NY Gov. Paterson was at Russell Simmons' Art for Life Benefit at Simmons' home in the Hamptons last Saturday when he took a couple of jabs at dah Spitz.
Here's what went down according to the NY Post:
GOV. David Paterson has little love for his predecessor, Eliot Spitzer - and isn't above taking a few pot shots at him. At Russell Simmons' Art for Life Benefit at Simmons' Hamptons home Saturday night, Paterson received a standing ovation when he was introduced. He cracked, "You can slow it down; I get paid by the hour" - an obvious dig at Spitzer's call-girl fiasco. He later highlighted the importance of art education and said, "I'm not sure if you all got the memo, but there's a new sheriff in town," again bringing the crowd to its feet.
Showing posts with label government. Show all posts
Showing posts with label government. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Surprisingly Poor Track Record for Clarence Thomas
I was stunned to read about Supreme Court Justice, Clarence Thomas' performance over the past 2 years.
According to Time magazine, Thomas has NEVER asked a question during any of the court's oral arguments over the past two years. To put this in context, there have been 144 cases brought before the court since Thomas last commented on February 22, 2006, during a death-penalty case.
That is just ridiculous.
http://kerijam.blogspot.com/2008/01/anita-hill-clarence-thomas-17-years.html
According to Time magazine, Thomas has NEVER asked a question during any of the court's oral arguments over the past two years. To put this in context, there have been 144 cases brought before the court since Thomas last commented on February 22, 2006, during a death-penalty case.
That is just ridiculous.
http://kerijam.blogspot.com/2008/01/anita-hill-clarence-thomas-17-years.html
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
The Democrats and John McCain are Lapping up President Bush's McCain Endorsement
Embraced by President George Bush...is that really the look to go for if you want to become the next President?
John McCain certainly thinks so. He is ecstatic that he received Bush's endorsement today. Bush has said that he will do whatever McCain asks, because he wants John to win. McCain said that he appreciated Bush's endorsement and "service to our country." McCain went further to say that he wanted Bush at his side as much as possible on the campaign trail.
Given Bush's track record, it seems a bit odd that McCain is doing cartwheels about the current President's endorsement. However, there may be some method to the seeming madness. A current official states that Bush will help McCain raise a lot of money. Also, according to this official, Bush is extremely popular with the GOP base and can influence them at election time. Really?
Back in Democratsville, the Democrats are high-fiving over McCains bullish support of President Bush and Bush's bullish support of McCain. They feel that they couldn't have received a better gift. According to Paul Begala, a Democratic strategist and CNN contributor, McCain has "now become Bush's third term." Why? Begala feels that McCain has "embraced the Bush tax cuts that he voted against. He was against them being temporary; now he wants them being permanent. That's like marrying a girl you didn't want to date. He is rushed to Bush's Social Security plan, even disavowing his own Social Security plan on his own Web site." Ouch.
Given Bush's reputation on the global stage, as well as in the U.S., McCain should carefully manage his need for money and influence in the Republican party, with other potentially negative ramifications of highly visible support from President Bush.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/03/05/mccain.bush/index.html
John McCain certainly thinks so. He is ecstatic that he received Bush's endorsement today. Bush has said that he will do whatever McCain asks, because he wants John to win. McCain said that he appreciated Bush's endorsement and "service to our country." McCain went further to say that he wanted Bush at his side as much as possible on the campaign trail.
Given Bush's track record, it seems a bit odd that McCain is doing cartwheels about the current President's endorsement. However, there may be some method to the seeming madness. A current official states that Bush will help McCain raise a lot of money. Also, according to this official, Bush is extremely popular with the GOP base and can influence them at election time. Really?
Back in Democratsville, the Democrats are high-fiving over McCains bullish support of President Bush and Bush's bullish support of McCain. They feel that they couldn't have received a better gift. According to Paul Begala, a Democratic strategist and CNN contributor, McCain has "now become Bush's third term." Why? Begala feels that McCain has "embraced the Bush tax cuts that he voted against. He was against them being temporary; now he wants them being permanent. That's like marrying a girl you didn't want to date. He is rushed to Bush's Social Security plan, even disavowing his own Social Security plan on his own Web site." Ouch.
