Wow -I'm sitting here glued to my computer screen. I have just witnessed history. Major networks are calling Barack Obama the next president. It took a minute to sink in. It's still working on it. But in watching the video of the crowd in Chicago - a feeling of amazement and awe swept over me. Yes we can!
It was worth standing in line today. A young black lady behind me exclaimed excitedly "almost time to make history!" Darn right. I was proud to vote today.
ROck on, Obama!
- James
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Where to Vote
Wow! It's almost that time! The moment of truth - the results of hard work, oodles of money, blood, sweat, and tears.
Yep - Election Day! And if you're considering not voting, I suggest you watch this video to see how important it is. Mr. Tate explains it much more eloquently than I could.
OK, so now that you're convinced, here's our favorite online buddy to help you figure out where your polling station is:
Google's map
Please, please, please vote! It's your voice, and this is an exciting time! I'm, of course, voting for Barack Obama. I feel he has the leadership, vision, and answers that America needs. I also feel that Cheney's endorsement of John McCain proves that Mr. McCain is certainly not a maverick. He's voted with Bush 90% of the time. And look where it's gotten us.
Regardless of your political affiliations, please vote. If you're having trouble making up your mind, email me, and we'll chat!
Bring a good book, take a few minutes out of your day for something that will affect the world.
- James
Friday, October 24, 2008
In Defense of Joe the Plumber
OK - I admit it - I'm here for Obama.
But I'd like to slam both candidates and the media this time. Poor ol' Joe the Plumber.
I think it's a testament to how out of touch both candidates and the media have gotten with the general public - the "average Joe", pun intended.
A fella should be able to ask a question, and not have his life pried into, people camped on his front lawn, and a bus tour named after him. Granted, I'm an extrovert from the school of David Lee Roth (frontman for Van Halen.) I'd love to have a bus tour named after me. But I really feel bad for Joe. I think he's being used as a pawn, and that's not too cool. Sure, he's being used as an illustration. But what has anyone ever asked the paint if it's OK with being used to color the picture?
I sense that Joe would prefer not to be paint, or the pawn that he now is.
So, in taking sides with the opposition, I'd like to say "I am Joe." And please don't ever use me as an illustration.
But I'd like to slam both candidates and the media this time. Poor ol' Joe the Plumber.
I think it's a testament to how out of touch both candidates and the media have gotten with the general public - the "average Joe", pun intended.
A fella should be able to ask a question, and not have his life pried into, people camped on his front lawn, and a bus tour named after him. Granted, I'm an extrovert from the school of David Lee Roth (frontman for Van Halen.) I'd love to have a bus tour named after me. But I really feel bad for Joe. I think he's being used as a pawn, and that's not too cool. Sure, he's being used as an illustration. But what has anyone ever asked the paint if it's OK with being used to color the picture?
I sense that Joe would prefer not to be paint, or the pawn that he now is.
So, in taking sides with the opposition, I'd like to say "I am Joe." And please don't ever use me as an illustration.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
McCain and the politics of fear
Barack Obama pulls in a mountain of money, and John McCain says "ah, there must be scandal."
Hey, maybe there is. But it smacks strongly of someone saying "beginner's luck!"
Here's a video that I think sums up some of the things being said right now. I laugh every time I see this, and I think of this every time I hear the McCain campaign mention Bill Ayers.
Clarke and Dawe discuss the Politics of Fear
Hey, maybe there is. But it smacks strongly of someone saying "beginner's luck!"
Here's a video that I think sums up some of the things being said right now. I laugh every time I see this, and I think of this every time I hear the McCain campaign mention Bill Ayers.
Clarke and Dawe discuss the Politics of Fear
Palin and the rise of the anti-intellectual
I love townhouses - they're great for canvasing!
And as another Sunday draws to a close, I'm left with sore feet and a new puzzle in my brain.
Why is the current presidential contest running dangerously close to looking like a high school?
Let's take a step back, and review the situation.
- We've got a beauty queen.
- We've got a senior. (ha ha!)
- And we've got a competent, smart guy who's indirectly being called a geek...?!
It seems to me that any of the "NObama" crowd hold it against him that he's educated, articulate, and well-spoken. To borrow a high school phrase..."Like, oh my god, have you seen his ears? And gee wiz, everyone wants to hang out with him. Ewww."
This is sad! Ridiculous! Preposterous! It seems that Sarah Palin is framing the debate that educated professionals are not to be trusted, just as geeks from high school are not to be associtated with.
I really don't care how "cool" my lawyer, brain surgeon, insurance adjuster, or investment manager is. I want them to be competent, qualified, and smart. And these professionals are strictly concerning me - not an entire country.
I don't understand why it's suddenly not cool to be smart in politics. Why is an intellectual not a real american?
Perhaps because he doesn't come from a small town?
I don't get it. So I'm gonna keep knockin' on doors, doggone it!
And as another Sunday draws to a close, I'm left with sore feet and a new puzzle in my brain.
Why is the current presidential contest running dangerously close to looking like a high school?
Let's take a step back, and review the situation.
- We've got a beauty queen.
- We've got a senior. (ha ha!)
- And we've got a competent, smart guy who's indirectly being called a geek...?!
It seems to me that any of the "NObama" crowd hold it against him that he's educated, articulate, and well-spoken. To borrow a high school phrase..."Like, oh my god, have you seen his ears? And gee wiz, everyone wants to hang out with him. Ewww."
This is sad! Ridiculous! Preposterous! It seems that Sarah Palin is framing the debate that educated professionals are not to be trusted, just as geeks from high school are not to be associtated with.
