"McCain is running for president of the United States, not the student council. He should stop feigning shock and outrage and start answering some very legitimate questions about his character and his experience." "McCain isn't being mocked, he's being questioned." Sound familiar swiftboat fans?
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Pay attention: The Earth is Changing and we are the last generation positioned to do anything about it. “As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”
Monday, June 30, 2008
Obama speaks on patriotism, remarks by surrogate
Speech encourages individualized acts, ideas of patriotism
Webcast powered by Ustream.TV
During an Independence Day-themed speech describing his take on patriotism, Presumptive nominee Barack Obama (D-IL), cleared up remarks made Sunday by surrogate and Obama military advisor, Ret. Gen. Wesley Clark. He questioned whether McCain's military experience qualified him to be commander-in-chief.
Indirectly but apparently addressing the issue, Sen. Obama said Monday, McCain needs no further proof of his patriotism due to his and other U.S. military member's service to the country--"period, full stop."
He was addressing a group in Independence, MO at the Truman Memorial Building.
Obama also wondered how this country would preserve values while still seeking liberties. He said challenging each other's patriotism is rooted in 40-year-old debates where questioning government ideology or attacking symbols of the country like the flag or war veterans led to charges of unpatriotic behavior.
He said even without the steady hand of a father to guide him or anchoring in any one community while growing up, he still demonstrated his ideology of patriotism.
Speaking from recent experiences, Obama said he has had his own patriotism called into question--an act he will not let stand.
"I'll never question the patriotism of others in this campaign and I will not stand idly by when I hear others question mine," he told the audience.
He said attacking those ideas demonstrates the inability of some to truly understand America.
Quoting famous writer and Missouri native, Mark Twain, Obama said Americans should support their country all of the time and only government, when it deserves it.
In 1926, the Truman Memorial building was erected as a tribute to those who had lost their lives in World War I.
Webcast powered by Ustream.TV
During an Independence Day-themed speech describing his take on patriotism, Presumptive nominee Barack Obama (D-IL), cleared up remarks made Sunday by surrogate and Obama military advisor, Ret. Gen. Wesley Clark. He questioned whether McCain's military experience qualified him to be commander-in-chief.
Indirectly but apparently addressing the issue, Sen. Obama said Monday, McCain needs no further proof of his patriotism due to his and other U.S. military member's service to the country--"period, full stop."
He was addressing a group in Independence, MO at the Truman Memorial Building.
Obama also wondered how this country would preserve values while still seeking liberties. He said challenging each other's patriotism is rooted in 40-year-old debates where questioning government ideology or attacking symbols of the country like the flag or war veterans led to charges of unpatriotic behavior.
He said even without the steady hand of a father to guide him or anchoring in any one community while growing up, he still demonstrated his ideology of patriotism.
Speaking from recent experiences, Obama said he has had his own patriotism called into question--an act he will not let stand.
"I'll never question the patriotism of others in this campaign and I will not stand idly by when I hear others question mine," he told the audience.
He said attacking those ideas demonstrates the inability of some to truly understand America.
Quoting famous writer and Missouri native, Mark Twain, Obama said Americans should support their country all of the time and only government, when it deserves it.
In 1926, the Truman Memorial building was erected as a tribute to those who had lost their lives in World War I.
Michelle Obama has busy summer ahead
Stump speeches and get-out-the-vote rallies are so yesterday. This summer, the primaries finally over, Obama is filling in her schedule with events that underscore her roles as girlfriend and working mom.
read more | digg story
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Group with Clinton connections ready to back Obama
By rights, a group that helped elect Bill Clinton president and counts Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton as one of its leaders should be hostile territory for Barack Obama.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Sunday, June 29, 2008
No Free Pass: Reopening black farmers' suits could cost billions
UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 2, 2010
"The Black farmers’ settlement was also discussed during the interview with Steele stating “… Harry Reid could move this thing in a heartbeat. The President could release $100 million that’s already free and clear in a heartbeat. They haven’t. Republicans are working with John Boyd and the Black farmers to get that done.” Roland responded by explaining that $100 million could be released but that sill would leave $1.4 billion owed to the Black farmers." -Roland S. Martin blog
WASHINGTON (AP) -- When Congress reopened the government's discrimination settlement with black farmers, lawmakers budgeted just $100 million for damages. They probably should have handed over a blank check.
Read more
"The Black farmers’ settlement was also discussed during the interview with Steele stating “… Harry Reid could move this thing in a heartbeat. The President could release $100 million that’s already free and clear in a heartbeat. They haven’t. Republicans are working with John Boyd and the Black farmers to get that done.” Roland responded by explaining that $100 million could be released but that sill would leave $1.4 billion owed to the Black farmers." -Roland S. Martin blog
WASHINGTON (AP) -- When Congress reopened the government's discrimination settlement with black farmers, lawmakers budgeted just $100 million for damages. They probably should have handed over a blank check.
Read more
Buffett: evidence points to worsened economy
Billionaire Warren Buffett has already said he thinks the U.S. economy is in a recession, and now he says the economy is getting worse.
Buffett told CNBC in a live interview last week that all the data he sees from Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiaries shows the economy weakening.
Read more
Buffett told CNBC in a live interview last week that all the data he sees from Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiaries shows the economy weakening.
Read more
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Contrast between GOP and Dem at Latino event jarring
Presumptive Nominee Obama praised
while Nominee McCain nearly jeered off stage by hecklers--akin to Vaudevillian tomato-throwing
There was a day-to-night contrast Saturday morning in Washington D.C. It was between the reception of Presumptive Presidential Nominee, Sen. Barack Obama (D_IL)during his address to the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials and that of Presumptive Presidential Nominee Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), whose speech was marred by numerous hecklers and war protest chants.
The group of respected Latino leaders held a rally of sorts, cheering Obama onto the stage with thunderous, extended, standing ovations and chants of "O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma!"
It was easy to see who had captured the Latino, heart, mind and most importantly, vote.
Sen. Obama addressed the crowd in a Spanish phrase that drew another round of "Obama!" chants, so much so, the address much resembled his fiery rallies.
The audience fell silent at his request and looked to be listening intently to his every word.
"Your silence is consent to war crimes," was repeated over and over as they were ushered out quickly. The label, "war criminal," not hero, was thrust at the Senator. These interruptions were four to five in number. McCain was nearly heckled off of the stage.
Members of the association asked questions about how the GOP can help working and Middle class Americans. McCain accused, "Congress of going on vacation while Americans were getting put out of their homes," in his response, adding a bill backing Federal Housing Authority-funded refinancing bill wasn't passed.
When asked about healthcare costs and availability he suggested a $5,000 across-the-board health care tax credit for those who cross state boarders to get less expensive healthcare. McCain essentially said it was better than nothing and help the small business owner.
McCain said he supported ridding education of "bad teachers" and competition in education (which sounds like voucher system) so that students can go to private school, like his children did.
McCain was praised for his support of the Colombian Free Trade Agreement. He said he was criticized by his party for his work on Iraq policy that was deemed "fragile but working," by the Senator.
He said he wants to improve unemployment insurance benefits and money for retraining through community colleges.
He admitted he wanted to become President to make future generations and service members proud of American involvement in Iraq.
As pointed out by Sen. Obama in his speech, the failed immigration policy both senators worked on together, would have addressed amnesty to three million illegals.
Obama pointed out that McCain walked away from the legislation saying he wouldn't vote for it when pressed by the GOP.
Instead he told the crowd that he has a "20-year history of dealing with border issues."
Obama made the point that no one is looking for government to solve all of its problems but the Latino community has been hit hard by the economy--and John McCain isn't offering the change they need to make it through.
"We cant shift, depending on our politics, to pursuing genuine solutions," he said.
His plan is to secure borders and find exploiters of immigrant labor and bring 12 million illegals to legal status.
Obama's response drew cheers a standing ovation and rhythmic clapping. He called his plan a pathway to leadership.
Obama said during his first 100 days in office he would increase border security, review current processes and said a "wall is
not a solution to the problem."
"Some barriers make sense," he said but improving patrol and the cooperation between federal and local authorities is better.
He said a crackdown on employers exploiting illegals is needed and a pathway to citizenship created. He is in favor of recognizing the break in law when immigrants cross illegally. He wants them to register, pay a fine, go to the back of line and learn English. He said over time, they can earn their citizenship.
He said there should be no bureaucracy of a 10 to 12 year wait or constantly increasing fees to apply for citizenship. He also said working with those Mexican and other economies so their citizens would consider staying.
Obama supports the Dream Act, where every child in America gets equal education, closing health disparity gaps between Whites, Blacks and Latinos and taking some of the Medicaid burden from the states for chronic illness care. He suggested a coalition form during the election to hold congress accountable.
"The HMO (health maintenance organizations) will continue to block reform in this area because they make significant money on it," Obama said.
Under his healthcare plan, there would be equality, in that everyone would buy healthcare from a pool and those who couldn't afford it would be subsidized. Obama said he would curb the high Latino drop-out rate by investing in early education, making sure teachers get the professional development and pay raises needed so that the burden of funding public schools isn't entirely shouldered by local government.
"Government alone won't be able to do it," but it can help start notions of academic achievements early.
Obama said a $4,000 tuition credit every year makes community college essentially free but the money can be used to attend technical college or four-year university.
Mentioning Friday's panel discussion in Pittsburgh, he said if we don't educate effectively, our global economy will decline because of global competitiveness.
A question about the global economy drew Obama back to his days on the South Side of Chicago where he noticed most worked in a steel mill which allowed the American Dream to be in reach but cautioned that scenario is limited now due to automation and jobs being shipped away.
He said his five-point plan to make America competitive brings the answer and that, "getting trade policies right," helps.
"If we rebuild them, not only does it put people back to work it makes us competitive in the long term," the nominee said.
He said 10 percent of military forces are of Latino heritage, while 17 percent are used as frontline forces.
He wants to make sure activity in Iraq is ended responsibly and honorable. He said bringing one to two brigades home a month over 16months, is a solution.
"We have to work with Iraq factions and tell them to work together. Regional players like Iran and Syria need direct talks and applied incentives to gain cooperation.
He said the $10 to $12 billion spent in Iraq should be going to foreign aid in other countries which isn't wise.
He said make sure military personnel and veterans are treated with honor and respect is a priority.
"Now is the time to provide addition tax stimulus. I'd like to
put a couple hundred dollars in pockets of Americans to offset food and fuel prices," he said along with a $1,000 tax credit.
Sen. Obama said Americans have "nothing to fear from today's immigrants," because they come here for hope, like his father did and they're going to enrich the country. He said no one should fear the country being overrun or, "create a servant class in our midst," but only recognize the humanity of immigrants. He said that is the idea of his campaign.
while Nominee McCain nearly jeered off stage by hecklers--akin to Vaudevillian tomato-throwing
There was a day-to-night contrast Saturday morning in Washington D.C. It was between the reception of Presumptive Presidential Nominee, Sen. Barack Obama (D_IL)during his address to the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials and that of Presumptive Presidential Nominee Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), whose speech was marred by numerous hecklers and war protest chants.
The group of respected Latino leaders held a rally of sorts, cheering Obama onto the stage with thunderous, extended, standing ovations and chants of "O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma!"
It was easy to see who had captured the Latino, heart, mind and most importantly, vote.Sen. Obama addressed the crowd in a Spanish phrase that drew another round of "Obama!" chants, so much so, the address much resembled his fiery rallies.
The audience fell silent at his request and looked to be listening intently to his every word.
McCain drew a standing ovation when, after the third interruption, he abruptly ended his speech. The third and fourth round of protesters were loudly escorted from the room. It was unclear if the audience cheered because he ended his speech or to shore up his confidence--because he appeared shaken, jarred and obviously embarrassed. McCain was encouraged by the audience to stay for the question and answer portion which was mostly protest-free--in that one audience member angry about alleged U.S.-based "war crimes," was mostly off microphone."Guerra" and other words in Spanish, was written on blood-colored fabric signs protesters carried. "
"Your silence is consent to war crimes," was repeated over and over as they were ushered out quickly. The label, "war criminal," not hero, was thrust at the Senator. These interruptions were four to five in number. McCain was nearly heckled off of the stage.
Members of the association asked questions about how the GOP can help working and Middle class Americans. McCain accused, "Congress of going on vacation while Americans were getting put out of their homes," in his response, adding a bill backing Federal Housing Authority-funded refinancing bill wasn't passed.
When asked about healthcare costs and availability he suggested a $5,000 across-the-board health care tax credit for those who cross state boarders to get less expensive healthcare. McCain essentially said it was better than nothing and help the small business owner.
McCain said he supported ridding education of "bad teachers" and competition in education (which sounds like voucher system) so that students can go to private school, like his children did.
McCain was praised for his support of the Colombian Free Trade Agreement. He said he was criticized by his party for his work on Iraq policy that was deemed "fragile but working," by the Senator.