Given Bush's reputation on the global stage, as well as in the U.S., McCain should carefully manage his need for money and influence in the Republican party, with other potentially negative ramifications of highly visible support from President Bush.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/03/05/mccain.bush/index.html
OMG - Hillary is suggesting a Clinton-Obama Dream Ticket!
Fresh off of her big wins in Ohio and Texas yesterday, and likely giddy with confidence and excitement, Senator Clinton is strongly hinting at a Clinton-Obama Democratic ticket, with her, of course at the top.
Clinton said, "that may be where this is headed. But of course we have to decide who is on the top of the ticket. I think the people of Ohio very clearly said it should be me. I really think that now that Senator John McCain is going to be the nominee, Democratic voters have begun to take their decision very seriously, and that works to my benefit. This campaign is evolving. New questions are being raised. New challenges are being put to my opponent."
Someone should alert Obama about this potential shared ticket. He still views himself as the front runner and felt that Clinton's recent victories had minimal impact on his lead. Obama shared that, he and his team would "continue to win delegates. We will continue to campaign in every state and, by taking that approach, I am pretty confident we will have won more states, won more delegates and won more of the popular vote...we are going to be in a stronger position."
Source: CNN, Newsday.com
Clinton said, "that may be where this is headed. But of course we have to decide who is on the top of the ticket. I think the people of Ohio very clearly said it should be me. I really think that now that Senator John McCain is going to be the nominee, Democratic voters have begun to take their decision very seriously, and that works to my benefit. This campaign is evolving. New questions are being raised. New challenges are being put to my opponent."
Someone should alert Obama about this potential shared ticket. He still views himself as the front runner and felt that Clinton's recent victories had minimal impact on his lead. Obama shared that, he and his team would "continue to win delegates. We will continue to campaign in every state and, by taking that approach, I am pretty confident we will have won more states, won more delegates and won more of the popular vote...we are going to be in a stronger position."
Source: CNN, Newsday.com
Hillary Did It - Texas, Ohio and Rhode Island are Hers
Obama had great momentum. He attained 12 consecutive wins since Super Tuesday. There were high hopes for him for the next primaries. He won Vermont. Was he a sure thing for the Democratic nomination? Not yet. Senator Clinton resurges.
To remain competitive, Hillary had to win in Ohio and Texas - delegate rich states. She won both contests as well as Rhode Island. According to her husband, that makes her a sure thing for the Democratic nomination. The reality is that neither Barack nor Hillary have enough pledged delegates in order to win - Obama is in the lead with 1,378 and Clinton has 1,269; candidates will need 2,025 to gain the nomination.
Obama continued to do well with the youth vote, while Clinton had greater success with the over 60 crowd. As expected, Clinton received strong support from the Hispanics - 64% vs. Obama's 32% - and Obama held on to the Black vote - 83% compared to Clinton's 16%.
The drama continues on the Democratic front, with no clear winner in sight. On the Republican side, Huckabee finally got the message and dropped out of the race, in light of McCain's wins in Ohio, Texas and Rhode Island. McCain has more than the 1,191 delegates needed for the Republican nomination and is expected to receive President Bush's endorsement today.
To remain competitive, Hillary had to win in Ohio and Texas - delegate rich states. She won both contests as well as Rhode Island. According to her husband, that makes her a sure thing for the Democratic nomination. The reality is that neither Barack nor Hillary have enough pledged delegates in order to win - Obama is in the lead with 1,378 and Clinton has 1,269; candidates will need 2,025 to gain the nomination.
Obama continued to do well with the youth vote, while Clinton had greater success with the over 60 crowd. As expected, Clinton received strong support from the Hispanics - 64% vs. Obama's 32% - and Obama held on to the Black vote - 83% compared to Clinton's 16%.
The drama continues on the Democratic front, with no clear winner in sight. On the Republican side, Huckabee finally got the message and dropped out of the race, in light of McCain's wins in Ohio, Texas and Rhode Island. McCain has more than the 1,191 delegates needed for the Republican nomination and is expected to receive President Bush's endorsement today.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Barack Obama's US Weekly Interview
So how familiar are you with US Weekly?
My wife reads it.
What's your preferred reading material, then?
The books I never tire of are the ones I read with my daughters. Malia and I recently finished reading the Harry Potter series out loud to each other.
Do Malia or Sasha ever ask about Britney Spears?
