ich Kalliope

One year, no, ten months

 

It was one year ago that I woke up on this first Wednesday of November feeling, no knowing, that it would get better.  The nightmare, embarrassment, fear about what kind of country I was living in, a citizen of, had become, ended. 

I was certain then, and I am certain now, that things will be alright.  Things are better. 

Health care will be a right not a privilege.  And issues of civil rights (read gay marriage) will not be up for a popular vote (read Maine 2009).  Wars will not be started over nothing, and hopefully wars that were started over nothing, will end.  I don't hope, I know.  I believe.

So to all those political pundits who want to make news out of the fact that the Republicans won a few elections yesterday, we have not forgotten what this party did to our country.  And if there is anyone out there who has forgotten.  Shame on you!

The expectations on our president to fix the broken economy, reform health care, stop two wars, repair international reputation, restore national respect... AND get "grief" (read crap) for not having it done in 10 months.

Give me a break!

In Lieu of Flowers

R.I.P. Senator Kennedy, a true liberal.  Who believed in the rights of all, and not of the privileges for some.  Who fought to improve conditions for the disadvantaged and the excluded.  May someone pick up his torch and carry it with as much strength and conviction as he did.

In lieu of flowers, please pass universal health care.

Bag of Guns

Another shooting rampage in the United States.  This time in a fitness center, where a gunman opened fire on a group of women in a dance class.  Here's the first paragraph of the article from the NY Times on Wednesday, August 5th -

"A man carrying guns and a gym bag walked into a busy fitness center just outside Pittsburgh on Tuesday evening and opened fire, killing at least three people and wounding nine others, some of them critically, the police and witnesses said."

Turns out he was carrying a bag of guns, four to be exact.  Four damn guns! 

As we watch news clip after news clip about the heartbreaking shooting, ANOTHER heartbreaking shooting, I am missing something in the storylines.  I continue to learn more than I want to know about the deviant behind the shootings, and a minute-by-minute reenactment of the event, and many questions about how it could have happened.  But I personally have not heard one discussion about how many guns he was able to attain, why these types of killings are so uniquely American, and why we as a country maintain gun laws that are dangerous.  DANGEROUS.  Where's the outrage?!?  He had a bag of guns?  A bag of guns.

We're starting to get things right in this country again, Amen.  Now it's time to infringe on "the right of the People to keep and bear arms...".  

Just Can't Stand It

I was appalled to see that CNN's John King, had former Vice-President Dick Cheney as a guest on his show State of the Union today.  I'm not too sure why I linked to Mr. King's show, only to ask that it be boycotted for inviting Mr. Cheney as his exclusive guest, and to allow him to warn of the dangers of the Obama Presidency.  Really, how much more can we Americans be endangered then we are in the aftermath of the Bush-Cheney regime? 

The man who could not even get himself to STAND for the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States. 

I know, it's about ratings right?  In ordinary times, these are anything but ordinary.  It was Cheney's first interview since leaving office.  I'm curious, who was waiting to hear from him?  But I truly believe in my heart that Mr. King has underestimated the anger of the American people at what was done to our country over the past eight years.  Our anger is extraordinary.  Many of us, or at least I, believe he is a criminal.

Bad call John King, bad call.  We can't stand for it.

Ritual of Excellence

 

In just four short weeks, I have developed a new Saturday morning ritual that I absolutely love.  It's very simple really, but relies on absolute excellence, greatness actually.  No compromises, and no mediocrity.  A lofty order, but one I can commit to with head and heart. 

It includes a great cup of coffee.  Black, so the spoon in the image is for effect only.

An excellent computer, in this case my beloved Apple iBook G4. 

President Barack Obama, and his weekly internet (a.k.a. radio) address, which is truly the new must-see-tv.

So grab a great cup of coffee, your computer and listen to excellence, www.whitehouse.gov

Next Act of Equality

Eighty cents does not equal one dollar, the current gender gap in pay.  A twenty cent difference, often more, sometimes less.  An improvement over 1980 when the difference was forty cents.  Progress yes, but sometimes progress is just not good enough. 