I really don't care how "cool" my lawyer, brain surgeon, insurance adjuster, or investment manager is. I want them to be competent, qualified, and smart. And these professionals are strictly concerning me - not an entire country.
I don't understand why it's suddenly not cool to be smart in politics. Why is an intellectual not a real american?
Perhaps because he doesn't come from a small town?
I don't get it. So I'm gonna keep knockin' on doors, doggone it!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
John McCain and the Dallas Cowboys
Whew, ladies and gents!
It's getting very very close to the vote. And I'd like to relate it to football.
I'll admit, I'm a girly man when it comes to this American sport. I see folks driving around with their teams' flag proudly waving from the roof of their car. Hey, that's cool. They're into it, and they like it. Team pride.
However, let's compare partisan politics to football. Let's say we're invaded by an alien civilization. They threaten to annihilate us by melting our ice caps, driving our banks over the edge, stoke wars, and all in all, make us fairly miserable. The only way we can avoid this catastrophe is - by competing in, and winning, the intergalactic super bowl xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxvi (we've apparently missed this before somehow.)
So, the world leaders frantically convene, dial up the NFL, and start drafting a team to save the world.
All's going well, when suddenly somebody suggests Tony Romo for quarterback. A hush falls over the convention room in downtown Alexandria, VA. This is not Dallas country.
"I'm not voting for Romo! His name rhymes with an insult to the Gay and Lesbian community!" Screams an onlooker...
"But he's the man for the job!" a member of the Planetary Salvation By Intergalactic Competition Commission board patiently explains.
"He's from Dallas! I don't trust him. Isn't he really a communist? No Way, Jose!"
Once again, partisan politics has gotten in the way. It looks like the world is doomed because some Redskins fan got ticked.
The good news is: This is just a story. The bad news is: This hypothetical fan is one of the deciding factors of the watershed election facing our country.
I suggest that we put partisan politics on the shelf this time around. Let's look at what America really needs.
I just came back from a very interesting drive today. My route took me through northern and rural Virginia, including towns Staunton, Waynesboro, Luray, and Gainesville.
I spotted four abandoned gas stations in Gainesville in the bustling Rt. 29/I66 interchange district. They were busy when I rolled through last year.
Staunton and Waynesboro showed the first signs of desolation of the economic slowdown - and this is the fall tourist season. True, they did have their lovely Fall Foliage Festival, but things were starting to look a little less than prosperous. And it certainly wasn't the good folks of these township to blame! They had pride in their town, and put on a darn good festival. But - along the outskirts, things looked pretty darn empty.
Luray looked scenic as usual, but in talking to my friends at the local art gallery, business has been painfully slow.
The kicker was evident all along the Rt. 340 Corridor. The yards were choked with campaign signs bearing the message "Valley Voter for McCain - Palin."
They might has well have said "Another family for four more years of this." "I'm voting for another four years of failed economic policies." "I support someone who has stated he doesn't really understand the economy." "I'm raising my voice for a maverick who goes the way of the establishment ninety odd percent of the time." "I'd like more - McCain - Palin 2008"
Don't you think it's time we put our partisan politics aside, and vote for some change?
Obama might be from Dallas in the eyes of the Skins fans around here, but I think it's time we give him a look.
I'm casting my ballot for something different this year. I'm voting for Obama.
It's getting very very close to the vote. And I'd like to relate it to football.
I'll admit, I'm a girly man when it comes to this American sport. I see folks driving around with their teams' flag proudly waving from the roof of their car. Hey, that's cool. They're into it, and they like it. Team pride.
However, let's compare partisan politics to football. Let's say we're invaded by an alien civilization. They threaten to annihilate us by melting our ice caps, driving our banks over the edge, stoke wars, and all in all, make us fairly miserable. The only way we can avoid this catastrophe is - by competing in, and winning, the intergalactic super bowl xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxvi (we've apparently missed this before somehow.)
So, the world leaders frantically convene, dial up the NFL, and start drafting a team to save the world.
All's going well, when suddenly somebody suggests Tony Romo for quarterback. A hush falls over the convention room in downtown Alexandria, VA. This is not Dallas country.
"I'm not voting for Romo! His name rhymes with an insult to the Gay and Lesbian community!" Screams an onlooker...
"But he's the man for the job!" a member of the Planetary Salvation By Intergalactic Competition Commission board patiently explains.
"He's from Dallas! I don't trust him. Isn't he really a communist? No Way, Jose!"
Once again, partisan politics has gotten in the way. It looks like the world is doomed because some Redskins fan got ticked.
The good news is: This is just a story. The bad news is: This hypothetical fan is one of the deciding factors of the watershed election facing our country.
I suggest that we put partisan politics on the shelf this time around. Let's look at what America really needs.
I just came back from a very interesting drive today. My route took me through northern and rural Virginia, including towns Staunton, Waynesboro, Luray, and Gainesville.
I spotted four abandoned gas stations in Gainesville in the bustling Rt. 29/I66 interchange district. They were busy when I rolled through last year.
Staunton and Waynesboro showed the first signs of desolation of the economic slowdown - and this is the fall tourist season. True, they did have their lovely Fall Foliage Festival, but things were starting to look a little less than prosperous. And it certainly wasn't the good folks of these township to blame! They had pride in their town, and put on a darn good festival. But - along the outskirts, things looked pretty darn empty.
Luray looked scenic as usual, but in talking to my friends at the local art gallery, business has been painfully slow.
The kicker was evident all along the Rt. 340 Corridor. The yards were choked with campaign signs bearing the message "Valley Voter for McCain - Palin."
