s a wound, bandage it. If there’s an offense, forgive it. If there’s a fear, set it aside….

Obama’s critics insist that he’s a fake and a poser, unworthy of America’s affection. He’s a self-important egoist, they say, who’s only in this for the sake of power and prestige; that it’s really only about him. Entire books are published with the aim of impugning his character from every angle. They don’t want him to win us over because they say his intentions are bad, even suggesting he plans betrayal. His goal is not the nation’s welfare, but her destruction. Some, of course, subtly suggest that a person of his complexion simply shouldn’t be allowed into the family. He’s not “one of us”.

My son discovered that his attempts to understand and appreciate his girl’s strengths and wishes were rejected out of suspicion for their motives. The more he informed himself in the areas that interested her, the more she drew back. As he tried to get close to her feelings, and reveal his own, she became guarded. He says she worries that she’s incapable of intimacy, and feels awkward in social situations. He’s sociable, open with his emotions, and he wanted to help her out of her shell. There was a fear to be overcome, and he thought he could help her beat it.

But he couldn’t gain her trust and his first brush with love came to an end. I told him not to be discouraged. There will be others, perhaps even another opportunity with this young lady who briefly captured his heart.

This may not be true for America, however. Obama’s candidacy might be her best opportunity to break from the fears that hold her back. Reservations are justified, of course. He is, after all, just a man, a human being with the flaws and weaknesses of any human being. But the nobility of his manner and his aspirations for this great nation are worthy of acceptance. Obama’s unique quality is his willingness to address the American electorate as a mature audience. It can’t be overlooked that a candidate of his caliber doesn’t come along often. Like the girl my son was courting, it will be necessary for America to set aside her fears if this relationship is to bloom.

Barack Obama is wooing America. He says he loves and respects her right down to the core of his soul. The guy doesn’t claim to be perfect; he only claims to care. He seeks a partnership where everyone wins in the struggle for social progress. He’s willing and able, he says, to lead her out of the well of doubt and insecurity, to help her be the best she can be.

It’s something of a consensus in world and national opinion that the leadership blunders and misshapen policies of the last eight years, and the divisive, deceitful political methodology of the last 40, has made a mockery of American ideals. From pre-emptive war and the acceptance of torture to the damaging excesses of deregulation, our country is said to be going in the wrong direction. A fine example is the observation from Obama’s opponent that, “In the 21st Century, countries don’t invade other countries”. This doesn’t jibe well with Senator McCain’s support for the invasion of Iraq, but it should be noted that this is one of the unvoiced goals of the liberal democracy evolving from our Constitution: Abolishing the scourge of war. It’s a civilized idea, hardly attainable in the short run, but which abides at the heart of a political system founded on “certain inalienable rights”. It's one of the many inherent ideals of a government “of the People, by the People, and for the People”.

The United States has a special destiny in human affairs, carrying the torch of “Liberty and Justice for All” into the future. Perhaps the responsibility of living up to that destiny is what we fear. Denouncing torture and refusing to take part supposedly makes us vulnerable. Restrictions on corporate enterprise supposedly make us weak. I say the failure of law to protect the powerless from the potential depredations of government and commerce is far worse. It may take centuries to find the right balance in order to attain such idealistic goals, but ABANDONING THEM IS NOT AN OPTION.

Obama partisans have been characterized lately as “love struck teenagers”, enamored of a shallow celebrity. But this is not love for most of us, at least not yet. It is merely hope that America can chose a leader who will bring her through a crisis of confidence, as did Washington, Lincoln and FDR.

Supporters might consider how this campaign is a courtship. Voters need to be convinced that this man is worthy of their trust, that he does indeed hold their best interests in his heart. If it leads to betrothal in November and “I do” in January, America, in my humble opinion, will have made a wise choice. Judging from Obama’s obvious show of intellectual heft and tactical smarts, we can hope that the issue from such a union will, over the years, include a renaissance of reason, spiritual maturity and peace in the household.

It has been famously argued that no one can be fully prepared for the awesome task of the American Presidency. The same might be said of the intimacy of marriage. As with any relationship, issues have to be worked through. Nothing is easy. Often, it just gets harder.

Maybe, like my son, I’m succumbing here to youthful idealism, anticipating more than I should. Of course it’s foolish to bet all on such an outcome in a world full of deceit, but we should not be blind to persons of high ideals. America is a young country in many ways, and Barack Obama has the potential to be a superb leader. Nevertheless, since I’m no youth, I’ll know to expect many disappointments and surprising satisfaction.

HOORAY FOR OBAMA!!

TheYouthVote.com - DAN CEO — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 14:51:58 EDT

LET'S TURN THIS COUNTRY AROUND!

NEW LEADERSHIP, NEW ENERGY, NEW IDEAS

Stick to Issues

fredfuller — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 13:25:23 EDT

John McCain's not knowing how many houses he owns in funny, but it is not an issue. Foreclosures is the issue and the people caught up in it. Please, Senator Obama, stick to the issues as you have been doing, and leave the mud slinging to McCain, whose hands are already filthy

Here is a letter I wrote to the Roanoke (Virginia) Times after hearing the senator speak last night in Lynchburg, VA:

My fiancée and I went to the Obama rally in Lynchburg Wednesday and heard the young man speak. He is truly the best orator I have heard since Bill Clinton, and I think he is better that Clinton.

Maybe I was caught up in the energy coming from the crowd shouting Obama’s name and pledging support, but I believed him. We were privileged to sit behind the platform, so we were close enough to observe his face.

I tried to close out the noise and listen carefully to his words and to observe his face as he delivered them. What I saw was sincerity, youthful sincerity that is passionate and clean.

Yes, he is a politician, a professional politician, but I believe he is not as deeply stained as politicians who have been in the fray for many years. I think one cannot be in politics and not get stained, and Obama is smudged to be sure.

But I do not think he is jaded and cynical. He appears to still carry that wonderful exuberance we see in children who are focused on a goal they intend to achieve. The sewage that has been flung at him from the ultra right, conservative bloggers and, in my opinion, other bloggers who are insane—calling him the Anti-Christ—and from his opponent’s campaign has not stuck.

He is not oblivious to the dirt because he mentioned some in passing, but he is brilliant enough to know that the sewage is not what the campaign is about. He sticks to issues, refreshing in light of the smears we have to endure.

Motivational Note

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

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

Continue working towards progress instead of perfection.

Nothing or no no one is perfect.

Just keep taking steps.

Keep making those phone calls.

Continue following your plan.

Remain focused on your goal.

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

Complete every task.

Keep every promise and commitment.

Don't look back.

Stay on track.

Let no one weaken your walk of faith and determination.

Remain teachable.

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

Talk with teachers.

Walk with winners.

Climb with champions.

Study successful people.

Something great is about to happen for you!

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

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

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

Push through the Barriers

Unknown user — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 07:16:07 EDT

According to Barack Obama believes that its time for the war in Iraq to stop.Its time to make the American peoples National Security be safer.Its time to let the Iraqi people take responsibility for their own.WAKE UP ALL YOUTHS AND SMELL THE COFFEE(Sorry for the cliche).Its time that we put some one into presidency.Someone who wont send our boys/men,girls/women to their ends.Someone who aims to help us be heard and to make a difference.McCain doesnt want to stop the war.Infact he is ready to spend more money to encourage his war that seems to have no end or have no real meaning.Our voting is what decides the future.The money being spent on the war is incredibly ridculous.This same money can be spent on the American people.To use to encourage bigger opportunities for the American youths,to use to help our women,our teens and children. This money would help to develop an opportunity for better eductaion and would also make a fundamental impact on the lives of many Black Americans or on all people of colour and of other racial background.This encourages them to see a rolemodel in Barack Obama and see that they too are able to PUSH THROUGH THE BARRIERS OF BEING RACIALLY STEREOTYPED.By making them know and see that they too can make it and that they can be something even though society still under-estimates them.This is the opportunity all Youths need.An opportunity for change.An opportunity for refinement and balance.

All youths have to vote

Unknown user — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 06:47:22 EDT

All youths please pay attention.THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WINNING AND LOSING IS THE VOTES OF OUR YOUTHS. Encourage youn americans of eligible age to vote for Barack Obama.Its the young peoples vote that counts and makes a difference between Barack Obama changing countless lives and making a difference for the lives of families of people in Iraq and the people in Iraq themselves.Lets make a change.PLEASE VOTE- BE YOU WHITE,BLACK,PINK OR ORANGE.Your ethnicity or race.ACT for CHANGE. Our future and lives lies upon the hands of all of you wo are able and are able to see the future more clearer.Please help to make a difference.VOTE FOR BARACK OBAMA.

McCain...In His Seventies and Still Immature

Nia "Hussein" J. — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 03:34:59 EDT

'A surprisingly Immature politician'
Posted: 04 Aug 2008 09:37 PM CDT

By: Steve Benen
John McCain has always seemed to revel in the sycophantic adulation he's enjoyed among the media elite, so it's kind of fascinating to see McCain's one-time media fans realize that he's not the man they thought he was.
The first, and probably most notable, was Time's Joe Klein, who conceded last week that he was wrong to believe McCain is an "honorable man." Soon after, writing on the inanity of McCain's attacks against Barack Obama, Klein's headline read, "The Scum Also Rises."
It looks like Newsweek's Jonathan Alter has joined the club, noting with noticeable regret that he "misread McCain."
In the middle of John McCain's dopey Britney & Paris attack ad, the announcer gravely asks of Barack Obama: "Is He Ready to Lead?" An equally good question is whether McCain is ready to lead. For a man who will turn 72 this month, he's a surprisingly immature politician -- erratic, impulsive and subject to peer pressure from the last knucklehead who offers him advice. The youthful insouciance that for many years has helped McCain charm reporters like me is now channeled into an ad that one GOP strategist labeled "juvenile," another termed "childish" and McCain's own mother called "stupid." The Obama campaign's new mantra is that McCain is "an honorable man running a dishonorable campaign." Lame is more like it. And out of sync with the real guy. [...]
McCain is patently insincere when his heart's not in it, like a little boy who eats his peas when his parents tell him to but remains transparently unhappy about the experience. It's not clear how committed McCain himself is to this latest assault on Obama. Does he genuinely believe that Obama is an out-of-control egomaniac who thinks he's Moses? McCain no doubt comforts himself that the ad making that argument -- an argument that is beneath a major-party candidate for president -- was not part of a big media buy but just chum thrown to the media piranhas via the Drudge Report. [...]
On the night of the 2000 South Carolina primary, I was in his hotel suite and watched Cindy weeping over what Rove and his goons did. Her husband was plenty mad, too. Now he's got Rove's protege, Steve Schmidt, running his campaign.
Alter concludes that McCain "mortgaged his precious personal honor." I think that absolutely true, but I still get the sense that even newly-critical McCain detractors are still willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. At least a little.

Alter's piece is a very good one, so I'm reluctant to criticize it, but his column still argues that McCain is being fundamentally led astray by Republican hatchetmen giving him bad advice.
McCain, Alter argues, is waging a negative and dishonest campaign, but this is "out of sync with the real guy." McCain may be on the attack, but his "heart's not in it." He's foolishly taking the advice of "knuckleheads." It's that darn Steven Schmidt who deserves most of the blame.
I even realize why Alter wants to think McCain is only partially responsible for his ugly turn -- if media figures respected and admired McCain, and sang his praises for the last decade, and all the while McCain was really just a shameless Republican hack, playing the media for fools, it's hard to accept. If, however, McCain is really a great guy underneath, but has been corrupted by a dishonorable and pathetic Republican machine, then there's some comfort in knowing that reporters hadn't misjudged his character all along.
But I'm quite certain they did. McCain was playing a role, and the media bought it. Kevin explained quite well the other day why this it's-not-McCain's-fault argument misses the mark.
Apparently he's just a straight talking guy who woke up one morning and found himself mysteriously under the sway of a vile cabal of political hit men and unable to do anything about it.
Enough's enough. McCain hired Steve Schmidt, he approves the strategy, and he signs off on the ads. If his campaign is mired in sleaze, it's not happening despite McCain, it's happening because of McCain. Stop making excuses for him.
Quite right. McCain hired Rove's operation for a reason: he really wants to be president, and doesn't much care how he gets there.
It's nice, I suppose, to examine all of this and think McCain is just the latest good guy to go bad, but I think this is fundamentally flawed. John McCain simply is not a man of strong character.