He said he wants to improve unemployment insurance benefits and money for retraining through community colleges.
He admitted he wanted to become President to make future generations and service members proud of American involvement in Iraq.
As pointed out by Sen. Obama in his speech, the failed immigration policy both senators worked on together, would have addressed amnesty to three million illegals.
Obama pointed out that McCain walked away from the legislation saying he wouldn't vote for it when pressed by the GOP.
Instead he told the crowd that he has a "20-year history of dealing with border issues."
Obama made the point that no one is looking for government to solve all of its problems but the Latino community has been hit hard by the economy--and John McCain isn't offering the change they need to make it through.
"We cant shift, depending on our politics, to pursuing genuine solutions," he said.
His plan is to secure borders and find exploiters of immigrant labor and bring 12 million illegals to legal status.
Obama's response drew cheers a standing ovation and rhythmic clapping. He called his plan a pathway to leadership.
Obama said during his first 100 days in office he would increase border security, review current processes and said a "wall is
not a solution to the problem."
"Some barriers make sense," he said but improving patrol and the cooperation between federal and local authorities is better.
He said a crackdown on employers exploiting illegals is needed and a pathway to citizenship created. He is in favor of recognizing the break in law when immigrants cross illegally. He wants them to register, pay a fine, go to the back of line and learn English. He said over time, they can earn their citizenship.
He said there should be no bureaucracy of a 10 to 12 year wait or constantly increasing fees to apply for citizenship. He also said working with those Mexican and other economies so their citizens would consider staying.
Obama supports the Dream Act, where every child in America gets equal education, closing health disparity gaps between Whites, Blacks and Latinos and taking some of the Medicaid burden from the states for chronic illness care. He suggested a coalition form during the election to hold congress accountable.
"The HMO (health maintenance organizations) will continue to block reform in this area because they make significant money on it," Obama said.
Under his healthcare plan, there would be equality, in that everyone would buy healthcare from a pool and those who couldn't afford it would be subsidized. Obama said he would curb the high Latino drop-out rate by investing in early education, making sure teachers get the professional development and pay raises needed so that the burden of funding public schools isn't entirely shouldered by local government.
He said changing when standardized achievement dates are set will help teachers become more creative in the classroom and not held back by "teaching to the test." (These objectives move learning and education forward and constitutes the Change people seek.)Obama said funding after-school and summer work programs for at-risk students, adding tutors, redesigning high school curriculum to reflect current needs within industry and investing in early childhood education will work to close the achievement gap.
"Government alone won't be able to do it," but it can help start notions of academic achievements early.
Obama said a $4,000 tuition credit every year makes community college essentially free but the money can be used to attend technical college or four-year university.
Mentioning Friday's panel discussion in Pittsburgh, he said if we don't educate effectively, our global economy will decline because of global competitiveness.
A question about the global economy drew Obama back to his days on the South Side of Chicago where he noticed most worked in a steel mill which allowed the American Dream to be in reach but cautioned that scenario is limited now due to automation and jobs being shipped away.
He said his five-point plan to make America competitive brings the answer and that, "getting trade policies right," helps.
"Trade agreements should be structured to reflect environmental protections and restructured to be good for U.S. workers and not just corporations."Obama proposes $60 billion infrastructure improvement plan to build roads, improve infrastructure, waterways, locks, damns and levies.
Using solar panels and windmill energy and rebuilding the electric grid can create five million new jobs to the country and save energy.
"If we rebuild them, not only does it put people back to work it makes us competitive in the long term," the nominee said.
He said 10 percent of military forces are of Latino heritage, while 17 percent are used as frontline forces.
He wants to make sure activity in Iraq is ended responsibly and honorable. He said bringing one to two brigades home a month over 16months, is a solution.
"We have to work with Iraq factions and tell them to work together. Regional players like Iran and Syria need direct talks and applied incentives to gain cooperation.
He said the $10 to $12 billion spent in Iraq should be going to foreign aid in other countries which isn't wise.
He said make sure military personnel and veterans are treated with honor and respect is a priority.
He wants healthcare parity between Puerto Rico and the state's veteran hospitals. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder cases and mental health issues need to be addressed to stop homelessness among veterans.He said of the mortgage crisis is why unemployment is higher than national average because many Latinos were working in construction. He said stabilizing the housing market in part by the FHA negotiation with lenders so the at-risk borrower can stabilize with a 30 year mortgage. Obama said a crack down on predatory lending and better regulation of credit markets and bank operations is needed.
Looking beyond winning the presidency Obama said changing the way America behaves is bottom up change.
"This election could come down to how many Latinos come out to vote," he said.
"Now is the time to provide addition tax stimulus. I'd like to
put a couple hundred dollars in pockets of Americans to offset food and fuel prices," he said along with a $1,000 tax credit.
Sen. Obama said Americans have "nothing to fear from today's immigrants," because they come here for hope, like his father did and they're going to enrich the country. He said no one should fear the country being overrun or, "create a servant class in our midst," but only recognize the humanity of immigrants. He said that is the idea of his campaign.
Visits to Europe, Middle East round Obama swing
WASHINGTON--Presumptive presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) will meet with British, French and German leaders as part of
overseas travel this summer to also include stops in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Chicago Sun-Times has learned. On Saturday morning, the Obama campaign, confirming the visits to Europe, said Israel and Jordan will also be part of the swing.
Read more
overseas travel this summer to also include stops in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Chicago Sun-Times has learned. On Saturday morning, the Obama campaign, confirming the visits to Europe, said Israel and Jordan will also be part of the swing.Read more
New state law bars sex offenders from social networking Web
GARY -- Registered sex offenders convicted of crimes involving children no longer will be allowed to use social networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook under a new state law that takes effect next week, officials said Friday.
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Friday, June 27, 2008
Unity Music
In honor of today's Unity Rally, I made this music. It is generational--meaning people my age will remember it.
If you noticed, this play list started out being specifically for the rally but I got selfish and way off track today and much of my personal taste in music (eclectic) is present here. I'm part Hippie--just skip the ones you don't like.
It is a shame that I didn't finish this play list until after the event.
I think the Senators looked just great on stage today. Us Democrats are really pulling it together--in spite of what you hear on the news. Average Americans are loving both Barack and Hillary and are glad to see them making steps forward for the country. Here's the story:
UNITY, N.H. - Rivals turned allies, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton made a display of unity Friday in a hamlet named for it, their first joint public appearance since the divisive Democratic primary race ended.
Read more
If you noticed, this play list started out being specifically for the rally but I got selfish and way off track today and much of my personal taste in music (eclectic) is present here. I'm part Hippie--just skip the ones you don't like.
It is a shame that I didn't finish this play list until after the event.
I think the Senators looked just great on stage today. Us Democrats are really pulling it together--in spite of what you hear on the news. Average Americans are loving both Barack and Hillary and are glad to see them making steps forward for the country. Here's the story:
UNITY, N.H. - Rivals turned allies, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton made a display of unity Friday in a hamlet named for it, their first joint public appearance since the divisive Democratic primary race ended.
Read more
Expect gas to hit, surpass $5 a gallon :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
As oil hit $140 a barrel for the first time ever Thursday, analysts say people in markets such as Chicago could pay more than $5 a gallon for gasoline in the near future.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Social Infrastructure: Can We Measure Change?
As fiscal constraints force the federal government to make difficult choices about which programs to fund, a new MacArthur initiative is using research and benefit-cost analysis to strengthen the case for more evidence-based policy making.
The Power of Measuring Social Benefits is a $35 million policy research initiative that seeks to challenge the view that social spending is too often wasteful and ineffective. Its intention is to strengthen the case for social policy making that is more firmly grounded in evidence-of-effectiveness and complementary benefits to recipients and society.
"U.S. leadership is essential to building a better, safer world,”
said MacArthur President Jonathan Fanton in a recent address May 22
to the City Club of Chicago.
“The MacArthur Foundation is hoping for a new day in America’s relations with the world: a spirit of partnership, a willingness to engage, an openness to dialogue, a determination to regain its leadership in setting norms that call forth humankind’s best values,” he said.
However, measuring social mobility was only one of the issues
discussed Thursday at the Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at an Economic Competitiveness Summit.
Presumptive Presidential Candidate (D) Sen. Barack Obama (IL), after addressing the crowd, led a lively and informative panel discussion in how to keep America competitive.
The panel touched on a five-point 21st Century plan developed by Obama that focuses on energy, education, healthcare, infrastructure and innovation.
"These challenges are real. How we deal with them will shape the prosperity of every single American and the future of America's leadership," Obama said.
Members of the panel agreed with the plan in whole, adding that investing in early education to correct the parent knowledge deficit that is often blamed for a child's slow start in kindergarten.
Life decisions made by parents negatively affect children. An education system comparable to private, upper class education is needed.
A panel member observed that intellectualizing the country could help to change the way Americans think about improving social infrastructure. Minds and behaviors have to change about education and teaching in order for the country to move forward.
However, with that, a workforce changing from a service based economy to knowledge based, needs thought and a plan. A panel member said only 8 of the country's 30 fastest growing industries require an education. The panel member did not clarify whether or not those industries are service based or knowledge based.
Obama said school curriculum should match industry needs.
Decisions in healthcare include how to insure the steel industry's workforce and keep its promises to retirees. A U.S. Steel executive said retiree healthcare costs tops $500 million and climbs higher each year, by 10 to 15 percent.
The Power of Measuring Social Benefits is a $35 million policy research initiative that seeks to challenge the view that social spending is too often wasteful and ineffective. Its intention is to strengthen the case for social policy making that is more firmly grounded in evidence-of-effectiveness and complementary benefits to recipients and society.
"U.S. leadership is essential to building a better, safer world,”
said MacArthur President Jonathan Fanton in a recent address May 22
to the City Club of Chicago.
“The MacArthur Foundation is hoping for a new day in America’s relations with the world: a spirit of partnership, a willingness to engage, an openness to dialogue, a determination to regain its leadership in setting norms that call forth humankind’s best values,” he said.
However, measuring social mobility was only one of the issues
discussed Thursday at the Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at an Economic Competitiveness Summit.
Presumptive Presidential Candidate (D) Sen. Barack Obama (IL), after addressing the crowd, led a lively and informative panel discussion in how to keep America competitive.
The panel touched on a five-point 21st Century plan developed by Obama that focuses on energy, education, healthcare, infrastructure and innovation.
"These challenges are real. How we deal with them will shape the prosperity of every single American and the future of America's leadership," Obama said.
Members of the panel agreed with the plan in whole, adding that investing in early education to correct the parent knowledge deficit that is often blamed for a child's slow start in kindergarten.
Life decisions made by parents negatively affect children. An education system comparable to private, upper class education is needed.
A panel member observed that intellectualizing the country could help to change the way Americans think about improving social infrastructure. Minds and behaviors have to change about education and teaching in order for the country to move forward.
However, with that, a workforce changing from a service based economy to knowledge based, needs thought and a plan. A panel member said only 8 of the country's 30 fastest growing industries require an education. The panel member did not clarify whether or not those industries are service based or knowledge based.
Obama said school curriculum should match industry needs.
Decisions in healthcare include how to insure the steel industry's workforce and keep its promises to retirees. A U.S. Steel executive said retiree healthcare costs tops $500 million and climbs higher each year, by 10 to 15 percent.
Barack Obama on Supreme Court decision to strike D.C. handgun ban
I have always believed that the Second Amendment protects the right of individuals to bear arms, but I also identify with the need for crime-ravaged communities to save their children from the violence that plagues our streets through common-sense, effective safety measures. The Supreme Court has now endorsed that view, and while it ruled that the D.C. gun ban went too far, Justice Scalia himself acknowledged that this right is not absolute and subject to reasonable regulations enacted by local communities to keep their streets safe. Today’s ruling, the first clear statement on this issue in 127 years, will provide much-needed guidance to local jurisdictions across the country.
As President, I will uphold the constitutional rights of law-abiding gun-owners, hunters, and sportsmen. I know that what works in Chicago may not work in Cheyenne.We can work together to enact common-sense laws, like closing the gun show loophole and improving our background check system, so that guns do not fall into the hands of terrorists or criminals. Today's decision reinforces that if we act responsibly, we can both protect the constitutional right to bear arms and keep our communities and our children safe.
Still leading in the polls Obama, dems looking to win 2004 battleground states
(CNN) — A set of polls released Thursday shows Barack Obama leading John McCain in four critical battleground states — Michigan, Wisconsin, Colorado and Minnesota.
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Big endorsement, campaign unity on Democratic agenda
(CNN)—The AFL-CIO endorsed Sen. Barack Obama Thursday, kicking one of the broadest grassroots mobilizations in recent history into “high gear.”
Read more
(CNN) — After 17 months of vigorously promoting her own candidacy, Hillary Clinton made her debut on Thursday as an official backer of Barack Obama.
