44 Presidents

Morphing is pretty cool.

Obama Announces New Team Members

This taken from Obama's transition website:

Remarks of President-elect Barack Obama
Announcement of National Security Team
December 1st, 2008
Chicago, IL

Good morning. Last week, we announced our economic team, which is working as we speak to craft an Economic Recovery Program to create jobs and grow our struggling economy. Today, Vice President-elect Biden and I are pleased to announce our national security team.

The national security challenges we face are just as grave -- and just as urgent -- as our economic crisis. We are fighting two wars. Old conflicts remain unresolved, and newly assertive powers have put strains on the international system. The spread of nuclear weapons raises the peril that the world’s deadliest technology could fall into dangerous hands. Our dependence on foreign oil empowers authoritarian governments and endangers our planet.

America must also be strong at home to be strong abroad. We need to provide education and opportunity for our citizens, so every American can compete with anyone, anywhere. And our economic power must sustain our military strength, our diplomatic leverage, and our global leadership.

The common thread linking these challenges is the fundamental reality that in the 21st century, our destiny is shared with the world's. From our markets to our security; from our public health to our climate -- we must act with the understanding that, now more than ever, we have a stake in what happens across the globe. And as we learned so painfully on 9/11, terror cannot be contained by borders, nor safety provided by oceans alone.

Last week, we were reminded of this threat once again when terrorists took the lives of six American among nearly 200 victims in Mumbai. In the world we seek, there is no place for those who kill innocent civilians to advance hateful extremism. This weekend, I told Prime Minister Singh that Americans stand with the people of India in this dark time. And I am confident that India's great democracy is more resilient than killers who would tear it down.

And so, in this uncertain world, the time has come for a new beginning -- a new dawn of American leadership to overcome the challenges of the 21st century, and to seize the opportunities embedded in those challenges. We will strengthen our capacity to defeat our enemies and support our friends. We will renew old alliances and forge new and enduring partnerships. We will show the world once more that America is relentless in defense of our people, steady in advancing our interests, and committed to the ideals that shine as a beacon to the world: democracy and justice; opportunity and unyielding hope -- because American values are America’s greatest export to the world.

To succeed, we must pursue a new strategy that skillfully uses, balances, and integrates all elements of American power: our military and diplomacy; our intelligence and law enforcement; our economy and the power of our moral example. The team that we have assembled here today is uniquely suited to do just that.

In their past service and plans for the future, these men and women represent all of those elements of American power, and the very best of the American example. They have served in uniform and as diplomats; they have worked as legislators, law enforcement officials, and executives. They share my pragmatism about the use of power, and my sense of purpose about America's role as a leader in the world.

I have known Hillary Clinton as a friend, a colleague, a source of counsel, and as a campaign opponent. She possesses an extraordinary intelligence and toughness, and a remarkable work ethic. I am proud that she will be our next Secretary of State. She is an American of tremendous stature who will have my complete confidence; who knows many of the world's leaders; who will command respect in every capitol; and who will clearly have the ability to advance our interests around the world.

Hillary’s appointment is a sign to friend and foe of the seriousness of my commitment to renew American diplomacy and restore our alliances. There is much to do -- from preventing the spread of nuclear weapons to Iran and North Korea, to seeking a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians, to strengthening international institutions. I have no doubt that Hillary Clinton is the right person to lead our State Department, and to work with me in tackling this ambitious foreign policy agenda.

At a time when we face an unprecedented transition amidst two wars, I have asked Robert Gates to continue as Secretary of Defense, and I'm pleased that he's accepted. Two years ago, he took over the Pentagon at a difficult time. He restored accountability. He won the confidence of military commanders, and the trust of our brave men and women in uniform, and their families. He earned the respect of members of Congress on both sides of the aisle for his pragmatism and competence. He knows that we need a sustainable national security strategy -- and that includes a bipartisan consensus at home.

As I said throughout the campaign, I will be giving Secretary Gates and our military a new mission as soon as I take office: responsibly ending the war in Iraq through a successful transition to Iraqi control. We will also ensure that we have the strategy -- and resources -- to succeed against al Qaeda and the Taliban. As Bob said not too long ago, Afghanistan is where the war on terror began, and it is where it must end. And going forward, we will continue to make the investments necessary to strengthen our military and increase our ground forces to defeat the threats of the 21st century.