They might has well have said "Another family for four more years of this." "I'm voting for another four years of failed economic policies." "I support someone who has stated he doesn't really understand the economy." "I'm raising my voice for a maverick who goes the way of the establishment ninety odd percent of the time." "I'd like more - McCain - Palin 2008"
Don't you think it's time we put our partisan politics aside, and vote for some change?
Obama might be from Dallas in the eyes of the Skins fans around here, but I think it's time we give him a look.
I'm casting my ballot for something different this year. I'm voting for Obama.
Monday, October 6, 2008
No comment
Man, I've been glued to this election. All the talking heads are running at full throttle, and everyone has something to say.
At the end of many of these articles and blogs one can find the reader comments. It's amazing - these folks skirmish, debate, and establish a plan for the world in this section, and after a while, the article is almost of secondary importance.
I say almost because the comments are useless. I've published some online articles on different subjects, and I'm tellin' you, folks go all out. Just bop on over to YouTube - you'll see they've invented new forms of profanity. It's quite amazing.
The phenomenon of anonymity in the age of the internet has created quite a market for armchair politicians and cowards who wouldn't dare talk like that in real life.
Of course, the concept of debating and besting your friends in a political discussion has certainly not gone away. Folks use this to "prove themselves." However, unless a.) you live in a swing state, and b.) your friend is a voter, it's a waste of energy to push 'em around. If they're engaging in verbal combat with you, they're going to vote their way anyway, perhaps just to spite you! Believe it or not, I hate talking politics with folks. I don't like debating. Maybe that's why I like to blog, and canvas.
I suggest that you redirect that time and energy to get out and hit the pavement for your cause. I was out canvasing yesterday, and I got to talking to a very nice fella who will probably vote for John McCain, and thinks that Sarah Palin can get on the job training. So we obviously weren't eye-to-eye on a lot of things. However, I encouraged him to get out to a McCain field office, pick up a packet, and start knocking on doors. I told him I consider it vital for everyone to be involved. It is our country, not Exxon's or Wachovia's.
Start a blog. Have a real conversation, not a debate, with undecided friends who want help choosing which candidate to vote for. Sign up to volunteer for a measly few hours at a local field office of your favorite candidate. Knock on doors. Make it happen!
At the end of many of these articles and blogs one can find the reader comments. It's amazing - these folks skirmish, debate, and establish a plan for the world in this section, and after a while, the article is almost of secondary importance.
I say almost because the comments are useless. I've published some online articles on different subjects, and I'm tellin' you, folks go all out. Just bop on over to YouTube - you'll see they've invented new forms of profanity. It's quite amazing.
The phenomenon of anonymity in the age of the internet has created quite a market for armchair politicians and cowards who wouldn't dare talk like that in real life.
Of course, the concept of debating and besting your friends in a political discussion has certainly not gone away. Folks use this to "prove themselves." However, unless a.) you live in a swing state, and b.) your friend is a voter, it's a waste of energy to push 'em around. If they're engaging in verbal combat with you, they're going to vote their way anyway, perhaps just to spite you! Believe it or not, I hate talking politics with folks. I don't like debating. Maybe that's why I like to blog, and canvas.
I suggest that you redirect that time and energy to get out and hit the pavement for your cause. I was out canvasing yesterday, and I got to talking to a very nice fella who will probably vote for John McCain, and thinks that Sarah Palin can get on the job training. So we obviously weren't eye-to-eye on a lot of things. However, I encouraged him to get out to a McCain field office, pick up a packet, and start knocking on doors. I told him I consider it vital for everyone to be involved. It is our country, not Exxon's or Wachovia's.
Start a blog. Have a real conversation, not a debate, with undecided friends who want help choosing which candidate to vote for. Sign up to volunteer for a measly few hours at a local field office of your favorite candidate. Knock on doors. Make it happen!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Sarah Palin and Ozzy Osbourne
I was talking politics with my brother the other day, and he made the remark "if McCain wins, we're gonna have another really good calendar."
He's referring to the various daily calendars with George W. Bush quotes. I had one of those a few years ago, and man, that thing was funny! For example, Dubya used a pitbull analogy, too. "I am a pitbull on the pant leg of Opportunity."
Of course, looking past partisanship, if Obama wins, I'm sure Biden will provide us with plenty of fodder for printing purposes.
The politicians of the past few years certainly keep business booming for the quote-meisters, and that's "kinda weird, bro."
And here's the thing that worries me the most. Communication is vital for a world leader. If Sarah Palin can't string a sentence together coherently on the campaign trail, how would she in a high-pressure situation? While national television might be a bit unnerving, the worst that happens is you end your bid for the White House. But, a slip-up by a vice president, or president in negotiating say, oh, a war, could be catostrophic. But hey, at least Alaska will get it first! The Russians practically have a landing strip built there, right?
For some reason, Ms. Palin's performance during her interview with Ms. Couric reminds me strangely of Ozzy Osbourne, minus the bats and profanities.
Can't you just see this?
COURIC: Mr Osbourne, as Governor of Alaxka, You've cited Alaska's proximity to Russia as part of your foreign policy experience. What did you mean by that?
He's referring to the various daily calendars with George W. Bush quotes. I had one of those a few years ago, and man, that thing was funny! For example, Dubya used a pitbull analogy, too. "I am a pitbull on the pant leg of Opportunity."
Of course, looking past partisanship, if Obama wins, I'm sure Biden will provide us with plenty of fodder for printing purposes.
The politicians of the past few years certainly keep business booming for the quote-meisters, and that's "kinda weird, bro."
And here's the thing that worries me the most. Communication is vital for a world leader. If Sarah Palin can't string a sentence together coherently on the campaign trail, how would she in a high-pressure situation? While national television might be a bit unnerving, the worst that happens is you end your bid for the White House. But, a slip-up by a vice president, or president in negotiating say, oh, a war, could be catostrophic. But hey, at least Alaska will get it first! The Russians practically have a landing strip built there, right?
