Close Encounters of the Bush Kind

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Cindy Sheehan asked:


Follow the ExcerptThe? a piece by peace Momby Cindy SheehanPublished book from Atria, September 2006, $ 22.95US / $ 31.50CAN; meetings in 2006 0-7432-9791-1Copyright � Cindy SheehanChapter 6Close Bush KindWe were slightly delayed to get the bus next morning perch? initially we couldn 't get Andy up - by phone or by knocking on his door. When we boarded the bus we were greeted by around sixty people, composing fourteen or fifteen families like ours. All others had the same sad look around their eyes. There was jocularity or singing on this bus. I met a young woman whose husband had been skipped vapor and they 'd not recovered to bury anything. The mother and her pap? were also on the bus. They were so wounded and fragile. But sitting right in front of me was another woman whom I became very strong aversion. Soon I discovered that it was the mother of a soldier? been killed, but it? and presented her husband as the parents of "Ed" Then he explained that another woman had said Ed ' "s, sort of mother" adoptive - who I discovered pi? And then it was' real mother s. The first woman was her stepmother, who didn 't have a very good relationship with Ed before it was killed. But when? been killed? been a tireless supporter of the war and the President. ? cos? "brave and valiant" to keep her up tion after his stepson? been killed. This mother and her husband became active participants in a protest of pi? bizarre in history: The "Cindy doesn 't speak for me" tour. I can 't believe that these people' views, the belief and understanding of what is s? smallest that can 't even have a "talking to ourselves" tour. And 'the real mother of s that? very pacifist and anti-Bush? in my organization and the pain in his heart every time that this woman needs And as his own and uses the name and his sacrifice to prop up the president and his war disoriented. We arrived at the fort about Lewis forty-five minutes after we left the hotel. Then we had levarci standing in the parking dell'alberino the hospital, where the meetings were to happen, because for another hour? weren 't ready to let them in again. I was beginning to believe the State of Washington; wave of heat, pi? sharply as we raised up on the screen or asphalt without water. This range, bench? And when I discovered that my soon to be new friend was Ed 's mother, not his "kind of mother." Adoptive, I discovered that it was still more? aa deeply opposed George Bush and the war that I was then. His son was later KIA in 2003, cos? she 'd had a little more? time to consider the reasons and lies. Even had a letter that he wanted to give George, accusante him of being taken and of our country to war for oil. Maledicalo, I thought to myself, I want to have thought of that! My new friend's; Woman "requested and received, a meeting with George Bush who was a party than with his sbandierante, former husband red-white-and blue-and-take from his wife. He gave a letter to the president 's of the helpers and waiting in a room alone until George av? Room met all other families. I would tell her first meeting that our stories. Perhaps, dear reader, you won 't? so upset by our little "party" of t?; with George.Donna was waiting in his little area of curtained-off president to appear. When he did, he progredetto to you and put his face an inch from his - l? were raised in the feet, nose to sniff out and Donna, God bless, has not resigned. Sneered her and said in his most (think) the voice of intimidation, "I 'm. George W. Bush is President of the United States and I feel I have something to say to me. "Woman has observed exactly the eye and said," I bet the do. "Then he continued to describe his grievances, asking the question that I tried to ask George a year more? then: "Why? my son had to die? "Donna has said that Ed had a good life and if he had lived, he would have been a wonderful and productive citizen in our societies. Then Bush said it pi? cold to you that I have ever heard. After Donna got through talking about her dear boy, George, incredible and incredibly, he said, "If your son came home from Iraq alive, as we know would have had a good life? "When Donna told me that, I wondered how she didn 't it slapped or spit in his face. The President or not, that was a bad thing and coldhearted and pitiless to be declared. He also said that? been shaken even to say something in reply. Our meeting with George was disturbing, but it took a while to realize why? then we were still in too much shock to proceed. We were moved from a large room in hospitals dell'alberino to a little room with a layer, the chair, a lounge table and a potted tree kept false. The room was an area of curtained-off that was barely large enough for the five of us. I had brought five pictures of Casey, of from when he was a child when he was a great man of the soldier. The images of a smiling and cheerful break chubby-cheeked boy of my heart. Why? I have left my boy sunny and beautiful join Uncle Sam 's army? The pictures of Casey when he was a good boy are harrowing, too. So what? become a troublesome teenager - tall and thin and all the donkeys and elbows, "as I used to tell him - with the hooks and acne, to boot! When the hooks have been disconnected and removed acne, it was a beautiful couple. What? we were sitting in this room with very little fortification Lewis with pictures of Casey on the lounge table. The scene was like a tragic version and pi? little of our home and our family decimated. We were nervous waiting for George Bush to appear - when the events of Senator John walked McCain.The of Arizona that I am about to refer pi? were later played by John McCain, but know that the Air is the truth?. Up to that point in my life, I had never even met a senator, let alone one with the height of John McCain and I appreciated what he said to us. The senator was very success and you? sitting right on downs layer and complimented the girls on how pretty they were and how Andy Bell was - he called all our names - then looked at the pictures of Casey and had broken in her eyes. I asked McCain why? Casey had to die and I said, "Well, Cindy, is it 'scared s going to be anything, like my comrades in Vietnam." I was stunned by his openness and honesty', but the deeply I appreciated. However, denies saying that. We chatted with some small talk and then asked us that if there were nothing else could do for us and I said, "S", you can work with Senator Kerry as his "vice president of.; She rice and stealth said, "Anything but that, Cindy. The country also? divided as it is. "Senator McCain recalls this exchange. We have made quite a spirited talk of this, our first meeting, when I met him again in his Washington, DC, office September.I had great respect for Senator McCain and I love what it did in the Senate to try limit for George and **** 's reign of torture. But after what the team of the wick has to John McCain during the 2000 campaign when they smeared and tried to have that had a black child and decreased his remark of war as a prisoner of war in Vietnam - test to make it look as if giving up the secrets of the national under torture - then John McCain bend over and let George Bush kiss. Even did a campaign for Bush in 2004. That 's when I lost respect for the senator, but in June 2004, yet I had much respect for. Now, with the senator 'contribution s to the end of another war in Vietnam-style, I fear that every shred of quality? and dell'umanit? in him has been lost. After the Senator left our little "salon," if we are examined and Carly said, "I wonder if? the president 'preheating act. "s; And Pat said," I wonder what Casey has in stock for us next. "After what? seemed like hours, the curtain finally opened and in walked George. I was face to face with the devil, but I didn 't even know this person really huge was still. The President of the United States of America, arguably the man most? powerful in the world, walked into the room wearing a blue dress that has a rack immediately pointed to Wal-Mart. His whole tone was one of being a party of t? and the first thing that gave was, "What? that? honorine we 'here? "We have fully examined a nell'incredulit another? and pi? then, when we compared notes, we couldn 't believe that the so-called leader of the so-called free world didn' t even know Casey 's name And the other senator, he didn 't know our names, what are they? right before George has come to us have made our changes togliere name. I think this has been to make it a better photo op, but I 'm. not really sure. At least, we couldn 't believe that an aide-didn' t whisper of, "Mr. President, this? Sheehan's family. Their son, Specialist Casey Sheehan,? was killed in Iraq. "What? we said that we were and that we were "honorine '. "We are still not sure about the honors and I'm not sure we really want to know. I tried to convince George to examine the images that had led to Casey, but wouldn 't. We tried to talk about Casey and ch? important member of our family was, but he didn 't want to hear. He didn 't want to hear anything about Casey and I didn' t want to see the face of someone killed his lies. I believe that George does not want humanized his cannon fodder, or the sponges of the bullet, as the soldiers call. At one point? Carly approached and said, "Who are you to that love? "(Also called Casey" the one. "loved;) Carly replied," Casey was my brother. "George then said something very stupid, which? famous for: "I wish I could bring your beloved back to fi

What is the function of the library of congress? Why do all books have to be in it?

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arigont asked:

To what extent and in what ways did the Congress of Vienna restore the Old Order in Europe?