Eric Holder has the talent and commitment to succeed as Attorney General from his first day on the job, which is even more important in a transition that demands vigilance. He has distinguished himself as a prosecutor, a Judge, and a senior official, and he is deeply familiar with the law enforcement challenges we face– from terrorism to counter-intelligence; from white collar crime to public corruption.

Eric also has the combination of toughness and independence that we need at the Justice Department. Let me be clear: the Attorney General serves the American people. And I have every expectation that Eric will protect our people, uphold the public trust, and adhere to our Constitution.

Janet Napolitano offers the experience and executive skill that we need in the next Secretary of Homeland Security. She has spent her career protecting people -- as a US Attorney, an Attorney General, and as Governor of Arizona. She understands the need for a Department of Homeland Security that has the capacity to help prevent terrorist attacks and respond to catastrophe -- be it manmade or natural.

Janet assumes this critical role having learned the lessons -- some of them painful -- of the last several years, from 9/11 to Katrina. She insists on competence and accountability. She knows firsthand the need to have a partner in Washington that works well with state and local governments. She understands as well as anyone the danger of an unsecure border. And she will be a leader who can reform a sprawling Department while safeguarding our homeland.

Susan Rice will take on the crucial task of serving as Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations. Susan has been a close and trusted advisor. As in previous Administrations, the UN Ambassador will serve as a member of my cabinet and integral member of my team. Her background as a scholar, on the National Security Council, and Assistant Secretary of State will serve our nation well at the United Nations.

Susan knows that the global challenges we face demand global institutions that work. She shares my belief that the UN is an indispensable -- and imperfect -- forum. She will carry the message that our commitment to multilateral action must be coupled with a commitment to reform. We need the UN to be more effective as a venue for collective action -- against terror and proliferation; climate change and genocide; poverty and disease.

Finally, I am convinced that General James Jones is uniquely suited to be a strong and skilled National Security Advisor. Generations of Joneses have served heroically on the battlefield -- from the beaches of Tarawa in World War II, to Foxtrot Ridge in Vietnam. Jim's Silver Star is a proud part of that legacy. He will bring to the job the dual experience of serving in uniform and as a diplomat. He has commanded a platoon in battle, served as Supreme Allied Commander in a time of war, and worked on behalf of peace in the Middle East.

Jim is focused on the threats of today and the future. He understands the connection between energy and national security, and has worked on the frontlines of global instability – from Kosovo to northern Iraq to Afghanistan. He will advise me and work effectively to integrate our efforts across the government, so that we are effectively using all elements of American power to defeat unconventional threats and promote our values.

I am confident that this is the team that we need to make a new beginning for American national security. This morning, we met to discuss the situation in Mumbai and some of the challenges that we face in the months and years ahead. In the coming weeks, I will be in close contact with these advisors, who will be working with their counterparts in the Bush Administration to make sure that we are ready to hit the ground running on January 20. Given the range of threats that we face -- and the vulnerability that can be a part of every presidential transition -- I hope that we can proceed swiftly for those national security officials who demand confirmation.

We move forward with the humility that comes with knowing that there are brave men and women protecting us on the front lines. Troops serving their second, third, or fourth tours. Diplomats and intelligence officers in dangerous corners of the world. FBI agents in the field, cops on the beat, prosecutors in our courts, and cargo inspectors at our ports. These selfless Americans whose names are unknown to most of us will form the backbone of our effort. If we serve as well as they do, we will protect our country and promote our values.

And we move forward with respect for America's tradition of a bipartisan national security policy, and a commitment to national unity. When it comes to keeping our nation and our people safe, we are not Republicans and we are not Democrats: we are Americans. There is no monopoly of power or wisdom in either party. Together, as one nation, as one people, we can shape our times instead of being shaped by them. Together, we will meet the challenges of the 21st century not with fear, but with hope.

Now, before I take questions, I'd like to invite my team to say a few words, starting with my friend Hillary Clinton. Thank you.

SnoopDog & Martha Stewart

Barack Obama's Weekly Address

We Were One

When the events of 9/11 unfolded, the entire world grieved for us. There was a world-wide sorrow.

It is my hope that with Barack Obama in the White House, we can, once again, be one; not through tragedy, but through hope and healing.