Kettering University Bulldogs for Obama

Josh In Michigan — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:11:11 EDT

As a tradition on Ketering University's campus, different student groups sporadically paint over the statue of a bulldog in the middle of the quad. The night before the first Students for Barack Obama meeting of the year, their students did this. And just for the record, it's not illegal.

Reminder: If you are interested in possibly being featured on our blog, send in your photos, stories and videos from the field via the share tool.

Letters From The Field: Alex in SE Michigan

Josh In Michigan — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:30:34 EDT

I just received this letter and thought I would share it with everyone.

This is Alex from Southeastern Michigan. I am a twenty year old student at Central Michigan University and have been volunteering for Obama’s Campaign at school and in my hometown while home for the summer. I wanted to provide a more intimate look into the things that have been happening here….

Recently I was able to be a part of a really exciting voter registration drive in my hometown. The drive took place on Independence Day at the local fire works, where the town gathers in masses. This was the great place for a drive because there was a large crowd in one general location. The people that I registered, 30 in total, were mostly younger.

I registered about 20 eighteen year olds, but a few were older and even one marine! I had a great time at the drive.

Not only was I able interact with the community that I have grown up in, but I was also able to experience the excitement of first time registers. Some of the registers actually sought me out and were really enthused about the process, while others were reluctant but decided that registering now could not be more convenient for them.

I registered voters until the fireworks began (for about four hours). I could have kept registering until I was sure that no un-registered voter remained in the park. This drive ignited my excitement for the campaign. Personally, I find the registering process gratifying. Helping someone obtain their right to vote is a service that I am proud to be a part of. Hopefully, the people that I registered will remember the uniqueness of when they first became a legal voter, which is this country’s Independence Day, and the reason they are able to vote in the first place.

--Alex
Obama 08’

Do not be afraid to be different.

Stephanie Madrid — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:45:21 EDT

Hey everyone! It's Stephanie Madrid.

Young Adult L.I.F.E. now has a facebook...

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=24484157650

This organization... has pretty much taken over my social life, but it's okay because it's for a very good cause…OUR future! Everyone has an "opinion" about the government/society, but it's really whether you do something about it that counts. Any fool can sit there and complain, but it takes a brave individual to get up and speak! I feel that we as youth have an immense amount of power that can ultimately redefine the course of the future. The government is for the people, by the people and we should not fear it or run from it. WE ARE THE GOVERNMENT. (if anything those fools should tremble when they think about a movement like Young Adult L.I.F.E…)

Although, I am an avid Obama supporter I do insist on tolerance and understanding from both sides because I believe that the only way the human race will advance is though compromise. Whether you support John McCain or Barack Obama, you NEED to get out there and VOTE! Get out there and campaign for your candidate of choice. Just do something. Do not sit around and wait for it, because it will not come. DO SOMETHING…

On the other hand, I am still working with KHOU to make news stories about teen issues. These are key issues that affect the youth and need to be brought to light by the media. I hope to continue to do this and if any one reading this has an idea, please let me know…

As I sit here reading the computer screen, I realize that we are all headed to different places with different goals in mind. I know that many people reading this will one day become a superstar athlete, an engineer, a politician, etc. The one thing that many of us do have in common is the fact that WE ARE THE FUTURE. Do not let simple things like Democrat and Republican drive the youth apart. We are a force, a huge force that can and will speak up…

Do not be scared to be different. Stop conforming and be a leader.

What if MLK hadn't done something about the segregation problem in America? What if JFK hadn't aspired for America to go to the moon? What if John Lennon hadn't started the best group in the history of the world, despite the fact that he was diagnosed with DYSLEXIA? Now think about it…What if Jesus had done NOTHING?

Think about it. Join Young Adult L.I.F.E.

Stop complaining. Do something.

Take care, Stephanie Madrid

www.myspace.com/obama4pres2008

We Are Bridging Generations - At Last!

V, aka VCubed/Virginia V — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 01:51:07 EDT

We just registered 130 people today, from 10 am til 6 pm at a local festival. Many who registered were just turning 18, first-time voters. It is so exhilarating! We did it in concert w/our local democratic club, and it turned out Obama volunteers were the backbone of the event - 8 of the 10 who worked the registration tables were our volunteers.

Another Obama vol photographed supporters, for free, to post on the Google group Wall of Hope. Galen Swain, our volunteer photographer from a separate district, took over 300 pictures of couples, singles and groups of people who wanted a picture with "Obama" - a life-size cardboard standing figure. He hollers out "Take a picture with the next President! All it'll cost you is a smile!" Who can resist that?

Someone got so inspired he's bringing a plaster bust of Obama's lovely head for our table tomorrow - he bought it from a local artist we'll be contacting, trust me! Two local t-shirt printers offered us ready-made BO t's to sell and take a cut. We're raising money to send people to a battleground state - just a little $50 gas card for each carpool. Looks like we'll be sending lots of carpools!

A local volunteer who has a graphic designing young son with his own printing business made organic cotton canvas shopping bags with an awesome design of BO and quote. We're going to do it in different languages - they're selling like hot cakes! So are the t's he made where we get half the cut on sales - sweet!

None of us but our senior Democratic Club members ever did this before, and the creative fundraising projects we did impressed them no end. Our enthusiasm, the level of commitment, made the organizer, in his 60s, smile all day long.

I had offered to take over on scheduling and confirming volunteers, and a team to set up and break down, when the Democratic Club elder who organizes this every year called me four days ago to tell me his wife, his most loyal voter registration partner, was going in for two surgeries followed by a week in a nursing home. We (our local Obama group) were just gonna show up, sit down, and register people before that very sweet, humble "ask" for more help.

Time for the youth to rise...

Stephanie Madrid — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:31:16 EDT

I have to say....this is absolutely amazing, what Obama is doing to change the way people think about the effect they can have on the government. He has been such an inspiration to many people who dream of something bigger, something better. God has always been a big part of my life, and I beleive that with his help, I was able to do something BIG! Something HUGE.

This summer I started this organization, (still no 501c3, but soon)... www.myspace.com/obama4pres2008

I urge anyone reading this, to go to the site and show your support.

THE YOUTH IS THE FUTURE.

Stephanie Madrid

Trent Lott - In Search of Wisdom

Citizen — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 18:53:05 EDT

Trent Lott made a comment on Hardball today that was instulting to the majority of Americans. Stating why he supports McCain over Obama, Lott said, "wisdom only comes with age." Trent Lott apparently believes that America's Doctors, Surgeons, Lawyers, Judges, Mayors, College Professors, Classroom Teachers, Ministers, and over half of all Americans who are under Obama's age of 47 don't have wisdom. Does he mean that Edmund Rutledge didn't have wisdom when he signed the Declaration of Independence at age 26 or Jesus when he spoke in the temple at age 12? Perhaps Mr. Lott has forgotten this American folk wisdom, "There is no fool like an old fool."

Letters to the Editor: What We Find In Obama

Josh In Michigan — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 13:44:07 EDT

In today’s Detroit Free Press you will find a slew of letters to the editor in response to the paper’s editorial piece last week, which questioned if young people would actually vote come November. Young people across the state wrote in to describe their excitement as well as the enthusiasm that they have seen grow in their peers. Senator Obama has energized the younger generations in unprecedented ways that will only grow and spread across Michigan as the election approaches.

One of the letters was written by Maureen M in Brighton Michigan -- she describes why she believes her generation will continue to fight to ensure Senator Obama is our next President.

What we find in Obama -- what inspires us to work, volunteer and wait in hour-long lines to hear him for 20 minutes -- are issues that affect each of us. We realize that we are the ones, that now is the time to fix the student loan crisis, to make jobs available, to make health care affordable, and to bring our brothers and friends home who have been away fighting an unjust war.
We relate to these issues and their urgency for action. We have helped register one another, and come Nov. 4, 2008, things will be different.

Alex M in Grosse Point wrote about why he believed the youth and student movements have already shown that they are serious about volunteering and voting in 2008.

Unprecedented turnout in primaries and caucuses throughout the country earlier this year foreshadow the fact. Students support Obama because he knows that young Americans play a critical role in changing politics. Obama has engaged young people as no other candidate and has inspired countless young people to organize, get out the vote, and build a better America. For the first time, other students are not asking me why I am wasting my time with politics, but, rather, how they can be involved in the process. This is not a standard election. Together, Americans of all ages will converge at the polls Nov. 4 and send Obama to the White House.

Voter Registration

Ayalah — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 10:35:44 EDT

Our young people can help make a difference in this election. Ellie, my 16 year old daughter going to the Inauguration, has bee helping with voter registration. Her feelings are that since she can't vote in November, she can at least help in getting others to vote. Please share your student's efforts in helping with this election!

More information:

http://ellie.paradiseforalowprice.com/ or http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/PYICFamiliesforObama

Are political polling links on social networking sites like YouTube and MySpace invigorating young voters?

Ms CYPRAH — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:17:20 EDT

Those social networking sites have the biggest audiences around. To omit them from the election process would be foolhardy. As most youngsters use the social networks to communicate with one another and to socialise in every sense, there are at least 5 reasons why those young voters are likely to be galvanised by the connection to participate in the 2008 election..

First, linking the candidates to these network sites aid understanding of the issues, the positions and the electoral process, at the very least, even if it doesn't invigorate them as such. One cannot appreciate the value of something until it is understood. By bringing the campaign directly to network users, in their own community, it has a better chance of being regarded favourably. Many young voters would make the effort to become engaged in the process when they might not have bothered otherwise.

Journey for Change – Your Messages, Our Present & Future Hope

Jolly, a person of unyielding hope who helped elect President Obama — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 20:50:25 EDT

Journey for Change – Your Messages, Our Present & Future Hope

“Empowering Youth Through Global Service”

Youth – Community – Hope – Service – Empowerment – Change – Destiny

Greetings Fellow Hopemongers, Women for Obama, Vote for Change Volunteers, Obama Supporters with a Margarita, Friends, Brooklynites, New Yorkers, Obama Family, Americans, and Global Citizens.

As some of you know, we have been collecting copies of Hill Harper’s Letters to a Young Brother and Letters to a Young Sister to send with the 15 girls (young women) and 15 boys (young men) from Bushwick, Brooklyn, that will be taking part in the Journey for Change youth service project to South Africa. (Details on this amazing project headed by Obama supporter Malaak Compton-Rock, who also happens to be the mother of my dynamic North Carolina canvassing partner Gayle, can be found on the Angel Rock Project web site at http://www.angelrockproject.com/arp/projects/journey_for_change.asp). The book drive was part of the Vote for Change registration drive we had in Harlem the night of the Montana and South Dakota primaries (with 66 voter registrations collected by our awesome volunteers.)(Details on this past event and some of my motivation for creating it can be found at http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4b5m).

In addition to providing books full of advice and guidance to read on their trip, Obama supporters have been writing in personal messages for these young adults that may one day be future women and men for Obama and, just possibly --with a little hope and help, future leaders of their communities and our country. As a bonus, the “Young Brother” book includes a letter from Senator Obama and the “Young Sister” book contains a letter from Michelle Obama. I have included some of the amazing messages already gathered below. Due to the generous donations by our past volunteers and donors (particularly my own Mama for Obama in Colorado and Lonny in NYC with multiple donations), it looks like we may have donors for all the books. However, I need more messages from YOU. Before you try to tell me that you are too busy, take a look at the fundraising picture and you will see that Senator Obama took the time out to sign one of the books at the Women for Obama breakfast we just had in New York!!! I have to admit, I’m going to be a little jealous handing over that treasure.