For some reason, Ms. Palin's performance during her interview with Ms. Couric reminds me strangely of Ozzy Osbourne, minus the bats and profanities.
Can't you just see this?
COURIC: Mr Osbourne, as Governor of Alaxka, You've cited Alaska's proximity to Russia as part of your foreign policy experience. What did you mean by that?
Osbourne: ****, Katie! That **** Alaska **** has a very narrow maritime border between a foreign country, Russia, and on our other side, uhhhhhh, and uhhhhhh.******* the land-- boundary that we have with-- ****Canada. It--***** it's funny that a comment like that was--***** kind of made to-- cari-*****- I don't know, you know? Reporters--****
Scary!
One more thing - what happened to the fact that presidents are supposed to act presidential? I was talking to a friend, and he was complaing that "everyone likes Obama, he speaks well, he acts well, he knows his stuff, he has a huge following..."
Yeah?
That's why I'm voting for him! Someone needs to repair America's reputation, and I don't think calendar sales will do that.
Friday, September 26, 2008
A forwarded email
Howdy!
I got this email today, and I'd like to share it. Please sign the letter, and send a letter asking that McCain's health records be brought up during the Debates!
>>>
Recurrences of malignant melanoma, a savage tumor that can and does reappear after periods of hope-filled absence, are too common and serious to be cloaked for political purposes. - Theodore M. Cole, MD
I got this email today, and I'd like to share it. Please sign the letter, and send a letter asking that McCain's health records be brought up during the Debates!
>>>
Recurrences of malignant melanoma, a savage tumor that can and does reappear after periods of hope-filled absence, are too common and serious to be cloaked for political purposes. - Theodore M. Cole, MD
53,491: People who have signed Brave New Films' open letter calling for a full, public disclosure of McCain's health records.
2,515: Doctors who signed the open letter urging McCain to release his records.
1,173: Pages in McCain's medical records dumped on the media in a publicity stunt last May.
20:. Journalists allowed to review his records for the 2008 election.
3: Hours those journalists were permitted to review them.
0: The number of tape recorders, cell phones, cameras or photocopying machines allowed in the room.
How many of you will write in urging PBS' Jim Lehrer to ask McCain about his health records during Friday's debate?
This debate will deal with foreign policy, and McCain's health issues constitute a national security issue, especially when you consider how his secrecy about medical records echoes the Bush administration's legacy of lies. Will McCain's health limit his capacity to make tough decisions regarding diplomacy and military action? We don't know, because McCain is keeping his medical records a tightly held secret, made available to just a handful of journalists for three hours under close supervision.
Send a quick e-mail to Jim Lehrer, moderator of Friday's debate, with the subject line: "Ask McCain to Disclose His Health Records in Full." Then, donate to Brave New PAC today so we can get this ad on the air. We have the right to have an open discussion about this grave issue, and now we have the chance to bring transparency and accountability to politics.
Yours,
Robert Greenwald
and everyone at Brave New PAC
P.S. For more info and inspiration and what to write in the body of your e-mail to Jim Lehrer, read the testimonies from some of our doctors below.
It is standard practice for the people of the United States to be kept informed of the President's state of health. It is even more important that we citizens be made fully aware of the health and health risks of our potential Presidents. John McCain has had more than one melanoma, a particularly lethal cancer. That statement that his cancer is "in remission" does not equate with cure. Melanoma can be undetectable and "in remission" for a dozen years and then recur. - Nancy V. Bruckner, MD
It is inconceivable that America would vote on who will be their next president without complete disclosure of every detail of the health care that each candidate has undergone. With one of the candidates having had a very serious form of cancer and being 72 years of age, the American people need to be reassured that their decisions at the poll are being made with all available information. - David R. Meldrum, MD
Transparency as far as medical history is concerned is essential for those running for public office. The public deserves that. It is a prerequisite for being in office. - Robert Buxbaum, MD
I have to release my medical records to get insurance, to get hospital privileges and for things of far lesser import than seeking the presidency of this country. Unless Mr. McCain has something to hide, he should release his records. If he refuses to release the records, then the assumption must be that he is, indeed, hiding something. - Gerald F. Cambria, MD
I am a registered Republican. As a dermatologist with over 20 years of experience, I would have to believe that there is a very significant probability that McCain will die of his melanoma, probably within the next few years. As I understand it, his first episode was in 1992, and he has had a total of 4 melanomas, one of which was deep enough to require a lymph node dissection. My experience has been that patients whose immune system clearly does not fight off melanoma (I've never had any patient who had more than 2 once we began observing them closely with consistent skin checks, as I know McCain gets), and eventually die of their melanoma, especially when it has been on the head or neck. Everything may seem to be fine for 5-10 years, then all of a sudden all the micrometastases reach critical mass, and there are lesions in the brain, bone and lungs - and the person is dead within three months. - Laura E. Skellchock, MD
My own schedule
Man, I need to take a hint from the Republicans running this race.
If it doesn't fit your schedule, ignore it.
A presidential debate? Well, I'm busy right now. How about next week? (John McCain.)
A subpoena? Dude, can't you see I'm on tour? (Todd Palin.)
I get the feeling that McCain's campaign would like to call a time out. Anytime I've ever called time out is because I'm exhausted, and losing whatever game I'm happening to be playing. Or, my shoe's untied.
Would somebody check to see if Senator McCain's shoe is untied, please?
Game on!
If it doesn't fit your schedule, ignore it.