Pretty Bird Woman House

With winter approaching rapidly, much is needed at Pretty Bird Woman House.
Your donation of funds this season will be much appreciated.
The donations for the furnace exceeded expectations, but there are so many other items that can be purchased.
Please donate money today.

Peace.

Working Together

Click above for Obama's first radio address as President-Elect.

Hate And Fear

Despite the hope that Barack Obama brings, there are individuals in our country who are so ignorant, so racist, and so filled with hate, it's difficult to wrap one's brain around how bad it is in some places.

The Hope That Is Barack Obama

"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer."

The above quotation rang loud and clear as President-Elect Obama addressed Grant Park Tuesday night. As I've stated previously, it wasn't even close. America made a change this week, one that has been a long time coming. The majority of us saw that the policies of the past eight years have not only hurt us, they've damaged us as a country: here and abroad.
The repair is on its way.
Keeping in mind how long it took to do such damage will allow us to be patient with this administration and ourselves--the hurt did not create itself overnight. Patience, but pushing forward.

As our new president's cabinet comes together, let us not forget to continue to support and do our part where we are in our world. Working together is the best solution. Do what you can, with what you have where you are.

Stay conscious! This blog was created several years ago for that very purpose: to remind us that despite how hard and tough our individual lives can become, we must continue to learn about our world and educate ourselves and our children about the issues. If something doesn't seem right, question it! Ask those tough questions! This is your world, your life, your moment.

This administration will be expecting us to step up to the plate and get our stick into the game. We may not hit a home run on the first pitch, but I believe we are smart enough and conscious enough to avoid hitting into a double-play.

Be inspired. Be the hope Obama brings.
Peace.

Obama's New Website

The transition team has created a new website:Change.gov.

Watch the full Grant Park speech and read the daily blog entries about what is happening during this historic transition.

Tell your election day stories here also.


BreakingNews about Obama's Chief of Staff: Rahm Emanuel accepts White House job

Barack is working on his cabinet. Possible exciting prospects include: Al Gore, Robert Kennedy Jr., Caroline Kennedy, Hillary Clinton, and John Kerry. WOW!!

The nation, despite stocks having issues today, is still smiling.
Peace.

We Did It!

It wasn't even close.

He won Florida, He won OHIO!, he won Virginia! OMG!!!!
Barack Obama even won states such as Nevada and New Mexico, previously red state strongholds in past elections.

This wasn't even close!



The 44th President of the United States.

Let the healing begin!

Peace.

Don't Even Think Of Not Voting

McCain's Hot Head

This behavior does not repair our standing with the world.

VOTE OBAMA!!!!!

SOME Are Doing Fine!

Obama Is Presidential

Biden/Palin Debate

Thank goodness for tonight's debate.

Part of me cringed with concern over the possibility of there being no debate at all. Now, remember, Rick Davis, Senator McCain's Campaign Manager, explained to Chris Wallace of Fox News that Sarah Palin will refrain from taking questions until the media treated her with "respect and deference."

Apparently, Sarah Palin is special. As a feminist I am outraged by this "special" treatment. Granted, I am in NO WAY supporting this woman, and question hotly her ability to carry out a Vice Presidency, she is in this position and needs to be treated as any other vice-presidential candidate.

I look forward to tonight's debate and have an expectation of tough questions and clear, concise, intelligent responses from both parties.

But, I won't hold my breath.

McCain Flip Flops

Thank you Brave New Films

Bill Defeated

$700 billion bill has been defeated in Congress 205-228.

Now, we will have to go back to the drawing board.

As this happens , the dow is down 500 points in the wake of this news.

The Poor Wealthy

I expect more fight from Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid.
The Dems are in charge and they give in. Give in! Give in!! Where is the fight?

Where are the other options for a bailout than $700 billion.

Nancy Pelosi wants us all to understand that its NOT a bailout but a BUY-IN for the taxpayer. Stop insulting my intelligence! Just stop!
This bill has the wording created by the oh-so-good lawyers clearly showing the ambiguity of said help for the taxpayer.

When words such as ...encourage help for the taxpayer... instead of ...shall
help the taxpayer... are thrown into a bill, there is a way for the wealthy to stick it to us over and over and over.

Dennis Kucinich will be voting no today when this bill goes to Congress. Democracy Now! has an interview from this morning.

What about suspending the dividends paid and allow those who created this mess to pay for it?