So please leave messages for the kids in the comments section of the blog. I am asking for a small suggested $5 to $10 donation to the campaign through our fundraising link to participate, but will accept positive messages from all regardless of contribution (after all economic times are hard). Link for the fundraising page and the Obama signature can be found here: http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/maingroup/ObamaSupporterswithaMargarita

“Your life is what you make it. Those who achieve don’t waste time on self-pity…Instead they strive for excellence. They take responsibility for their actions and they try to focus not just on themselves, but on others. In fact when you focus on others you realize the blessings you have…It doesn’t mean you can’t get down sometimes. Everybody does. But, always remember that being defeated is a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent….Barack” Letters to a Young Brother by Hill Harper, page 157

Obama Supporters’ Messages of HOPE --

“…Be grateful for what you have – be compassionate to those that do not have what you have – and work for quality in this world…and always LOVE.” – Sue, NYC

Always dream big, but remember to set goals. …Stand by your convictions. Don’t blindly follow the crowd…You have one life, live it to the fullest!’ Love I. Watkins, NY

“Future Ba-rack Star, I am actually a college student that is only now getting involved in the political process. Before this election I dreamed big, but my dreams were always questioned by a society that constantly dismissed my ability, and the collective abilities of young people…I write this to ask you to never allow anyone question your strength or power. Your voice is your tool, use it to be the change you seek…I find comfort in knowing that whatever you choose to do, the story that you write through living will make a mark on the pursuit of progress.” Sara, NYU Student & NY Women for Obama

“Khaljani – This is Swahili for destined to rule. In the Spirit, brother, I know that indeed, you are. Rule yourself & submit to righteous principals. Then serve greatly, young prince! --Brother Esq., NJ (a friend of Kevin Powell, who is running to be the Democratic candidate for Congress in Brooklyn, NY, District 10)

This is coming to you from NY City where we are about to see Barack Obama, who we hope will be our next President. He is truly an inspiration and proof that you can accomplish anything if you put your mind and your soul into it. Be strong, be confident, respect yourself and know you can be anything you want to be!” Dianne NYC

“Dear Young Sister, As you go on your journey to South Africa, I want you to bear in mind that it is always more gracious to give then to receive.” – P. Obetoh, NYC

“As I write this I am at a gathering of Obama supporters. Obama just clinched the nomination for the Democratic nominee for President. A historic night. I’m hoping we’ll have another historic night this November…Cherish your trip to South Africa. The world is a much smaller place than we know.” - JQ Faith, New York

“South Africa is such an interesting country. You will do and learn so much and at the same time make a contribution. Best wishes for a truly extraordinary experience.” --J. Fogurty, A Woman for Obama

May the examples that you are reading about in this book inspire you to reach for the stars! Dimitra, New York

“Good luck on your adventure. Follow your heart…it will help you decide the right thing to do…” Lara, NY, HIV Counselor

“My sister lives in a country where people don’t get to vote and she always reminds me what a great power and blessing it is!!” Ellen, NY

“Be Inspired! Enjoy! S. , NY

Barack's "plan for national service"

David "The Forehead" — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:48:12 EDT

Reading through news from a week ago, I found a story in the Chigago tribune that outlined his plan for getting youth, like myself, more involved in community service. I have a few questions, and I found it here: http://bulletin.aarp.org/states/il/articles/obama_outlines_plan_for_national_service.html

Are Role Models the Answer to Young People's Deviance?

Ms CYPRAH — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 05:29:02 EDT

A Conservative shadow minister in the UK, Chris Grayling, has warned of a "Jeremy Kyle generation" of irresponsible, alienated and socially inadequate young men making their presence felt in society. His answer is to promote more 'positive role models' but I have never felt that an emphasis on role models is the necessary answer to our young people's problems.

Under the Influence

Stephanie — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:10:59 EDT

I grew up in a conservative household... well, conservative in the fact that it was Christian and wealthy. Not Christian completely because my parents were divorced and not wealthy because we were no Gates family, but conservative none-the-less.

My father is a die-hard Republican everything from his stance on gay marriage to his idea of paying taxes. We recently had a conversation about the election and I told him that he reminded me a bit of Mitt Romney, his mannerisms, witt and tan skin. My dad said "Thank you, Mitt's the man!" I kid you not, he actually thinks that Mitt Romney is awesome!

When I was 8... in 1993 when Clinton first got into office my dad (at the height of his money making conservative years) sat me down and said that I needed to write a letter to President Clinton. I thought he was crazy, this was the president we were talking about. I asked him what I was supposed to write and he responded, "tell him that he needs to make abortion illegal." Well, I, being the 8 year old that I was, had NO clue what an abortion was. So my father looks at me and says "Its when mommy's don't want their babies so they go to a doctor and the docter kills them." Of course this idea completely freaked me out and so while taking my bath before bed that night I thought of what I would write in my letter and when I got out I wrote the letter to President Clinton explaining that I thought he should make abortion against the law because "if your mom had had an abortion, you wouldn't be our president." My dad thought it was brilliant and the next day we put it in an envelope addressed "Mr. President Bill Clinton White House, Washington, D.C." and off it went. I have no idea if it ever got where it was going but I got the message a few years later that I'd been had!

I think alot of society today votes the way their parents vote. In college 95% of my close friends were registered Republicans who voted in every election, and I was too, until Bush Part Deux. So many people today take the things their parents told them about particular Presidents and make that their mindset without ever developing ideas of their own.

Its time that America's youth stop being Under the Influence and start looking around them, start to take off those parent colored glasses and realize that what they've been told to believe in, might not be what they actually believe.

Unity has invigorated this campaign!

V, aka VCubed/Virginia V — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 22:01:29 EDT

In the past month, especially just since our Unity district-wide event this past Saturday in Fremont, CA, that drew 150 mostly brand new volunteers for Obama, I've seen a thunderclap of energy erupt in this campaign that I only dreamed of in the primary season.

Don't get me wrong, we've had great energetic volunteers throughout this odyssey. We wouldn't have gotten here without them, and we share the beginnings of this astounding movement that's taken the nation, and the world, by storm - we were at the birth, together.

But there are three new groups, new additions to the Obama Family, that we are all so happy to be working with, at last: Hillary's devoted supporters, the entire local Democratic Party family, and all the new or reenergized political participants fired up to be part the historical triumph of the grassroots in November.

I want you all to have a sense of how intense this desire to be part of change, to get out of the armchair, turn off the TV, and get out and talk to people, has become, because you won't know it from the media. Not from mainstream media, not from the pundits trying to out-yell each other, not even from the liberal blogosphere. Those are all competing for the same audience, thriving on conflict more than solutions, parsing people into categories as if we were still more separate than united. To see the reality, let me share our events.

AMAZING!

1 "Bitter" Yvonne "Hussein" Raphael from California, a "Typical" American — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 22:11:16 EDT

Will the blockbuster news never quit?! While I was roaming around the 'net this evening I read an Associated Press item reporting that Senator Obama's campaign sent an email (to the AP, I suppose) announcing that he and Senator Clinton will campaign together (beginning) next Friday, June 27th. It also reported that the two senators are planning a joint fundraiser this month. Wow! The AP article is at:

http://www.rnntv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8530156

Senator Obama's ability to work with people is truly AMAZING! We will surely be welcoming a majority of Hillary Clinton's supporters into our campaign in the coming weeks.

I SO ADMIRE his consensus-building skills. He is an INCREDIBLE role model for ALL of us, especially for those young people who are (temporarily) at odds with their parents, as well for those youth who are currently involved in the deplorable cycle of teen-on-teen violence.

Today I also read an email from an Obama 'sister' from Italy who is coming to the U.S. to help rock the vote for Barack in Ohio. She said there is a website of Italians who are very HOPEful that Senator Obama will be President Obama come November. This is just one of several news emails, blogs, and news articles telling of people in a variety of countries around the world who are counting on the positive changes that Barack Obama's presidency will bring about in the global context.

The amazing amount of support for Senator Obama attests to the fact that his ability to build bridges is the HOPE we all have for harmonious relations among the diverse groups in this country, and around the globe. Our candidate is THE ONE WHO THE WORLD NEEDS NOW!

GOT HOPE?

GOBAMA!!!

Ohhhhh my Babies....

FAITHCARR — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:37:16 EDT

Just got back from the "Fellows" meet and greet in Gainesville Florida.

As an Old DEM campaign worker, I GOTTA tell ya.

Hoo, boy, these political babies have GOT IT TOGETHER!

Sure, there was some confusion (surprise, surprise), but oh myyyyy, none of the new folk freakin' CARED. It was us oldies that were a bit, well, out of place.

Soooo. I say, old Dems... Get out of their freakin' WAY.

Support where we can, donate "$" when we are able, and let the next generation do the work.

We had our time... '68... '72... '92... '2004, 2006. We, us, the 60's generation, tilled the soil, added the compost, planted the seeds in our children.

Let 'em grow. Oh My, let 'em grow.

We are the water, the sun, the fertilizer.

I am convinved, our children are taking up our sword, our shield.

We taught them well....

Let them lead, they'll pick really nice retirement placements.

Ohhh Myyy.

Can I make ya a batch of chicken and dumplings? Ya want an extra biskit with that? Let's stuff OUR youth with wholesome, nurishing, loving... FOOD, IDEALS, SUPPORT (emotional, financial, huggin')

Let's all feed them. Set them free, and get the HELL out of their way.

Tommorow (theirs and ours) belongs to them.

Faith Carr
Revolution is Required, and it's comin'

CHANGE through growth and human nature.