Read more
MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) – Michelle Obama says the country is closer than it's ever been to truly supporting working families, in large part because of her husband's former rival, Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Read more
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(CNN) — After 17 months of vigorously promoting her own candidacy, Hillary Clinton made her debut on Thursday as an official backer of Barack Obama.
Read more
MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) – Michelle Obama says the country is closer than it's ever been to truly supporting working families, in large part because of her husband's former rival, Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Read more
Listen to Barack's I Pod--Sort of
In a refreshing sign that math and hope can just get along, Barack Obama predictably sewed up the delegate count on Tuesday night and defeated Hillary Clinton in what turned out to be a long, contested Democratic primary. And now, for the first time ever, a black man is on track to inhabit the White House, fulfilling Parliament-Funkadelic's dream of turning Washington, D.C., into Chocolate City.
(Say What?!)
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(Say What?!)
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Wednesday, June 25, 2008
On Stands Now...
Shortly after Barack Obama claimed victory in the fight for the Democratic nomination, I joined him aboard his chartered 757 campaign plane as a member of the press corps. He was flying from Chicago to Appleton, Wisconsin, for a town-hall meeting, one of a series he was doing in Midwestern and swing states to address constituencies he might have missed during the primaries — and, of course, to get some warm-up practice for any town-hall debates he has with John McCain.
Barack Obama is on the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine, on stands now. Listen to him, browse his photos and enjoy.
Read More
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Obama leads McCain by 15 points as voters reject Republicans
Presidential Candidate (D)., presumptive, Barack Obama (IL) has opened a 15-point lead in the presidential race, and most of the political trends -- voter enthusiasm, views of President George W. Bush, the Republicans, the economy and the direction of the country -- point to even greater trouble for rival John McCain. No one in this country can afford to vote GOP.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Most Memorable Vacation
I remember when I embarked on a road trip to Florida one year. I stopped for a while in Atlanta, Georgia to experience the state known for it's peaches, pines and boiled peanuts.
Although I didn't use online travel guides during my vacation, I found lots of things to do in Atlanta.
Trusted Tours and Attractions offers discounted tickets to the best sightseeing tours in 23 cities across America.
The city has tons of restaurants abuzz with live band music, colorful people and delicious food. Oh, and don't forget the gorgeous weather!
I could have taken a City Segway Tour of Atlanta, with Trusted Tours and Attractions. It seems the perfect tour for both those new to the city and Atlanta veterans. For the beginners, this tour could offer a fantastic orientation and give an opportunity to see virtually all of the sites you've read about. For the veterans, you'll learn new facts and stories about Atlanta that you've never heard. You'll agree that riding a Segway is the best way to see the 'Capitol of the South'.
Atlanta is the capitol of Georgia. The capitol sits prominently in downtown Atlanta and has one of the most recognized landmarks in the city, the 23 karat gold dome.
Also found in the ATL is the headquarters of Cable News Network or CNN--my favorite news source.
The Bay Area alone is worth a visit to the West Coast to find things to do in San Francisco.
I have always wanted to go there to experience the weather and the people. Lots of the 1960s history occurred there and I would like to visit where the original Hippies were so named.
However, one of my next vacations will be to find things to do in New York!
Madame Tussauds is a dynamic, ever-changing and evolving attraction. New experiences are added regularly and changes are made to existing experiences. Remember their motto: All Celebrities Appear in Wax!
Mix and mingle with A-list and life like celebrities like Nicolas Cage, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, George Clooney, Jennifer Lopez, and Oprah, in Opening Night Party.
Also seen is Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean and Brandon Routh as Superman from Superman Returns!
And, to make you vacation just that more sweet, Trusted Tours & Attractions is also holding a special promotion where a person can win a handheld GPS by signing up for their newsletter. Offer ends June 30th, 2008.
Although I didn't use online travel guides during my vacation, I found lots of things to do in Atlanta.
Trusted Tours and Attractions offers discounted tickets to the best sightseeing tours in 23 cities across America.
The city has tons of restaurants abuzz with live band music, colorful people and delicious food. Oh, and don't forget the gorgeous weather!
I could have taken a City Segway Tour of Atlanta, with Trusted Tours and Attractions. It seems the perfect tour for both those new to the city and Atlanta veterans. For the beginners, this tour could offer a fantastic orientation and give an opportunity to see virtually all of the sites you've read about. For the veterans, you'll learn new facts and stories about Atlanta that you've never heard. You'll agree that riding a Segway is the best way to see the 'Capitol of the South'.
Atlanta is the capitol of Georgia. The capitol sits prominently in downtown Atlanta and has one of the most recognized landmarks in the city, the 23 karat gold dome.
Also found in the ATL is the headquarters of Cable News Network or CNN--my favorite news source.
The Bay Area alone is worth a visit to the West Coast to find things to do in San Francisco.
I have always wanted to go there to experience the weather and the people. Lots of the 1960s history occurred there and I would like to visit where the original Hippies were so named.
However, one of my next vacations will be to find things to do in New York!
Madame Tussauds is a dynamic, ever-changing and evolving attraction. New experiences are added regularly and changes are made to existing experiences. Remember their motto: All Celebrities Appear in Wax!
Mix and mingle with A-list and life like celebrities like Nicolas Cage, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, George Clooney, Jennifer Lopez, and Oprah, in Opening Night Party.
Also seen is Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean and Brandon Routh as Superman from Superman Returns!
And, to make you vacation just that more sweet, Trusted Tours & Attractions is also holding a special promotion where a person can win a handheld GPS by signing up for their newsletter. Offer ends June 30th, 2008.
What grows in my garden?
I have eaten some unidentifiable foliage that was growing in my garden, on at least two occasions.
It is green and looks like dill--which is terrific in salads--but it does not smell nor taste like dill.
It had a peppery taste and wasn't bad but I believe it was the source of some of my stomach ailments this week.
Can you tell me what it is? I thought it was parsley.
The Santita Jackson Show
The topic of White Genetic Annihilation on the Santita Jackson Show
Tuesday was a shot of clarity. Although the show was about myths about black fathers, dispelled, the book,
The Isis Papers: The Keys to the Color by Dr. Frances Cress Welsing, really put it out there. Please go to the link to read an excerpt.
A long time ago when I was in school, I learned that Caucasians have a recessive gene and Africans or Blacks have a dominant gene. It makes sense that most of the world is populated with people of some type of color.
The world is not heavily populated by Caucasoid peoples however what they lack in genetics, they more than make up for in strength, group think, power and cunning. They seem to have ties that bind that appear to keep them in ownership of most of this world's resources.
It helps that many non-traditional Caucasoid people identify
"White"--the grab-bag terminology of the race that is supposed to
identify people of Welsh, Celtic etc. origins, I thought. White is
not exclusive of Mediterranean and Asiatic type blends many times.
They check the "White box" on an application--if they are allowed to do so. The Negroid and Mongoloid races do not check this box.
Background:
The Caucasian race, sometimes called the Caucasoid race, is defined
by the Compact Oxford English Dictionary of Current English as
"relating to a broad division of humankind covering peoples from
Europe, Western Asia, parts of the Indian Subcontinent and North
Africa" or "white-skinned; of European origin" or "relating to the
region of the Caucasus in SE Europe".[3] The concept originated in
attempts chiefly by 19th c. European thinkers to develop a method of racial classification. This typological method was discredited and the concept is not relied on in scientific work related to humans.
The Caucasus comprises Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and part of
Southern Russia (including the disputed territories of Abkhazia,
Chechnya, South Ossetia and Nagorno-Karabakh).
The Caucasus Mountains are commonly reckoned as a dividing line
between Asia and Europe, and territories in Caucasia are variably
considered to be in one or both continents. The northern portion of
the Caucasus is known as the Ciscaucasus and the southern portion as the Transcaucasus. The highest peak in the Caucasus is Mount Elbrus (5,642 m) which, in the western Ciscaucasus in Russia, is generally considered the highest point in Europe.
Back to the Show:
Dr. Frances Cress Welsing, also said she started writing and
researching racism 40 years ago. She said she understands why there is resistance to the subject of white race supremacy.
"People don't want to talk about it. They want to use the word but
not talk about. If you can explain something you can change it," she said.
"If people can understand they, would understand everything that has happened to black people and other people of color--and develop tools to change it," she said.
"It would be like a doctor knowing the word "tuberculosis" but not
understanding the disease tuberculosis. How would he or she treat
it, she asked."
Santita went on with the show asking the audience how to bust the
myths surrounding blacks and the black father.
Tuesday was a shot of clarity. Although the show was about myths about black fathers, dispelled, the book,
The Isis Papers: The Keys to the Color by Dr. Frances Cress Welsing, really put it out there. Please go to the link to read an excerpt.
A long time ago when I was in school, I learned that Caucasians have a recessive gene and Africans or Blacks have a dominant gene. It makes sense that most of the world is populated with people of some type of color.
The world is not heavily populated by Caucasoid peoples however what they lack in genetics, they more than make up for in strength, group think, power and cunning. They seem to have ties that bind that appear to keep them in ownership of most of this world's resources.
It helps that many non-traditional Caucasoid people identify
"White"--the grab-bag terminology of the race that is supposed to
identify people of Welsh, Celtic etc. origins, I thought. White is
not exclusive of Mediterranean and Asiatic type blends many times.
They check the "White box" on an application--if they are allowed to do so. The Negroid and Mongoloid races do not check this box.
Background:
The Caucasian race, sometimes called the Caucasoid race, is defined
by the Compact Oxford English Dictionary of Current English as
"relating to a broad division of humankind covering peoples from
Europe, Western Asia, parts of the Indian Subcontinent and North
Africa" or "white-skinned; of European origin" or "relating to the
region of the Caucasus in SE Europe".[3] The concept originated in
attempts chiefly by 19th c. European thinkers to develop a method of racial classification. This typological method was discredited and the concept is not relied on in scientific work related to humans.
The Caucasus comprises Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and part of
Southern Russia (including the disputed territories of Abkhazia,
Chechnya, South Ossetia and Nagorno-Karabakh).
The Caucasus Mountains are commonly reckoned as a dividing line
between Asia and Europe, and territories in Caucasia are variably
considered to be in one or both continents. The northern portion of
the Caucasus is known as the Ciscaucasus and the southern portion as the Transcaucasus. The highest peak in the Caucasus is Mount Elbrus (5,642 m) which, in the western Ciscaucasus in Russia, is generally considered the highest point in Europe.
Back to the Show:
Dr. Frances Cress Welsing, also said she started writing and
researching racism 40 years ago. She said she understands why there is resistance to the subject of white race supremacy.
"People don't want to talk about it. They want to use the word but
not talk about. If you can explain something you can change it," she said.
"If people can understand they, would understand everything that has happened to black people and other people of color--and develop tools to change it," she said.
"It would be like a doctor knowing the word "tuberculosis" but not
understanding the disease tuberculosis. How would he or she treat
it, she asked."
Santita went on with the show asking the audience how to bust the
myths surrounding blacks and the black father.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Burton snowboards
The 20th anniversary Air legendary freestyle Burton snowboards, makes fun has more affordable. High-performance upgrades include a twin-like shape inspired by the world-renowned custom and super scientific pressure distribution edges for vice-like grip when the mountain looks more like an ice skating rink. No matter what your style or your skills, get it all with the Air and still afford those après pitchers.
Burton has been a leading manufacturer of snowboard gear since the beginning. Burton Snowboards, the world's first snowboard factory, is a rider-driven company solely dedicated to creating the best snowboarding equipment on the planet. Burton's passion is snowboarding, evident by their commitment to involve riders in every step of the product development process.
Burton has been a leading manufacturer of snowboard gear since the beginning. Burton Snowboards, the world's first snowboard factory, is a rider-driven company solely dedicated to creating the best snowboarding equipment on the planet. Burton's passion is snowboarding, evident by their commitment to involve riders in every step of the product development process.
GOP frets Barr could play spoiler in prez race
A fiery former GOP congressman who gained national prominence for doggedly pursuing impeachment of President Clinton has some Republicans worried he'll play spoiler in a tight presidential contest. Bob Barr's Libertarian Party bid for the White House is the longest of long shots, but political experts say he may be able to exploit the unease.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Saturday, June 21, 2008
American infrastructure top priority on Obama's national agenda
McCain is anti-infrastructure a vote for him is a vote against America--literally
Addressing the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Saturday morning in Miami, Presumptive Presidential Nominee (D) Barack Obama
recalled moving to Chicago in 1985 and said much has changed since then and credited Chicago Mayor Richard Daley for the improvements.
Sen. Obama said his presidency would partner with mayors across the country when he gets to the White House because,
"there is a rebirth across the country in our cities."
He will be partnering with them to find new ways to lift their community and that they shouldn't be succeeding despite Washington but instead, with a hand from Washington.
Sen. Obama talked about improving American infrastructure that currently sits at grade "D" by an engineering group.