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/wMXO7)

stylishhx3 asked:

Presidential Hopeful Imperato Speaks Out About the Bush Administration's Relationship With Syria

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I1connect asked:


"Our group is very powerful and domineering country has 6000 years of culture behind them. Our management must have in 6000 years of understanding of their culture to create peace in the region, "commented Imperato.Imperato continued to say that while he 's not ever had the opportunity to transmit his personal condolence to the President delayed Syria, Hafez al-Assad, the father of Syria 's current president, Bashar al-Assad, had a great respect for his leadership. "I had a deep respect for and convey my condolences delayed all family members and even my monster compared to Syria 's head and his son Bashar al-Assad as an exploratory candidate of the United States and representative of the people. "Over the past several weeks, Syria has received a dam verbal attacks by the spokesman Adam EREL, the Minister of Condolezza Rice and President George W. Bush State Department. In light of these recent errors coarse diplomats in the region by our government, Imperato felt that it was necessary to take time out to invite a meeting with President Assad to discuss the mutual interest of all parties responsible in the region. "Delete My hat so young that has taken the responsibility to fill the role of his father 's shoes as president of the country of Syria when in fact, this position is not only highly political and very strategic, it's a position that needs the understanding of' West and its democratic society and a mutual mutual dall'ad West, understanding the roots of Damascus and the habits of its people, "Imperato.After claimed the U.S. has failed to embrace Syria 'new head of s, Al-Assad has geralmente remain from last week 's general meeting of the UN. Al-Assad had original planned to montra the new face of Syria at the congress but after the public relations assault on his country by the United States, decided to keep a low profile. Imperato felt that working for Al-Assad was tough but that the U.S. should embrace Syria 's head instead of embarrassment to him. "When I have the opportunity to represent the people of the United States and assigned l of H 'opportunity to meet President Al-Assad clearly I will take the diplomatic role in embracing this young man and his courage and try to help you navigate your way through the changing world economy and to help in the programs of deployment for his country which have a favorable consideration for each other all the parties concerned. "Imperato then invited the Arab League help in diplomacy needed to be deployed in the region together with the United States of America. Imperato, someone who travels in the region and between the clothes on people, also reminded all that the Syrians have no interest or want to be a war. "The fact is that President Assad needs our help in controlling its borders, in his country to be a safer place for everyone. With my own personal experience, treating with the Syrian people are very proud strong group with everlasting endurance, with strong military capabilities. They are the people of the principles and moral as we are and their culture. "Imperato has continued to refine his statement with the following comments:" Unfortunately, the work inherited from President Assad is a courageous and difficult task and I believe our administration should stop the threats to Syria and use diplomacy, goodwill and mutual respect to favor peace in the world to gain. I look forward to having the opportunity to discuss these issues and represent the people of the United States of America, God willing. "*** On this issue was generated by i1connect, an independent news. *** About i1connect: I1 connect (www.i1connect.com) are the new leader in online public relations and advertising overall. With a set of differential offered ranging from public relations, press release distribution, advertising, introducente, developing Web site, the services of investor relations, i1connect.com was positioned for long-term development that uses the latest in telecommunications technology. For interviews and surveys ContactPress DepartmentI1connectinfo@i1connect.comwww.i1connect.com (561) 515-6177 Media

Why is the United States Congress observing a Jewish Holiday?

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Tony M asked:

Imperato Sees the Future About Bush's Futures

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/zi5b7)

Dan Mangru asked:


"I hope the American people can see that, without reservation, I understand what is going on in this country. I have traveled around the world and the knowledge that I gained from acting in this way is second to none, "Imperato. held since August of 2006 (see "The independent presidential candidate draws the main Imperato |" of? of Concerns of Englanders ", 31 August 2006); The saddened to see that, because I am working as independent, my points of view are not the same claim of the Democrats and Republicans. Both the Democrats that the Republicans have brushed this issue under the cover. It is time to reveal all parties that have benefited from the war nell'Irak and all parties who have profited illegally from the knowledge of the member in the equity market, "said Imperato.Imperato has shown favoritism to Bush multiple times and potential manipulation of reserve during that include the press release of September 2006 in which he declared, "I asked the American people, has anyone checked the contracts of the future? Have the authorities that are responsible for the Supervision of esaminarici within the U.S. government that can buy contracts for the future, particularly those individuals in the stock market can be informed that this administration 's meetings relevant to the war in Iraq ? "Imperato was concerned that discovery of the scandal of William Bush could only be the beginning of Bush administration 's web of profit taking." There have been billions of dollars made out of this war in Iraq. To think that only $ 6million has been unduly dappropriato illegally is to be foolish. There are many friends and family management that has taken advantage of and now all those people should be introduced into the light and be brought to justice. "Imperato concluded his statement with that," We need to end this type of manipulation and corruption in this country. Is going on with Democrats and Republicans for over one hundred years. It is time that we had an independent in the White House, an independent who does not bow to the wishes of special interests and dell'gran deal. We need someone who is informed about this country. I think it is that person and I ask the American people cast their votes, and moreover, their support. "For interviews and contact investigations of means: DepartmentImperato Awards for president 2008press@imperato2008.comwww.imperato2008. com561-833-4420

(funny) George, We�ve Got Just the Job for You!

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/DJf96)

104inc.com asked:


Starting from one, George W Bush does exactly 77 days left to put the summary of hisa in order, a difficult task complicated by the fact that what? s? the hea done as president, he? t of? hasn done much of it lately. L� il? t of? arena of the many positions out there to fit in a bad way past the head and the professional world, but very few vacancies in view have arisen in recent weeks and more is limited to present and the year draws to a close. There must be some work that man can do with ability. Still has so much to give. Head,? s? of North Korea It� barely possible that this position will open soon - whether it? t of? of hasn already. Bush no doubt would enjoy the constant saber-rattling that comes with being a key player in Axis of evil (but should consider the call? Of t? Don� of it that), but may have difficulty registering all'adulazione unstinting. Tour guide, libraryYes presidential tradition? S.A. of? it� of America to establish commemorative deposits in the state of belonging to any former commander-in-chief, regardless of age or reading to the condition in the table-chair-defective de-all-time. Since this library is particularly liable to be little more than a collection of cowboy hats and baseball signed, Bush should not be difficult to show people around. It would be highly irregular for him to walk up the front desk and say, the? of? � hello, my name is George Bush, this is my library and would like an application form? of? � but what are going to do? Say no? Star, W: The Musical this plan of action is apparently insane stated on twin assumptions that Oliver Stone biopic readily translate to the stage and that Bush can sing. But lots of unlikely films were processed in the musicals and if Bush is tone deaf can always hit your way through like Rex Harrison did in my fair lady. Yet, it would be bizarre. Po'come a convincing set of time of a star in Jerry sets the time of Jerry: The work. Really, what? t of? ISNA idea of such faulty one or the other. Or maybe Bush was able to play the tax of time. Think of the protests. The host, MTV AwardsThere has two positions to be filled here - the brand of Russell already seems doubtful for next year and Lindsay Lohan has been fired just the hospitality of the music awards in the world of MTV, an appointment a little less fascinating that? t of? of doesn requires much more than the ability to read from an autocue in a hesitant and uncomprehending. Shoo-in? S.A. of? for Hea. The interior minister, IranIn the old days, the only qualification for the post was a fake degree from a British prepared - the previous recipient, Ali Kordan, has possessed a forged certificate for an honorary degree from? of? London University of Oxford? of? � - but Bush has two degrees real SEATING from Yale and an MBA from the school of commerce of Harvard (I know - the port slightly, the? of t? of him doesn?). Indeed this may be the first time Bush went to work for the supreme and underemployment, but still has some hearts and minds to win the best friend? s? of the new Hilton Tehran.Paris this was never considered a job for life, or even long-term employment, but Paris is currently in the market for someone who is? of? � warm, which can continue with me, and above all, that is real and the? t of? is one of won�? of? the backstabber. ? s? Shea also notes that in London, unfortunately. But if he can do the accent well enough to fool Paris Hilton (and how hard it is, you think?), You can even convince that it was either hot or real. E? s? hea of the former president of the United States of America, as well? s? of it� not as if the ll? of? the recognition of shea. The candidate for Vice-President of the? s? of Sarah Palin, an association of 2012A Palin-Bush Republicans could provide the non-conformist anti-maverick ticket? of? the �? of? four years from today. The twenty-correction constitution prevents a president of two-term to seek the office again, but the constitution of the United States says something about him becoming vice president and then to join with the sudden inability of a president phenomenal unpopular? It really is - the twelfth conditions that the correction? of? � no person constitutionally ineligible to the office of the President to be eligible to that of vice president of? the united? the States - but Sarah Palin knows what? No. Are you going to read about it in time? No.Biographer, complete trashing of George Bush his legacy SRA of? s? the father was able to one day see Dubya widely considered to be only the second-worst president of the United States, but the needs of ll? of? the hea someone check your spelling.

What are the underlying reasons that explain why Congress moves slowly and inefficiently?