Risse — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:10:48 EDT

See all my friends blogs at their sites "Consecrated Space" and "Chakra Alignment" on myspace.com

~~~THANK YOU~~~

December 16, 2007 - Sunday

The Beacons of Light ~ Re-minders from Home ~ 12/15/2007

~ The Human Condition ~

THIS IS NOT A DRILL!

The Human Condition

Each one of you has a condition you are dealing with that has caused you great difficulties throughout your entire stay on this planet. It is a challenge for every one of you to see yourselves the way you really are. That is because of a deeply embedded belief system that each and every one of you carries. It was necessary to carry from the very beginning of the connection because it was the part that activated everything for you. But you have a strong case of what we call the human condition. The human condition is a very serious ailment of the spirit.

When a spirit enters a bubble of biology and activates a veil to keep them from re-membering, they still have memories of Home. Over time, if these memories are not reinforced, the memories fade to the back of consciousness. Sometimes they are only left in the cellular memories which are your souls imprint on the physical body. It is at this point that a soul starts to actually believe that they are a human. This is a serious ailment of the soul that we call the human condition.

That is what you are dealing with everyday. Everywhere you look in your daily life there are people who all try to get you to buy into the human condition so that you can be like them. People walking around truly believing that they are the human body they inhabit has caused more difficulties for humanity in general than you could ever imagine. That is beginning to change. The Re-wire of Humanity is underway and the evolution will soon have all of humanity seeing from a different perspective. That perspective is the basis of your understanding as a Lightworker. Now you are looking at people who are beginning to see themselves the way they truly are, instead of the way they believe themselves to be. It is so hard for you to take off your wings and to put on the physical bubbles of biology and pretend to be a human. You devised a veil which is incredibly powerful and works very well.

Physical Adjustments

The physical bubble of biology is now adapting to the new you. There are several events taking place simultaneously. Firstly you are evolving the physical body much more than you know, it will start to show soon. Your physical being is starting to take on new attributes to allow more light to come through your body and that is something that was never expected on this planet. That was never expected in this game. It was never thought that the children coming in could carry the magic that would help you re-member your own and yet it is beginning to happen. It was never thought that you could stand as a human being and let all of your light through your physical body. Why? Because the first thing that happens is you start attracting attention, you go back into your human condition thinking that you are a human and everyone is looking at you. Then you shut it down in order to fit in. When the veil s tarts to thin you get scared and revert to your old belief systems. You revert to the energy of who you were and belief systems that supported you at that time. In effect, you revert back into the human condition.

Secondly, even the physical body is beginning to adapt to make it possible to have a new vision of yourself. For that to happen, it is going to be important for you to stop looking on the outside of yourself for your reflection. That is a natural effect of the human condition. You cannot see your own light internally. Even if you look in the mirror, you always see the negative. Have you noticed that your attention immediately goes to things you think are wrong, not what you think is right? So every time you look in the mirror, your attention goes to your imperfections. That mirror immediately attracts your problems or what you see as your challenges. That is due to the amount of light that you carry. yet it is only a slight shift in perception. It is only a slight difference in how you look to start seeing yourself from the inside out rather than the outside in. It takes practice. As you evolve you will define yourself by the amount of light that you carry. It is not easy at first for you are so accustomed to define yourself by your belief systems. It is changing.

Beliefs about Being Human

Part of your evolution as humans is to experience multidimensionality. This will eventually give you the broadest view possible as you evolve. Multidimensional vision will give you incredible options and your lives will become powerful and streamlined. You are moving into an area of multidimensionality daily. You are going to find out much more about your true existence on this planet as human beings, as spirits pretending to be human than you ever thought possible within the next 12 years. You will start understanding how the fabric of the universe is woven together and how to utilize it. Then you will understand how energy weaves together to form matter. You will understand how your thoughts create matter every moment of every day by interacting with this fabric.. You will understand more of your true, creative gifts of creation, of every thought sending out a vibration that takes the fabric of the universe and weaves it together to make something magical. In order to do that, the first thing that has to be reevaluated is your beliefs about your beliefs. As a cure, as a temporary situation, as a possibility of stepping out of the human condition, start looking at your beliefs about beliefs for that covers it all. In the days directly ahead those who are willing to release and broaden old belief systems will have a huge head start on the entire evolutionary ascension process ahead of you.

Integration

We have spoken about the timeline and the illusion of the timeline. You see everything as past, present and future. The left part of your brain does nothing more than to mark time and put everything you experience into little boxes. This is what it has been bread to do within a field of duality. It was quite useful in duality as it categorized and equated everything. It thinks. Of course now you are moving out of duality and that is one of the reasons for the re-wire of the physical body. All of these changes will lead you eventually to a more fluid way of categorizing and studying yourself. Rigid boxes will no longer work as the way you see life and yourself

When you let that part of your life rule who you are and what you are doing, you start to carry belief systems about what that is. Humans are creatures of habit. Even your souls are creatures of habit as you have a tendency to choose the same things over and over again even between lifetimes. In reality, many of the belief systems you carry today may have been with you for several lifetimes.

When you start to understand how it works, you can see right from the beginning what your beliefs are. Eventually your true motivations are ever present in every decision. When you can see that clearly and remember your motivations you can make a conscious choice. If you have forgotten you true motivation you are likely running on a belief system that may get very small in the near future. When you walk consciously on your path you begin to carry more light within. These are the times in life when you are on purpose and feel it. Many of your life decisions now are made out of habit or belief systems. The key to evolution is not in eliminating belief systems but in expanding the box to a more fluid and much larger container in which you can see yourself.

Many of you are finding your beliefs beginning to change. You are starting to shift the energy of what you are truly working with and how it works. When you start to really evaluate that process, when you start to truly evaluate who you are on the inside, everything starts to change on the outside. Now, more than ever before, you will see people change in very big ways.

Universal Energy Field

The first of three tools we will offer you is the Universal Energy Field. You have a magnetic field around your body that connects you to the Universal Energy. The Universal Energy is based in love but it is a connection that goes in between one heart and another and stitches all the hearts together. In other words, everything that you have felt in your lifetime, others have felt. Every emotion that you have ever felt is felt by several others at the same moment. It goes between everybody as a huge ripple of energy goes out from the source of creation. When you have a belief system, it is a predetermination of the way that energy will return. With belief systems the energy you send out is predetermined to return in a certain manner. In effect you are limiting your own spirit in your creations.

Even some of your most used methods about using the laws of creation as they have used within duality will change as humans move into a field of Triality. Then you will have a much wider view and be able to see how the energy is stitched together and how to use it much more effectively. Your conscious use of the Universal Energy Field will become second nature to each of you. Upon mastery of it you will manifest as you sleep and it may seem at first that the wind is magically at your back all of the time. This is a part of Home that you have missed the most, so you create it first. At first this will seem like a new sense that humans will suddenly develop. Like the other senses you will use it to interact with the world around you and reflect your light. When you use this new sense in your life you can see the miscommunications that belief systems can create. It is a part of you that is tot ally automatic and goes without thinking. It becomes an automatic reaction to an external stimuli setting up a vibration within the Universal Field that precedes you before you walk into a room, start a project, begin a relationship or pick up the phone. You could say that it creates your world just before you get there. Learning how to use it will be the subject of many books to come but it will very quickly become integrated into the new humanity.

Who do You Think You Are?

The first belief that most humans have who are dealing with the human condition is that they need their belief systems. Belief Systems are ways of defining life by finding connecting threads that run through a set of truths that you have collected. In the early days, belief systems helped you define God. They helped to define who you were and to find your energy as a creator. Here your reality was built with the blueprint of what you thought of yourself. It worked very well in duality but as you are moving into Triality this is beginning to be restrictive. Things react differently because you are different. Your field is different and the energy around you and everything you interact with is different because you have moved. With that move have come opportunities for you to look at the very core belief systems of who you are.

Tool number one in dealing with the human condition is to look on the inside about which belief systems serve you, which ones limit you. Then reevaluate each one as you become more flexible in all of your belief systems. You will easily grasp higher truths when your belief systems no longer limit you. Humans are under the impression there is only one central truth everywhere. We tell you there is not one truth because it is not about any destination. Finding truth is a journey not a destination and that is one core belief system that will need to stretch greatly in the near future. Experiencing the journey of finding your own spirit reflected in the world around you is why you are here.

The Re-Wire<br><br>The physical re-wire of all humanity has already begun. It will stretch out over several years, but the new synaptic pathways and the new ways that your brain will be communicating will start to close the gap between the two sides of the brain that have created the veil. There is one side of the brain that is infinite and one side of the brain that is finite, and one side of the brain has the human condition and one side of the brain deals only with your spirit that knows its identity. We can tell you that there has been a purposeful division that is now beginning to integrate.

That was done through the two halves of the brain. The two halves are now starting to grow back together via the new synaptic pathways that are now forming. This will be noticed by your medical scientists in only ten to twenty years and that is huge for the advancement of humanity because it began only recently. This entire re-wire is starting to go throughout all humanity which is starting to see things differently. That ignites part of the spirit in the physical body and that ignites what we call the sexual energy in the physical body because the life-force energy that can now come through you and let you carry more of the light energy in your physical being. It lets you exude more light, connect to your own Universal Field and be on purpose.

This lifestyle must begin as a daily choice, for if you leave it up to the default, you will go back to your old belief systems and those things that are entrenched in your experience. So choose, every day, to be on purpose. Choose, every day, to evaluate your belief systems and your true motivations for doing things. Especially examine your reactions to things that oppose your belief systems. There are many times when you do not wish to look at your motivations because you have judgments about yourself or you think this motivation is not good enough. I should be saving the world instead of making myself happy. I should be doing something to end world hunger rather than buy myself chocolate. We tell you that you are looking at this from within duality. The entire word "should" will have a new meaning as you experience Triality. In order to give joy to all of humanity, the first thing you must experience is joy within you. The first thing you must do is start to choose things that feed you completely because that is when you set up your energy field outside of you. That is when your whole world starts to change. That is when people come into your life that are full of energy, full of life, full of expression and full of light. As you start to see your light reflected off that, you get excited about the possibilities and a whole new part of your life starts. That is the awakening that is taking place on this planet right now. That is the answer to the human condition that you are starting to relieve yourselves from.

This is Not a Drill

We must tell you something very important. This, dear ones, is not a drill. The time for practice is over. You have some very important decisions you will be making collectively about your advancement over the next two years. You are evolving at an astounding rate. You are moving so fast that it has caused revisions of your own 'divine plan.' That is incredibly beautiful and yet, it is time for your actions to match your new vibration. Do not let this pass you by for it is an opportunity of great magnitude. Do not wait for the collective vibration to hit a trigger point where you see it in everybody. Lightworkers have chosen to be here to shine light where it is needed are being called to action today. Your light is needed now more than ever before. But the first part is getting comfortable with your own light as it shines through your physical being, as it exudes from you. We hope yo u experience it and allow it to ignite your field full of life.

You ask, "How can I do that? I have been in my job for years and they do not understand me there and they do not want me to talk about light or energy. I'm just going to work and do my job." We tell you that you will see people around you raising vibration soon, and if they do not then your time there is limited. You are no longer able to tolerate some of the things you used to tolerate. When you are a low vibration, there is a wide variance of vibration you can go through. It is huge. As you raise your vibration, it narrows and tightens. This is where many of your belief systems come in.

So you are asking, "What is the greatest thing I can do? What is the one thing I can do that will set this all in motion?" We would love to tell you some fancy thing about a ceremony you can go through and how it can work, but it is simply that your intent that says it all. We can give you ceremonies. We can give you meditations. We can give you ways of going inside as they are only tools that reflect your magic, not ours. The tools do not hold the magic. You do. That is the answer to the human condition.