A presidential debate? Well, I'm busy right now. How about next week? (John McCain.)
A subpoena? Dude, can't you see I'm on tour? (Todd Palin.)
I get the feeling that McCain's campaign would like to call a time out. Anytime I've ever called time out is because I'm exhausted, and losing whatever game I'm happening to be playing. Or, my shoe's untied.
Would somebody check to see if Senator McCain's shoe is untied, please?
Game on!
Monday, September 22, 2008
I reject your reality, and substitute my own!
That's actually a bumper sticker. One that Todd Palin should have on his snowmobile.
He refuses to testify because he believes the investigation of "Troopergate" is illegitimate. Hey, if I were in his snowshoes, I might think the same - but, that's not the point.
I find it interesting that Michelle Obama's quote about being proud of her country for the first time in her adult life to be trumpeted by the Republican base, while Todd Palin's disregard for an investigation to be a minor point, comparatively. What if Ms. Obama thumbed her nose - no - refused to comply - with the court? Ah, then I think we'd see the end of Barack's bid for the White House. An attitude of superiority to the law exhibited in the Palin case is a troubling one, indeed. And the Palin family isn't even in DC yet!
Regardless of Mr. Palin's legal tactics, and leaving the fact aside that Troopergate is starting to give me the willies, I'd like to pose the following question:
If the McCain-Palin campaign is so insistent on it's brand of change for Washington, how will they possibly accomplish this? McCain's been there for years. I can see him walking down the halls, saying "OK, fellas, no more Mr. Nice Guy!"
And how is Ms. Palin going to bring reform to the scandalized city if she's already causing problems in a remote corner of the country?
It doesn't make sense to hire Acme Change Company to fire Acme Change Company.
Thirty-odd more doors were knocked on by yours truly this Sunday, and boy, my legs are killing me today. But it's the pain of change, and one I'm willing to pay.
By the way, I was talking to a buddy today who's a vehement McCain supporter. While I'm completely opposed to his views, I encouraged him to get out there and fight for what he believes in. That's the beauty of the American process (and the process in many other countries, too. Us Americans forget that, sometimes.) I think if we all got off the couch, and walked the talk, we'd be a lot better off as a people, and as a nation.
Get to it!
He refuses to testify because he believes the investigation of "Troopergate" is illegitimate. Hey, if I were in his snowshoes, I might think the same - but, that's not the point.
I find it interesting that Michelle Obama's quote about being proud of her country for the first time in her adult life to be trumpeted by the Republican base, while Todd Palin's disregard for an investigation to be a minor point, comparatively. What if Ms. Obama thumbed her nose - no - refused to comply - with the court? Ah, then I think we'd see the end of Barack's bid for the White House. An attitude of superiority to the law exhibited in the Palin case is a troubling one, indeed. And the Palin family isn't even in DC yet!
Regardless of Mr. Palin's legal tactics, and leaving the fact aside that Troopergate is starting to give me the willies, I'd like to pose the following question:
If the McCain-Palin campaign is so insistent on it's brand of change for Washington, how will they possibly accomplish this? McCain's been there for years. I can see him walking down the halls, saying "OK, fellas, no more Mr. Nice Guy!"
And how is Ms. Palin going to bring reform to the scandalized city if she's already causing problems in a remote corner of the country?
It doesn't make sense to hire Acme Change Company to fire Acme Change Company.
Thirty-odd more doors were knocked on by yours truly this Sunday, and boy, my legs are killing me today. But it's the pain of change, and one I'm willing to pay.
By the way, I was talking to a buddy today who's a vehement McCain supporter. While I'm completely opposed to his views, I encouraged him to get out there and fight for what he believes in. That's the beauty of the American process (and the process in many other countries, too. Us Americans forget that, sometimes.) I think if we all got off the couch, and walked the talk, we'd be a lot better off as a people, and as a nation.
Get to it!
Friday, September 19, 2008
Get up, stand up!
Wall Street is melting into a pool of government bailouts and broken profits. The ice caps are shrinking. And we spend our time debating with our buddies if seeing Russia from across the way qualifies as foreign policy experience.
I think America is a gigantic dichotomy, composed of the ignorant and the brilliant, the what's-the-use and the can-do's. Since so many of us live in the middle class, our hardship is apathy. We've got just enough to keep us from paying attention. However, this is starting to change. The housing crisis is affecting folks from all economic backgrounds, and the current meltdown on Wall Street isn't helping the better off among us.
It's time to be a can-do. Let's not wish and hope for things to get better. That's not the way to success, peace, or prosperity.
Get out there, and do something. No matter how small, it matters.
If you're in a swing state, this especially matters. For you Ohio, Florida, Virginia, Nevada, Indiana, and especially Pennsylvania voters, getting out there and pounding the pavement is vital.
Here's a link to help you get started.
(Oh yeah, I'm an Obama fan.)
While this election matters so much, there's many other issues you can take up to better the world.
Check out Amnesty International for important human rights issues, and how you can help.
Want to save the trees? How about the planet? The Sierra Club is a great place to start. Reasonable, if a bit on the yuppie side, they do some fantastic work on behalf of the few remaining wild places.
There's so many other things you can do. If it's just writing a letter for Troy Davis, about to be executed for a crime that he didn't commit, to talking to your neighbors about Obama, here's a bit of advice:
Start today!
We've got no time to lose.
I think America is a gigantic dichotomy, composed of the ignorant and the brilliant, the what's-the-use and the can-do's. Since so many of us live in the middle class, our hardship is apathy. We've got just enough to keep us from paying attention. However, this is starting to change. The housing crisis is affecting folks from all economic backgrounds, and the current meltdown on Wall Street isn't helping the better off among us.