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Heather asked:

The Mendacity of Hope: Obama's Agenda for Abortion

(My Original Blog Post: <a href="http://www.addicting-flash-game.com/the-mendacity-of-hope-obamas-agenda-for-abortion">http://www.addicting-flash-game.com/the-mendacity-of-hope-obamas-agenda-for-abortion</a>)
<div style="float:left; padding: 12px"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/cc/obama3.jpg"><img src="/wp-content/uploads/cc/obama3.jpg" title='obama' alt='obama' /></a></div><div><em><strong>Ken Roebuck</strong> asked: </em><br/><br/><br/>Took place because in 35 years? Eggs questionable v fording the Supreme Court decision (7-2) to make the initial term abortions legal in the United States. Despite the historic decision in abortion rights in 1973 are still contestandi strong in many quarters of the country. ? for those against abortion mainly for religious belief but also for the profound moral reasons argue that abortion as defined by Roe? stubborn taking of a human life valuable front with all the rights, privileges and protections are guaranteed by our entire government. ? secondly those for the right to abortion argue that women should have control over their own bodies to make that an issue of privacy, a personal decision that should not be informed of our government. These disparate views and polemical point out the essence of the debate? been continuous for almost four decades and with every probability? continuer? to rage over the foreseeable future and certainly beyond the administration of Obama. ? to where our newly chosen president of? of? the partisan? dell&#39;alberino of? of? of? stands on this inflammatory issue of abortion? Such as carboxymethyl pi? liberal while in the U.S. Senate, Obama supports the right of the strong? s? of women? choose to terminate her pregnancy on the ground with all legal procedures and safe abortion as defined by Roe. ? if you accept his remark to vote with members of his political speeches and public statements, Obama far? apparently just about anything and everything can retain the right one? s? of women? to affordable and free abortion on demand as promoted by the abortion providers subsidized fee as a condition of the parents provided. Indeed, the contribution of explicit enthusiastic? s? for Obama? even to abortion on demand has rightly earned a 100% by NARAL (National Abortion &; amp? King, reproductive League) to correct action in favor of the freedom America? cos of choice? as an enthusiastic parent from the condition of the expected pi? largest provider of abortion in the United States. In contrast, Obama as expected have received scores of 0% by the NRLC (National Right to Life Committee), the pi? Prolife great organization and advocacy of non-profit pi? influential. The wife of Michelle? s? of? Obama? what? his political advisor pi? next? also pro choice and supports a strong right of? s? of women? to reduce the abortion above actual. As her husband of Mrs. Obama should be used? graduated from law school at Harvard University holds extreme views on abortion and has written a letter questionable fundraising defending a procedure of partial birth abortion known as dilation of? of? of? and intact? of? of evacuation ", a controversial abortion technique of late-term. In his letter, has called abortion a partial birth? of? of? ? Medical legitimate? the procedures? and said? Federal? of? of a ban? of defective? of law? that? of? of? ? clearly? of? the unconstitutional?. However, the Supreme Court in 2007? been at odds with her claims that even if the strict ban with a vote of 5-4. regarding the annotation of the vote? s? for Obama? while an Illinois legislator he is? opposed the bill for partial birth abortion ban and the? live? the Act? protection of infants born? of? of? of? s? the state? that ensures the rights of children who survive failed abortion attempts. He also voted against the legislation that prohibits the financing provided for abortions. In fact Obama has never supported any restriction on abortion decreases its availability? or reduces the public funding. ? declared him without ambiguit? who oppose c &#39;? ne and all government restrictions on abortion, including abortions, partial-birth. ? Obama has even strongly criticized the decision of the Supreme Court argues that the federal law that prohibits abortion partial-birth and in 2007 also voted to expand research on embryonic stem cells. Obama seems to be taking a rather extreme position on abortion that far? considered outside the mainstream. Most of the contributions of Americans to abortion? highly conditional and so overwhelming abortion without restriction of abortion observation of discrepancy (71%) as a profound moral issue that should be preferably limited to reasonable regulation by the government to the condition and local levels. Only about 28% of Americans support anytime abortion throughout the grounds. ? Obama to bypass the traditional with 18 other pro abortion senators have sponsored the freedom? of Choice Act (FOCA) and in July 2007 Obama gave a warm speech to a "promise of scheduled event of full action on the condition of the parent, the first thing I &#39;d ago because? President? sign the freedom? Act of choosing "The passage of FOCA essentially negate any federal, state and condition of abortion restriction or regulation of local law including the correction of Hyde prohibiting federal funding of abortion and the current federal ban on partial birth abortions signed into law in 2003 by President Bush. FOCA than to make abortion on demand a "right" key, while the U.S. simultaneously invalidate all laws on informed consent and parental notification cos? like all waiting periods required. Also eliminate all restrictions on the condition of the taxpayer funding of abortions and the safety standards of health for abortion clinics. In addition, nell&#39;opposizione all&#39;primo amendment would require for the first time the Catholic and other religious hospitals to provide abortions. Il? s? of? ? Obama perhaps? Most of the personally revealing statement regarding abortion was when he said if his daughters, makes a mistake, I don &#39;t want them punished with a baby. "? not exactly an endorsement of the ring for family values. ? in another interview when asked when life begins? responded glibly of? know? of? t of? don? of? I? of? Obama for that? of? of? ? on my? of? the grade? payment. ? now as the Forty-fourth President of the United States and the new commander - in - chief, non? certainly the most above his pay grade because? probably avr? the opportunity to select the Supreme Judge of the Court below. Regarding the type of Justice would see, Obama believes that the constitution is? living? the document? of? of? of? and is likely to appoint the constructionalist not rigorous liberal bench along the lines of Breyer and Ginsberg and Souter. Obama voted against both of the appointments? s? Bush? that main Justice John Roberts and Sam Alito each comfortable margins confirmed by the senate. The philosophy of the Constitution? s? of? ? Obama? appointments on the Supreme Court? been revealed about that when he prayed? of that? of? we need someone? s? of who? has convinced the heart, the empathy, to recognize what? how to be a couple? the teenager? the mom?. ? has developed the saying? of? of? empathy to understand that? s? of it? Gradica to be poor, or afroamericano, or *** or disabled or old. E? s? of that? the criteria by which? m. of? I? going to select my own? ? of? of judges.? The empathy mean? the judiciary? of activism? of? of? of? and it seems a test known to select the judges for an intellectual who has taught constitutional law for a decade. ? Ironically, claims of Obama would not have nominated Clarence Thomas, who &#39;s the only the second ever afroamericano appointed to the court, for example? of? of? of Thomas was not a strong enough jurist or a? DST? the thinker?. ? ? Obama has established a cult of brilliant? of? of? of the campaign? of? of personality? focused on banalit? trivial of HOPE and CHANGE. The person&#39;s charismatic rhetoric Shakers and ubiquitous campaign slogan of change? of? of? we believe that? of? of In? and the audacity? of? of? of? of? Hope? overarching themes that has developed its two-party presidential bid. Il? s? Let the? whole? Of Obama? of hope? of? of? of? how? of that? of? one? Of VE? the we? that awaits? of? the for? actually porter? il? of? of change? of? of? of? but not just in America but also s? with a repudiation of its commitment to militant abortion without restriction by the appointment of judges is not the activity which complies with our Constitution and the inalienable rights of all Americans if they are incurred or future. ? within days to turn into Forty-fourth U.S. President in history and only a day after the anniversary of the eggs trentaseesimo v ford, Obama signed an executive order to reverse the ban on federal aid to international family planning organizations that perform abortions for control population. Policy known as the "Mexico City Policy" prohibits the money from the taxpayer of the United States from going to international family planning that provides abortions or to ensure the information, advice or referrals about abortion. The anti-abortion groups have criticized the circle in the presidential order. The legislative director of National Right to Life Committee, Douglas Johnson, "deplored; President Obama not long ago told the American people that it would support policies to reduce abortions, but today is ensuring the most effective? abortions constitute a fund for groups that promote abortion as a method of control "of the population;. Apparently Obama &#39; "mantra of the campaign s, S? We Can "doesn &#39;t apply to policies that reduce abortion in the third world. Once again, Obama says his militant commitment to unrestricted abortion not just in the U.S. but around the world. This change in? t of? of doesn? policy of the United States predicts well for those who av? vain hope that Obama has governed from the center and moderates its contribution to radical abortion on demand.<br/><br/></div>

Obama Presidency the First Term

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/iJe8a)

7thchild asked:


If you listen to Pandit and believe the poll is increasingly clear Barack Obama will be the President of the United States follows. To this end I examined all his promises and plans of campaign for his first term in office. During his campaign he has declared that it intended to fully be a president for two terms. With the current state of our economy, I considered only what might be the results that a first term Obama Administration.It is unclear whether President Bush and his administration can stop the downward spiral our economy and the market is experiencing. The results of the actions it has taken to calm the markets and free up the accreditation will not be known until after the election. For the discussion I have considered the future with an optimistic view. I gave our economy and the markets the benefit of the doubt and see President Obama inheriting an economy / market and on the labor market which shows a modest increase. After his inauguration, and follow to his campaign promises, President Obama will announce our immediate withdrawal from Iraq beginning in February 2009 and which ends in August 2010. Submit to Congress his program of tax cuts to repeal the Bush tax, establish a fee of exceptional profits on oil companies, the rates of corporation and entrust the increase in office throughout the small business with ten or more employees and a level of gross income exceeding $ 250,000, providing health care for their employees. The immediate result of President Obama 's action of Russia will be signing a mutual defense agreement with Venezuela allowing the Russian missiles are prepared in Venezuela and declaring all the attack on Venezuela would be considered an attack on Russia. The President Obama will declare this unacceptable, it requires a meeting with the president and the Russian request for sanctions against Russia if they have the missiles on Venezuelan soil. Iran will require the immediate talks with officials in high-level management to plan for the talks between Obama and Ahmadinejad. Obama agrees and will send its Minister in Iran to resolve the details of their meeting. After that the Minister refers, Obama will announce that a Camp David summit will be held and Ahmadinejad 'agreement to negotiate his country' s programs for nuclear power in Iran.Obama emerging from Camp David and announce Ahmadinejad has agreed to allow inspections limited their nuclear plants and have no intentions of using nuclear weapons against Israel. Iran also promise to help America in our efforts to reduce the increased attacks on our troops in,. Of course, the checks will continue to stop bureaucrats from the Iranians until the dirty little secret that can not leave Iran finally got a nuclear weapon by North Korea that is capable of hitting Israel. Also learn that Iran is munendo secret the Taliban and Al - Qaeda in Pakistan. Obama will announce a summit meeting with our European allies to deal with both the Russian Iranian threats. The increase of business will lead large companies to immediately announce a large corporate frost of work and immediate restructuring of all domestic operations. Foreign companies like Toyota and Honda reconsidering construction products in the United States. Most small businesses will not be exempt from new taxes and mandates for insurance because the law will be defined as "Companies with a level of gross income less than $ 250,00 are exempt." As small businesses are learning they can not deduct the cost normal business of their gross income to qualify as a small business that are starting to close their businesses and file for bankruptcy. With the increased cost of foreign oil, the rate of unemployment in double digits and increased tension around the world, markets and economies to stop before the summer of 2010. The chaos will return to the Middle East, Russia move on Georgia and on Ukraine, we withdraw from Iraq and Afghanistan and the world will be on the board of the supporters of the Obama people to scroll WWIII.Most particularly shoulders this out as mongering of fear or predictions of a madman. To ask you to look closer to humans and to explain how the global economy and the threats we face from abroad, can conservation of the promises that Obama has done. At this date still refuses to admit that can not keep all these promises. To Obama it is inconceivable to believe Putin and Ahmadinejad have thought that Obama is another Jimmy Carter weak. He doesn 't understand what people like this the word negotiate is the same as the yield.

What is the difference between the US SENATE and US CONGRESS?

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/oXJUT)

christian asked:

Manual Driving Made Easy by Vw Clutch

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/nzK4C)

George Wiggins asked:

The Probability of Victory is Higher for Senator Obama Than for Senator Mccain

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/nhfgI)

Gurumurthy Kalyanaram asked:


The probability that Obama wins the presidential election in November seems to be quite robust. Here is why - (1) based on public scrutiny, is that Obama is more likely to keep all the conditions (the Michigan becoming obvious seems close but Obama is taking 's sense of) that that Kerry won in 2004. That give Obama 252 electoral votes. Add in Iowa that this is almost certain to go Obama - 7 electoral votes. That elasticity Obama 259 electoral votes. On the one hand, McCain - at this stage - is not likely to win all the stages that Bush won in 2004 (284 electoral votes.) McCain is almost certain to lose the Iowa (7 electoral votes.) Add to this mix, Ohio ( 20 electoral votes), Virginia (13 electoral votes), Colorado (9 electoral votes) and New Mexico and Nevada (each with 5 electoral votes) - there is considerable doubt whether McCain can hold these conditions. That puts McCain at about 225 electoral votes. (2) the arithmetic is the most coercive. Repeatedly, and in much public scrutiny about 37-38 percent of likely voters identify themselves as Democrats and about 30 percent as Republicans. That leaves about 30 percent as independents. (The extent of preference of Newsweek showing that about 55 percent of voters identified as Democrats and 36 percent as Republicans is an outlier.) Obama is that McCain presupponenti get 80 percent of their votes for the party, the differential gain Obama to be about 6.5 percent. Vote in the crossroads of 20 percent, Obama would lose about 1.5 percent leaving a net lead of about 5 percent for Obama. Assuming that Obama and McCain split the independents, Obama 'cable general s would be about 5 per cent. The only caveat is the Bradley effect-more wild-potential represents about 5-7 percent. (3) What adds to the probability of Obama 's victory is the other three elements: the enormous enthusiasm among the carboxymethyl and very damped behavior of the Republicans (enthusiasm translates into the highest percentage of votes and the largest mobilization of the electorate, in some cases the enthusiasm gap between Republicans and carboxymethyl high as 30 points), the approval ratings of extraordinary low (in the low 30s) of President Bush and the perception that the country head in the wrong direction (over 64-70 per cent Americans say that.)

If you could write a letter to Congress or the President , what would you suggest for Iraq?

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/fAl0I)

drinking_bunny89 asked:


Should I write a page about my opinion on the war and what nell'Irak say to the president and Congress. I 'M orribile the government and the policy so it can meet someone for help? Both please the most detailed. Thanks for the help.

Obama to Make First Pentagon Visit

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/BuEck)

sandeep singh chauhan asked:


President Barack Obama will make a short trip from the White House to the Pentagon on Wednesday, for fresh "unvarnished" advice from military brass on his Iraq withdrawal plan and the Afghan war.

In his first week in office, the new US commander-in-chief Obama has already instructed military planners to draw up proposals which would allow him to honor his campaign pledge to get most troops out of Iraq within 16 months.

The meetings on Wednesday were the latest step of a process initiated by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates to introduce Obama to all the key players in formulating his war strategy, White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said.

The president will get to meet "all the people that are involved in these decisions and all the people that are involved in committing the lives of men and women in our uniform," said Gibbs.

The ultimate idea was for the generals to offer Obama advice in an "unvarnished way," he said.

In his first days in office last week, Obama sat down with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, and General David Petraeus, head of US Central Command.

During his first visit to the Pentagon, Obama is to meet with Mullen and Gates. He is also to meet for the first time with the chiefs of staff of the Army, the Navy, the Air Force and the Marine Corps.

"They want an opportunity to talk about Afghanistan and continue the discussion on Iraq," Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said on Monday.

Obama will also, at a later date, get some time for in-depth talks with General David McKiernan, commander of NATO forces and the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan, Gibbs said.

The new president has pledged to boost US forces in that country amid deteriorating security.

Some 36,000 US troops are currently deployed in Afghanistan, half of them operating under NATO. The Pentagon has promised to deploy up to 30,000 additional forces to Afghanistan, nearly doubling the US force there.

Obama argued last week that the war in Afghanistan, which he called "the central front in our enduring struggle against terrorism and extremism," could not be separated from the volatile border area with Pakistan, where Al-Qaeda and Taliban elements have regrouped.

"My administration is committed to refocusing attention and resources on Afghanistan and Pakistan and to spending those resources wisely," said Obama when he appointed Richard Holbrooke as US envoy to Pakistan and Afghanistan on Thursday.

As part of his diplomatic push, the president said he would work with NATO allies and other states in the region, which could include central Asian countries and India -- Pakistan's arch-rival.

A debate is brewing over Obama's 16-month timeline for withdrawal from Iraq, where 143,000 US troops are currently deployed.

Following their meeting with Obama on January 21, Gates and Mullen shied away from endorsing the accelerated timetable. Gates cautioned that the session was just "the beginning of a process of evaluating various options."

Gates and Mullen have stressed that a series of elections in Iraq make this an important year for stabilizing the country.

Provincial elections are scheduled for January 31, marking the first time that Iraq's Sunnis will be going to the polls in large numbers after boycotting the last elections in 2005.

Obama will face the demands of the military joint chiefs, who want to ease the stress on their forces deployed on both fronts for several years, and those of General Raymond Odierno, commander of US forces in Iraq, who worries that a precipitous withdrawal could threaten security gains there.

US Marines Corps Commandant James Conway said he was ready to send "20,000 or less" Marines to Afghanistan, where about 2,200 Marines are currently deployed. He cautioned however that "anything you put into Afghanistan must necessarily come from a reduction of the number of Marines in Iraq."

Under an agreement signed between Washington and Baghdad in November, the US military is due to withdraw its combat troops from the country by the end of 2011.

In his first formal interview as president earlier this week, Obama told the pan-Arab Al-Arabiya television network his administration would be more actively engaged in Middle East diplomacy than Bush.