Time of Truth

Please understand that there is a time coming on this planet when each and every one of you will want to stand up and be counted for your truth. Many of you are wondering right now what it is. You do not know, but your heart does. You know who you are and where you are going although you may not know it on a conscious basis. Your connection to your higher self is growing stronger every day partly because of the connection between the new synaptic pathways and partly because of the sexual energy infusion which is entering your body. Your entire physical body is raising vibration. You are coming closer to Home with every breath you take. That will not stop but how you experience this change as a collective of humanity is still unset. It has not been decided because you have not decided how that is going to happen.

Now, it can be difficult. It can be through war with force. It can be through great global disasters and weather changes. It can also be comfortable and smooth. Those choices are yours and there are no right or wrong choices. The evolution of humanity is underway and it will happen. It is just a question of what you have to go through in the meantime. Do you understand how hard it is for us to look at you sometimes and see the pain that you experience because you cannot re-member who you are? Do you know how difficult it is for us to look at you feeling lost and to know the spirit and greatness inside of you and for you not to feel it?<br><br>This will become a common condition as you begin to move away from the human condition because the first thing you do when you start to release your belief systems, is to release a bit of your identity that kept you in these belief systems. A very common situation will be for each and every one of you to feel alone and to wonder if you are on this path. There is only one answer to it. There is only one way out of this and that is to reach out and grab somebody's hand. The destination is unimportant. Reach out and honor the others on the path with you and those on any path that breathes light into them. Reach out and touch somebody's heart--to put yourself outside of yourself so you are not out there looking in. So start shining the light from within and you start moving from a field of me to a field of we. That starts changing the human condition to the Human Angel condition. That illusion is going on every day.&n bsp; Each one of you has an opportunity to do more today than you have ever done before and it is difficult, we grant you that.

Removing your Experience from the Timeline

In the beginning there was a long line that formed for souls to enter Earth. Then it became not so popular not to come to Earth followed by "this Earth Game will never make it." Now the line is back, dear ones. You have created an opportunity to carry your power of creation while in the physical body. That has caused quite a stir throughout All That Is. It was never expected. Many are in line to come to Earth to take any physical body they can get their hands on to only be here five minutes, if needed, to try to make an imprint and a difference. They want to be here for the miracle that is unfolding. They want to be a part of that energy in any way they can. It is so difficult when you are inside of yourself like that, trying to find your way out. The only way to do it is to start letting the light out and start releasing yourself of that human condition. That is done with the second most important tool of removing your experience from the timeline.

Let us give you an example because there are many tools that will follow showing you how to remove things from the timeline. This is designed to help you experience full dimensionality of now, the full point of where you are. Start with every problem you have in life, you have to ask yourself, "What is my experience right now?" Develop the habit of asking this question at stressful times in your life and watch what happens. Most of your hopes are in the future and most of your fears are in the past. This is a product of magnetism. Do you know what happens when you carry a negative energy or a doubt or fear about the future? It sets up exactly what you are fearing. Rather than just a thought it becomes a manifestation and you create exactly the opposite of what you think you wanted. Removing it from the timeline becomes the second part that is going to help tremendously.

Spectrum Viewing

The third tool we will offer you this day is Spectrum Viewing. Many of you are starting to see things from multiple angles. As you are aware, it is almost as if you are a camera which is experiencing life. That is what you came to do, to search for god. You are now finding that it is possible to use a very wide angle lens on your camera of life bring in much more of the overall picture that life has to offer. You are not accustomed to that but as you master it you are going to start seeing into multiple dimensions of your own experience. This is the gift of Spectrum Viewing. Spectrum Viewing is simply choosing the largest view from which to see any point in your life. It is a way to start focusing on the large perspective of life.

Number one: you are going to find that most of your problems are not problems. We know that is going to disappoint many of you, but when you start really looking at the largest picture, you are going to find that many of the challenges you thought were insurmountable are not worth tackling because they are simply belief systems that are held over from a lower vibrational existence. They are simply old energy patterns that you are trying to take into new parts. It does not work. It means releasing. It means letting new things into your field. You are going to find there are more capabilities within your physical being. Your physical bubbles of biology will be going through several changes as you move through this. The one all of you are accustomed to is weight. You humans are so preoccupied with your weight. Because of your preoccupation, you draw more to it. We never though of that one. You humans are so inventive sometimes. The more that you can help yourself experience this as a spirit pretending to be a human the more light you will carry.

We will leave you with 3 simple reminders. Treat each other with the greatest respect for you are part of each other. Nurture one another and make the path more comfortable at every opportunity you can because that makes your own path more comfortable. Re-member that it is a beautiful game and play well together.

Espavo

The group

www.lightworker.com

Seeking show guests

Andrea from Boston, MA — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:33:11 EDT

My name is Andrea and I am the host of a Boston based talk show entitled Wake Up. Wake Up covers local and national special interests and the impact these events have on the poeple of Greater Boston. I am looking for people who can speak to the specifics of Obama's campaign and the impact it will have on the residents of Boston.

I am seeking healthcare professionals who can breakdown the vital points of his healthcare bill so as to give the viewres a clear understanding of the intended positive changes.

A professional who can speak to his war in Iraq efforts

Students and young adults who can speak to his impact on this demeographic and what his campaign menas to you.

Wake Up airs Mon & Weds at 7am and Fri's at 4pm (which we do our live taping) on Comacst channel 9 in the Boston area.

If you are interested in being a guest and/or would like more info, please conatct me at smileydrea@msn.com. Thank you in advance for your reply

Andrea baptiste

Cities and Suburbs

Davida — Sun, 18 May 2008 14:01:53 EDT

Why Can’t Hillary Win Younger Voters in Cities and Suburbs?

Anybody who has turned on cable news in the last few days has heard pundits and Democratic Party members breathlessly obsessing over why Barack Obama cannot seem to win over older white working class voters in small towns and rural areas. I have the more critical question: why can’t Hillary Clinton win over younger voters in growing cities and suburbs? Her inability to do so has far greater implications for the Democratic Party in the longer term.

Let us look at the Democratic Primary results in Hamilton County. No one would be surprised to hear that Obama won the largely African-American Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. But he also won 54% of Hamilton County’s white precincts and dominated the East Side, with winning margins in growing Montgomery, Anderson, Symmes, and Sycamore Townships. He won Hyde Park, Mount Lookout, Mount Washington, Terrace Park, Clifton, Wyoming, Indian Hill and Glendale.

What is going on here? Meet the younger professional class voters in Cincinnati and others cities across the nation. I am one of them. You probably already know us. We are physical trainers, doctors, interior designers, lawyers, actors, nurses, realtors, accountants, florists, graphic and web designers, teachers, massage therapists, software programmers, analysts, sales representatives, engineers, scientists, hairdressers, brokers, and consultants. Like many younger professional class voters, George W. Bush turned me off to the Republican Party, most likely for good. The Democratic Party has a chance to seize this demographic segment for years to come. Ronald Reagan created a generation of Republicans, and Barack Obama has the potential to create a generation of Democrats. That is, if the Democratic Party doesn’t blow it.

The younger professional class has grown up in a multicultural society. It wouldn’t shock us to learn that almost 30% of the U.S. population is either Black or Hispanic. We grew up watching Gordon, Luis, and Maria on Sesame Street. Some of us have children who fanatically watch Hispanic Dora and Diego, both international adventurers. Immigrant bashing and race baiting is a turn-off. And please don’t trash our gay friends and neighbors either.

I know what a Weather Man is. I used to have a favorite one years ago, before the Internet. But I have never seen a Weatherman. A Black Panther? That’s obvious! Just don’t think you could ever outrun one!

I once decided to vacation from blogging and attended an anti-war rally on Fountain Square. It’s time to leave the tambourines and “Blowin’ in the Wind” music at home, folks.

Oh, and before you dismiss me as ridiculously young, did I mention that I’ve already celebrated my “Over-the-Hill” 40th birthday?

NAFTA did not take away our jobs and free trade has benefited us as consumers, yet we appreciate the need for regulations to help markets run smoothly. We care about education. After all, we worked hard for these degrees and certifications. We also care about the environment. We’ll be in this world longer to feel the effects. Some of us are religious and some of us are not. However, the Republican leadership’s lack of moral compassion – and even hostility – to the poor is perplexing. And what’s with the preoccupation with continued tax cuts for corporations and the super rich? We professionals believe in doing homework before big tests. That’s why we don’t understand why Hillary did not bother to read the National Intelligence Estimate before voting to authorize the Iraq War and voting against the Levin Amendment. Her recent threat to “obliterate” Iran makes me suspect that she hasn’t read the most recent National Intelligence Estimate either. As a young feminist, I want women to fill more leadership positions. But having Nita Lowey, a five-term, New York Congress member and grandmother step aside for an out-of-state First Lady to run for the New York Senate seat is not progress for women… it’s progress for privileged wives.

I attended the Democratic Party delegate selection meetings for the Second Congressional District for the first time a few months ago. While there, a Democratic Party insider was telling me how surprised he was by how “different” the attendees were from over a decade ago. He said the event used to be filled with union leaders and their co-workers from local manufacturing plants. When I asked how people looked this time, he paused and said, “Well, uh, they look like YOU!” I guess that was because I didn’t have a lunch pail with me. By the way, what IS a lunch pail?

Even Hamilton County Commissioner David Pepper said to The Enquirer about Hillary Clinton, “Her base vote – the blue-collar Reagan Democrats – don’t really exist in Cincinnati. Many of those folks are Republicans here.”

The Democratic Party, nationally and locally, is facing an interesting dilemma. It can either appeal to a declining segment of the U.S. population – older, white, blue-collar voters in small towns and rural areas – or it can build a new base of young, urban and suburban voters. The obvious choice is to build a coalition between them, but will the party sacrifice a new voting bloc to preserve the former? The outcome has implications for years to come.

New Local Group

Clerk — Tue, 13 May 2008 20:44:19 EDT

If there is not a pre-existing group out there for the Chula Vista-San Diego area in CA directed at the youth to keep us informed on political decisions and social issues then I am hoping to be able to start one that would be based in the general 91910 ZIP. The main point would be to get together, even if there are only five attendees or group memebers, and be able to plan for our future. This 08 presidental election is very likely the most important one in our lifetime, and as the generation that will be fighting the war and possibly seeing the «fix» of the immigration issue once and for all, we need to have a collective voice and for that we first need a collective understanding of the world around us. The goal would be to meet before Nov. 4th, obviously, hopefuly often enough - at least once a month - to be sure we are caught up on candidates and their respective stance on at least the most important pending issues, again such as immigration and gas price control within the US.

I just keep thinking, if JESUS was alive now, he wouldn't necessarily be voting Republican-Young, Evangelical For OBAMA!

Nevada County For Obama-Curtis Walker — Sun, 11 May 2008 09:26:16 EDT

By Haley Edwards Seattle Times staff reporter

Michael Dudley is the son of a preacher man. He's a born-again Christian with two family members in the military. He grew up in the Bible Belt, where almost everyone he knew was Republican. But this fall, he's breaking a handful of stereotypes: He plans to vote for Democrat Barack Obama. "I think a lot of Christians are having trouble getting behind everything the Republicans stand for," said Dudley, 20, a sophomore at Seattle Pacific University. Dudley's disenchantment with the GOP isn't unique among young, devoutly Christian voters.

According to a September 2007 survey by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, 15 percent of white evangelicals between 18 and 29, a group traditionally a shoo-in for the GOP, say they no longer identify with the Republican Party. Older evangelicals are also questioning their traditional allegiance, but not at the same rate. But, Howard Dean, don't count your chickens quite yet. College-age and 20-something Christians may be leaving the GOP, but only 5 percent of young evangelicals have joined the Democrats, according to the Pew survey. The other 10 percent are wandering the political wilderness, somewhere between "independent" and "unaffiliated."

Shane Claiborne, a Philadelphia Christian activist and author of "Jesus for President: Politics for Ordinary Radicals," has a different name for these folks: "political misfits." Claiborne has traveled around the country the past several years, speaking and preaching mostly to college-age Christians who are "both socially conservative and globally aware." That makes them disenchanted with both major parties, he said. "It's not about liberal or conservative, or Democrats or Republicans," he said. "I don't think it's a new evangelical left. ... There's a new evangelical stuck-in-the-middle."

UW communications professor David Domke said some young evangelicals are breaking with the GOP for the same reasons many people broke from the party in the 2006 legislative elections — the unpopular war in Iraq; the Bush administration's abysmal approval ratings; or, now, because of the tanking economy. Others broke from the party when John McCain, who hasn't held much appeal for evangelicals in the past, became the presumptive nominee. The Arizona senator hasn't been a consistent foe of gay marriage, and he supports federally funded embryonic stem-cell research. James Dobson, head of the conservative Christian group Focus on the Family, announced in February that if McCain was the GOP nominee, he'd sit out the election. But students at a recent bipartisan political union meeting at SPU say there's something more going on with young Christians than disenchantment with McCain. In an informal poll of the political union, the majority supported Obama. Click HERE for complete story.