It's time to be a can-do. Let's not wish and hope for things to get better. That's not the way to success, peace, or prosperity.
Get out there, and do something. No matter how small, it matters.
If you're in a swing state, this especially matters. For you Ohio, Florida, Virginia, Nevada, Indiana, and especially Pennsylvania voters, getting out there and pounding the pavement is vital.
Here's a link to help you get started.
(Oh yeah, I'm an Obama fan.)
While this election matters so much, there's many other issues you can take up to better the world.
Check out Amnesty International for important human rights issues, and how you can help.
Want to save the trees? How about the planet? The Sierra Club is a great place to start. Reasonable, if a bit on the yuppie side, they do some fantastic work on behalf of the few remaining wild places.
There's so many other things you can do. If it's just writing a letter for Troy Davis, about to be executed for a crime that he didn't commit, to talking to your neighbors about Obama, here's a bit of advice:
Start today!
We've got no time to lose.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
No more Armchair politics
As a kid, I was always around armchair politicians. My dad, grandma, and grandpa would always go on forever about the democrats vs. the republicans, and how the world was most definitely going somewhere fast, and for some reason, it was in a hand basket.
While it was a mark of pseudo-intellect, and a proud moment when I could join in on these conversations, they always left me with a feeling of depression and helplessness. No matter who won the debate around the kitchen table in suburbia, Washington was exactly the same.
That's why it felt great to be sweating like a pig this past Sunday, canvasing for Obama and Biden in the swing state of Virginia. Well, let's see. I knocked on 35 doors. Most of the people weren't home. But guess what - It felt super to be taking an active part in the American political process. I get all stressed and worried when I read the news. Walking for three hours was a great way to relieve that stress. I was taking steps for change that I believe in.
I was doing something. And Dad and Grandma can go on all they like - at least I'm not playing Monday morning quaterback.
Won't you join me, at least in spirit? Get out there, and talk to folks! I've been in touch with Luke and the good folks at local Obama field office in Alexandria. They're working their tails off for change they can believe in. Wanna help? They're doing a lot of canvasing, and they can use every man, woman, and kid on deck.
The address of the office is:
8796 Sacramento Dr
Alexandria, VA
Here's the link.
It's gonna be close, folks. I'll be there on the street. Won't you join me?
Here's a cool thought for you to end on. I read it on politco.com:
If Barack Obama can get every voter to learn just two numbers, he will be president. Those numbers are 91 and 134. If by Election Day every American knows McCain votes with Bush 91 percent of the time and has 134 lobbyists in his campaign, then the myth of the maverick reformer will be dead. And with it, McCain’s chances of following his unlikely soul mate as president.
While it was a mark of pseudo-intellect, and a proud moment when I could join in on these conversations, they always left me with a feeling of depression and helplessness. No matter who won the debate around the kitchen table in suburbia, Washington was exactly the same.
That's why it felt great to be sweating like a pig this past Sunday, canvasing for Obama and Biden in the swing state of Virginia. Well, let's see. I knocked on 35 doors. Most of the people weren't home. But guess what - It felt super to be taking an active part in the American political process. I get all stressed and worried when I read the news. Walking for three hours was a great way to relieve that stress. I was taking steps for change that I believe in.
I was doing something. And Dad and Grandma can go on all they like - at least I'm not playing Monday morning quaterback.
Won't you join me, at least in spirit? Get out there, and talk to folks! I've been in touch with Luke and the good folks at local Obama field office in Alexandria. They're working their tails off for change they can believe in. Wanna help? They're doing a lot of canvasing, and they can use every man, woman, and kid on deck.
The address of the office is:
8796 Sacramento Dr
Alexandria, VA
Here's the link.
It's gonna be close, folks. I'll be there on the street. Won't you join me?
Here's a cool thought for you to end on. I read it on politco.com:
If Barack Obama can get every voter to learn just two numbers, he will be president. Those numbers are 91 and 134. If by Election Day every American knows McCain votes with Bush 91 percent of the time and has 134 lobbyists in his campaign, then the myth of the maverick reformer will be dead. And with it, McCain’s chances of following his unlikely soul mate as president.
John McCain's health
Hello, all! I'm on Robert Greenwald's excellent email list, and I got this. You've got to watch it - it's verythought provoking. Don't forget to sign the letter, and forward it to every friend you've got!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
What the Doctor Ordered
A letter to the editor
Change. It's the new buzzword, and has reached a fever pitch as the presidential race enters it's final stretch. Let's hope somebody's right about their claim to be it's champion, because America could use a good dose.
I'm a business owner in my early twenties who's moved to a very centrist political view over the past five years. Partisan politics turns my stomach, and while I care deeply about social and environmental issues, I'm very concerned with commerce. The pitiful state of the economy has my rather conservative investment portfolios suffering greatly, my business isn't growing as fast as it should, and inflation is cutting into my margins. Plus, the idealistic problems of my earlier years haven't vanished - to the contrary! Among the throng, climate change stands out. Global warming poses a tremendous threat, not just to obscure green spaces, but to business itself. Severe storms, rising seas, and more unforeseen circumstances abound, and encroach dangerously close to profits.
In short, these are difficult times,affecting each and every one of us. That's why I'm voting for Barack Obama - As a citizen, business owner, and voter, I believe he has the vision to bring about the change America so desperately needs on a multitude of fronts. It's not the time to vote on party lines. It's time to vote for the economic, environmental, political, and social change that we need.
Change. It's the new buzzword, and has reached a fever pitch as the presidential race enters it's final stretch. Let's hope somebody's right about their claim to be it's champion, because America could use a good dose.