He said McCain's gas tax holiday takes too much from the highway trust fund and gives it to the oil companies--when said fund is sitting at a deficit.
"(McCain opposed funding levies and flood control programs in the Senate," Obama said.
Obama said the war, among other things, leaves local municipalities like fire and police short staffed. Many are in the National Guard and other military branches keeping our country safe.
Obama also said a national mass transit system is worth the investment.
"Investing in mass transit can help regional economies grow," Obama said, adding that his White House administration will partner in green energy technology besides ports and rail and "it will be green based."
"(I'll) invest in broadband deployment. Every American should have broadband access no matter how much money you have--that will be a priority," he said.
"Now is the time for bold action."
Sen. Obama recalled the presidencies of Thomas Jefferson and Theodore Roosevelt in re-shaping America's future infrastructure objectives.
"In 2008, it falls on us to improve American infrastructure.
It will require major investment from government and others because " government can't do it alone," he said pointing out the leadership of his mayor, Daley.
"You have some measure of astonishing leadership in over two decades...also telling the audience of mayors that his address is a homecoming.
Recalling his days as a grassroots organizer, he noticed even then what Change could accomplish.
"In this country, change comes not from the top down but the bottom up."
He said as an organizer, the mayor's office in Chicago was paramount in achieving their goals.
"It is the mayor's office, people in this country turn to every single day."
Obama said residents may not appreciate the position of mayor until they need to lean on City Hall in the face of disasters, noting the flooding in the Midwest.
"The government people depend on most is the one closest to their community."
Obama said he will focus on growing metropolises across the nation because 42 of those metropolises rank among world's largest growing economies. He said promoting strong cities as the backbone of economic growth is among his many focuses.
"I insist that the White House tackles concentrated poverty in America."
"Strong regions are essential for a strong America, he said."
Obama hinted at a liaison post so that mayors across the country may call the White House and get specific referrals to find resources for their cities.
###
Addressing the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Saturday morning in Miami, Presumptive Presidential Nominee (D) Barack Obama
recalled moving to Chicago in 1985 and said much has changed since then and credited Chicago Mayor Richard Daley for the improvements.
Sen. Obama said his presidency would partner with mayors across the country when he gets to the White House because,
"there is a rebirth across the country in our cities."
He will be partnering with them to find new ways to lift their community and that they shouldn't be succeeding despite Washington but instead, with a hand from Washington.
He said partnering could help fight neglect of cities and that while John McCain is a great patriot, he won't partner with mayors to improve cities.
"(McCain) has opposed the COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services) program and other programs that cities need to improve (quality of life). The old ways of looking at our cities just won't do."
Sen. Obama talked about improving American infrastructure that currently sits at grade "D" by an engineering group.
He said McCain's gas tax holiday takes too much from the highway trust fund and gives it to the oil companies--when said fund is sitting at a deficit.
"(McCain opposed funding levies and flood control programs in the Senate," Obama said.
On contrast, Obama's plan allocates $60 billion over ten years, two million new jobs for his National Infrastructure Improvement Bank--that will funded by money that is currently being used to fund the unending war in Iraq.
Obama said the war, among other things, leaves local municipalities like fire and police short staffed. Many are in the National Guard and other military branches keeping our country safe.
Obama also said a national mass transit system is worth the investment.
"Investing in mass transit can help regional economies grow," Obama said, adding that his White House administration will partner in green energy technology besides ports and rail and "it will be green based."
"(I'll) invest in broadband deployment. Every American should have broadband access no matter how much money you have--that will be a priority," he said.
"Now is the time for bold action."
Sen. Obama recalled the presidencies of Thomas Jefferson and Theodore Roosevelt in re-shaping America's future infrastructure objectives.
"In 2008, it falls on us to improve American infrastructure.
It will require major investment from government and others because " government can't do it alone," he said pointing out the leadership of his mayor, Daley.
"You have some measure of astonishing leadership in over two decades...also telling the audience of mayors that his address is a homecoming.
Recalling his days as a grassroots organizer, he noticed even then what Change could accomplish.
"In this country, change comes not from the top down but the bottom up."
He said as an organizer, the mayor's office in Chicago was paramount in achieving their goals.
"It is the mayor's office, people in this country turn to every single day."
Obama said residents may not appreciate the position of mayor until they need to lean on City Hall in the face of disasters, noting the flooding in the Midwest.
"The government people depend on most is the one closest to their community."
Obama said he will focus on growing metropolises across the nation because 42 of those metropolises rank among world's largest growing economies. He said promoting strong cities as the backbone of economic growth is among his many focuses.
"I insist that the White House tackles concentrated poverty in America."
Sen. Obama's Urban Revitalization Plan concentrates on public private business incubators--which could benefit small business owners and increase their likelihood that contracts come their way.
Besides a fully funded COPS program, educational system, refunding the Community Development Block Grants, Sen. Obama outlined during his message, a program to recruit teachers to cities with incentives like higher salaries--similar to what Daley has done with the Chicago Public School system. He also has a plan of relief for struggling homeowners. Obama also promised to veto in the Senate, any bills struck against those notions.
"Strong regions are essential for a strong America, he said."
Obama hinted at a liaison post so that mayors across the country may call the White House and get specific referrals to find resources for their cities.
###
Strike on Iran could turn Mideast into fireball
The U.N. nuclear watchdog chief warned in comments aired Saturday that any military strike on Iran could turn the Mideast to a "ball of fire" and lead Iran to a more-aggressive stance on its controversial nuclear program.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Reduced sentence for pair who abused boy
A 46 year-old woman, and her husband, 48, both of Northwest Indiana, pleaded guilty to neglect of a dependent, a Class D felony.They whipped their child after he argued with his teacher in school and both parents ended up in trouble with the law.When is it proper to discipline your child?
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Friday, June 20, 2008
Michelle is the new fashion
Editor's Note: I thought this post was cute and true. More women are being seen wearing large pearls, little black sweaters and that gorgeous black belt Michelle has worn. It helps that she could easily walk the runway at 5'11". Fabulous!
"The Wall Street Journal finally discovered our fashion crush on Michelle Obama. And clearly we have plenty of company. Following her appearance on The View (another secret love) women across the nation are flocking to White House/Black Market to buy the $148 dress Michelle wore on the show."
Read more
"The Wall Street Journal finally discovered our fashion crush on Michelle Obama. And clearly we have plenty of company. Following her appearance on The View (another secret love) women across the nation are flocking to White House/Black Market to buy the $148 dress Michelle wore on the show."
Read more
Topping a string of misdeeds, McCain's Friday fundraising event may have run afoul
DNC Files FOIA Request Over McCain's Latest Campaign Impropriety
McCain Campaign Event in Ottawa Runs Afoul of Hatch Act
WASHINGTON, June 20 -- The Democratic National Committee today filed a Freedom of Information Act request with the U.S. Department of State seeking information about possible violations of the Hatch Act in connection to John McCain's events in Ottawa today. The FOIA request follows reports that McCain campaign officials requested assistance in arranging a $100-a-plate luncheon speech from U.S. Ambassador David Wilkins.
According to reports, Senator Lindsey Graham, a McCain campaign co-chair, asked Ambassador Wilkins "for advice about logistics, venues and cities" for the event. Ambassador Wilkins also reportedly contacted a Canadian business leader to help sell tickets to the event. McCain's appearance is a campaign event being paid for by his campaign. The Hatch Act forbids U.S. Ambassadors from engaging in any partisan activity whatsoever on foreign soil. The DNC today called on the State Department to turn over all records related to Senator McCain's visit.
Today's report follows news this week that Senator McCain has refused to reimburse a private company for the use of its corporate jet. Senator McCain is also skirting the law by unilaterally withdrawing from the primary funds program after using the promise of taxpayer money to secure a loan and gain free ballot access. Earlier this year, outside groups filed another FEC complaint related to Senator McCain's fundraiser in London's Spencer House in April.
"By apparently running afoul of the Hatch Act during his trip to Canada today, it appears that Senator McCain is once again putting his political aspirations ahead of following the law," said DNC spokeswoman Karen Finney. "Between his refusal to pay for his campaign's use of a corporate jet and his illegally attempting to withdraw from the primary funds program, this is becoming a disturbing pattern of impropriety on the part of Senator McCain and his campaign. How can the American people trust John McCain if he is unwilling to follow the law when it gets in the way of his political aspirations?"
Copy of the FOIA Request
MCCAIN AND THE LAW
SKIRTING THE HATCH ACT...
McCain Campaign Asked Ambassador to Skirt Hatch Act. "A Canadian newspaper reported Thursday that Friday's scheduled $100-a-plate luncheon speech by Sen. John McCain in Ottawa was organized in part by U.S. Ambassador David Wilkins, a former South Carolina lawmaker whom President Bush appointed in 2005... The article in the Edmonton Sun, and an earlier one in the Globe and Mail, says that Wilkins contacted Thomas d'Aquino, the president of the Canadian Council of Chief Executives, to help set up what they described as a fundraiser before McCain's visit. McCain is scheduled to give a speech at the Chateau Laurier Hotel and to meet with several Canadian officials... The Hatch Act circumscribes political activity for government employees. According to the American Foreign Service Association Web site, the State Department's ethics office prohibits fundraising activities for its presidential appointees." The Trail blog, Washington Post, 6/19/08
McCain Campaign Approached Canadians Seeking Visit & CEO Reception Hosts. Two weeks ago, U.S. Ambassador David Wilkins telephoned big-business lobbyist Tom d'Aquino, head of the Canadian Council of Chief Executives. Wilkins had been contacted by the McCain campaign about a Canadian visit, and the ambassador wanted to know if some of d'Aquino's group of corporate chief executives might be interested in meeting the Republican presidential candidate. Almost instantly, d'Aquino jumped at the opportunity, and an additional $100-a-plate luncheon organized by the Economic Club of Canada sold out in 30 minutes with tickets now reselling at up to $1,000 a pop. Edmonton Sun, 6/19/08
Coming to Canada McCain's Choice; Visit Arranged By Lindsey Graham Who Passed Word that McCain Was Interested in Coming to Canada. Mr. McCain's visit came together very quickly. About two weeks ago, his organization contacted the Economic Club of Canada, whose president, Mark Adler, has strong business connections. Coming to Ottawa was the McCain organization's choice, club spokeswoman Nicolee Tattersall says. As well, the U.S. ambassador to Canada, David Wilkins, who is from South Carolina, is a close friend of South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, who is very close with Mr. McCain. According to the U.S. source, Mr. Graham called the ambassador to tell him that Mr. McCain was interested in coming to Canada. He asked for advice about logistics, venues and cities that would be appropriate for the presidential nominee. Globe & Mail, 6/13/08
MISUSE OF CORPORATE JETS...
Wall Street Journal: McCain Campaign Fails to Reimburse For Up To Four Campaign Flights. "She used the jet on several trips last year that included campaign-related activity but never got campaign reimbursement, according to flight-tracking records and campaign-finance reports verified by the McCain campaign. At the New York fund-raiser, she spoke on stage, warming up the audience for her husband. If the campaign had paid for Mrs. McCain's trip to New York and three others that appear to have included some campaign work, it would likely have cost a total of about $15,000, the equivalent of first-class fare for the trips combined." Wall Street Journal, 6/18/08
Republican Expert: McCain Should Have Paid for the Flights. "Jan Baran, a Republican campaign lawyer, said the campaign should have paid. 'I don't know why they want to fight it,' he said. 'The chutzpah is not that they're not paying for this trip, it's that they're using a corporate airplane at a highly discounted rate.'" Wall Street Journal, 6/18/08:
New York Times: McCain Used Unresolved Loophole in His Own Reform Law to Get Discounted Flights. "Mr. McCain's campaign paid a total of $241,149 for the use of that plane from last August through February, records show. That amount is approximately the cost of chartering a similar jet for a month or two, according to industry estimates. The senator was able to fly so inexpensively because the law specifically exempts aircraft owned by a candidate or his family or by a privately held company they control. The Federal Election Commission adopted rules in December to close the loophole -- rules that would have required substantial payments by candidates using family-owned planes -- but the agency soon lost the requisite number of commissioners needed to complete the rule making. Because that exemption remains, Mr. McCain's campaign was able to use his wife's corporate plane like a charter jet while paying first-class rates, several campaign finance experts said. Several of those experts, however, added that his campaign's actions, while keeping with the letter of law, did not reflect its spirit." New York Times, 4/27/08
SKIRTING THE FEC...