Favorite quote from complete article:

Braun, the seminary student, said he's not totally committed to any candidate yet.

"I just keep thinking, if Jesus were alive now, he wouldn't necessarily be voting Republican," he said.

Vote for Change event in Newark, NJ

Stephanie from S.I. — Sat, 10 May 2008 20:18:11 EDT

Today I participated in the Vote for Change event in Newark along with my son and his father, and two friends who both brought their children. There was a large turnout and it was so great to be with a group of like minded individuals who were all out there to spread the energy and get as many people registered as possible.

For anyone who may not be familiar with Newark, it is not considered "safe". There is poverty, a lot of run down and poor neighborhoods and high crime rates. I personally encountered a high number of young people who could not vote because of their status as convicted felons with no voting rights. The most alarming part for me was that the majority displayed this information with pride, as if that was an accomplishment.

I also encountered a lot of young people who, sadly, truly believe that their vote doesn't count. They are uneducated on how the process works, and have no trust in the system (so much so that a group of young men told me they wouldn't waste their time voting because the election is rigged). How can we effectively get this large group of disconnected young adults involved? I tried many different ways of asking and engaging today. Unfortunately, the trust of this often left behind and forgotten group is not easily earned back, and certainly cannot be earned back just by being asked to vote, or being told that yes, your vote does count (but only if you choose to use it)! They need to see the change to believe it.

We need to do more for them. We need more for all of us. We need change! We need our next President to be a President who is for the people.

We need our next president to be Barack Obama.

Change starts with our youth

James Savoca — Mon, 05 May 2008 21:53:19 EDT

For those of us in our forties or higher, we all know how much is at stake with this upcoming election. We also know that a real leader such as Obama, will not succeed without the youth vote. I say this as to me it's obvious. If he doesn't do all that well with the thirty something white rural male, it will be fine as long as he does extremely well with the 18-25 year olds.

I post these thoughts as we all need to scheme how best to get the youth registered and out to vote. For the most part, they are disenfranchised, and for good reason. Look at the leadership they have grown up with. But we know things can change. We've been around longer and we've witnessed change many times in our lives.

Do we use the internet? Do we get out on the campus? Yes. Here's to getting the youth out to vote for Obama, because change starts with our youth.

Our future generation picks the right leader!

Mary — Sat, 03 May 2008 09:42:59 EDT

When you see the scores here you have to think that maybe it's time that the older generation move aside and let they younger generation get a say in their future! So far we've had Bush for eight years of hell and so most older voters shouldn't pat themselves on the back if they are choosing Hillary. Maybe it's time to look at politics through fresh young eyes and choose Obama! Give the next generation a future! Vote Obama!

DV8: Take Back The Mic

urbanteck — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 11:14:54 EDT

THERE WILL BE REPORT BACKS FROM ORGANIZERS FROM THE PENN PRIMARIES!

You are invited to a special event for the Healthcare Education Project Youth Team...

DV8: TAKE BACK THE MIC

SATURDAY APRIL 26TH 2008

9PM - 2AM

330 W 42ND STREET PENTHOUSE - NY, NY

PLEASE SEE THE ATTACHED FLYER AND FEEL FREE TO INVITE YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!!!

Play 'Who Wants to be a President' and gain chance to win a prize during final challenge on April 26th

For more information please call (212) 857-4389

youngvoices@1199.org www.myspace.com/1199seiu_ywp www.1199seiu.org

Please RSVP to youngvoices@1199.org

...Let your fire light your path...

--

http://www.flickr.com/photos/soulfire4ever/2414329001/

Why Me?

A from Vashon, WA — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 22:32:32 EDT

I am a 22 year old artist from Vashon, WA campaigning to go to the National Democratic Convention. I cannot give you the list of experiences that qualify many of the delegates who are running for national. This is my first time being actively involved in a political campaign, and due to what I have learned in this campaign, it will not be my last.

I have a bachelor's degree, not in political science, but in painting. I have a day job as a studio manager as I'm honing my craft--my personal mission is to inspire wonder and hope in the world, and I have been inspired like the rest of out nation by someone working to arouse hope in the world, rather than simply playing within the political system set up.

I would appreciate your support and your your votes to go on to Denver, because I believe my presence there does make a difference. Record numbers of young people showed up at your local caucuses to support Obama, but as the process continues fewer of us are going on in higher levels because we don't have the experience of knowing how this process works.

I would like the opportunity to be a voice of my generation at this summer's democratic convention. Though I know many of you are also campaigning to go on, I am thankful for your consideration.

Please read more about me and why I am supporting Obama at my website:

www.VashonDelegate.blogspot.com

With great hope for our nation,
Anelecia

Why Senator Hillary Clinton is the Paris Hilton of politics

globalcitizen — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 21:43:01 EDT

Wow, what a debate. I'm a frustrated proud American, Mother of 3, Wife, realist, and compassionate human being. Wednesday night's ABC News 2008 Political Debate featuring Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama was like watching the televised version of "The National Enquirer" celebrity gossip rag or an episode of TMZ.

Is Hillary Clinton the Paris Hilton of politics? Mud-slinging her frenemies, BFF after BFF quitting (or removed) from her campaign, a significant other who jokes at her expense, and a name-calling gossip living off of her family name. The two dfinitely share a sense of entitlement as they try hard to convince the rest of us that they're just like us. I guess that would make the debate Moderators Perez Hilton and Jerry Springer. If the high school bullying tactics of the Moderators and Senator Clinton typical of Washington politics, no wonder our economy is in the shape it's in. Our economy has been run by 3rd period algebra class. It was a public "he said, she said" sabotage and Senator Clinton was indeed very comfortable playing the role of the bullying "popular cheerleader" with the back-stabbing mentality and the bad reputation. The biggest difference is that most high school SGA's (student government association) tend to take the moral high road during the campaign even if it does come down to a popularity contest.

Now obviously I am supporting Senator Obama but he came across very band geek and less star athlete? Senator Obama was visibly frustrated and uncomfortable during the televised debate. His demeanor was withdrawn and distant, clearly irritated by the line of questioning by the Stef and Gibson. The Moderators would instigate the attacks by the Candidates, setting them up with mis-quotes, 6 degrees of separation of their Associates, and he-said she-said. Senator Obama did not perform well under those gossipy, gang jump tactics. High school never ends, even in government and I secretly wished Obama would have reverted to his Basketball star persona and not his awkward "where do I fit in" pre-teen reaction. No one is perfect and I will still support the imperfections of Obama. They are surface issues and not moral corrosion like the dishonesty of Clinton. His attempt to portray himself as a the fair fighting, above the fray candidate fell short but aren't we looking for the person who will stay focused on the issues and are not distracted by petty politics and inaccurate intetrpretations of speeches? I will be honest and say that it would have been difficult for me, personally to have remained as calm as Senator Obama given the circumstances. However, I applaud his self restraint and focus despite his jittered delivery. I too judged him for not feeding into my sensatinalism, jabbing back and dragging her through the mud the way Senator Clinton was dragging him.

The voyeur in me wanted to witness a public slaying of Senator Clinton on her tendency to fabricate the truth, her inconsistency regarding many policies (the war and NATFA or move-on.org), her lack of respect for the intelligence of the american people, and quite frankly, her husband's impeachment and the role he would play in her administration. The flair for drama the Clinton's seem to enjoy was evident through out Bill CLinton's administration and during Wednesday debate and I wanted Senator Obama to remind the americans of the real Clinton legacy. Instead, Senator Obama chose to remind the american people that name-calling and petty distractions will not lower gas prices or reduce home foreclosures. Behaving like the high school bully certainl won't decrease the high-school drop out rate. Once again, he displayed why we, the american people, should vote for a change in Washington. He rose above the typical negetive, fear-induced politics of Washington that has forgotten about the average american and demonstrated his ability to practice calm, sound judgement and remain focused on the everyday people even while under personal attack. In fact, we should be offended that Senator Obama is attacked by his opponents any time he tries to defend our rights or speak to our issues. In my opinion, Clinton and McCain insult the american people by treating us as if we dont deserve better than what we have had and any candidate who speaks our truth is dillusional and out of line. The unemployment rate is out of line, the lack of healthcare is out of line, the debt incurred by the iraqi war is out of line, the casualties of the war and survivors who will spend the rest of their lives disabled is way out of line. There are a host of words synanomous to the word "bitter" that can express the mood of the american people-angry, frustrated, disappointed, and frankly pissed at being ignored and footing the bill for the last eight years. Yet somehow, we as americans have been convinced that standing up for small town, middle america is wrong. We're being manipulated by the opportunistic Clinton's and out of touch John McCain.

I've always been a fan of George Steph. and tolerable of Charles Gibson (although I prefer Tom Brokaw) so to expect a higher caliber of journalism was not unreasonable. Can I say I was disappointed? No, this is american journalsim, fair and balanced. A televised national debate between the two Democratic Presidential Contenders to become the Nominee to lead what was (and will be again) the most powerful and influential country on the planet. Our media has been treating this process like they spotted Britney Spears at Wal-mart. We dont deserve to have our domestic issues ignored and our government sensationalized. I, for one, wouldn't want Paris Hilton running this country so we should be cautious of electing the same media manipulation and opportunistic personality of Hillary Clinton.

This is just one person's opinion. I'm not an expert, I am a concerend citizen who wants a stable future and a better future for my children. Senator Obama, great job staying focused on our needs and thank you for having the courage to challenge the governmental status quo who have failed the American people. YES, we want change in Washington and Senator Clinton will only bring more of the same to Washington.

YES WE CAN, AND YES WE WILL!!!!!

Don't Give Into Cynicism When Your Country Needs You the Most

DRS — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 21:15:42 EDT

I know I may seem naive, but it makes me sad to see so many Americans of all ages and backgrounds become so cynical over the last eight years. I understand why. I have become cynical over the years about our government as well, and it worried me to see that even my 18 year-old son, Ben, seemed to become cynical and pessimistic about his future. This was true, that is, until Barack Obama. I have seen my son light up and care about not just his future, but also the futures of other people. I have watched as he has volunteered and sacrificed time because Obama made him believe that he could make a difference in the world. I've watched him walk up to total strangers and talk to them about their concerns and their problems while also telling them why he believes in Barack Obama. Instead of playing video games, he spent 6 hours over his spring break registering voters at Wal-Mart and walking door to door talking to people. This is a pretty amazing thing for an 18 year-old, and I am very, very proud of him for this. I know I wasn't doing any such thing when I was 18. Even my 14 year-old, Darcy, proudly wears her Obama t-shirts to school and argues her point of view with guys that my husband plays basketball with. She takes heat at school for having an unpopular point of view (we live in a very conservative area - Dan Burton territory), but she stands up for what she believes in. Why? Because she has also been inspired to believe that she can make a difference. How can this possibly be anything but good for this country?

Before you give in completely to that much justified cynicism, please take some time to listen to this video of Michelle Obama talking in Pennsylvania. The video is in 2 parts - #7 and #8 at this site, and it takes a while to listen to the whole thing, but it is pretty inspiring and well worth listening to. http://ObamaPodcast.blogspot.com Trust me when I say that the Obamas are truly good people with the best intentions for their country. I don't know how all of this inspiration has been turned into a bad thing, but I'm truly grateful to have been part of this experience no matter what happens. It has made me believe again that we can all make a difference if we try. Of course, I don't know how I will feel if the same old political attack machines and the media end up succeeding in tearing Obama down, but I cling to the hope that someone like Barack Obama can actually overcome all of this and convince average Americans to stand up against special interests, corporations, and millionaires to say that we will no longer allow ourselves to be manipulated or divided. None of this is going to be easy, and I admit that it is not realistic to think that all of the change that Obama promises will happen any time soon. But for now, this is the most optimistic I've been about our future in a long time, and that is good enough for me.

Be The Change...

Cheryl — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 14:00:15 EDT

     My fifteen year old daughter and I recently attended a youth rally for our church. The theme was "Be the change you wish to see in the world," (from Gandhi) and it was inspiring. The irony of it all has not gone without notice, the fact that Obama is about change and that many spiritual or philosophical communities are about change this year. It seems that change and moving forward are the messages all around us.
     The event we attended was led by high school youths from all over the western part of the United States. They were wise, intelligent, well spoken and passionate about moving the world into a better tomorrow. These are our future leaders and the fact that they have an instinctive understanding of the principles and philosophies that Obama speaks about says a lot to me. It says that Obama is in touch with the pulse of our future generation and that is important considering us old folks want to know we will be in good hands.