I'm a business owner in my early twenties who's moved to a very centrist political view over the past five years. Partisan politics turns my stomach, and while I care deeply about social and environmental issues, I'm very concerned with commerce. The pitiful state of the economy has my rather conservative investment portfolios suffering greatly, my business isn't growing as fast as it should, and inflation is cutting into my margins. Plus, the idealistic problems of my earlier years haven't vanished - to the contrary! Among the throng, climate change stands out. Global warming poses a tremendous threat, not just to obscure green spaces, but to business itself. Severe storms, rising seas, and more unforeseen circumstances abound, and encroach dangerously close to profits.
In short, these are difficult times,affecting each and every one of us. That's why I'm voting for Barack Obama - As a citizen, business owner, and voter, I believe he has the vision to bring about the change America so desperately needs on a multitude of fronts. It's not the time to vote on party lines. It's time to vote for the economic, environmental, political, and social change that we need.
Greenspan on McCain - interesting!
OK, I'm obsessed with the election. And I'm also a business owner. Therefore, I paid attention when I read this. It's from someone who knows a lot about money.
WASHINGTON - Alan Greenspan says the country can't afford tax cuts of the magnitude proposed by Republican presidential contender John McCain — at least not without a corresponding reduction in government spending.
WASHINGTON - Alan Greenspan says the country can't afford tax cuts of the magnitude proposed by Republican presidential contender John McCain — at least not without a corresponding reduction in government spending.
"Unless we cut spending, no," the former Federal Reserve chairman said Friday when asked about McCain's proposed tax cuts, pegged in some estimates at $3.3 trillion.
"I'm not in favor of financing tax cuts with borrowed money," Greenspan said during an interview with Bloomberg Television. "I always have tied tax cuts to spending."
McCain has said that he would offset his proposed cuts — including reducing the corporate tax rate and eliminating the Alternative Minimum Tax that has plagued middle-class families — by ending congressional pork-barrel spending, unnecessary government programs and overhauling entitlement programs such as Medicare and Social Security.
Democrats pounced on Greenspan's comments, in part because McCain professed last year that he was weaker on economics than foreign affairs and was reading Greenspan's memoir, "The Age of Turbulence," to educate himself.
"Obviously he needs to go back to that book and study it some more," Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., said during a conference call arranged by the campaign of Democratic nominee Barack Obama.
McCaskill said eliminating congressional earmark spending — estimated at $17 billion annually — cannot offset McCain's proposed tax cuts.
"McCain professed last year that he was weaker on economics than foreign affairs and was reading Greenspan's memoir, "The Age of Turbulence," to educate himself."
As a business owner (I keep thumping that phrase!), it concerns me deeply that John McCain would even admit that he needs educating on the economy. It's more than a little bit scary.
I realize the earth is important. I realize that my business is important. So when Sen. McCain comes along, and lacks the qualifications both, I get concerned.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Register to Vote, yo!
Hey there -
I'd like to remind you that if you haven't yet, please please please register to vote. It's crucial. Especially if you live in a Swing Sate - That's a state where the election is up in there air, and nobody knows if it will go Republican or Democrat.
I'd also like to encourage you to register as a Democrat. I'm one, and while I associate more with the greens and independents, I consider the McCain-Palin ticket to be truly scary, and the Obama-Biden one to be rockin' awesome. This isn't 2004, and this isn't John Kerry that we're doing our best to rally around.
It's our chance for change, a chance to put the brakes on the Earth's fever of global warming, to bring prosperity back to America, because let's face it, the Economy sucks! If John McCain votes with George W. Bush 90% of the time, that's not the remedy for a sick enconomy. Plus, the fella even joked that he doesn't really know what he's doing with the economy, and he was reading Greenspan's book to educate himself. A+ for continuing education, but talk about on the job training...!
Get out there and register! And get out there, stand up, be counted, and vote.
By the way, let's say you're, oh, I don't know, a McCain supporter? Get out thre, register, and vote! If you believe in a cause, make it happen. The American political system is broken partly by our apathy. Make it happen the way you want it to happen.
I want you to write me on November 5th asking me how you can scrapbook the "I Voted" sticker because you realized how important it is.
Action to take: Visit www.rockthevote.com and register.
I'd like to remind you that if you haven't yet, please please please register to vote. It's crucial. Especially if you live in a Swing Sate - That's a state where the election is up in there air, and nobody knows if it will go Republican or Democrat.
I'd also like to encourage you to register as a Democrat. I'm one, and while I associate more with the greens and independents, I consider the McCain-Palin ticket to be truly scary, and the Obama-Biden one to be rockin' awesome. This isn't 2004, and this isn't John Kerry that we're doing our best to rally around.
It's our chance for change, a chance to put the brakes on the Earth's fever of global warming, to bring prosperity back to America, because let's face it, the Economy sucks! If John McCain votes with George W. Bush 90% of the time, that's not the remedy for a sick enconomy. Plus, the fella even joked that he doesn't really know what he's doing with the economy, and he was reading Greenspan's book to educate himself. A+ for continuing education, but talk about on the job training...!
Get out there and register! And get out there, stand up, be counted, and vote.
By the way, let's say you're, oh, I don't know, a McCain supporter? Get out thre, register, and vote! If you believe in a cause, make it happen. The American political system is broken partly by our apathy. Make it happen the way you want it to happen.
I want you to write me on November 5th asking me how you can scrapbook the "I Voted" sticker because you realized how important it is.
Action to take: Visit www.rockthevote.com and register.
Sarah Palin as Sgt. Schultz
As we traverse our daily lives, apathy stalks us at every turn. Stuck in a fairly well off existence, we answer the question of "how ya doin?" with "I can't complain."