He told the Muslim world that "Americans are not your enemy," and pledged that his administration would "do a more effective job of reaching out, listening as well as speaking to the Muslim world."





plumbing 101

The Obama Family and Family Values

(My Original Blog Post: <a href="http://ping.fm/7g9Ul">http://ping.fm/mRXLh</a>)
<div style="float:left; padding: 12px"><a href="/wp-content/uploads/cc/Barack_Obama202.jpg"><img src="/wp-content/uploads/cc/Barack_Obama202.jpg" title='Barack Obama' alt='Barack Obama' /></a></div><div><em><strong>Phyllis Goldberg, Ph.D.</strong> asked: </em><br/><br/><br/>In a recent letter to his girls, President Barack Obama wrote: "I want you to grow up in a world with no limits on your dreams and no achievements beyond your reach......" Now that's a strong message from a father to his daughters.<br/><br/>Some say that the Obamas are the kind of family they would like to be. Michelle has a healthy attitude about parenting that resonates for those with strong family values. And she has talked about her personal struggle of juggling work and kids, not that different from any other ordinary American working mother. More than we might expect, given her training and high-powered career, the division of labor in the marriage has been fairly traditional. Michelle is an involved mom and has said that the wellbeing of her girls comes first.<br/><br/>In their personal relationship, if she's hard on her husband, it's because her expectations of everyone are high. But she's also a realist. When Michelle mentions Barack's flaws, it's to make a larger point - not to put the president on a pedestal when no one can fulfill all our fantasies. Both of them think that having one person in control of a problem can only cause more of the same. They see that leadership model as not the way to run a family - or a country. In discussions, Obama is not the only boss. He welcomes engagement and wants to be challenged. And that comes across in the role that Michelle plays.<br/><br/>As Barack tells it, all the men in his life were fragile, but the women could always be relied upon. In his wife, he sees a lot of his grandmother - the practical, no-nonsense woman who raised him. He likes that Michelle insists he be the kind of father he never had. And just as she is a reflection of his values, their partnership is a good indication of the character strengths and listening skills he brings to the White House.<br/><br/>No family always runs smoothly. And there can be problems that aren't that easy to fix. As you evaluate the kind of support and strategies you need, keep the following tips in mind:<br/><br/>1. Keep your expectations realistic. You may have very clear ideas about how you want your family to be. But realize that every member will have their own way of handling challenges, conflicts and disappointments. Don't think that what's a priority for you will be the same for everyone. And remember that the present state of affairs won't last.<br/><br/>2. Be willing to compromise. With a situation you can't agree on in a family relationship that matters a lot, take the time to understand both sides of the issue. Validate everyone's feelings and try to withhold blame. It's not necessary to excuse bad behavior, but show support for what they're going through. If in the past you have gone underground and then exploded later, don't let these feelings fester. Acknowledge the part that you play in the conflict and deal with it. Negotiating an agreement that both of you can live with is often the best way to move on.<br/><br/>3. Set long-range goals about what you want to accomplish as well as short-term objectives that will help you reach them. These concrete plans provide the basic foundation and parameters for change in your partner, your children, your parents and yourself. As you successfully move forward, step by step, your self-confidence will grow. Ongoing action and a positive attitude will motivate you to stay on track and ultimately reach your family goals.<br/><br/>4. Look at your situation and decide what works for you. If you need some time by yourself, be sure to fit that into your plans. When you want to reconnect with your teenagers, plan outings that will appeal to both of you. If your parents are up to it, invite them on a family vacation. Your children will benefit from spending quality time with their grandparents. And it will give you free time and the chance for you and your partner to catch up without distractions.<br/><br/>5. Do what is necessary to maintain familiarity and continuity. If you nurture your family and stabilize their environment, they will feel more secure. The structure in their lives and the support you give them will relieve feelings of anxiety or stress. Children are resilient and, as you model positive thinking and hope, they will thrive. The rewards can be immeasurable for the whole family.<br/><br/>In this administration, with a protective mom in chief, one major focus on the home-front will be the first daughters. The goal of these devoted parents is to help the girls find their way in their new environment. And Michelle's mom is moving in for now, to provide a constant presence and keep the girls grounded. When asked about the relationship with his mother-in-law, the president, among other things, said: "I don't tell my mother-in-law what to do." Doesn't it sound like our new president is off to a really good start?<br/><br/> 2009, Her Mentor Center<br/><br/>Phyllis Goldberg, Ph.D. & Rosemary Lichtman, Ph.D. are co-founders of www.HerMentorCenter.com, a website for midlife women and www.NourishingRelationships.blogspot.com, a blog for the sandwich generation. They are authors of a forthcoming book about family relationships and publish a free newsletter, Stepping Stones, through their website. As psychotherapists, they have over 40 years of collective private practice experience.<br/><br/><br/><br/><a href='http://plumbing101.net/'>plumbing 101</a></div>

Barack Obama, The Techno-Savvy President

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/IgQQ1)

ajax asked:


The US just does not seem to get enough of Obama. The country�s fascination for him just does not seem to cease. The new President will not just go down in history as one of the youngest to occupy the White House but also as the most techno savvy President of the US. From election campaigning through Facebook or updating what he has been up to in Twitter, Obama knows how exactly to capture the mood of the Gen Y and make them identify with him.

But being a president has its own drawbacks. The self-confessed Blackberry addict cannot take his gizmo to the Capitol Hill because of security reasons involved in exchanging emails through the Blackberry. Various gizmos and technologies have been developed around Obama and his techno-savvy nature.

Like the special Obama application for the sensational iPhone 3G developed during the Presidential campaign. The app provided updates on the election campaign details, helped identify party members in various locations, gather support and send reminders to people to vote on Election Day. He has already announced setting up a Chief Technology Officer for the country, the first of its kind post, to being the best of technologies in the private sector, for government services.

Now that the first family has set its foot in the White House, the Obama fever has peaked. There are many websites on the internet providing a range free MP3 ringtones download on Obama. Some of the ringtones include the famous �Go Obama� song and his famous statements like, �Ready to go?�, �Yes we can� and so on.

For those with a creative bent of mind, it�s also possible to make your own ringtones by mixing Obama�s voice with the music you like. To have a ringtone that goes, �Hi, this is Barack Obama asking you to answer the call. Help change America� would be really cool. It�s something which Obama himself would love to have.

�



plumbing 101

Hillary Clinton Versus Obama: New Hampshire is Next

(My Original Blog Post: http://www.addicting-flash-game.com/hillary-clinton-versus-obama-new-hampshire-is-next)

Julie Smith asked:


What happened in Iowa last Thursday gave us a little idea of what the United States is willing to do for the next presidential elections. Though the selection process consists of a long way; Obama�s victory in the caucus with some 38% of the vote marks a turning point in the US political history.

The contrast between Clinton and Obama is visible; while Hillary Clinton is surrounded by well known faces from Washington, Obama�s speech appears to touch the feelings of many voters. The word �change� pronounced by Obama many times has penetrated deeply in the democratic side.

On the other hand, Bill Clinton appears to have lost some of his legendary political touch. Though he remains popular with many Democrats, he seems oblivious to the resentment within the Democratic "base". The advantage of Barack over Hillary Clinton means more than a victory; Iowa's triumph over race is a message to the world about the real nature of America and a ratification of Obama's belief that this will be an election year where everything is on the table.

However, Clinton is the first wife of a former American president to run the office�basically no woman has ever been nominated as a presidential candidate by a major party. The 60-years-old lady is not giving up; actually, her campaign already announced that it would dispatch former President Clinton to New Hampshire for the next week seeking to resurrect the Clinton�s dynasty.

While the 46-year-old Illinois senator is focused on Tuesday�s New Hampshire presidential primary, Hillary Clinton is ready to attack his political inexperience as she will battle to prevent her rival from the democratic nomination.

Barack Obama is performing very well for New Hampshire and already started building up an unstoppable momentum. Iowa�s triumph seems to have generated a turnout from 2004 statistics. Apparently, Iowa�s decision was about style, and US citizens seem to be looking for something different�maybe a big change; the decision was not only pro-Obama, but visibly anti-Clinton.

Now, all the attention is focused on New Hampshire where the second round of Primaries will be held next week. The temperature is also expected to be high the next Republican debate with candidates as John McCain, who opinion polls now show leading in New Hampshire after some months of unpopularity.



plumbing 101

Could Barack Obama win the Election because of self-serving Republican Congressmen?

(My Original Blog Post: http://www.addicting-flash-game.com/could-barack-obama-win-the-election-because-of-self-serving-republican-congressmen)

cronos asked:


John McCain's approval ratings have dived due to the failure of the Bailout and the larger economic crisis. With only 33% of Republican Congressmen voting for the bailout, Republicans have rightfully been given most of the blame for the Bailout's failure. Many see the Republicans, and their policies, as responsible for the entire crisis.

So I guess my real question is: Could Barack Obama win simply because his opponent's party is seen as having caused (or allowed) the current economic crisis?

plumbing 101

Has Barack Obama won the democratic nomination?

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/lY6Wb)

c_man asked:


Has Barack Obama officially BEAT Hillary Clinton in the Democratic portion of the race? As in, it will DEFINATELY be him and John McCain in the final presidential race?

plumbing 101

Has There Been a Slippage in Barack Obama's Support in the Month of July?

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/yfmva)

Gurumurthy Kalyanaram asked:


There has been speculation -- reasonable and based on some empirics -- that Barack Obama may have slipped some in the match-up against John McCain in the presidential preference measurement. This slippage appears to have occurred since about July 4th weekend. For example, the fivethirtyeight.com model shows some downturn, and Michael Barone also appears to think so. The tracking polls by Rasmussen and Gall Up show the race to be with in 1-2 points.