STOP INSULTING MY INTELLIGENCE!!!! I may not have a law degree, but I can certainly tell when someone is blowing smoke up my rear.

The poor wealthy...they have it so hard.

AfterGlow

People stood in line to hear Barack Obama the day after he gave McCain a little spanking.

Have a great Sunday.

Obama 1 Smugman 0

Vote for Change

I have to admit, I was having great concerns as I watched the debate last night.

The moments were many where Barack could have nailed McCain to the wall, but did not. He seemed on the defensive many times.

My expectations were let down. I wanted Barack to go after McCain's throat. But he did not.

What Barack did do was to look McCain in the eye, well, he attempted to. McCain glanced at him, maybe twice and I am certain never looked at Obama in the eye when he spoke about him. Barack did look at McCain, did address the issues and did speak the truth. He looked presidential, showing strength and restraint and integrity.

McCain came off as a smug, disrespectful, jerk. Clearly behaving as if he were being inconvenienced to answer these questions with this "other" person.

Thank you Senator Obama for your clear presence of leadership and grace.

I will be honored to vote for you in November.

Economy Dive Of Death

as spelled out by none other than Jon Stewart, my hero!

Don't forget to watch the debate tonight 8:00pm Central.

Another Strike For McCain

Who is running the McCain show?
Suspend the campaign?
The elevator is not going to the top floor kids.
Rushing off the Washington to "save the day" stinks of campaign politics; but will it backfire?

The maverick made his way to the show, only to watch House Republicans Walk Out of the meeting and not come up with a solution.

Yeah, that worked well.

I hope he tries to diss Obama at the debate tomorrow night like he did with Letterman: The Obama Show for 2 hours sounds like a great plan.

McCain Disses Letterman

Letterman hits it out of the ballpark!!!

Spogg Fun

If you are looking for a great game site to meet online friends with little drama head over to Multiplayer Online Games - Spogg.com.

I've met some great people there.

Have a great day and don't forget to VOTE!!!

Friday They Debate!

Host a Debate Party in your home!

Clinton Didn't Listen, Maybe Barack Will

The following is an open letter to Barack Obama from Leonard Peltier.

Bill Clinton had the opportunity to pardon Leonard and did not. Hopefully, Obama will hear him.

Open Letter From Leonard Peltier to Barack Obama | Reznet News

Government Fails Again

Native Americans are being victims of eminent domain issues once again in the wake of Hurricane Gustav. No relief given at all!




Houma Hurricane Updates | Reznet News

Know Your Preamble To The Constitution

There will be a test tomorrow!

P A L I N

Predominantly
Abysmal
Lacking
In-depth
Noteworthiness

This may be a somewhat cruel picture of Sarah Palin, but accurate. This is not someone I want in the White House.

You red states had better wake up!

Don't Watch In The Dark

Just some fun.

McCain CANNOT Be President

McCain Approves This Message

What a weasel.

Tina Fey As Sarah Palin

If you haven't seen this-ya gotta!!!

Interesting Links

Attach these links to browse:

National Geographic - Inspiring People to Care About the Planet hours chalk-full of magnificent data.

Rock Valley College the college I attend.

Apple because Macs are the best.

Welcome to the U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program
your up to the minute earthquake data source.

Fodors Travel Guides - Plan Your Trip Online best travel site ever.

Trivia Questions, Quizzes, Facts. 123Facts.com - The Most Advanced Trivia Site On The Net! if you like trivia.

Unknown News because why would you want news about what you already know?

Defend The Wolves Wolf Rescue because they need our help.

Pretty Bird Woman House because they could really use our help. In fact, if you are looking to send money to a worthwhile organization, please go here!

Iraq Body Count because our government would just as well not keep track.

Native American Netroots

- A Forum for Native American Issues because its important.

Handspeak: American Sign Language Online Dictionary, Baby Sign Language, International Sign, more learn to sign.

Seeing Is Believing

Using our technology is key to changing unacceptable practices and human rights violations.
WITNESS Rights Alert allows for individuals to record and have a place to show that which the regular media misses or overlooks.

Here's an example:Watch:The Hub

Peace.

Palin: Bad Disney Movie

Thank-you Matt!