Actually, yeah. But they're very sensible. They're pretty down on Britney and Paris and all of that. They think that's very "yuck". They're way more into Hannah Montana and Beyonce'. They got to go backstage and meet Beyonce', and they just love her to death.
What if they wanted to become actresses?
I would support any decision they make, but my instinct is that my 9-year-old will shy away from the limelight. My 6-year-old on the other hand, is a ham! I don't know if this will continue or not, but that's their temperament right now.
Are you a cool dad?
I think I'm pretty cool. I'm sure I could embarrass my girls, but I choose not to. [Even when I danced with Ellen DeGeneres], I thought [my moves] were pretty sweet. That's why my 9-year-old isn't embarrassed - because I can "bust a move," as they say.
Your supporters include Oprah Winfrey. Ever been starstruck?
I don't really get starstruck. Everyone I've met has been very nice and friendly, like Kal Penn. During the writers' strike, he was like a staffer! And Scarlett Johansson has been traveling a lot. George Clooney is a good friend. He and I worked on Darfur issues together. I'm always impressed by people who do their homework...and use their celebrity to advocate for issues. George does that just about as well as anyone I know.
Does Michelle have a celebrity crush?
She loves Stevie Wonder. I've been teasing her because Stevie fell off the stage at one of our events. I said to her, "This is your favorite performer, and you push him off the stage?" Fortunately, he was OK.
Name the songs for your campaign soundtrack.
I'm pretty partial to the "Yes We Can" song made by a group of talented supporters. A couple of others we play at rallies are "Think" by Aretha Franklin and "City of Blinding Lights" by U2.
What do you do in your free time?
I'll take a look at the sports pages to see how the White Sox or the Bulls are doing. Michelle loves Sudoku.
Your favourite foods?
I like a good chili, and cobbler. [According to Michelle, he "makes a mean chili!"] But in a rush, I snack on trail mix.
So, boxers or briefs?
I don't answer those humiliating questions. But, whichever one it is, I look good in 'em!
Source: US Weekly, Issue 682, March 10, 2008
My wife reads it.
What's your preferred reading material, then?
The books I never tire of are the ones I read with my daughters. Malia and I recently finished reading the Harry Potter series out loud to each other.
Do Malia or Sasha ever ask about Britney Spears?
Actually, yeah. But they're very sensible. They're pretty down on Britney and Paris and all of that. They think that's very "yuck". They're way more into Hannah Montana and Beyonce'. They got to go backstage and meet Beyonce', and they just love her to death.
What if they wanted to become actresses?
I would support any decision they make, but my instinct is that my 9-year-old will shy away from the limelight. My 6-year-old on the other hand, is a ham! I don't know if this will continue or not, but that's their temperament right now.
Are you a cool dad?
I think I'm pretty cool. I'm sure I could embarrass my girls, but I choose not to. [Even when I danced with Ellen DeGeneres], I thought [my moves] were pretty sweet. That's why my 9-year-old isn't embarrassed - because I can "bust a move," as they say.
Your supporters include Oprah Winfrey. Ever been starstruck?
I don't really get starstruck. Everyone I've met has been very nice and friendly, like Kal Penn. During the writers' strike, he was like a staffer! And Scarlett Johansson has been traveling a lot. George Clooney is a good friend. He and I worked on Darfur issues together. I'm always impressed by people who do their homework...and use their celebrity to advocate for issues. George does that just about as well as anyone I know.
Does Michelle have a celebrity crush?
She loves Stevie Wonder. I've been teasing her because Stevie fell off the stage at one of our events. I said to her, "This is your favorite performer, and you push him off the stage?" Fortunately, he was OK.
Name the songs for your campaign soundtrack.
I'm pretty partial to the "Yes We Can" song made by a group of talented supporters. A couple of others we play at rallies are "Think" by Aretha Franklin and "City of Blinding Lights" by U2.
What do you do in your free time?
I'll take a look at the sports pages to see how the White Sox or the Bulls are doing. Michelle loves Sudoku.
Your favourite foods?
I like a good chili, and cobbler. [According to Michelle, he "makes a mean chili!"] But in a rush, I snack on trail mix.
So, boxers or briefs?
I don't answer those humiliating questions. But, whichever one it is, I look good in 'em!