However, I am not certain that the preference measurement data are clear on this matter. I think that we need to get some new preference data from Ohio and Indiana, and that will present a more clear picture. The last preference measures from Ohio and Indiana showed Obama to be in slight lead (2-4 points) in Ohio, and essentially tied in Indiana. Here is my thinking --

(1) It is true that Obama's lead has shrunk in Maine from 20 plus points to about 9 points, it is also true that McCain's lead in Kansas has ballooned to 20 plus points from about 9 points (Rasmussen reports.) But it is also true that Obama's lead in California has expanded to 20 plus points from single digits (Field poll) and to double-digits in most East-coast states and robust numbers in Michigan (Quinnipiac, Sienna, Strategic Vision polls and Survey USA polls.)

(2) Michael Barone argues (July 16th) that "...if one assumes McCain is running a little stronger now, in which states would he be overtaking Obama, assuming a uniform rise across the country? In the South, Virginia (13 electoral votes). In the West, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, and Oregon (24 electoral votes). In the Midwest, Indiana and Ohio (31 electoral votes). "

But recent preference measures (polls) taken after July 4th weekend show that Obama is leading by 4 points (about the same lead as in June) in Colorado, by about 9 points in Oregon (may be even a little bigger lead than in June), and he is tied with McCain in Virginia (about the same status as in June). There have not been preference measures in Montana, New Mexico and Indian and Ohio in the month of July. (Source, see RealClear Politics data). In any case, Barone's inference is inconsistent with data -- McCain is not leading in any of the states mentioned by him.

The state-by-state polls still appear to show the presidential race to be where it was in the month of June. Ohio will be a big one -- new polling data from Ohio will provide greater clarity.



plumbing 101

American Jews Thinks About the Future of Israel and Palestine as in President Office Barack Obama Waits

(My Original Blog Post: http://www.addicting-flash-game.com/american-jews-thinks-about-the-future-of-israel-and-palestine-as-in-president-office-barack-obama-waits)

tatar job asked:


What do American Jews think about Israel's negotiations with the Palestinians? A late September survey of 800 self-identified Jewish voters from around the United States, carried out by John McLaughlin and Associates, produced interesting results with important implications.

By an almost 3-to-1 margin (60 to 22 percent, with an accuracy of ± 3.5% at a 95% confidence interval), American Jews say that Israel should not sign a treaty with the Palestinians if this requires an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. Then, given a choice - whether the Arab world sincerely accepts Israel's right to exist, or whether it seeks the eventual destruction of Israel - the respondents by a similar 3-to-1 margin (60 to 19%) find that the Arabs still want to eliminate Israel. After a quarter-century of Israel turning land over to the Arabs, this is a very significant number, one resulting from a deep-seated Arab reluctance to accept Israel's permanence.

By an overwhelming 6-to-1 margin (76 to 13%), American Jews say that President obama promise of $900 million in aid to the Palestinian Authority over five years should be paid only if the PA removes all antisemitic and anti-Israel statements from its school books. An even larger 8-to-1 margin (78 to 10%) wants to hold back on the money until Yasser Arafat fulfills his Oslo obligations to outlaw and disarm terrorist groups and to extradite terrorists to Israel.

In contrast to these decisive stands, moving the US embassy to Jerusalem has less backing. Asked whether they agree with the Congressional legislation to move the embassy (in recognition of Israel's claim that Jerusalem is its capital) or with President obama's opposition to the legislation (on the grounds that the city's status should be negotiated between Israel and the Palestinians), the respondents by a nearly 2-to-1 margin (57 to 30%) agree with Congress. The sample also strongly endorses the prime ministry of Ehud Barak: asked if he is headed in the right direction or is off track, it approved of him by an 8-to-1 margin (63 to 8%).

Finally, the poll finds that American Jews are not much focused on Israel. In a question asking about the issues that most concern them, an overwhelming 87% pointed to domestic issues and only 5% to foreign policy ones. This helps explain the not very high level of interest about Israel and the Middle East, with 34% saying they read a "great deal" on these subjects and 58% saying "only somewhat" about them.

This profusion of opinions has four major implications. First, it confirms polling done by the American Jewish Committee since 1993 that points to a toughening of attitudes on the question of the Palestinians. As Yale Zussman concluded in his Middle East Quarterly study of six years of AJC polling, "American Jewry is increasingly wary of a negotiation process that it worries may be a trap for Israel." Second, there is a seeming contradiction between the overwhelming support for Barak himself and for positions that he does not endorse (such as withholding money to the PA). This suggests that while American Jews have high regard for the Israeli prime minister, they are generally not aware of the steps he is taking quite contrary to their own views - a conclusion supported by the fact that only one third of them say they are well-informed about Israel.

Third, these results raise questions about an Israel Policy Forum poll commissioned in July 1999 that found American Jews "supporting] the Israeli-Palestinian peace process" by a 11-to-1 margin (88 to 8%). Well, yes, they do strongly support in principle the idea of Israel finding a way to end Palestinian hostilities against it, but our survey shows they also have strong ideas about how this should be done - and these ideas are much more skeptical than those promoted by the current Israeli leadership.

Fourth, American Jews appear to be less engaged with Israel. Yes, a committed minority continues to follow the news intensely, travel to Israel, lobby Congress, and give money, but growing numbers of American Jews have other things on their minds.

For Israel, this has the utmost importance, given the vital role American Jews have had in the formulation of US policy toward the Middle East. This decline in interest has particular importance at a time when - as shown by the recent Burger King, Sprint, and Disney episodes - Arab and Moslem groups in the United States are finding their voice.



plumbing 101

Barack Obama Visited My House!

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/Lk4X2)

Aaron Taylor asked:


gest thing happened the other day. I know this may sound like a stretch, but Barack Obama actually visited my family to personally elicit our support for him. Let me tell you that the experience was otherworldly. The whole time I'm thinking why is Barack Obama visiting us? I live in a middle class neighborhood and don't have any connections with rich and influential people. What's Barack Obama doing in my house?

Two days later, another bizarre incident happened. After saying goodbye to an old friend that came to visit my wife and me, I looked outside and saw that our visitor had accidentally totaled my car while backing out of the driveway?and then fled the scene of the crime! The next thing I remember happening is I called the local repair shop and guess who answers the phone? Ron Paul! I actually haggled with Ron Paul on the phone for about five minutes only to find out that my car was irreparable. The whole time I'm thinking is it really that easy to get a hold of Ron Paul?

If you find these two stories unbelievable, you can breathe a sigh of relief. The universe is still shifting on its axis. For the record, the above incidents never happened?except for in my dreams?literally. I'm reasonably sure that the whole Barack Obama dream comes from a CNN episode I watched the night before about John McCain's first run for congress where he literally knocked on people's doors to solicit votes. Now as to why Ron Paul is working at a local auto repair shop and living in my aunt's old house, beats me!

It seems like since the start of the Democratic National convention, and the Republican convention that immediately followed, politics has invaded nearly every area of our lives. No matter how hard we try, we just can't seem to escape! Watching bits and pieces of the conventions over the past few weeks, I couldn't help but notice the glitz, the glamour, and the adulation that goes into elevating our political leaders to near godlike status?and how their star-struck fans so easily bask in the glory of their would be saviors.

John McCain's adoring fans seem to believe that if only they can get their guy elected to the White House, righteousness and morality will be restored to the land, America will be spared the horrors of a left-wing socialist panzie?and how could I forget?evil will be defeated. Barack Obama's adoring fans seem to think that all they have to do to end poverty, heal the nation's racial divide, and save the nation from Bible toting war mongers is put a check mark next to a drawing of a donkey in November. Can it really be that simple?

Enter into human history, Jesus of Nazareth. One of the things I love about Jesus is how He refused to be awed by the powers that be of His day. I would love to have been around when Jesus called Herod a fox, or when He referred to the religious leaders?who held a similar position to modern day mullahs in Iran?brood of vipers. Even more, I'd love to have been a peasant in the crowd watching Jesus ride into Jerusalem on a donkey. Author Shane Claiborne in His book Jesus for President compares Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem to a U.S. president riding into the inauguration ceremony on a bicycle. If Claiborne is right, then Jesus was a lot more of a prankster than I've ever imagined Him to be. The question is why would Jesus go out of His way to mock power?

I'm not a psychoanalyst, but I'd be willing to risk a guess. I think that one of the reasons that Jesus came into the world was to crush the all-too-human tendency to look to political rulers for earthly salvation. When Jesus took up a towel to wash His disciples feet, His disciples were offended because they didn't want their master behaving like a slave, but what they failed to realize is that was exactly Jesus' point! In Jesus' value system the powerless is superior to the powerful. Like His mother, Jesus embraced a value system that elevated the poor over the prince, where God puts down the mighty from their seats and elevates the humble (Luke 1:52). Rather than embracing political power to bring about earthly change, which is what Satan tempted Him to do, Jesus put His faith in the upside down Kingdom of God, a Kingdom that puts faith not in the power of the sword, but in the power of self-sacrificial love.