Market Day Uh-Oh

Henry Paulson, our nation's Treasury Secretary claims our financial structure is "sound" despite Lehman Brothers filing Chapter 11 and Merrill Lynch being sold and insurance giant AIG trying to stay above water. WOW! Sounds sound!

NPR has the latest.

No More McSAME

Vote Obama!

Being Conscious

Martin Luther King Jr. said: "One of the great liabilities of history is that all too many people fail to remain awake through great periods of social change. Every society has its protectors of the status quo and its fraternities of the indifferent...But today our very survival depends on our ability to stay awake, to adjust to new ideas, to remain vigilant and to face the challenge of change."

What would Dr. King say about the state of our world today?
I imagine these words he spoke decades ago would still ring true today.


Great individuals, like Dr. King, were not without fear, oh the contrary--he pushed through it.
The words he spoke angered many and gave hope to others, while some, just sat unawake to the words.
He spoke them anyway, with passion, conviction, and heart. Despite the fear. Because of the fear. To free those from experiencing the fear. To wake those whom looked away from the fear of others.
He really accomplished so much, yet we as Americans still have among us those who are not awake, and don't want to be--because of the fear.

Peace.

My Haiku

Create peace dear soul
Be mindful of this daily
Making a difference

Homeless Vets

My husband wrote a passionate, moving diary on a blog I frequent.

If you have major concerns for our vets, please read.
Daily Kos: Homeless Vets. Don't You Dare Look Away.

Wisdom

Wisdom.

How do we attain it? By experience, I suppose. One can be smart, but not necessarily wise.
Wisdom has an added component: humility. Or maybe it's grace.

The owl has been a symbol of wisdom. This one I photographed in the Florida Keys; he looks wise or just pissed that I'm taking his picture. :)

Where does our wisdom come from?
Any thoughts?

Spring Into An Earthquake

Spring arrived in northern Illinois: birds chirping everywhere, 60 degree weather and my tulips are coming up.

Also sharing the spring explosion--The Earthquake that woke me at quarter to 5 this am.
Actually, I slept through the blasted thing; I was awaken by my Great Dane Charlie, who was barking at the back door for 15 minutes. "Mom, something is out there--I felt it!" I did not feel a thing at a magnitude 5.2 on the Richter.

Welcome to Spring.

Gold At The End Of The Rainbow

His name is Obama; he is gold.

The fresh, inspiration of hope that needs to be in the White House.
The repair work that has to transpire from the last 6 years of hell will be tough, but Barack gives hope.

Yes, We Can

Charlie

Charlie and rain do not mix. I'm not quite sure what it is about some Great Danes and their fear of water; mine certainly has that trepidation.
Storms are brewing tonight in northern Illinois.7-Day Forecast for Latitude 42.34N and Longitude -89W
Charlie doesn't fear the storms themselves, which I'm grateful for. Could you imagine a 186lb. dog running at you in fright? What he has trouble doing is heading outside to do his "business" when it's raining. You'd think he was the Wicked Witch of the West and will melt if doused with water by the way he acts.
All in all, he's a great dog.
Peace.

Presidental Race

The time has come for an African-American President; it is also time for a women President. Are Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton the right candidates?
I've been a Liberal Demorcrat for some time now and this party has not dissappointed me more than in the last couple of years. Would I switch parties? HELL NO!! To be a Republican would go against all that I believe in for this country.
It is politics.
Everyone running is so busy trying to get elected, then staying elected to help the country.
The corporate run media fails to give John Edwards his equal air time. He seems to be the one who is trying to run for President and do something for the country.
As it stands today, for me:


Political T-Shirts - Radical Rags

School Has Begun

As another semester at college begins, I feel overwhelmed and excited.

I am now teaching two classes on Stress (LOL) and Alcoholism and The Family, seeing clients daily for individual appointments, and leading substance abuse groups at least twice a week.
As I type this, my paperwork in my brief case crosses my mind. Mental note: MUST FINISH PAPERWORK TODAY.
My first class was last night: four hours, but enjoyed it. Tonight, another for two and a half.
I'm grateful I enjoy reading as I have two long chapters to read.

I have a client to see in two hours--I'm going to go do something nice for myself and relax until that time.

Peace, and have a great day.

What Will You Do This Year?

What grand plans do all of you have for the coming year?

I will continue practicing karate; I will also add learning Spanish and the guitar. Keeping up with my job & education will be important also.