Source: US Weekly, Issue 682, March 10, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Obama's Self-Control
I have watched Barack Obama in several of the telecasted debates and I am impressed by his style of delivery.
Obama always projects a sense of peace. He is very calm when responding to tough questions. He treats his opponents respectfully and is often able to effectively deflect potentially heated arguments.
In yesterday's debate in Ohio, Obama also showed humility, by conceding a point to Hillary Clinton. Hillary felt that Obama's denouncement of Minister Louis Farrakhan's (of the Nation of Islam) past anti-semitic statements was not enough. Clinton said that Obama should take a stronger stand and reject Farrakhan's endorsement. Obama said he thought denouncement and rejection were the same thing, but added that “If Senator Clinton feels that ‘reject’ is stronger than the word ‘denounce,’ then I’m happy to concede the point, and I would 'reject and denounce' Farrakhan’s support." Instead of being defensive, Obama agreed with Clinton and also lightened the moment - there was scattered laughter in the audience.
What a pro.
Obama always projects a sense of peace. He is very calm when responding to tough questions. He treats his opponents respectfully and is often able to effectively deflect potentially heated arguments.
In yesterday's debate in Ohio, Obama also showed humility, by conceding a point to Hillary Clinton. Hillary felt that Obama's denouncement of Minister Louis Farrakhan's (of the Nation of Islam) past anti-semitic statements was not enough. Clinton said that Obama should take a stronger stand and reject Farrakhan's endorsement. Obama said he thought denouncement and rejection were the same thing, but added that “If Senator Clinton feels that ‘reject’ is stronger than the word ‘denounce,’ then I’m happy to concede the point, and I would 'reject and denounce' Farrakhan’s support." Instead of being defensive, Obama agreed with Clinton and also lightened the moment - there was scattered laughter in the audience.
What a pro.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Hillary Clinton on President George Bush's Departure from the Oval Office
"The world will breathe a sigh of relief once he leaves, we all know that."
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Clinton Says "Shame on You Barack Obama"
Hillary Clinton has accused Barack Obama of issuing campaign literature that she says is blatantly false. Clinton went so far as to compare Obama to Karl Rove. An angry Hillary said, "Enough with the speeches and the big rallies and then using tactics right out of Karl Rove's playbook. This is wrong, and every Democrat should be outraged."
Clinton feels that Obama knows that his campaign is touting lies about her health plan. "Sen. Obama knows it is not true that my plan forces people to buy insurance even if they can't afford it," she said. Hillary challenged Barack to meet her in Ohio in order to have a debate about Obama's tactics and behavior in the campaign.
Obama's camp responded via Bill Burton, Obama's spokesman, validating the information in the mailers. "Everything in those mailers is completely accurate, unlike the discredited attacks from Hillary Clinton's negative campaign that have been rejected in South Carolina, Wisconsin, and across America...and the facts are that Sen. Clinton was a supporter of NAFTA and the China permanent trade treaties until this campaign began. And she herself has said that under the Clinton health care plan, she would consider 'going after the wages' of Americans who don't purchase health insurance, whether they can afford it or not."
It's getting hot in here!
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/02/23/clinton.mailings/index.html
Clinton feels that Obama knows that his campaign is touting lies about her health plan. "Sen. Obama knows it is not true that my plan forces people to buy insurance even if they can't afford it," she said. Hillary challenged Barack to meet her in Ohio in order to have a debate about Obama's tactics and behavior in the campaign.
Obama's camp responded via Bill Burton, Obama's spokesman, validating the information in the mailers. "Everything in those mailers is completely accurate, unlike the discredited attacks from Hillary Clinton's negative campaign that have been rejected in South Carolina, Wisconsin, and across America...and the facts are that Sen. Clinton was a supporter of NAFTA and the China permanent trade treaties until this campaign began. And she herself has said that under the Clinton health care plan, she would consider 'going after the wages' of Americans who don't purchase health insurance, whether they can afford it or not."
It's getting hot in here!
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/02/23/clinton.mailings/index.html
Will Ralph Nader Run for President (Again)?
Ralph Nader, the 73-year old (74 on Feb. 27th) consumer advocate, lawyer, and author, may be preparing for another run for President.
Nader is scheduled to appear on NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday. In 2004, Nader used this show as a platform to launch his presidential campaign. Apparently, Nader has been in active discussions with several people about potentially joining the current presidential race as the third party.