FEC Did Not Grant McCain Permission To Withdraw From Public Financing System in the Primary. According to the Washington Post, "The nation's top federal election official told Sen. John McCain yesterday that he cannot immediately withdraw from the presidential public financing system as he had requested, a decision that threatens to dramatically restrict his spending until the general election campaign begins in the fall... Mason notified McCain that the commission had not granted his Feb. 6 request to withdraw from the presidential public financing system." [Washington Post, 2/22/08]
FEC Raised Questions About A Loan the McCain Received. According to the Associated Press, "The government's top campaign finance regulator says John McCain can't drop out of the primary election's public financing system until he answers questions about a loan he obtained to kickstart his once faltering presidential campaign... Federal Election Commission Chairman David Mason, in a letter to McCain this week, said the all-but-certain Republican nominee needs to assure the commission that he did not use the promise of public money to help secure a $4 million line of credit he obtained in November." [AP/MSNBC, 2/21/08]
THE SPENCER HOUSE FUNDRAISER...
Judicial Watch Files Complaint Over London Fundraiser. "Judicial Watch, the public interest group that investigates and prosecutes government corruption, announced today that it filed a formal complaint, dated April 22, 2008, with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) related to a fundraising luncheon held at London's Spencer House to benefit Senator John McCain's presidential campaign. The venue for the event was apparently donated to the campaign by foreign nationals, in violation of federal campaign finance laws." Judicial Watch release, 4/24/08
McCain Campaign Event in Ottawa Runs Afoul of Hatch Act
WASHINGTON, June 20 -- The Democratic National Committee today filed a Freedom of Information Act request with the U.S. Department of State seeking information about possible violations of the Hatch Act in connection to John McCain's events in Ottawa today. The FOIA request follows reports that McCain campaign officials requested assistance in arranging a $100-a-plate luncheon speech from U.S. Ambassador David Wilkins.
According to reports, Senator Lindsey Graham, a McCain campaign co-chair, asked Ambassador Wilkins "for advice about logistics, venues and cities" for the event. Ambassador Wilkins also reportedly contacted a Canadian business leader to help sell tickets to the event. McCain's appearance is a campaign event being paid for by his campaign. The Hatch Act forbids U.S. Ambassadors from engaging in any partisan activity whatsoever on foreign soil. The DNC today called on the State Department to turn over all records related to Senator McCain's visit.
Today's report follows news this week that Senator McCain has refused to reimburse a private company for the use of its corporate jet. Senator McCain is also skirting the law by unilaterally withdrawing from the primary funds program after using the promise of taxpayer money to secure a loan and gain free ballot access. Earlier this year, outside groups filed another FEC complaint related to Senator McCain's fundraiser in London's Spencer House in April.
"By apparently running afoul of the Hatch Act during his trip to Canada today, it appears that Senator McCain is once again putting his political aspirations ahead of following the law," said DNC spokeswoman Karen Finney. "Between his refusal to pay for his campaign's use of a corporate jet and his illegally attempting to withdraw from the primary funds program, this is becoming a disturbing pattern of impropriety on the part of Senator McCain and his campaign. How can the American people trust John McCain if he is unwilling to follow the law when it gets in the way of his political aspirations?"
Copy of the FOIA Request
MCCAIN AND THE LAW
SKIRTING THE HATCH ACT...
McCain Campaign Asked Ambassador to Skirt Hatch Act. "A Canadian newspaper reported Thursday that Friday's scheduled $100-a-plate luncheon speech by Sen. John McCain in Ottawa was organized in part by U.S. Ambassador David Wilkins, a former South Carolina lawmaker whom President Bush appointed in 2005... The article in the Edmonton Sun, and an earlier one in the Globe and Mail, says that Wilkins contacted Thomas d'Aquino, the president of the Canadian Council of Chief Executives, to help set up what they described as a fundraiser before McCain's visit. McCain is scheduled to give a speech at the Chateau Laurier Hotel and to meet with several Canadian officials... The Hatch Act circumscribes political activity for government employees. According to the American Foreign Service Association Web site, the State Department's ethics office prohibits fundraising activities for its presidential appointees." The Trail blog, Washington Post, 6/19/08
McCain Campaign Approached Canadians Seeking Visit & CEO Reception Hosts. Two weeks ago, U.S. Ambassador David Wilkins telephoned big-business lobbyist Tom d'Aquino, head of the Canadian Council of Chief Executives. Wilkins had been contacted by the McCain campaign about a Canadian visit, and the ambassador wanted to know if some of d'Aquino's group of corporate chief executives might be interested in meeting the Republican presidential candidate. Almost instantly, d'Aquino jumped at the opportunity, and an additional $100-a-plate luncheon organized by the Economic Club of Canada sold out in 30 minutes with tickets now reselling at up to $1,000 a pop. Edmonton Sun, 6/19/08
Coming to Canada McCain's Choice; Visit Arranged By Lindsey Graham Who Passed Word that McCain Was Interested in Coming to Canada. Mr. McCain's visit came together very quickly. About two weeks ago, his organization contacted the Economic Club of Canada, whose president, Mark Adler, has strong business connections. Coming to Ottawa was the McCain organization's choice, club spokeswoman Nicolee Tattersall says. As well, the U.S. ambassador to Canada, David Wilkins, who is from South Carolina, is a close friend of South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, who is very close with Mr. McCain. According to the U.S. source, Mr. Graham called the ambassador to tell him that Mr. McCain was interested in coming to Canada. He asked for advice about logistics, venues and cities that would be appropriate for the presidential nominee. Globe & Mail, 6/13/08
MISUSE OF CORPORATE JETS...
Wall Street Journal: McCain Campaign Fails to Reimburse For Up To Four Campaign Flights. "She used the jet on several trips last year that included campaign-related activity but never got campaign reimbursement, according to flight-tracking records and campaign-finance reports verified by the McCain campaign. At the New York fund-raiser, she spoke on stage, warming up the audience for her husband. If the campaign had paid for Mrs. McCain's trip to New York and three others that appear to have included some campaign work, it would likely have cost a total of about $15,000, the equivalent of first-class fare for the trips combined." Wall Street Journal, 6/18/08
Republican Expert: McCain Should Have Paid for the Flights. "Jan Baran, a Republican campaign lawyer, said the campaign should have paid. 'I don't know why they want to fight it,' he said. 'The chutzpah is not that they're not paying for this trip, it's that they're using a corporate airplane at a highly discounted rate.'" Wall Street Journal, 6/18/08:
New York Times: McCain Used Unresolved Loophole in His Own Reform Law to Get Discounted Flights. "Mr. McCain's campaign paid a total of $241,149 for the use of that plane from last August through February, records show. That amount is approximately the cost of chartering a similar jet for a month or two, according to industry estimates. The senator was able to fly so inexpensively because the law specifically exempts aircraft owned by a candidate or his family or by a privately held company they control. The Federal Election Commission adopted rules in December to close the loophole -- rules that would have required substantial payments by candidates using family-owned planes -- but the agency soon lost the requisite number of commissioners needed to complete the rule making. Because that exemption remains, Mr. McCain's campaign was able to use his wife's corporate plane like a charter jet while paying first-class rates, several campaign finance experts said. Several of those experts, however, added that his campaign's actions, while keeping with the letter of law, did not reflect its spirit." New York Times, 4/27/08
SKIRTING THE FEC...
FEC Did Not Grant McCain Permission To Withdraw From Public Financing System in the Primary. According to the Washington Post, "The nation's top federal election official told Sen. John McCain yesterday that he cannot immediately withdraw from the presidential public financing system as he had requested, a decision that threatens to dramatically restrict his spending until the general election campaign begins in the fall... Mason notified McCain that the commission had not granted his Feb. 6 request to withdraw from the presidential public financing system." [Washington Post, 2/22/08]
FEC Raised Questions About A Loan the McCain Received. According to the Associated Press, "The government's top campaign finance regulator says John McCain can't drop out of the primary election's public financing system until he answers questions about a loan he obtained to kickstart his once faltering presidential campaign... Federal Election Commission Chairman David Mason, in a letter to McCain this week, said the all-but-certain Republican nominee needs to assure the commission that he did not use the promise of public money to help secure a $4 million line of credit he obtained in November." [AP/MSNBC, 2/21/08]
THE SPENCER HOUSE FUNDRAISER...
Judicial Watch Files Complaint Over London Fundraiser. "Judicial Watch, the public interest group that investigates and prosecutes government corruption, announced today that it filed a formal complaint, dated April 22, 2008, with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) related to a fundraising luncheon held at London's Spencer House to benefit Senator John McCain's presidential campaign. The venue for the event was apparently donated to the campaign by foreign nationals, in violation of federal campaign finance laws." Judicial Watch release, 4/24/08
FBI Sweep Reveals New Twists to Mortgage Fraud
The FBI has arrested more than 400 people in a sweep that's revealed a broad array of alleged mortgage scams across the country. Some alleged schemes involved real-estate twists on identity theft; others preyed on those facing foreclosure.
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On campaign financing: Obama
In Florida, looking for a smart energy strategy, questions Friday
about opting out of public funds use in his campaign cropped up
during Sen. Obama's session with reporters.
Sen. Obama doesn't want special interest money--and that is history
making.
"(To)free ourselves from dependence on special interest and lobbyists,"
is the reason for a decision not to use public funds--which are a mix of sometimes unidentifiable funding sources.
"That is not a recipe for reform," Obama told reporters.
So what is all of the fuss about? Obama is still committed to fixing the system. John McCain wants to limit however, the amount of funding Obama gets to use.
Republicans don't want Obama to get his message out--the message of
Change in states that traditionally are GOP territory--according to Jack Cafferty--sort of.
Sen. Obama made his comments from Jacksonville, FL after addressing a group there.
It looks like Sen. Obama is in it to win it.
When it was advantageous to McCain, he considered opting out of the
public finance system but I guess he changed his mind.
Sen. Obama also wondered aloud why McCain talked about trade Friday in Canada instead of Ohio or Michigan. Retooling NAFTA was an issue during the February Democratic debate co-moderated by the late Tim Russert.
We all have our own road to achieveing the American Dream.
"I come to politics because my own story. I wasn't born into wealth or privilege but was given extraordinary opportunity...the country allows you to make it if you try. I think it is the essence of the American dream and I think that dream is slipping away. It is the American Dream we are fighting for in this election," Sen. Obama said.
about opting out of public funds use in his campaign cropped up
during Sen. Obama's session with reporters.
Sen. Obama doesn't want special interest money--and that is history
making.
"(To)free ourselves from dependence on special interest and lobbyists,"
is the reason for a decision not to use public funds--which are a mix of sometimes unidentifiable funding sources.
"That is not a recipe for reform," Obama told reporters.
So what is all of the fuss about? Obama is still committed to fixing the system. John McCain wants to limit however, the amount of funding Obama gets to use.
Republicans don't want Obama to get his message out--the message of
Change in states that traditionally are GOP territory--according to Jack Cafferty--sort of.
Sen. Obama made his comments from Jacksonville, FL after addressing a group there.
It looks like Sen. Obama is in it to win it.
When it was advantageous to McCain, he considered opting out of the
public finance system but I guess he changed his mind.
Sen. Obama also wondered aloud why McCain talked about trade Friday in Canada instead of Ohio or Michigan. Retooling NAFTA was an issue during the February Democratic debate co-moderated by the late Tim Russert.
We all have our own road to achieveing the American Dream.
"I come to politics because my own story. I wasn't born into wealth or privilege but was given extraordinary opportunity...the country allows you to make it if you try. I think it is the essence of the American dream and I think that dream is slipping away. It is the American Dream we are fighting for in this election," Sen. Obama said.
Watch Sen. Obama live!
Webcast by Ustream.TV
Obama, Clinton back together again
CHICAGO - Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama's campaign announced Friday that he will campaign with former rival Hillary Rodham Clinton next week, a step toward unifying a fractured Democratic Party after a bruising primary fight.
Obama's campaign said in a brief e-mail that said the two senators and former opponents will campaign together for the first time on Friday, June 27, and more details would be forthcoming.
Read more
Obama, Clinton back together again
CHICAGO - Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama's campaign announced Friday that he will campaign with former rival Hillary Rodham Clinton next week, a step toward unifying a fractured Democratic Party after a bruising primary fight.
Obama's campaign said in a brief e-mail that said the two senators and former opponents will campaign together for the first time on Friday, June 27, and more details would be forthcoming.
Read more
Pregnant with possibilities?
It seems a group of teen girls living near Boston made a pact to get pregnant around the same time and raise their babies together.
There are about 17 girls pregnant at the school where normally there would only be four per year.
School officials investigated and found out about the scheme.
Officials at the school health clinic became suspicious when the girls in question kept going to the clinic for multiple pregnancy tests and seemed disappointed when they came out negative.
One of the girls said she got pregnant by a "24-year-old homeless guy.
The school superintendent said the girls are generally girls who lack self esteem and love in their lives.
Seriously? Girls want to be teen mothers?
They must be well-off.
This story can be read in Time magazine or go to cnn.com to read about it.
There are about 17 girls pregnant at the school where normally there would only be four per year.
School officials investigated and found out about the scheme.
Officials at the school health clinic became suspicious when the girls in question kept going to the clinic for multiple pregnancy tests and seemed disappointed when they came out negative.