Now, that's no way to be! There's a lot to be happy about, and there's a lot to be concerned about. Let's take this election. In my mind, I think it's a big deal. Let's check out one of the most pressing issues facing us as a planet: Global Warming.
Here's an interesting fact concerning John McCain's VP pick, Sarah Palin.
* She believes global warming is occurring but rejects the notion that human activities caused it.
Carl Pope of the Sierra Club says “No one is closer to the oil industry than Governor Palin."
Yeah sure, folks on her side say she stands up to Oil. She might have ticked off a few of the fellas from Exxon. Reality check, folks - she's a humongous proponent of drilling our way out of this fuel problem. The point is, fossil fuels are bad news, and Sarah Palin doesn't seem to realize this.
Here's another bit: She's opposed to developing clean energy. She says “alternative-energy solutions are far from imminent and would require more than 10 years to develop.”
Hmmm, seems a bit funny, don't you think?
I can picture Ms. Palin dressed up for a certain TV show from long ago saying "I seeee nussssing!"
It would make my day if she's right about us not causing the global meltdown. However, science usually has a point, and big money typically has a way of questioning that point. This is what I'm leery of in Ms. Palin's point of view - other than the clashing with proven science bit!
For this reason alone I consider it paramount to get out there and vote! And I'm proud to say- I'm voting for the Obama and Biden ticket. Count me with my vote as another fella for a responsible look at the global crisis facing us. Sure, the money from ignoring this disaster will benefit Palin and the oil execs today, but could very well will leave the rest of us underwater tomorrow.
I'm voting about this, and I encourage you to do the same.
Now, that's no way to be! There's a lot to be happy about, and there's a lot to be concerned about. Let's take this election. In my mind, I think it's a big deal. Let's check out one of the most pressing issues facing us as a planet: Global Warming.
Here's an interesting fact concerning John McCain's VP pick, Sarah Palin.
* She believes global warming is occurring but rejects the notion that human activities caused it.
Carl Pope of the Sierra Club says “No one is closer to the oil industry than Governor Palin."
Yeah sure, folks on her side say she stands up to Oil. She might have ticked off a few of the fellas from Exxon. Reality check, folks - she's a humongous proponent of drilling our way out of this fuel problem. The point is, fossil fuels are bad news, and Sarah Palin doesn't seem to realize this.
Here's another bit: She's opposed to developing clean energy. She says “alternative-energy solutions are far from imminent and would require more than 10 years to develop.”
Hmmm, seems a bit funny, don't you think?
I can picture Ms. Palin dressed up for a certain TV show from long ago saying "I seeee nussssing!"
It would make my day if she's right about us not causing the global meltdown. However, science usually has a point, and big money typically has a way of questioning that point. This is what I'm leery of in Ms. Palin's point of view - other than the clashing with proven science bit!
For this reason alone I consider it paramount to get out there and vote! And I'm proud to say- I'm voting for the Obama and Biden ticket. Count me with my vote as another fella for a responsible look at the global crisis facing us. Sure, the money from ignoring this disaster will benefit Palin and the oil execs today, but could very well will leave the rest of us underwater tomorrow.
I'm voting about this, and I encourage you to do the same.
Welcome to the Cave
Ugh ugh!
Welcome aboard The Political Caveman. I'm James, and I'll be your driver for today.
I'm a musician, consultant, and grassroots organizer. Deeply concerned about the turn in America in general, and the election season in particular, I've decided to create a blog to reach the "Bloc Party"....You musicians, students, workers, and citizens who feel bored, disillusioned, and apathetic about the current state of affairs.
"Who cares?" You might ask. "I'm gonna play my guitar, be a jukebox hero, and I don't care of McBama gets elected, and please don't start on that global warming business."
Well, I wish it were that easy. However, this stuff affects all of us. Wish there were better venues to play at? Let's make sure they don't go underwater from melting ice caps! How about CD sales? The economy plays a big part in it, bucko.
Sit up, pay attention, and get ready to have fun. This blog will provide real, concrete actions you can take. There will be links for causes, things you can do, stuff you can tell your buddies about. No more armchair whining. Let's do something. Plus, it will never be boring. I promise.
For us to be great musicians, writers, athletes, etc, there's a simple fact we can all agree on: We need the world to remain in one piece.
Democrat, Republican, Independent, or Blues Party, I think we can all agree on that.
Here's a great place to start. Check out this site, and if you like it, Sign the Power Vote Pledge.
Welcome aboard The Political Caveman. I'm James, and I'll be your driver for today.
I'm a musician, consultant, and grassroots organizer. Deeply concerned about the turn in America in general, and the election season in particular, I've decided to create a blog to reach the "Bloc Party"....You musicians, students, workers, and citizens who feel bored, disillusioned, and apathetic about the current state of affairs.
"Who cares?" You might ask. "I'm gonna play my guitar, be a jukebox hero, and I don't care of McBama gets elected, and please don't start on that global warming business."
Well, I wish it were that easy. However, this stuff affects all of us. Wish there were better venues to play at? Let's make sure they don't go underwater from melting ice caps! How about CD sales? The economy plays a big part in it, bucko.
Sit up, pay attention, and get ready to have fun. This blog will provide real, concrete actions you can take. There will be links for causes, things you can do, stuff you can tell your buddies about. No more armchair whining. Let's do something. Plus, it will never be boring. I promise.
For us to be great musicians, writers, athletes, etc, there's a simple fact we can all agree on: We need the world to remain in one piece.
Democrat, Republican, Independent, or Blues Party, I think we can all agree on that.
Here's a great place to start. Check out this site, and if you like it, Sign the Power Vote Pledge.
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