Throughout his career, Ralph has been a bold voice for the consumer, and has helped found many organizations, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Public Citizen, Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), and the Pensions Right Center. He appeared on the cover of Time magazine in 1969 for his role as a consumer advocate.
Aside from his 2004 bid for the presidency, Ralph Nader has actually run for President a total of 4 times: in 1992, 1996, 2000 and 2004. In 1992, he ran as a write-in in the New Hampshire Republican and Democratic primaries. In 1996 and 2000, he represented the Green Party. In 2004, he ran as an independent and was endorsed by the Reform Party.
Will Ralph decide to run in 2008? I can't wait to see what happens on Sunday!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ralph_Nader
http://www.nader.org/
Nader is scheduled to appear on NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday. In 2004, Nader used this show as a platform to launch his presidential campaign. Apparently, Nader has been in active discussions with several people about potentially joining the current presidential race as the third party.
Throughout his career, Ralph has been a bold voice for the consumer, and has helped found many organizations, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Public Citizen, Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), and the Pensions Right Center. He appeared on the cover of Time magazine in 1969 for his role as a consumer advocate.
Aside from his 2004 bid for the presidency, Ralph Nader has actually run for President a total of 4 times: in 1992, 1996, 2000 and 2004. In 1992, he ran as a write-in in the New Hampshire Republican and Democratic primaries. In 1996 and 2000, he represented the Green Party. In 2004, he ran as an independent and was endorsed by the Reform Party.
Will Ralph decide to run in 2008? I can't wait to see what happens on Sunday!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ralph_Nader
http://www.nader.org/
McCain Can't Wait for Fidel Castro to Die
John McCain recently made it clear that he hopes Fidel Castro leaves the planet earth as soon as possible, and never comes back.
In a somewhat tacky comment, McCain - after an argument with Clinton and Obama on the best way to drive changes in Cuba - said about Castro, "I hope he has the opportunity to meet Karl Marx very soon." Karl Marx, author of "The Communist Manifesto", died in 1883.
McCain - like many - strongly believes that no substantial reforms will be made in Cuba until Castro dies. Maybe so, but wishing for his death really is in poor taste.
In a somewhat tacky comment, McCain - after an argument with Clinton and Obama on the best way to drive changes in Cuba - said about Castro, "I hope he has the opportunity to meet Karl Marx very soon." Karl Marx, author of "The Communist Manifesto", died in 1883.
McCain - like many - strongly believes that no substantial reforms will be made in Cuba until Castro dies. Maybe so, but wishing for his death really is in poor taste.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
25 Questions for Barack Obama
You've been campaigning 16 hours a day for months. Lost any weight?
I have. Probably 7, 8 lbs. I'm not a snacker, so I wait until I can sit down to a proper meal - and I don't always get the chance.
I see you've got your nicorette here. How's the no-smoking thing going?
Good. I'm done. That was always a little over-hyped. You know, I'd sneak maybe three, four cigarettes a day, then I could go three or four days without one.
What do you miss most about life before all this?
Anonymity. Being able to take my kids [daughters Malia, 9, and Sasha, 6] to the zoo without attracting attention. I'm in the wrong profession for that now.
Have you tried a disguise?
A baseball cap and dressing down in jeans and an overcoat works if I move fast enough. The problem is my ears are pretty prominent.
What are some of the cool perks?
I can't lie: It's easier to get reservations when I want to take my wife [Michelle, 44] out to dinner.
When's the last time you did that?
On her birthday, January 17. We were in Nevada for the caucus.
What was your best effort for Valentine's Day?
Interesting question. [Pause.] I'm so good to her in so many ways, no one gesture of undying love really stands out.
What's the first piece of legislation you hope to sign as President?
Health care for all Americans.
First Executive Order?
A series of orders initiating a phased withdrawal of our troops from Iraq.
What about troops who lost buddies there and don't want to leave yet and let those deaths be in vain?
Listen, I would say to them, our soldiers have performed magnificently, and they succeeded in the missions that have been given them. So they have not been lost in vain.
You picked Renegade as your Secret Service code name.
It had to start with 'R' and it suited the upstart nature of our campaign.
What's the last thing you prayed for?