One of the girls said she got pregnant by a "24-year-old homeless guy.
The school superintendent said the girls are generally girls who lack self esteem and love in their lives.
Seriously? Girls want to be teen mothers?
They must be well-off.
This story can be read in Time magazine or go to cnn.com to read about it.
LA Police Gear
L.A. Police Gear, Inc. was founded by Los Angeles area Police Officers. While you might think because of the web site name that they only sell to cops, that is not the case at all. They sell to everyone!
They sell tactical gear, The Surefire flashlight brand, Under Armor, Galco holsters and more.
They also have Luminox watches--the brand you need in low-light situations.
Using a Swiss, self-powered illumination system,making watches more visible and easier to read in low or no light situations.
If you are a procurement officer or if you have a large order please go to our purchase order area (left edge of screen) or call us at the above number.
LA Police Gear Inc is listed in the DoD CCR system and is classified as a small business - woman owned.
They provide support in operations worldwide. Concact them if your operation is "off the books" and you need gear for logistical support.
They take into consideration that shipping to active duty personnel can be difficult at times and claim several years of experience in the area, keep up to date with the latest requirements of the military mail system.
If you are at an APO or FPO address they can ship to you. Select USPS Priority Mail as your shipping option during check-out. LA Police Gear will ship your order via USPS Priority Mail.
They sell tactical gear, The Surefire flashlight brand, Under Armor, Galco holsters and more.
They also have Luminox watches--the brand you need in low-light situations.
Using a Swiss, self-powered illumination system,making watches more visible and easier to read in low or no light situations.
If you are a procurement officer or if you have a large order please go to our purchase order area (left edge of screen) or call us at the above number.
LA Police Gear Inc is listed in the DoD CCR system and is classified as a small business - woman owned.
They provide support in operations worldwide. Concact them if your operation is "off the books" and you need gear for logistical support.
They take into consideration that shipping to active duty personnel can be difficult at times and claim several years of experience in the area, keep up to date with the latest requirements of the military mail system.
If you are at an APO or FPO address they can ship to you. Select USPS Priority Mail as your shipping option during check-out. LA Police Gear will ship your order via USPS Priority Mail.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Barack Obama: LAY OFF MY FAMILY!
On the same day that former GOP presidential contender Mike Huckabee told his party that demonizing Barack Obama is a 'fatal mistake,' Obama told a reporter from CBN news that the GOP needs to lay off his family. Click to read part of the transcript below and watch the interview. Obama told CBN News that he is deeply disappointed that John McCain has not spoken out against political
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Two opposing views on Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama aced daytime TV's First Lady test Wednesday with fist-bumping flair and an off-the-rack dress - charming the leading ladies of ABC's "The View" and their audience.
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Barack Obama, you've got a girlie problem. Would-be first wife Michelle Obama waded into "The View" yesterday, where the tall Harvard-bred lawyer and mommy proved the Obamas are not Muslim. She also called her hubby, the presidential candidate, (Woopie said "em-pathetic,") and divulged that she doesn't wear pantyhose...(This woman has described Southside-of-Chicago born and raised, basketball-playing Michelle Obama as a "Harvard-bred lawyer". Did she not read the woman's bio first? I bet she has never even been to the Southside of Chicago. I know she can read. READ MICHELLE'S BIO FIRST, THEN WRITE.)
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...and since we're passing nasty, catty comments (see previous story) guess what else I heard whilst in New York...
June 16, 2008 -- Mayor Bloomberg is a nasty, untrustworthy, tan trum-prone liar who "has little use" for average New Yorkers - like the 1,500 workers who would have lost their jobs had OTB closed, a furious Gov. Paterson has said privately...
Read more
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Barack Obama, you've got a girlie problem. Would-be first wife Michelle Obama waded into "The View" yesterday, where the tall Harvard-bred lawyer and mommy proved the Obamas are not Muslim. She also called her hubby, the presidential candidate, (Woopie said "em-pathetic,") and divulged that she doesn't wear pantyhose...(This woman has described Southside-of-Chicago born and raised, basketball-playing Michelle Obama as a "Harvard-bred lawyer". Did she not read the woman's bio first? I bet she has never even been to the Southside of Chicago. I know she can read. READ MICHELLE'S BIO FIRST, THEN WRITE.)
read more | digg story
...and since we're passing nasty, catty comments (see previous story) guess what else I heard whilst in New York...
June 16, 2008 -- Mayor Bloomberg is a nasty, untrustworthy, tan trum-prone liar who "has little use" for average New Yorkers - like the 1,500 workers who would have lost their jobs had OTB closed, a furious Gov. Paterson has said privately...
Read more
Ethel Kennedy to host $6 million dinner for Barack Obama
Ethel Kennedy, the widow of Senator Robert Kennedy, is opening her Hickory Hill home in Virginia for a fundraiser featuring Barack Obama that is expected to swell Democratic campaign coffers by almost $6 million.
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"MRS. O's NY GLAMOUR NIGHT" vs "Barack Obama's Stellar fundraiser"
GALA FUND-RAISERS -Michelle Obama wore pearls - and made New York her oyster - as she hobnobbed with the city's couture royalty at back-to-back, swanky Democratic fund-raisers last night.
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LL Cool J and wife Simone were spotted heading Barack Obama’s stellar fundraiser hosted by Calvin Klein and Andre Leon Talley - whom according to the NY Post, has expressed an interest in outfitting Michelle Obama.
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LL Cool J and wife Simone were spotted heading Barack Obama’s stellar fundraiser hosted by Calvin Klein and Andre Leon Talley - whom according to the NY Post, has expressed an interest in outfitting Michelle Obama.
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Obama Opts Out of Public Campaign Funds
Sen. Barack Obama said Thursday he will not dip into the federal public financing system in the general election. A candidate not accepting public funds during a presidential election has never been previously noted.
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Bear Stearns Hedge Fund Managers Arrested
"Two former Bear Stearns hedge fund managers were arrested Thursday morning and are expected to be indicted on charges of securities fraud as part of a yearlong federal investigation into the mortgage crisis, officials close to the investigation told NPR." Who in wall st. will be next?
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Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Obama says bin Laden must not be a martyr
Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama said Wednesday he would bring Osama bin Laden to justice in a way that wouldn't allow the terrorist mastermind to become a martyr, but he may be killed if the U.S. government finds him.
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Huckabee: Demonizing Obama is a "Fatal Mistake"
Former GOP presidential contender Mike Huckabee called Barack Obama's candidacy "a landmark achievement" Tuesday, and warned fellow Republicans not to demonize Obama. "Republicans will make a fundamental if not fatal mistake if they seek to win the election by demonizing Barack Obama,"
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Video: Michelle Obama wows View hosts, fans and audience
Isn't she pretty? She is very youthful too--doesn't look her age at all.
In all, this was a pretty good segment of the View. Mrs. Obama really fit in well with the View Crew and made magnificent points.
Go Michelle!
In all, this was a pretty good segment of the View. Mrs. Obama really fit in well with the View Crew and made magnificent points.
Go Michelle!
SWOT Analysis for Barack Obama
Mirror on America has utilized a common biz analysis tool: Strengths - Weakness - Opportunities - Threats in examining the Sen. Barack Obama's chances in the Fall election. Good insight into potential roadblocks and highlights strengths he needs to capatialize on.
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Journalism isn't blogging, and blogging isn't journalism
A journalist is a member of the public who dedicates his or her working hours to researching, reporting and writing information relevant to his or her community. This idea is learned day one in the first j-class.Public information gatherers, they are. People are most interested in what is going on around them--using it to make informed decisions.
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Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Obama Campaigns on Capitol Hill
Presumed Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama is launching an aggressive Capitol Hill campaign to bring former supporters of vanquished primary rival Hillary Rodham Clinton fully into his camp.
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Related news story
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Related news story
Michelle And Barack Obama Land Cover Of Us Weekly
The Obama's "Love Story" is featured in this month's issue of Us Weekly. The picture-perfect pair are further establishing their crossover appeal as both political and entertainment figures.
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"I'll take no lectures from Republicans"--Obama fires at the GOP
WASHINGTON - Democrat Barack Obama says he'll take no lectures from Republicans on who will keep America safer. GOP rival John McCain's campaign criticized Obama Tuesday for speaking approvingly of the successful prosecution of terrorists.
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Monday, June 16, 2008
Vista Print
When sending lots of correspondence, address stamps are a useful tool.
Unless your envelopes are supposed to be hand written, it's quicker and easier to take an address stamp and put it on the corner of the envelope and be done with it.
Another good thing is going to Vista Print for all of your printing needs.
It's a whole lot easier to go to the Vista Print web site and pick the items you want and have them shipped to you rather than gas up the vehicle and go trudging throughout the malls looking for things like business cards, address stamps, checks, rubber stamps, announcements, and car magnets!
Matter of fact, I'd be hard pressed to know exactly where to go in the mall to find printing and correspondence materials.
Having these items is essential in conducting business and helping you become more productive is what Vista Print is all about.
I should know because I have gotten two sets of business cards from them. I also ordered an ink pen with a colorful design and my website's logo on it. The pen was so attractive that it kept getting away from me.
Now, I have to order another one. Okay, more than one.
Unless your envelopes are supposed to be hand written, it's quicker and easier to take an address stamp and put it on the corner of the envelope and be done with it.
Another good thing is going to Vista Print for all of your printing needs.
It's a whole lot easier to go to the Vista Print web site and pick the items you want and have them shipped to you rather than gas up the vehicle and go trudging throughout the malls looking for things like business cards, address stamps, checks, rubber stamps, announcements, and car magnets!
Matter of fact, I'd be hard pressed to know exactly where to go in the mall to find printing and correspondence materials.
Having these items is essential in conducting business and helping you become more productive is what Vista Print is all about.
I should know because I have gotten two sets of business cards from them. I also ordered an ink pen with a colorful design and my website's logo on it. The pen was so attractive that it kept getting away from me.
Now, I have to order another one. Okay, more than one.
On top of the World! Sen. Obama gives his Best Speech Ever!
Sen. Barack Obama gave one of his most powerful speeches ever on Monday night in front of about 22,000 people at a rally in Detroit Michigan.
Al Gore gave a rousing endorsement that lead into a speech that ensured Americans that their futures are solid in Sen. Obama's hands.
The crowd was almost uncontainable with multiple breakthroughs of "Yes We Can" and the sincere smiles/screams of hope-filled hearts as he entered and then exited the stadium after his speech.
Watch the speech here.
Web TV provided by Ustream
Al Gore gave a rousing endorsement that lead into a speech that ensured Americans that their futures are solid in Sen. Obama's hands.
The crowd was almost uncontainable with multiple breakthroughs of "Yes We Can" and the sincere smiles/screams of hope-filled hearts as he entered and then exited the stadium after his speech.
Watch the speech here.
Web TV provided by Ustream
Al Gore to Endorse Presumptive Dem. Presidential Nominee, Barack Obama
LIVE TONIGHT -- 8:30 p.m. EDT: Watch streaming video of Al Gore and Barack Obama at a rally in Detroit, Michigan:
and he said in an e-mail...
"A few hours from now I will step on stage in Detroit, Michigan to announce my support for Senator Barack Obama. From now through Election Day, I intend to do whatever I can to make sure he is elected President of the United States.
Over the next four years, we are going to face many difficult challenges -- including bringing our troops home from Iraq, fixing our economy, and solving the climate crisis. Barack Obama is clearly the candidate best able to solve these problems and bring change to America.
This moment and this election are too important to let pass without taking action.
Live Streaming by Ustream.TV
...Over the past 18 months, Barack Obama has united a movement. He knows change does not come from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue or Capitol Hill. It begins when people stand up and take action.
With the help of millions of supporters like you, Barack Obama will bring the change we so desperately need in order to solve our country's most pressing problems.
On the issues that matter most, Barack Obama is clearly the right choice to lead our nation.
We have a lot of work to do in the next few months to elect Barack Obama president, and it begins by making a contribution to this campaign today.
Thank you for joining me,
Al Gore
watch streaming video
Show your appreciation
and he said in an e-mail...
"A few hours from now I will step on stage in Detroit, Michigan to announce my support for Senator Barack Obama. From now through Election Day, I intend to do whatever I can to make sure he is elected President of the United States.
Over the next four years, we are going to face many difficult challenges -- including bringing our troops home from Iraq, fixing our economy, and solving the climate crisis. Barack Obama is clearly the candidate best able to solve these problems and bring change to America.
This moment and this election are too important to let pass without taking action.
Live Streaming by Ustream.TV
...Over the past 18 months, Barack Obama has united a movement. He knows change does not come from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue or Capitol Hill. It begins when people stand up and take action.
With the help of millions of supporters like you, Barack Obama will bring the change we so desperately need in order to solve our country's most pressing problems.