     My daughter has been so inspired by Obama's message and what she is learning through our church that she has decided to work on raising money to go to Malawi and help build schools with the Unity Malawi project. To see my daughter who was struggling with her identity a few years ago find her purpose and passion through the works of people like the Obamas and her church peers makes me so proud. She has put into practice the words "Be the change."
     My husband and I are also inspired. We realize that changing what is wrong with our society or the world starts with changing ourselves. Looking in the mirror and finding the truth about what you present to the world can be uncomfortable. Most of the time it is a shock to realize how much whining, complaining, judging, and criticizing comes through our thoughts and out our mouths. Admitting we have our own cleaning up to do, we've made a commitment to look at the good in everyone and see how we may serve, versus watching for someone to wrong us or slip up so that we can justify our fear and anger.
     As Barack Obama says it, "Change starts from the bottom up..." I challenge you to be the change. Start with your approach to others and making an attempt to see the good in everyone, not make assumptions about them and move beyond petty negative issues. My minister put it this way, "Stay in the F.L.O.W., Forgiveness, Love, Overcoming, Worthiness, and life will be wonderful."

My Middle School Students Would Vote for Obama

Cindy in Salt Lake — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 13:06:22 EDT

I teach in a middle-school and though I haven't done a formal survey, it is clear to me that my students are for Obama. I am so impressed by their interest in this campaign because when I think back to when I was 10 years-old, all I can remember is President Carter's brother's Billy Beer and the Iran hostage crisis. I didn't register to vote until I was 20 years-old and didn't become interested in a campaign until 2 years after that. But these kids are really excited about this campaign and in 8 years from now when they are able to vote, I hope they still will be.

Positive Swiftboats/527 ads

Disabled Vet 2000 — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 15:00:12 EDT

We need some positive 527's in the run for the nomination and in the GE. It would be nice to see a 527 highlighting Obama's positions on the economy, the war, and education. We need to continue to elevate the political process from one that tears us down, to one that brings us together. If we can show people that our campaign has the solutions, and that we know how to implement them, it will bring more people into the process and get them to the polls to vote for issues they care about.

We also need some enviromental groups to contribute to Obama's policy initiatives and to run some ads supporting them. If anyone is involved in one of these groups, please ask them to get involved and start fundraising to run some ads!

The most important thing to me is that we win, but we do it right. We can't afford to turn people off. The more people involved, the more things get done. There has to be a call to politicians that there are new voting blocks emerging. Groups like AARP can get things done because of the number of voters that belong to it. If we can put together large new blocks of voters, our voices will be heard. It's been a long time since the under 40 crowd has had a voice. The Obama campaign has brought us together to show America that Generation next does not accept racism, hatred, and inequality. This campaign is showing them that we are willing to get involved and that we have a powerful voice. Let's make sure that we keep it together and keep pushing for change. Write letters, make calls, and participate in the political process at the state and local level in addition to what you are already doing.

We have become a force for change. We have shown this country that we are a movement for positive change. Now is the time to expand that to the community and state level. Use the momentum this campaign has built up to make a difference in your community.

Wear your campaign t-shirts while you're doing it to show voters near you that Obama is already making a positive difference in their lives!

Introduction

Andrew Marcinko — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:46:46 EDT

It seems appropriate to begin with a little introduction, because I'm sure it will be easier to understand what I have to say if you know better where I am coming from. I'm a 19 year old college student attending the University of Florida. I'm originally from just outside the Beltway on the Maryland side of the river. My father's in contract law and my mother is a high school teacher. Both are liberal, neither is heavily involved in politics.

I myself am a psychology major, and have no real political aspirations. That being said, I have long had a strong interest in politics, albeit often of a cynical nature. Kurt Vonnegut and Jon Stewart are two individuals that I look up to for their political ideals.

There's nothing more upsetting to me than being marginalized in the political process due to my age. Perhaps that is why so many of my generation have turned to cynicism for relief. And don't get me wrong, I know Mr. Obama's goals are selfish in reaching out to the youth vote. He sees a largely untapped block of voters that if motivated could easily propel him to the presidency. However, even being used is far better than being completely ignored.

I do personally believe Barack Obama will make a great president. I recently drove to Philadelphia during my spring break to volunteer at the campaign headquarters, and I urge everyone to do whatever they can to support his campaign. However, perhaps Zach de la Rocha of the political band Rage Against the Machine says it best:

"The challenges that we face, they go way beyond administrations, way beyond elections, way beyond every four years of pulling levers, way beyond that. Because this whole rotten system has become so vicious and cruel that in order to sustain itself, it needs to destroy entire countries and profit from their reconstruction in order to survive - and that's not a system that changes every four years, it's a system that we have to break down, generation after generation... Wake up"

Party

Carina — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 00:55:33 EDT

I was at a party tonight and the subject came to politics. I was very surprised to hear one of my more conservative friends talking about hoping Obama wins the election. And then I was even more surprised to hear the more liberal people in the group saying that they thought he would be the right candidate in 10 years.

I don't really understand this argument. I also don't understand the argument that Obama has "no experience in the white house" or is "too young." There's an age limit for a reason. If Obama was too young then the age limit would be younger than him right?

I was really pleased to hear my conservative friend talking about how great it would be to have an African American in the white house. And I felt sad that regardless of my support of Obama, a man is more acceptable than a woman in the office of the president.

Today I scheduled to have a party at our house for Obama. I had a party last presidential election but the way things are organized now seem so much better! Online donating is the bees knees.

Obama's Influence on the Youth of America

Together We Stand for Change! formerly K. Bell — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 16:43:48 EDT

Hope. It's what so many youth of today are void of. I see it in schools all around the country. Being educated isn't cool, being articulate is being a nerd. There are more middle schoolers seeking to be Paris Hilton or on American Idol than there are seeking to be an attorney or a doctor. Why? Because for many of America's youth these are not only unpopular careers, in many cases youth think they are unattainable careers. This hopelessness leads in many cases to taking or selling drugs. It leads to violence in gangs or teenage pregnancy and eventually jail or death. Hope?

This is a defining moment in America's history. It is defining because our children are the future of America. This moment in politics will be with us for the rest of our lives, just as JFK and Bobby Kennedy are with the generation before us. This moment is the moment of hope that is missing in our generation. This hope is the savior of the confidence of a young generation that when they stand up, when they fight, when they work, they are empowered and they make a difference. It infuses them with this Hope and screams that they MATTER. That they can change the world, one person at a time, and most importantly, starting with themselves. Hope.

Racism Undermined

Kendra — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 13:49:26 EDT

I was asked to repost this during the daytime hours. I hope you enjoy.

When I was growing up on the south-east side of Madison, WI, I did not realize that racism existed. As a 5 year old attending school for the first time, I was lucky enough to attend one of the two poorest and most racially diverse schools in the city. I say lucky because I was a blonde-haired blue-eyed White girl from the outskirts of the city, one of the only farm kids at the school. Most of my friends were Black or mixed, and most were working class or lower-middle class. I didn't look like most of my friends, and I remember meeting a boy in my class who had the most beautiful skin color and thinking that I wished I could look like him, that I hoped one day I would have children who were that beautiful. Not a single day of my life has gone by where I wasn't grateful for the chance to grow up believing that people were people, regardless of skin color.

One of my best friends went to a different elementary school and I remember when we first met how shocked she was that I knew Black kids and was friends with them. She had only met one Black person in the first decade of her life and was visibly frightened of them. I was horrified, and astounded. It had never crossed my mind to be afraid of a Black person, or to fear talking to them. The only boys who had ever bullied me had been White; the only girls who had made fun of my hand-me-down clothes were the "cool" White girls. I had always had a complex where I wanted to be Black, and here was this new friend of mine showing me just how pervasive and insidious racism is in our country, feeding on the ignorance and stereotypes we perpetuate. After years of friendship we have both been influenced greatly by that initial contact, and today she is engaged to a Palestinian, a man her 11 year old self would have been terrified of.

Only in my college years have I been able to come to terms with what I always considered "my accidental Whiteness." It was only after living in Ghana for a summer, where I felt more alive than ever before, that I realized my Whiteness was nothing more than a state of mind. I could not wish to be Black anymore, I had to come to terms with my skin color and realize that it had never stopped me from being true to myself and to my friends and family. I was honored when my Ghanaian host mother symbolically gave me her name; told my parents that she had become my mother on the other side of the Atlantic. Back at school, my closest friends invited me to come to a celebration honoring the Black student graduates at Ithaca College and Cornell, and I did not realize until I walked in that I was the only white female invited, and yet I belonged with these friends who are also my family.

I am glad that there is a presidential candidate who is candid enough to speak about the racial issues which this society too often tries to ignore or hide, as it does with issues of gender and class.

It is time for a national dialogue, it is time for those of us who came of age as the Towers fell and who are the children of Vietnam veterans, Second-Wave feminists, and Civil Rights marchers, to speak up about the issues that affect us, the inequality that our parents fought to end and that we remain embedded in.

We are a facebook generation living in a myspace era; even the language is narcissistic and indifferent to the problems of others. Yet so many of us have the desire to demand that change occur, to demand better funding for education, universal healthcare, and an end to a war that my friends have gone to fight in, some since they were 17, when it first began, and who today are on their 3rd or 4th deployment at the age of 22.

At a time when our government has taken away habeus corpus and implemented not only the Patriot Act but also the Military Commissions Act, and, until recently, the Protect America Act, there is too much fear in this country: fear of external threats, but among many of us who seek change and desire greater respect for our civil liberties and the abolishment of institutional and socially constructed inequalities, there is also fear of internal threats, fear that our voices will be silenced.

Some of our parents marched in the streets until their feet bled and their voices were hoarse, and yet they believed so sincerely in the principles for which they stood that those were small prices to pay compared to the toll that prejudice takes on us.

Today we have facebook groups to rally around causes, claiming to be a million strong. But we are too afraid to speak too loudly, too afraid to demand in person, out loud, that change happen. So now, when commentators and pundits marvel at the momentum of the Obama campaign, I wonder at their naiveté. Isn't it obvious? There is finally a voice that is speaking up eloquently and with fierce determination for the change we have secretly, and sometimes openly, been craving desperately.

I am turning 21 years old in one week, and as I look back on my young life I am struck by the brief but telling political history. As a toddler people my brother's age were going to the Persian Gulf, in elementary school I heard murmurings of the genocide that ravaged Rwanda and the ethnic cleansing that fractioned Yugoslavia, as a pre-teen I watched as the nation became obsessed with the OJ Simpson trial and with Bill Clinton's extra-marital affair, and then, in my first year of high school I remember telling my friend that joking about a plane flying into the WTC wasn't funny, only to find out it was true, mere months after a man was elected president whom I feared greatly for his politics and for the fluke that put him there. Since that time I have watched my friends go to war, watched my family tear itself apart because of political and religious differences, dated men whose skin color next to mine still makes people stare, I have visited and lived abroad, and in college I became a politics major, preparing for what I hope will be a lifetime of diplomatic efforts and commitment to social justice. Members of my family do not have access to health care, friends of mine cannot get on a plane without facing racial profiling, and I struggle to earn respect as a young, blonde, female politics teaching assistant.

It is beyond time for a president who understands what the south-side of Chicago looks like, who knows that there are countless people without adequate health care who deserve it, too many children like my friend who are growing up in segregated schools, and too many like myself who attended schools without enough funding and support to guarantee that the students would get to high school without getting shot in a gang fight or getting pregnant as children themselves.

I worked with third graders last summer who have been systematically disenfranchised and deprived of the kind of educational support they need in order to avoid being "left behind," and the support is not coming, especially not from a government which proposed a 1% decrease in the amount of education spending for the current fiscal year, while also clamoring for better implementation of flawed No Child Left Behind standards.

Let us finally, as a nation, recognize our role as citizens, and be brave enough to vote for the candidate who knows that these travesties exist, and who can articulate the problems and the kind of dialogue and change that needs to happen if the next generation is going to have a chance at a more peaceful and more equal future. Hubert H. Humphrey said, "What we need are critical lovers of America - patriots who express their faith in their country by working to improve it." That is the kind of patriot I have always been, and I am glad to be supporting a presidential candidate who, in my eyes, embodies that kind of patriotism as well.

Responding to Race: Inequality Undermined