Every night I thank God for all He's given me, ask Him to protect my family, to forgive me my sins and foolishness and to make me an instrument of His work.
Any particular foolishness?
Oh, all of it. I am reminded every day - if not by events, then by my wife- that I am not a perfect man.
What's the last thing that made you cry?
My girls. They'll say something that makes me realize how quickly they're growing up, how good-hearted they are. Malia is wise and thoughtful. Sasha is the comedian in the family.
What's the funniest thing she's said lately?
I was sleeping late with the girls, and Michelle, who always wakes up early, turns on the lights. And Sasha says, 'Aw, Mommy, we are peace!' She meant 'peaceful,' I gather. Now, whenever Michelle and I want quiet time, we say, 'We are peace!'
What's the first thing they want when you walk through the door?
Hugs and kisses from their daddy. Malia has a key-chain collection and Sasha collects snow globes, so I try to make sure I've picked up some along the way.
How would you describe your look?
Simple. My theory on style is find something that fits and buy five - like blue suits. They come in handy when you're running for President.
You used to have an Afro. What made you give it up?
My sort of half-Afro lasted well beyond the time it was fashionable, mainly because I didn't want to spend $20 a week on haircuts.
What was your last splurge?
My wife. Her birthday present. It was a necklace. And it wasn't fake.
First concert?
Elton John, when I was 10. The music was terrific, but I didn't get all the plumage. I guess I get it now.
Sonny & Cher or Donny & Marie?
Sonny & Cher, even though Sonny ended up Republican. I thought Cher was pretty hot.
Fair enough. Marcia Brady or Laurie Partridge?
I'm trying to remember what Laurie Partridge looked like. Oh yeah. Susan Dey from L.A Law. Definitely her.
Who would you most like to meet?
Bruce Springsteen. He strikes me as a good person.
Would you camp out for Hanna Montana tickets for your girls?
I should amend what I said earlier about the greatest perk. I was able to get them tickets already, which raised me tremendously in their eyes.
Michelle's taken you to task for not picking up your socks. Equal time: what does she do that drives you crazy?
I will display the wisdom I will display as President and decline to answer. My wife has no flaws.
Source: People Magazine, Sandra Sobieraj Westfall
I have. Probably 7, 8 lbs. I'm not a snacker, so I wait until I can sit down to a proper meal - and I don't always get the chance.
I see you've got your nicorette here. How's the no-smoking thing going?
Good. I'm done. That was always a little over-hyped. You know, I'd sneak maybe three, four cigarettes a day, then I could go three or four days without one.
What do you miss most about life before all this?
Anonymity. Being able to take my kids [daughters Malia, 9, and Sasha, 6] to the zoo without attracting attention. I'm in the wrong profession for that now.
Have you tried a disguise?
A baseball cap and dressing down in jeans and an overcoat works if I move fast enough. The problem is my ears are pretty prominent.
What are some of the cool perks?
I can't lie: It's easier to get reservations when I want to take my wife [Michelle, 44] out to dinner.
When's the last time you did that?
On her birthday, January 17. We were in Nevada for the caucus.
What was your best effort for Valentine's Day?
Interesting question. [Pause.] I'm so good to her in so many ways, no one gesture of undying love really stands out.
What's the first piece of legislation you hope to sign as President?
Health care for all Americans.
First Executive Order?
A series of orders initiating a phased withdrawal of our troops from Iraq.
What about troops who lost buddies there and don't want to leave yet and let those deaths be in vain?
Listen, I would say to them, our soldiers have performed magnificently, and they succeeded in the missions that have been given them. So they have not been lost in vain.
You picked Renegade as your Secret Service code name.
It had to start with 'R' and it suited the upstart nature of our campaign.
What's the last thing you prayed for?
Every night I thank God for all He's given me, ask Him to protect my family, to forgive me my sins and foolishness and to make me an instrument of His work.
Any particular foolishness?
Oh, all of it. I am reminded every day - if not by events, then by my wife- that I am not a perfect man.
What's the last thing that made you cry?
My girls. They'll say something that makes me realize how quickly they're growing up, how good-hearted they are. Malia is wise and thoughtful. Sasha is the comedian in the family.
What's the funniest thing she's said lately?