On the issues that matter most, Barack Obama is clearly the right choice to lead our nation.
We have a lot of work to do in the next few months to elect Barack Obama president, and it begins by making a contribution to this campaign today.
Thank you for joining me,
Al Gore
watch streaming video
Show your appreciation
Tiger Woods Wins US Open in Sudden Death--Best Win Ever!--Woods
On the 91st hole at Torrey Pines, Woods stood strong on his wobbly left knee in putting away a determined Rocco Mediate in sudden death to win his 14th major title.
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Women voters lining up behind Obama - Los Angeles Times
"I can't understand the thinking of how someone would jump from Hillary to McCain," Clinton supporter Marilyn Authenreith, said. "It doesn't make any sense." "Women are voting for Obama because they dislike Bush, they dislike McCain, they dislike the war, and they're upset about the economy, and those facts override any concerns about the primary"
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Obama's Father's Day Speech
The speech soon-to-be heard and discussed around the world had nothing to do with politics.
"...too many fathers are mia (military acronym for missing in action)...they've abandoned their responsibilities...acting like boys rather than men...any fool can have a child..."
These are just bits of the speech given by presumptive presidential candidate, Barack Obama (D) on Sunday at Apostolic Church of God on 63rd and Dorchester, in Chicago.
Concerned, educated blacks have been pointing this fact about black families out for years.
This morning on CNN, Roland Martin said,
"Folks are concurring what he said. I know Roland comments on the state of the black family during his radio show on WVON in Chicago, frequently.
Roland also pointed out that single family households are not wholly a black issue.
Roldand said, it is a problem in America where 50 percent of white households are fatherless as well.
Obama actually lived this life of absentee father. His dad left at two--but he was lucky to have his mother and grandparents lend a hand in his rearing.
Matter of fact, the destruction of American families has been an important topic most of my lifetime. Did it start with the sexual revolution of the sixties? I dunno.
Or during slavery when families were routinely torn apart and sold to different slave masters? I dunno.
What I do know is that Barack should be speaking on this issue and Roland Martin agreed.
Mentioned also were comments made by Bill Cosby in 2005. However, Mr. Cosby's comments differed in tone and content.
"...Essentially, Cosby validated the perception that African-Americans who are economically disadvantaged have bad work ethics, low morals, misplaced priorities and distasteful lifestyle choices.
And they have no one to blame for their predicament but themselves," according to an article I wrote in 2005, for the Boca Raton News.
Cosby's comments are wayyyyy different in tone, content and intent.
Cosby was speaking not before a church on Father's Day but addressing his peers at some gala. It was a have vs. have not type deal.
Obama related a personal story of his childhood. He has first hand knowledge of how it feels to grow up with dad not around. And now he is on the verge of being president, so the microphone is in his hand.
He has come a long way and seems like a great dad himself to his two beautiful daughters.
Roland said critics of Obama should shut up criticizing and stop "running their mouths."
"...too many fathers are mia (military acronym for missing in action)...they've abandoned their responsibilities...acting like boys rather than men...any fool can have a child..."
These are just bits of the speech given by presumptive presidential candidate, Barack Obama (D) on Sunday at Apostolic Church of God on 63rd and Dorchester, in Chicago.
Concerned, educated blacks have been pointing this fact about black families out for years.
This morning on CNN, Roland Martin said,
"Folks are concurring what he said. I know Roland comments on the state of the black family during his radio show on WVON in Chicago, frequently.
Roland also pointed out that single family households are not wholly a black issue.
Roldand said, it is a problem in America where 50 percent of white households are fatherless as well.
Obama actually lived this life of absentee father. His dad left at two--but he was lucky to have his mother and grandparents lend a hand in his rearing.
Matter of fact, the destruction of American families has been an important topic most of my lifetime. Did it start with the sexual revolution of the sixties? I dunno.
Or during slavery when families were routinely torn apart and sold to different slave masters? I dunno.
What I do know is that Barack should be speaking on this issue and Roland Martin agreed.
Mentioned also were comments made by Bill Cosby in 2005. However, Mr. Cosby's comments differed in tone and content.
"...Essentially, Cosby validated the perception that African-Americans who are economically disadvantaged have bad work ethics, low morals, misplaced priorities and distasteful lifestyle choices.
And they have no one to blame for their predicament but themselves," according to an article I wrote in 2005, for the Boca Raton News.
Cosby's comments are wayyyyy different in tone, content and intent.
Cosby was speaking not before a church on Father's Day but addressing his peers at some gala. It was a have vs. have not type deal.
Obama related a personal story of his childhood. He has first hand knowledge of how it feels to grow up with dad not around. And now he is on the verge of being president, so the microphone is in his hand.
He has come a long way and seems like a great dad himself to his two beautiful daughters.
Roland said critics of Obama should shut up criticizing and stop "running their mouths."
Sunday, June 15, 2008
A Great Place for a New Jersey Vacation
On July 7th, 14th and 21st -- Magic Mondays -- Radio Disney's hottest musical artists will appear live on Morey's Piers, a great place for a New Jersey vacation.
These FREE concerts will take place at the Radio Disney stage next to the Giant Ferris Wheel on Morey's Mariner's Landing pier. Show times are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Things to do in New Jersey include free concerts that will be held each Monday for the first three Mondays in July. Scheduled to appear are:
- A Cursive Memory -- Appearing July 7
- Jordan Pruitt -- Appearing July 14
- Drew Seeley -- Appearing July 21
The Radio Disney Summer Concert Series finale is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2008 at the Wildwoods Convention Center Oceanfront Arena with Raven-Symone from the Disney Channel's 'That's so Raven' and the currently playing Walt Disney movie, 'College Road Trip' starring Martin Lawrence and Raven-Symone. The July 26th concert will also feature Mitchel Musso from the Disney Channel Original Series 'Hannah Montana.'
"We are thrilled to welcome Raven, Mitchel, and so many other talented Radio Disney music stars to Morey's Piers this summer. We're expecting an incredible turnout for all three free concerts and the Radio Disney Summer Concert season finale," says a representative of Morey's Piers--who would know a lot about Wildwood events.
Tickets for the July 26th Radio Disney season finale concert at the Wildwoods Convention Center are available now through Ticketmaster, at the Wildwoods Convention Center box office, and on Morey's Mariner's Landing pier during the concerts on July 7, 14, 21. Visitors can check around for Wildwood nj motels to compare rates and availability.
Season finale concert ticket holders can take their pick of super savings deals at Morey's Piers from the time of purchase through July 27, 2008 when they show their ticket at Guest Services on Mariner's Landing.
These FREE concerts will take place at the Radio Disney stage next to the Giant Ferris Wheel on Morey's Mariner's Landing pier. Show times are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Things to do in New Jersey include free concerts that will be held each Monday for the first three Mondays in July. Scheduled to appear are:
- A Cursive Memory -- Appearing July 7
- Jordan Pruitt -- Appearing July 14
- Drew Seeley -- Appearing July 21
The Radio Disney Summer Concert Series finale is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2008 at the Wildwoods Convention Center Oceanfront Arena with Raven-Symone from the Disney Channel's 'That's so Raven' and the currently playing Walt Disney movie, 'College Road Trip' starring Martin Lawrence and Raven-Symone. The July 26th concert will also feature Mitchel Musso from the Disney Channel Original Series 'Hannah Montana.'
"We are thrilled to welcome Raven, Mitchel, and so many other talented Radio Disney music stars to Morey's Piers this summer. We're expecting an incredible turnout for all three free concerts and the Radio Disney Summer Concert season finale," says a representative of Morey's Piers--who would know a lot about Wildwood events.
Tickets for the July 26th Radio Disney season finale concert at the Wildwoods Convention Center are available now through Ticketmaster, at the Wildwoods Convention Center box office, and on Morey's Mariner's Landing pier during the concerts on July 7, 14, 21. Visitors can check around for Wildwood nj motels to compare rates and availability.
Season finale concert ticket holders can take their pick of super savings deals at Morey's Piers from the time of purchase through July 27, 2008 when they show their ticket at Guest Services on Mariner's Landing.
Happy Father's Day
Happy Father's Day, Dad and Bill. Both of my grandpa's have passed away but my children are blessed enough to still have my Dad around. My father took my son bike riding early this morning. I bought him a bike several Father's Days ago but someone stole it so he rode my mother's bike.
My brother got my Dad a metal detector for a Father's Day gift. It's something that he has always wanted but never got around to buying for himself.
My brother got my Dad a metal detector for a Father's Day gift. It's something that he has always wanted but never got around to buying for himself.
Credit Cards Club
Presumptive Democratic Presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama, said during a recent speech in Chicago that he is in favor of a system of credit card rating that will help consumers decided which card is best for them.
This idea can go far in helping those interested in navigating the vast array of credit card offers so that they don't financially overextend themselves.
This is especially true with business credit cards.
Business credit cards provide with flexible spending in your business. It can provide one balance, one account which can lead to fantastic rewards to your business.
With a Business Credit Card, you can get a flexible cash flow and depending on which card you choose, free interest or other perks.
It is also good to separate your personal spending from your business expenditures.
This idea can go far in helping those interested in navigating the vast array of credit card offers so that they don't financially overextend themselves.
This is especially true with business credit cards.
Business credit cards provide with flexible spending in your business. It can provide one balance, one account which can lead to fantastic rewards to your business.
With a Business Credit Card, you can get a flexible cash flow and depending on which card you choose, free interest or other perks.
It is also good to separate your personal spending from your business expenditures.
Right to bear arms
On Monday the Supreme Court will return to the bench to consider 17 gun cases which includes a comprehensive look at the Second Amendment's right to bear arms.
The victory is looked to go to supporters of gun rights. Rumor has it that top guns control officials expect the ban on handguns in our nation's capital to be shot down (pun intended)but expect other gun regulations to make it.
The victory is looked to go to supporters of gun rights. Rumor has it that top guns control officials expect the ban on handguns in our nation's capital to be shot down (pun intended)but expect other gun regulations to make it.
Lifelock
Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States, costing Americans $1.2 billion annually.
Last year, identity theft increased on a national average of 1%. No state is immune.
Massachusetts ranks 23rd in the United States in identity theft complaints, according to he Federal Trade Commission.
The newest group to proactively fight identity theft is
AAA Pioneer Valley.
As North America's largest non-profit motoring and leisure travel organization, it provides over 173,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services.
They are the latest to offer its members the Lifelock identity theft protection service immediately via AAA’s Show Your Card and Save program.
But they are not the only ones interested in lifelock. Many have found it is a great place to work. Lifelock is looking for good people to join their team.
LifeLock is the nation’s first and only identity theft protection service and backs it up with a $1 million service guarantee.
Last year, identity theft increased on a national average of 1%. No state is immune.
Massachusetts ranks 23rd in the United States in identity theft complaints, according to he Federal Trade Commission.
The newest group to proactively fight identity theft is
AAA Pioneer Valley.
As North America's largest non-profit motoring and leisure travel organization, it provides over 173,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services.
They are the latest to offer its members the Lifelock identity theft protection service immediately via AAA’s Show Your Card and Save program.
But they are not the only ones interested in lifelock. Many have found it is a great place to work. Lifelock is looking for good people to join their team.
LifeLock is the nation’s first and only identity theft protection service and backs it up with a $1 million service guarantee.
Hoosiers struggle to find work :: Business :: Post-Tribune
While most people seem to think that the jump in unemployment is not as serious as it is, I have a different opinion.
Cracks in the foundation as far as employment in this city began a while ago. As stated in this article, there is little to no employment opportunities in the entire city of Gary.
That is difficult to take, difficult to live with.
Dave Breit feels like a mosquito in a swamp, he said in the Gary Work One office as he slapped his arm and pretended to wipe away a bug.Breit worked for Union Tank Car until last month when it closed. He said he has "long-term commitments and short-term cash."
read more | digg story
Cracks in the foundation as far as employment in this city began a while ago. As stated in this article, there is little to no employment opportunities in the entire city of Gary.
That is difficult to take, difficult to live with.
Dave Breit feels like a mosquito in a swamp, he said in the Gary Work One office as he slapped his arm and pretended to wipe away a bug.Breit worked for Union Tank Car until last month when it closed. He said he has "long-term commitments and short-term cash."
read more | digg story
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Woman Locked in Filthy Bedroom Dungeon for 18 Years
A woman kept prisoner by her family for 18 years for having a baby out of wedlock was freed by police. Maria Monaco, 47, was found huddled in the corner of her bedroom.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Mandatory evacuation for Iowa, includes hospital--
Images of the state reminiscent of Katrina
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — They said this city would never flood. They talked about 1993, and 1966 and 1851, years when the Cedar River swelled and hissed but mostly stayed within its banks. They thought they were safe. They were wrong.
Days after it swamped Cedar Rapids and forced thousands of people out of their homes, the Cedar River has begun falling. But the misery will stretch on for days.