As tempting as it may be to be awed by the power of modern Caesars, followers of Jesus are never to forget that the Word of God tells us not to put our trust in princes (Psalm 146:3). Rather than trusting in the coercive power of the sword to effect moral change in the world, followers of Jesus put their faith in an otherworldly kingdom that rules not with the power of a sword, but with the power of a towel. As eloquent and sincere as they may be, neither McCain nor Obama are going to save the world, let alone America. True power flows from the cross, not from Caesar's throne.



plumbing 101

What Does Barack Obama's Presidency Mean for Internet Marketers?

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/LrKuW)

Dan Dimit asked:


Copyright (c) 2008 Dan Dimit

When it comes to Barack Obama's new economic plan, there are positive and negative aspects. Some parts the plan should help us out as internet marketers. There are other parts that might hurt us. First, let's start with the best news...we internet marketers are a resourceful bunch and we'll probably make sure that everything goes well for our future no matter what.

That reminds me...before I go on, I will stick my opinion where it may or may not belong. Both candidates said "The American people are innocent victims of this financial disaster"...um, are you kidding me? I can't think of a more dangerous thing to say. No one had guns to their heads when they signed those home loans! When American citizens completely stop taking responsibility for their own actions, as the candidates encouraged, then America loses its advantage as the superpower in the world. I know they were trying to win votes, but that's just irresponsible.

My audience—internet marketers and entrepreneurs—will take care of themselves. They don't WANT the government to take care of them. That's how it should be and it's that very attitude that makes them successful and independent to begin with. If everyone thought like and entrepreneur, we, er, the country wouldn't be in this mess in the first place.

Okay, back to economic policy. The most exciting thing for internet marketers in Obama's new economic plan is the deployment of what politicians are calling Next-Generation Broadband. With this plan, Obama wants to bring broadband to every community in America. Overall, this should eventually bring the costs of broadband internet down across the nation. Also, the internet users that are still on dial-up will likely switch over to faster internet, meaning more chances for them to stay on your site instead of clicking away because your graphics are taking too long to load. This happens with flash sites. Overall, with this plan implemented, more of America should spend even more time online, meaning more chances for you to make a sale.

There are a couple of other parts of Obama's economic plan that could turn into positives depending on your market niche. Part of the Obama plan is to issue an emergency energy rebate for $1,000. This rebate is said to be a type of "down payment" for Obama's long-term plan to give middle-class families at least $1,000 per year in tax savings. I'm sure you have heard this statistic: The personal savings rate here in the United States is the lowest that it has been since the Great Depression. We've turned into a society of instant gratification. As much as we would love many Americans to put this extra $1,000 towards savings or debt, I believe most everyone will continue to spend this extra income on whatever they want. So that means there's an extra $1,000 each year that families could use to make even more online purchases.

Another positive in Obama's plan is the tax relief for small businesses and start-up companies. Obama wants to eliminate all capital gains taxes for these businesses in order to encourage the creation of more jobs. Since we work online, most of us don't owe capital gains taxes, but some of us might. A better positive for most all internet marketers is the proposed "Making Work Pay" tax credit which promises a $500 credit to almost every worker in America, which looks like it will include self-employed small business owners.

O.K., now for the negative aspects of Obama's plan: All through the debates you have heard Obama say that nobody making less than $250,000 per year will see a tax increase. He has even been quoted saying that these people should all see a tax cut. Well, what if you are making more than $250,000 per year? What kind of tax increases will this mean? Not all of us internet marketers are making $250,000 per year, but the ones that have turned the internet into a career rather than just a side job or hobby usually do pretty well. The sad thing is that we usually worked daunting schedules for years in order to enjoy a little of this "getting ahead". Now this group of superachievers is being targeted as a cash machine. Obama has said on camera "It's time for folks who make over $250K to pay their fair share". It makes me want to throw up.

What a relief it gives us to look at history and see that no politician has ever kept all of his or her promises.

Now, there is one last part of Obama's plan that I see as a potential negative for internet marketers. He wants to "simplify tax filings for middle class Americans." With this plan, Obama wants to make it so that millions of Americans can get their taxes done in less than five minute. They want to have the IRS use the info it gets from employers and the banks in order to give taxpayers the option of simple pre-filled tax forms that they can simply verify, sign, and return. As internet marketers, we know that there are a lot of tax benefits that come from being self-employed. Some of us work very hard in order to find as many tax deductions that we can. And others pay CPAs big money in order to find even bigger deductions.

If middle class Americans are given the option of getting pre-filled tax forms, I believe a huge majority of them will take it out of laziness, and a large number of these Americans will miss out on tons of legal tax breaks that they could receive for their families. Obama says that this plan can save Americans up to $2 billion in tax preparer fees. But I sit here and think to myself about how much some people save when they do have professionals file their taxes. I'm not a conspiracy theorist, but I think that this could be construed as a perfect plan for the government to issue a lot less refund checks to American citizens. And my main point of negative for this part of Obama's plan is less money for middle class American to spend at your site.

So, what will Obama's economic plan do overall for your business? Well, I believe there are chances to see spikes in sales, but the truth is that we see spikes in sales all the time, anyway. It seems to me that there are really less positives than negatives with Obama's plan. But I think that most of our sales will stay around the same during the Obama regime.

As long as there is a small percentage of entrepreneurs in America, the economy will be fine in the long run and we will figure out for ourselves how to thrive in the short run, in a good or a bad economic climate. Real business minds always rise above the zeitgeist.



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Barack Obama Spotted in New York With Foreign Policy Expert and Presidential Candidate Daniel Imperato at New York 's W Hotel

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/ZD5XQ)

I1connect asked:


The two were then seen entering the elevator escorted by one of Barack Obama's secret service guards.

A potential Obama/Imperato collaboration could be a major force to deal with combining the business savvy of Daniel Imperato with the current celebrity of Barack Obama.

Obama began his rise to celebrity when Jack Ryan dropped out the 2004 Illinois Senate Race and Obama became the winner almost by default. He then went on to deliver an inspiring keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention at John Kerry's request.

Obama has very little to no foreign policy experience and many question his qualifications to lead the country.

Imperato has been embraced by international leaders and has traveled the world learning about US policy and global situations.

Recently, Obama stated to a group of Iowa supporters that he could not handle solving domestic problems while Iraq was still an issue, proving his inability to multitask.

So who was collaborating with whom? Was Obama seeking foreign policy advice from Imperato who is considered one of the foremost experts in foreign policy in the world?

Was Imperato approaching Obama to join the independent movement if he does not win the Democratic nomination?

Ironically, a meeting between Imperato and Obama happened after Obama met with Bill Clinton at a Central Park West fundraiser earlier in the evening before taping his appearance on the David Letterman Show.

Imperato was in New York to attend the Manhattan Libertarian's meeting at the Ukrainian East Restaurant, as well as meet with several key supporters.

Then at approximately 10 am Tuesday morning, Daniel Imperato and Barack Obama were seen walking in unison, from separate elevators, in the lobby of the W Hotel.

Imperato was dressed in casual clothes while Obama was dressed with his suite and tie and was escorted by his Secret Service agent.

The fact that Obama and Imperato went upstairs in unison last evening, and returned to the lobby this morning begs many questions.

Did Imperato and Obama meet all night? Did Obama try to recruit Imperato's support in case the Libertarians do not achieve ballot access in all 50 states?

Or could the Democrats be looking to bring the Libertarians into their party?

For Interviews and Media Inquiries Contact

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I1connect

info@i1connect.com

www.i1connect.com

(561) 515-6177



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Obama in Hawaii

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/E8FG9)

Ernie Fitzpatrick asked:


Hopefully the power outage in Hawaii over the weekend that left Obama in the dark is not some sort of prophecy about his presidency. Barack Obama was without electricity for 12 hours at his vacation home on Oahu following a major blackout across Hawaii's most populous island. What's the odds? 

The outage on Friday night left hundreds of thousands of people, including Obama and his family, in the dark as an electrical storm rolled over Oahu. Residents of Oahu said blackouts, albeit on a much smaller scale, are common. The last major power cut was in 2006, they said. Hawaiian electricity company spokesman Darren Pai said that by 7 a.m. local time, electricity had been restored to about half of the customers affected by Friday's outage.

And the fact that he's about to be the next president of the United States is finally being felt. It's not easy giving up your liberties to be the head hancho of the United States. The media glare, the constant security appendage and the sheer production that has become a morning jog or a hankering for an ice cream cone – it’s been closing in on Barack Obama for some time.

There are disadvantages to being president of the United States.

The president-elect appears increasingly conscious of the confines of his new position, bristling at the routine demands of press coverage and beginning to chafe at boundaries that are only going to get smaller. Obama even took the unusual step Friday morning of leaving behind the pool of reporters assigned to follow him, taking his daughters to a nearby water park without them.