I was sleeping late with the girls, and Michelle, who always wakes up early, turns on the lights. And Sasha says, 'Aw, Mommy, we are peace!' She meant 'peaceful,' I gather. Now, whenever Michelle and I want quiet time, we say, 'We are peace!'
What's the first thing they want when you walk through the door?
Hugs and kisses from their daddy. Malia has a key-chain collection and Sasha collects snow globes, so I try to make sure I've picked up some along the way.
How would you describe your look?
Simple. My theory on style is find something that fits and buy five - like blue suits. They come in handy when you're running for President.
You used to have an Afro. What made you give it up?
My sort of half-Afro lasted well beyond the time it was fashionable, mainly because I didn't want to spend $20 a week on haircuts.
What was your last splurge?
My wife. Her birthday present. It was a necklace. And it wasn't fake.
First concert?
Elton John, when I was 10. The music was terrific, but I didn't get all the plumage. I guess I get it now.
Sonny & Cher or Donny & Marie?
Sonny & Cher, even though Sonny ended up Republican. I thought Cher was pretty hot.
Fair enough. Marcia Brady or Laurie Partridge?
I'm trying to remember what Laurie Partridge looked like. Oh yeah. Susan Dey from L.A Law. Definitely her.
Who would you most like to meet?
Bruce Springsteen. He strikes me as a good person.
Would you camp out for Hanna Montana tickets for your girls?
I should amend what I said earlier about the greatest perk. I was able to get them tickets already, which raised me tremendously in their eyes.
Michelle's taken you to task for not picking up your socks. Equal time: what does she do that drives you crazy?
I will display the wisdom I will display as President and decline to answer. My wife has no flaws.
Source: People Magazine, Sandra Sobieraj Westfall
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Love Clinton, But This Sounds a Bit Narcissistic
This article was posted on CNN today. In it Bill Clinton accuses Obama of ignoring his white house legacy.
-----------
Former President Clinton on Friday accused Sen. Barack Obama, his wife's rival for the Democratic nomination, of trying to ignore any accomplishments they achieved during their years in the White House.
"You have one candidate who's made the explicit argument that the only way we can change America is to move into a post-partisan future and therefore we have to eliminate from consideration for the presidency anybody who made good things happen in the '90s or stopped bad things from happening in this decade," said Clinton, who was winding up a day of East Texas campaign appearances for his wife, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
"It doesn't matter how much good you did," the former president said at Stephen F. Austin University. "We've got to get rid of you because you had to fight to make something good happen. You had to fight to stop something bad from happening. And if you fought, you made somebody mad, we ought to give you an old watch and retire you. You can't possibly make a contribution to America's future."
Without mentioning Obama by name, Clinton said the Illinois senator was promoting a position that it's "actually an advantage to not have any experience because you've not made anybody mad."
"It's been very effective," Clinton said. "It's already taken four good candidates out. It would have taken Hillary out if she didn't have so much grass-roots support and so much guts." Clinton said his wife's position is to "bridge the party divides when we can, but we also need to be prepared to fight."
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Former President Clinton on Friday accused Sen. Barack Obama, his wife's rival for the Democratic nomination, of trying to ignore any accomplishments they achieved during their years in the White House.
"You have one candidate who's made the explicit argument that the only way we can change America is to move into a post-partisan future and therefore we have to eliminate from consideration for the presidency anybody who made good things happen in the '90s or stopped bad things from happening in this decade," said Clinton, who was winding up a day of East Texas campaign appearances for his wife, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
"It doesn't matter how much good you did," the former president said at Stephen F. Austin University. "We've got to get rid of you because you had to fight to make something good happen. You had to fight to stop something bad from happening. And if you fought, you made somebody mad, we ought to give you an old watch and retire you. You can't possibly make a contribution to America's future."
Without mentioning Obama by name, Clinton said the Illinois senator was promoting a position that it's "actually an advantage to not have any experience because you've not made anybody mad."
"It's been very effective," Clinton said. "It's already taken four good candidates out. It would have taken Hillary out if she didn't have so much grass-roots support and so much guts." Clinton said his wife's position is to "bridge the party divides when we can, but we also need to be prepared to fight."
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Barack Obama - "Yes We Can"
It was a creed written into the founding documents that declared the destiny of a nation.
Yes we can.
It was whispered by slaves and abolitionists as they blazed a trail toward freedom.