Kendra — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 02:46:47 EDT

Teenagers for Change

Fundamental_Things — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 18:38:33 EDT

I know it's hard it is to be so young at this important time in history, how excruciating it is to want to be a part of this election but not have the right to cast a vote, but to all my fellow underage Obama supporters, don't give up. Although we may not be able to vote, or have the same money that adults have to donate, we can still make a difference. Just speaking your mind may have more impact than you think, and the more you make your voice heard the more you contribute. Remember just because you aren't old enough to vote doesn't mean you're not old enough to volunteer. Parent's are usually pretty supportive if their kids want to get involved in causes, so they're pretty good at helping you out with transportation and such. Being heard and being seen makes all the difference, so speak out and get involved!!!

Waiting on the world to change

Jake — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 16:49:12 EDT

So, obviously I support Barack Obama for President, and I've been really depressed about how the Democratic Race has started to turn out. I'm afraid that unless Hillary stops being a *&$%, the whole party is going to lose, and its most definitely going to squash any of my support of the Democratic Party.. I just won't vote.

See, I was supporting Mitt Romney to win, because I've been a Republican throughout childhood (I've always been a young entrepreneur, and I appreciate the Republican view for promoting small business). After Romney was out, I looked at my options, and was completely disappointed in the Republican Party. I then did my first research for the Democratic Party and discovered the fire of Obama getting hotter and hotter, and I felt inspired that he/we could actually help change this country.

Today, as I was listening to some music, and reflecting on the fact that our Country has just hit the No. 2 spot economically, a John Mayer tune came on that has always touched my soul. Here's the link for those of you who have never heard it --> Waiting On The World To Change - John Mayer

Of course, this is a beautiful song, and represents the so many opinions of those in my generation that the only thing we can do to change the world is to wait on all the old corrupt politicians to die off so we can finally control things.

My Call To Action - Who in the Obama camp can get John Mayer to support him. I think that it would be an unbelievably powerful thing for him to support Obama.. for that song to help become the theme song for the Campaign.. and it become evident that we don't have to wait on the world to change, because we have someone who will help us affect it.

OBAMA CANDIDACY: THE YOUTH VOTE FACTOR

ODEH ODEH — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 03:33:47 EDT

Obama’s philosophy and political strategy are among most compelling characteristics that have resonated easily with the youths ranging from high school through colleges. A lot of the youths want a presidential candidate that believe in them, detest partisan dissection and wrangling.

The fact still remain that Obama won more youth votes than any of the contending presidential candidates as whole. For instance except for states such as California, Arkansas and Massachusetts, Obama won youth vote in every state, according to Nikki Schwab in her article posted on Yahoo News: (http://news.yahoo.com/s/usnews/20080313/ts_usnews/youngvoterscouldputobamaorclintoninthewhitehouse). Even in the Michigan primary, “uncommitted” won the youth vote in that state against Clinton , though Obama removed his name from the Michigan ballot because the state held its primary too early and in contravention to the Democratic National committee.

Why the youths are so much drawn to Obama and what does this trend portend for America in general is yet to be completely elucidated, however it suffice to note as was earlier mentioned, his character and ideology might be very instrumental and furthermore, the youths may fine it very easy to relate to an unusual candidate such as him. The Audacity of Hope a bestseller from the Senator manifest a glimpse into his conviction and belief in the America where dreams can become a reality in a fashion suggestive of a Hollywood film.

His life is an epitome of overcoming adversity with pride, hard work, and dedication. The ability not to have given up on his dream of becoming a better person, in spite of all the obstacles that he has to face ranging from having to be brought up by a single parent and seeing his mother die of cancer for lack of adequate healthcare insurance and so many kinds of challenges that the youths faces, makes it almost inevitable for them to gravitate towards him.

Most importantly, the youth of today are more or less color blind. In order words, the color of your skin does not matter to a greater extent, a situation that might be consider to be a sharp contrast to the older people or generation, especially those that are 60 years and above.

On the whole, America should be very proud of the next generation, which for sure are going to be even more tolerant and open-minded about the issues that bothers on race, discrimination and other forms of man made demarcation. Until the unnecessary infusion of racism by the Clinton ’s campaign, the youth vote especially had been the most “race-less” one, while there where inconsequential signs of this ugly monster.

Finally, there is nothing wrong in our expressing and stressing our differences; nevertheless, it is absolutely and completely erroneous to exploit such differences to the detriment of a healthy and objective political environment. This is where the Clintons have wronged the people of America and actually sacrilegiously desecrate their God given characteristics.

The youths must continue in the path of greatnesses and forge a country that share in the ideology, dream and conviction of Obama and those that they too hold very crucial and sacred. Senator Obama has inspired and continues to inspire Americans of all ages and his movement for hope and change is about the best strategy and life style that could without doubt restore the American dream for all American.

Thank you for your time.

God bless USA

God bless Obama

Democrats Eat Their Young

Eran Thompson — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:43:21 EDT

I remember my first vote for President in 1996; it wasn’t really a vote for President Clinton—it was a vote against Bob Dole and Newt Gingrich like him. In 2000, it was a vote against George Bush; in 2004 it was an emphatic vote against W and his war. So 2008 will be the first Presidential election I hope to vote for someone…but not just anyone….Barack Obama.

I haven’t been uninvolved in my local political circles; but have always felt sidelined—I’m a good 25-30 years under the average age for the local Democratic Party establishment. I’ve never “known enough”—democrats eat their young. This year I hear them all explaining how Hillary has earned her chance—it’s more about privilege and entitlement; less about earned. Fredrick Douglas said power has never been given without a struggle.

This year, I notice that more folks like me are paying attention— being inspired and getting active. They’ll continue to tell us where we are so wrong; why we need to wait. It was after the New Hampshire loss I heard Obama say “We have been told we cannot do this by a chorus of cynics.” YES WE CAN. We will be the new Democratic majority. We are young. We are energized and we want change. YES WE CAN.

Yes, You Can Pennsylvania & North Carolina! How BaracK Obama Will Implement Change - You, and Me.

Justin Wilkins — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 22:52:17 EDT

I could not be more honored to represent as a delegate those of us in Hamilton County and the 3rd Congressional District of Tennessee who believe that a fundamental change in our country is only possible with a fundamental change in how we do politics.

I've never been involved with a political campaign before November, 2007. At a Camp Obama in Nashville, TN in early November that changed.

Throughout his campaign Senator Barack Obama has been inspiring people to get involved, many for the first time (like me), in the political process. It is with the help of this new, engaged, and active electorate that Obama will be able to implement our shared agenda. He will use us, the people, to bring the change we so desperately crave – which, at the core, is simply just honest debate about how to solve our problems on complex issues without the name calling, vilifying and negative tactics that seem so prevalent in politics - especially today, from our own party.

What's interesting is that this shouldn't surprise us. It has been our responsibility and our job as citizens all along to drive this change. Our government only fails us because we've allowed it to do so. We are so quick to become disgusted with politics, politicians, and the inability of our leaders to really address some of the serious issues facing our country. But really, it has been us, the people, who through our own apathy have let ourselves down.

Barack Obama has shown many of us, perhaps the thousands attending his rally, and the thousands volunteering for his campaign that we can change our country - but it will require that the citizens speak louder. It will require us writing letters, calling each other and actively participating where we haven't before. At least that’s what we realized standing in a schoolhouse room in Greenville, South Carolina back in January where for four weeks we sent Tennessee volunteers to help South Carolina win.

Most of the people volunteering that day had never been involved in a campaign before. There were over 30 of us, representing old, young, black, white, men, women from various surrounding states too. We had all come together to take action and help bring change.

This is how Barack Obama will IMPLEMENT his CHANGE.

Words inspire action. Through his ability to paint a broad vision he'll be able to inspire our country to focus on a bigger purpose than the details that divide us. Once focused, he will use his grassroots organization – the new and engaged electorate – to be the pressure on congress to bring the changes we want to see.

Founding our country, putting man on the moon, ending the depression, the civil rights and women's rights movements – all began with vision. Great action and Great change is led by a vision that inspires that action.

We've learned in Hamilton County that Yes, We Can make a difference and that the re-engagement of active voters is how Barack Obama will use us to change the politics that divides us, and ultimately the direction of our country.

Yes, We Can!

Justin Wilkins

(Un)Blind Faith

Owen Watson — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 15:48:58 EDT

I generally abstain from using the cliche term “post-modern” at the risk of sounding like I’m pretending to know what I’m talking about. However, let’s assume that in fact I do know what I am talking about and that my vague generalizations about the nature of the world are true. Regardless of my own intellectual capacity at being able to understand the ins and outs of post modernity, the hard truth is that we live in a post modern world, and we, as young people who have grown up in such a world, are inexorably impacted by it. Our outlook on history, existence, politics, and identity are markedly different from that of our parent’s generation, and in our education at a liberal arts institution we find few similarities with the education of the past. Though we are a tiny minority of the population, our view of the world nonetheless underlines universal experiences common to all young people in the country; namely the fact that the we, the youth, has by and large been disenfranchised from and apathetic in participating in the political process and in the greater goal of affecting change in our nation.

The youth in the past two decades up until this current election have been generally absent from political involvement, as measured by the standard benchmark of voter turnout (there are many other valid measurements). Labeled apathetic, young people have had a hard time getting to the polls; I see it myself even amongst my friends and peers. The normal explanation for not voting is “I didn’t get my voter registration in on time”, which is understandable but not legitimate enough. Voting should be a priority. People should be excited about the ability to make their voices heard. With the incredible turnouts in this primary season, especially on the Democratic side, the youth vote seems to have been reinvigorated (in Massachusetts alone youth participation increased by 14% between the primaries of 2000 and 2008): there is a growing sense that the voice of the youth does indeed count. Yet the continued inability of the young American populace to vote creates a void between the dreams of those who harbor renewed visions of a democratic society and those who put those dreams into action. Is failing to vote an inherent problem with young people? Perhaps. But It is also a problem of the post modern world, where constructs reign over facts and most importantly, belief.

The issue that many who have grown up in post modernity face, including myself, is a lack of belief in institutions, especially hierarchical ones. No doubt this is completely legitimate; pre-installed institutions, especially government, have shown themselves to possess an unsavory penchant for lying and misleading the general public. But what do we have when we lose belief in something, particularly those entities that are meant to provide basic needs and make our lives better? Cynicism. It is what rules a young person’s outlook on society, what drives our mistrust of the very installations that were built to be trusted. It is a sad commentary on our country that many people feel that not voting is more of a political statement than voting, that anarchy would provide more stability and safety than democracy.

Young people must rally to a call that has long sat stagnant and forgotten above our heads; we must, if only for our youth, believe in those institutions that have forgotten and disenfranchised us so many times before. Only when we go to the polls with something to prove will the power of the youth vote, so underestimated, be recognized. The candidates in this primary season deserve tremendous respect for having gone after the votes of young people with such fervor. No doubt they keep in mind the fact that the youth hold the last vestige of hope, that elusive and fleeting vision that is so easily lost to life experience. As Nietzsche once said, “The surest way to corrupt a youth is to instruct them to hold in higher esteem those who think alike than those who think differently”. May we, the youth, a fresh voice, always seek to lead instead of follow in a world that so often offers us only cynicism and hopelessness.

Future Young Dems Could Be Turned Away if They Are Cheated Out of This Nomination

Herman — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 21:28:23 EST

Senator Obama continues to bring in many young people and voters into the Democratic party. If this nomination is stolen from us, it is highly likely that the party will struggle for a long, long time. These young people will be downhearted such that they will turn away from the process completely. Party elders need to do teh right thing and bring this thing to a halt before Clinton destroys the Party. She will do and say anything because she is so self-centered and power-hungry.

In addition to that, think of what happened after the first Clinton adminstration. The Republicans swept into power like crazy. We are lucky that the policies of George Bush have allowed us to creep back in. Think of how strong the Republicans will be just because of the presence of a Clinton around. This has to be factored in by the super-delegates.

McCain's "red phone" moment

The Aarchitect — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 18:48:33 EST

"Asked what "3 a.m. moments" he has experienced, McCain mentioned sitting in the cockpit of a Navy aircraft on a carrier during the Cuban missile crisis and being "ready to be on the point of the spear."

As I recall, this was over 45 years ago. This only points up why we need new leadership. I hope McCain uses this one on the campaign trail as it only reminds people how old he really is.

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