It was a breach of longstanding protocol between presidents (or presidents-elect) and the media, that a gaggle of reporters representing television, print and wire services is with his motorcade at all times. All presidents and would-be presidents struggle with “the bubble” – the security detail and the always-there reporters that impose barriers to any spontaneous interaction with the outside world.

But Obama seems to be struggling particularly hard, particularly early. Welcome to your new life, president-elect.  :-)



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Barack Obama Shirts are a Hit With the Younger Voters

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/xOyBt)

James Smith asked:


When it comes to reaching out to the public Obama can achieve the unity he wants, as a candidate Obama was not even known less than a year ago. However, he was able to use the Internet to connect with millions of young people who are also voters who do not have a TV set or who do not watch the candidates in their debates. Obama has been known as saying we have not even scratched the surface of with this new political landscape, meaning the Internet and the computer users who might not hear from the candidates directly. Obama has not only stayed on track with what he said here over a year ago, but has also gone on to develop plans of how he can enact many of his ideas to make changes if he is elected.

Obama has also maintained a strong stance in all areas of his campaign while focusing on the problems of the country and what changes need to be made. Along with bringing these ideas of change to the Internet user so that they hear it in his words and not in the medias method of telling only parts of what a candidate has to say.

There are many voters that have learned what Barack Obama stands for, what his policy changes would mean to the country and what they can expect if he is elected as the next President of the United States. They have learned all this with their Internet connection on the web without all of the added extras or opinions of the media.

While some people are content watching the televised debates and the local news to form their opinion of who they want to run the country as the Commander and Chief for the next four years. There are many people who know with the Internet this is no longer the best way to make the decision of who they should vote for and to many people information is power. The power to be informed, the power understand just what a candidate plans to change, add and omit during their presidency.

It is only by a voter thoroughly educating themselves about the candidates that they will make the correct decision for which candidate they feel can do the best job of running the country.

The Barack Obama campaign has made this much easier by bringing Obama’s stand on what needs to change in the country to the internet and with this many more young voters know what he stands for. Many voters in general for the first time in many years are getting the unbiased information they need minus the media. Who in many cases decides who they feel should be the proper candidate to win the election and push that agenda and the voters either begin to believe it or they feel they must make a choice with out all the information they need if they are going to be a part of the voting process.

To assist in this campaign the supporters who have heard Obama’s message loud and clear are now wearing t-shirts to help support his continued campaign efforts.

Buy yourself a Barack Obama shirts and help support him in every way possible that will help him get elected as president. You can help support Barack Obama by wearing trendy Barack Obama t-shirts or by making a donation to the campaign. All the Barack Obama designs mentioned here are not official but rather are inspired by who might possibly be one of the most influencial politicians in a long time.



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Published Book Features President-elect Obama as the Choice of the World

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/tLLKy)

Michael McCain asked:


Philip Ephraim publishes how the world outside the United States influenced the results of the 2008 American elections in his self-published book ‘Barack Obama, The Audacity of Being a Global President’.

The book author presents statistical analysis and worldwide events that point to the fact that big and small countries all over the world, enemies of America included, want Obama to emerge as the 44th president of the United States.

Ephraim explains how world economic borders are collapsing, making more and more countries allied with the US.  The author also underscores that people all over the world are hopeful that Obama will make diplomacy a priority, double foreign assistance, build healthy and educated communities, develop markets and reduce poverty.

Philip Ephraim quotes President-elect Barack Obama in his victory speech: “And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces, to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of the world, our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear the world down: We will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security: We support you.”

Obama is not only “president of the country, but of the world,” Philip Ephraim says.  “The world likes Obama and wanted him to win.”

The book author owns Innovative Ventures Group in Philadelphia.  He was formerly a Senior Librarian at the University of Calabar and is a consultant to the African Development Bank and Bobel International and Associate Ltd.

Ephraim has written extensively in international journals.  He is also the author of Barack Obama, The Audacity of Inspiring the World.  His books are published by Xlibris.

For more information, please visit http://ping.fm/0Y03m , e-mail pressrelease@xlibris.com or call at 1-888-795-4247, to receive a free publishing guide.



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Trade Show Emporium to Support President Barack Obama’s Green Movement

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/VbnUA)

Colin Waters asked:


DENVER --- On January 20, 2009, history will be made as Barack Obama will be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States of America, marking one of the most significant events in the country’s 233-year history. The incoming administration will quickly begin its work to solve many issues facing the country and the world.

Included among those challenges, is creating a nationwide standpoint on the importance of becoming more environmentally friendly and conscious. President Obama and his executive staff will employ all available efforts to promote eco-friendly awareness in aspects of business, government and personal life, which will undoubtedly be a considerable challenge for many to completely fulfill. However, it is important to understand the consequences if these objectives are not accomplished.

Trade Show Emporium, an industry leading resource for environmentally friendly trade show displays and products, understands the challenges facing our planet and is making every stride to revolutionize the trade show industry here in America.

Currently the trade show industry, as a whole, ranks second among the United States’ most waste generated industries in the, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Among the many items found in this waste are trade show displays that could have easily been kept from reaching landfills and on to recycling facilities. It is the thousands of cases like this that make it imperative for Trade Show Emporium to devote a larger portion of its resources to the environmental cause.

One measure taken by Trade Show Emporium to combat the wastefulness of the industry, is offering an extensive line of green trade show displays, products and accessories. New green trade show products contain a significant portion of materials that had been recycled, while the entire product itself is 100 percent recyclable at the conclusion of its use.

Since adding the extensive line of green trade show displays in April 2008, Trade Show Emporium has further its other eco-friendly causes to include a display recycling service, display rental program and a 3,500 kilowatt solar panel system. The Denver-based business also works closely with the Green Merchant Alliance and GenGreenLife, both Colorado companies, to purchase renewable energy certificates and educate the public about the environment, respectively.

Unfortunately the efforts of Trade Show Emporium and the Obama Administration can only extend so far. It is the hope that everyone will accept their personal responsibilities to fight climate change and encourage others to make the quality of the environment better for future generations.

For more information regarding Trade Show Emporium’s line of green trade show products and other eco-friendly efforts please visit www.tradeshowemporium.com or call 1-866-764-2968.



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Overeating - Why Barack Obama is Like a Scone

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/Vnzbf)

Liz Copeland asked:


What a year this has been with the US presidential election. Although I'm now steering clear of political analysis, I will just say one thing, and that is Barack Obama is like a scone.

Before I explain that, think about what has been going on here. Any election is about making a choice - in this case McCain or Obama, which does nothing to reflect the subtlety and richness of human experience, or how we would want that reflected in the electoral process and the choices we can make.

But that's how the human mind works, we put things into either/or categories. It has to be one candidate or the other. Once when my daughter was very small I was tucking her up in bed and I asked her if she was a pickle or a poppet. She had a think and said, "I'm a both", which was an honest and intriguing answer! But usually people aren't allowed to be "a both"; they have to be one thing or another.

This categorisation also works with food and leads to poor food choices. Many people classify foods in this either/or way and have a list of foods that are yuck and a list of foods that are yum. The yum list is usually, chocolates, sweets, fast food, and cakes. The yuck list is carrots and broccoli.

Some more sophisticated folks have a healthy list and a naughty list. Again, the naughty list is the cakes, fries and donuts while the healthy list is the broccoli and carrots. Secretly they may actually label these foods yuck and yum but won't admit to it.

This classification system does not allow for the subtleties and richness of food experience. It also severely reduces our food choices, for once we label something as yuck how likely are we to choose it?

So allow yourself to have broader, more generous more varied classifications for food.

So here is my list of rich food experiences:

* Yuck and I'll never eat it (probably most insects and turnips/swedes)

* A bit yuck but I'll eat it if it's prepared right (cabbage)

* Yuck once upon a time but now I like them (most vegetables)

* Yum - a long list including fruits, some veg and wild salmon, organic chicken and my husband's home made pesto sauce

* Yum but only for the first one or two bites (cakes and puddings)

* Super yum (any meal prepared with love)

Once on The Simpsons they had a sliding scale of drunkenness - the top level was labelled "Boris Yeltsin". My list is not as dramatic as that but more useful for making food choices!

So when you are choosing the foods you eat, don't automatically categorise everything into yuck or yum - think about the types of foods you want to eat and how re-labelling might help you make better food choices.

Oh, and why is Barack Obama like a scone? Because a scone is also an either/or thing. A scone is a baked pastry confection (called a biscuit in the US, where confusingly what we call biscuits are called cookies. I hope you're following this).

If you are from the north of England a scone is called a scone to rhyme with Ron. If you are from the south, it's a scone to rhyme with moan. So, Ron or moan, take your pick but it's an either or choice. So Mr Obama, when the election took place, was an either/or choice, and so is like a scone.

And just to continue the culinary theme, over here in the UK McCain is a make of oven chips. But you could call them french fries. Figure that one out!



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