Yes we can.
It was sung by immigrants as they struck out from distant shores and pioneers who pushed westward against an unforgiving wilderness.
Yes we can.
It was the call of workers who organized; women who reached for the ballots; a President who chose the moon as our new frontier; and a King who took us to the mountaintop and pointed the way to the Promised Land.
Yes we can to justice and equality.
Yes we can to opportunity and prosperity.
Yes we can heal this nation.
Yes we can repair this world.
Yes we can.
We know the battle ahead will be long, but always remember that no matter what obstacles stand in our way, nothing can stand in the way of the power of millions of voices calling for change.
We have been told we cannot do this by a chorus of cynics...they will only grow louder and more dissonant ........... We've been asked to pause for a reality check. We've been warned against offering the people of this nation false hope.
But in the unlikely story that is America, there has never been anything false about hope.
Now the hopes of the little girl who goes to a crumbling school in Dillon are the same as the dreams of the boy who learns on the streets of LA; we will remember that there is something happening in America; that we are not as divided as our politics suggests; that we are one people; we are one nation; and together, we will begin the next great chapter in the American story with three words that will ring from coast to coast; from sea to shining sea --
Yes. We. Can.
http://kerijam.blogspot.com/2008/02/video-of-week-obama-yes-we-can.html
Yes we can.
It was whispered by slaves and abolitionists as they blazed a trail toward freedom.
Yes we can.
It was sung by immigrants as they struck out from distant shores and pioneers who pushed westward against an unforgiving wilderness.
Yes we can.
It was the call of workers who organized; women who reached for the ballots; a President who chose the moon as our new frontier; and a King who took us to the mountaintop and pointed the way to the Promised Land.
Yes we can to justice and equality.
Yes we can to opportunity and prosperity.
Yes we can heal this nation.
Yes we can repair this world.
Yes we can.
We know the battle ahead will be long, but always remember that no matter what obstacles stand in our way, nothing can stand in the way of the power of millions of voices calling for change.
We have been told we cannot do this by a chorus of cynics...they will only grow louder and more dissonant ........... We've been asked to pause for a reality check. We've been warned against offering the people of this nation false hope.
But in the unlikely story that is America, there has never been anything false about hope.
Now the hopes of the little girl who goes to a crumbling school in Dillon are the same as the dreams of the boy who learns on the streets of LA; we will remember that there is something happening in America; that we are not as divided as our politics suggests; that we are one people; we are one nation; and together, we will begin the next great chapter in the American story with three words that will ring from coast to coast; from sea to shining sea --
Yes. We. Can.
http://kerijam.blogspot.com/2008/02/video-of-week-obama-yes-we-can.html
Friday, February 8, 2008
Her Crush Don't Mean a Thing - Obama Girl Doesn't Vote
She gained instant celebrity across the Internet from last summer's music video "I Got a Crush on Obama", but 26-year old Amber Lee Ettinger ended up being all show and very little substance. Amber left Obama hanging on Super Tuesday. Somehow, while majorly crushing on Obama, she didn't get around to voting for him. Nice example! Where's your O-face?
Amber initially tried to explain her actions by saying that she didn't vote because she wasn't registered in New York, but in New Jersey. When reminded that New Jersey also held a primary, Amber searched for a more valid excuse. She apparently felt that the 'The Dog Ate My Homework' wasn't fitting and so instead picked the tried and true 'I was sick' to justify her misstep.
Poor Amber was too sick in the city and so unable to make it over to New Jersey for the big day. Amber further added that she "was in Arizona for the Super Bowl — every time I get in the airplane I get sick". To her credit, Amber did feel some remorse, “I’m a little upset but I really couldn’t help it.”
Source: NY Times
Are you kidding me?! Romney leaves, but Huckabee stays?
Mitt Romney suspends his run for the presidency, but Huckabee says he won't quit. Someone please explain the logic to me! Here's Huckabee's explanation:
"As a true authentic, consistent, conservative, I have a vision to bring hope, opportunity and prosperity to all Americans, and I'd like to ask for and welcome the support of those who had previously been committed to Mitt. This is a two-man race for the nomination, and I am committed to marching on. I believe in the importance of a strong national defense — which includes winning the war against Islamic extremists and the protection of American sovereignty," he continued.
Umm, OK, Mike.
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