Officials guess it will be four days before the Cedar River drops enough for workers to even begin pumping out water that has submerged more than 400 blocks, threatened the city's drinking supply and forced the evacuation of a downtown hospital.
Read More
Read more from the Gainesville Sun
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — They said this city would never flood. They talked about 1993, and 1966 and 1851, years when the Cedar River swelled and hissed but mostly stayed within its banks. They thought they were safe. They were wrong.
Days after it swamped Cedar Rapids and forced thousands of people out of their homes, the Cedar River has begun falling. But the misery will stretch on for days.
Officials guess it will be four days before the Cedar River drops enough for workers to even begin pumping out water that has submerged more than 400 blocks, threatened the city's drinking supply and forced the evacuation of a downtown hospital.
Read More
Read more from the Gainesville Sun
FDA: Fla., Mexico suspects in tomato outbreak :: CHICAGO SUN
WASHINGTON---- Parts of Florida and Mexico were supplying ''the vast majority'' of tomatoes sold when the salmonella outbreak began in April and thus remain leading suspects, the Food and Drug Administration said Friday.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Friday, June 13, 2008
Obamacons: Conservatives That Support Obama
Some prominent conservatives are hailing Barack Obama as the candidate of small government and reduced spending. Madeleine Brand talks to Bruce Bartlett of The New Republic about the strange phenomenon.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Tim Russert, NBC Stalwart, Dies of Heart Attack
NBC newsman Tim Russert died suddenly today of a heart attack. Russert, who was 58, hosted Meet the Press since 1991. He was known as a dogged interviewer and a well-sourced Washington insider. Under his leadership, the show became an essential stop for politicians and officials at the highest levels.He rests in peace, his loved ones in solice.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Terms of Understanding for this Election Cycle
Words for the Day--provided mostly by Wikipedia.org
These terms are necessary to know if you plan on listening to presidential speeches--especially those of you who vote or declare yourselves Republican.
One would gather true Republicans would have these terms down pat already but there are segments of the American population that will declare themselves Republican for reasons that are unclear to me. Some of those people--I know--don't quite understand what all the flap is about over taxes and taxation.
Republicans won't bother to explain these terms to you. Anyone making more money that you won't explain these terms either so don't look for organized news groups to tell you. (They make wayyyyy more than you)
Capital Gains, Dividend, and Corporate Taxes, etc.
Capital Gains Tax: is a tax you pay on gains arising on the disposal of assets. Any form of property including an interest in property (eg a lease) is an asset for CGT purposes.
Dividend Tax: is an income tax on dividend payments to the stockholders (shareholders) of a company.Some jurisdictions apply a withholding tax to ensure collection of the dividend tax.
Explanation of the argument:
Those who want to get rid of the tax argue that a dividend tax amounts to unfair "double taxation", in the sense that the company has already paid a corporation tax on these profits, which means that the shareholders, as part owners, have likewise been taxed already.
Those who want to keep the dividend tax as it is, claim it is unfair to tax income generated through active work at a higher rate than income generated through less active means or that companies may not have paid their full share of income tax.
Their argument is that such a taxation can help the wealthiest of individuals who can afford to buy large quantities of stock as they could feasibly live off the dividend payments without any income tax on their earnings.
Corporate tax (varies)
Corporate tax refers to a tax levied by various jurisdictions on the profits made by companies or associations.Corporate tax in the United States is a tax on the taxable income of a C corporation or an entity taxed as a C corporation. The corporate tax is the default tax levied on a business entity unless the entity qualifies to be taxed under different tax rules such as those for non-profit organizations and S corporations. See table
An excess profits tax: is a tax on any profit above a certain amount. A predominantly wartime fiscal instrument, the tax was designed primarily to capture wartime profits that exceeded normal peacetime profits.[citation needed] In 1863 the Confederate congress and the state of Georgia experimented with excess profits taxes. The first effective national excess profits tax was enacted in 1917, with rates graduated from 20 to 60 percent on the profits of all businesses in excess of prewar earnings but not less than 7 percent or more than 9 percent of invested capital.
Terms heard in Democratic speeches:
Corporate welfare: is a term describing a government's bestowal of money grants, tax breaks, or other special favorable treatment on corporations. The term was coined by Ralph Nader in 1966,[1][2] and creates a satirical association between corporate subsidies and welfare payments to the poor, and implies that corporations are much less needy of such treatment than the poor. The Canadian New Democratic Party picked up the term as a major theme in its 1972 federal election campaign.
Subsidies: considered excessive, unwarranted, wasteful, unfair, inefficient, or bought by lobbying are often called corporate welfare. The label of corporate welfare is often used to decry projects advertised as benefiting the general welfare that spend a disproportionate amount of funds on large corporations. For instance, in the United States, agricultural subsidies are usually portrayed as helping honest, hardworking independent farmers stay afloat. However, the majority of income gained from commodity support programs actually goes to large agribusiness corporations such as Archer Daniels Midland, as they own a considerably larger percentage of production.[4]
According to the Cato Institute, the U.S. federal government spent $92 billion on corporate welfare during fiscal year 2006. Recipients included Boeing, Xerox, IBM, Motorola, Dow Chemical, and General Electric.[5]
Thanks Wikipedia
These terms are necessary to know if you plan on listening to presidential speeches--especially those of you who vote or declare yourselves Republican.
One would gather true Republicans would have these terms down pat already but there are segments of the American population that will declare themselves Republican for reasons that are unclear to me. Some of those people--I know--don't quite understand what all the flap is about over taxes and taxation.
Republicans won't bother to explain these terms to you. Anyone making more money that you won't explain these terms either so don't look for organized news groups to tell you. (They make wayyyyy more than you)
Capital Gains, Dividend, and Corporate Taxes, etc.
Capital Gains Tax: is a tax you pay on gains arising on the disposal of assets. Any form of property including an interest in property (eg a lease) is an asset for CGT purposes.
Dividend Tax: is an income tax on dividend payments to the stockholders (shareholders) of a company.Some jurisdictions apply a withholding tax to ensure collection of the dividend tax.
Explanation of the argument:
Those who want to get rid of the tax argue that a dividend tax amounts to unfair "double taxation", in the sense that the company has already paid a corporation tax on these profits, which means that the shareholders, as part owners, have likewise been taxed already.
Those who want to keep the dividend tax as it is, claim it is unfair to tax income generated through active work at a higher rate than income generated through less active means or that companies may not have paid their full share of income tax.
Their argument is that such a taxation can help the wealthiest of individuals who can afford to buy large quantities of stock as they could feasibly live off the dividend payments without any income tax on their earnings.
Corporate tax (varies)
Corporate tax refers to a tax levied by various jurisdictions on the profits made by companies or associations.Corporate tax in the United States is a tax on the taxable income of a C corporation or an entity taxed as a C corporation. The corporate tax is the default tax levied on a business entity unless the entity qualifies to be taxed under different tax rules such as those for non-profit organizations and S corporations. See table
An excess profits tax: is a tax on any profit above a certain amount. A predominantly wartime fiscal instrument, the tax was designed primarily to capture wartime profits that exceeded normal peacetime profits.[citation needed] In 1863 the Confederate congress and the state of Georgia experimented with excess profits taxes. The first effective national excess profits tax was enacted in 1917, with rates graduated from 20 to 60 percent on the profits of all businesses in excess of prewar earnings but not less than 7 percent or more than 9 percent of invested capital.
Terms heard in Democratic speeches:
Corporate welfare: is a term describing a government's bestowal of money grants, tax breaks, or other special favorable treatment on corporations. The term was coined by Ralph Nader in 1966,[1][2] and creates a satirical association between corporate subsidies and welfare payments to the poor, and implies that corporations are much less needy of such treatment than the poor. The Canadian New Democratic Party picked up the term as a major theme in its 1972 federal election campaign.
Subsidies: considered excessive, unwarranted, wasteful, unfair, inefficient, or bought by lobbying are often called corporate welfare. The label of corporate welfare is often used to decry projects advertised as benefiting the general welfare that spend a disproportionate amount of funds on large corporations. For instance, in the United States, agricultural subsidies are usually portrayed as helping honest, hardworking independent farmers stay afloat. However, the majority of income gained from commodity support programs actually goes to large agribusiness corporations such as Archer Daniels Midland, as they own a considerably larger percentage of production.[4]
According to the Cato Institute, the U.S. federal government spent $92 billion on corporate welfare during fiscal year 2006. Recipients included Boeing, Xerox, IBM, Motorola, Dow Chemical, and General Electric.[5]
Thanks Wikipedia
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Mississippi School Holds First Interracial Prom
With a nudge and a check from local resident Morgan Freeman, the high school in Charleston, Miss., held integrated its prom this year for the first time ever. One student reports that everyone had a ball, surprising themselves and the community.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Barack Obama recruits team to tackle web smears
Barack Obama is recruiting senior staff to a new unit which will combat virulent rumour campaigns on the internet that threaten to cost him votes in the presidential election against John McCain. The unit is part of a huge expansion of Obama's campaign team as he shifts from the Democratic nomination race to the campaign for November's election.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Florida growers cleared of samonella scare
Reported on Fox News (I know) and CNN this morning is that Florida and California tomato growers are cleared to begin shipping again, tomatoes.
More on this story throughout the day.
More on this story throughout the day.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Former official sues NASCAR over harassment claims - Racing
As an aspiring racing official, Mauricia Grant had grown used to working in a man's world.When she finally made it into NASCAR, Grant was appalled at the way she says she was treated beginning from her first day on the job until her firing last October.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
The Big Story You May Have Missed During the Obama v Clinton
I'd like to call your attention to a major story you may have missed: the Senate Intelligence Committee's 200-page "Phase II" report on how the Bush administration used -- and abused -- pre-war intelligence in the run-up to the war in Iraq.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Salmonella Tomato Warning Expanded
Editor's Note: I have eaten four of the six tomatoes in the Nationfresh six-pack of tomatoes. I can't say that I feel sick right now but it is stated symptoms appear up to 72 hours after ingestion of infected tomatoes. When I bought these tomatoes, it was said the large, slicing tomatoes and Roma were affected. They type that I have was added a day after I bought and ate them cut up on a sandwich.
One of the smallest things in the world to enjoy is a well-made, good-tasting fresh fixin-topped homemade Dagwood sandwich. And now, we can't even enjoy that. How can you have a sandwich without tomato?
The number of people sickened by a salmonella outbreak linked to tomatoes has grown, and the suspect tomatoes are coming off restaurant menus and store shelves. Now, the CDC reports that at least 167 people in 17 states have been infected with Salmonella Saintpaul, the salmonella strain involved in the current outbreak.
read more | digg story
One of the smallest things in the world to enjoy is a well-made, good-tasting fresh fixin-topped homemade Dagwood sandwich. And now, we can't even enjoy that. How can you have a sandwich without tomato?
The number of people sickened by a salmonella outbreak linked to tomatoes has grown, and the suspect tomatoes are coming off restaurant menus and store shelves. Now, the CDC reports that at least 167 people in 17 states have been infected with Salmonella Saintpaul, the salmonella strain involved in the current outbreak.
read more | digg story
Toxic fumes suicide forces evacuation in Japan
Police evacuated dozens of residents after poisonous fumes escaped from an apartment where a man killed himself by inhaling a detergent-laced gas, authorities said Wednesday.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Hunger in Ethiopia now spreading to adults
Like so many other victims of Ethiopia's hunger crisis, Usheto Beriso weighs just half of what he should. He is always cold and swaddled in a blanket. His limbs are stick-thin.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Monday, June 09, 2008
Obama criticizes McCain on economy and gas prices
During his speech,presumptive democratic nominee, Sen. Barack Obama, told the audience he plans to institute a $1,000 tax cut to 95 percent of workers in the country and eliminate income tax for low income retirees--all funded in part with the tax cuts intended for big oil.
Obama said Sen. John McCain is in favor of a $1.2 billion tax cut for Exxon Mobile.
"At a time when we're fighting two wars, when millions of Americans can't afford their medical bills or their tuition bills, when we're paying more than $4 a gallon for gas, the man who rails against government spending wants to spend $1.2 billion on a tax break for Exxon Mobil," Obama said. "That isn't just irresponsible. It's outrageous."
Obama also said he plans to institute a credit card bill of rights with a five star rating system so that consumers can rate the savings between card offers themselves.
read more | digg story
Obama Celebrates Win By Riding Bike
After a protracted, difficult campaign, Obama has finally won the Democratic nomination for President of the United States. So how did he celebrate? According to the Associated Press, the Senator took the weekend off and "joined family and neighbors for a bicycle ride along the shores of Lake Michigan on Sunday.
read more | digg story
Post-Clinch, Obama Builds Leads On McCain
In the two daily tracking polls for the general election, Gallup and Rasmussen, Barack Obama has shown significant, upward movement since he clinched the nomination on June 3rd.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
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