Eight dollars a week.  Thirty-five dollars a month.  Four hundred and fifteen dollars a year.  Two thousand dollars over five years.  Often more, sometimes less.  Bottom line, one dollar should equal one dollar, for a man or a woman, even in these crazy economic times.

What a thrill it was to learn that President Obama signed into law the Fair Pay Act, his first piece of legislation signed into law.  As the president signed the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act he said:

"I intend to send a clear message: That making our economy work means making sure it works for everyone. That there are no second class citizens in our workplaces, and that it's not just unfair and illegal -- it's bad for business -- to pay someone less because of their gender, or their age, race, ethnicity, religion or disability."

This law reestablishes the incentive for employers to correct discriminatory pay practices.  As part of the Civil Rights Act the Ledbetter Act restores the period of time plaintiffs can recover back pay from 180 days to two years.  Lily Ledbetter did the same job as her male colleagues at Goodyear Tire and Rubber for twenty years.  Over that period of time, she lost more than $200,000 in salary over her tenure, and even more in pension and Social Security benefits. 

The law signed by President Obama will certainly be incentive to pay fair, plain and simple, equal pay for equal work.  We shouldn't need laws to protect this right, but until that time comes it's good to know that our president prioritized this next, great act of equality.  We knew he would!

Once in a lifetime

We had a great day in the United States yesterday.  A great, great day.  We deserved it, I believe that.  And now the work continues.  But yesterday, was a great day!

A man of intelligence, vision and eloquence is our President.  He loves his wife!  Aretha sang, and her hat was absolutely, positively fabulous.  He knows his daughters, and they know him.  Bush left D.C. for good.  

We are a lucky country in the midst of it all.  We the people, were at the beginning, the end and the middle of it all!  We did it, we believed, and it happened.

 

Thank you President Bush

On the eve of the inauguration, a day filled with excitement, promise and tribute, it's time to thank President Bush.  On the eve of the end of our eight year national nightmare, it is only fitting that something be said on the pages of this blog that recognizes the role W and his administration played in what we will witness tomorrow, 20. January 2009.

_For without George W. Bush, an Obama presidency would not have been possible.

_For without George W. Bush, we would have certainly accepted mediocrity as a result of the election.

_For without George W. Bush, we would not have been tested as a nation to how far low we would be willing to go before we said - enough.

_For without George W. Bush, the promise of America would have only remained in our history, and not in our future.

_For without George W. Bush, we would have never experienced our collective hunger for intelligence, curiosity, compassion and science.

So I'm only going to say this once, thank you President Bush.

Not so dearly-Departing

Just 16 more days until the inauguration of Barack Obama and Joe Biden.  Sixteen has never been this sweet!  In addition to the political junkie I've become, add inauguration groupie.  Aspiring politician can't be too far off.  I visit change.gov the official website of the Obama-Biden Administration a couple of times a week to see what's up and how I can help.

I'm busy trying to figure out how I can watch every moment of the inauguration on television, preferably live, which is going to be a challenge because I'll be at work.  Wishing that it was an official holiday... it should be don't you think?  On the inaugural website there is a schedule for the events of this historical, cannot-come-soon-enough, end of our national nightmare, most hopeful day.  I've included it below for all the details.

As I read through the events, it was exciting to see two of my favorites Aretha Franklin and Yo-Yo Ma on the schedule.  On the other hand, quite disappointing to see the Pastor Rick Warren giving the invocation.  I would have advised against this one... but I haven't landed the job with the new administration yet. 

The one event that sounded sooooooooooooooooo incredibly joyous is at the end of the program, it reads:

"After President Obama gives his Inaugural Address, he will escort outgoing President George W. Bush to a departure ceremony..."

Departure ceremony.  How sweet does that sound?  I don't usually like good-byes, but I can't wait for this one.  God knows there will be enough to remind us all that "he was here", but the ceremony of making sure that he is on a plane out of Washington is quite reassuring to this American.  Oh happy day!

Official Schedule

Tuesday, January 20th - Inauguration Day
The President-elect and Vice President-elect and their families will participate in the traditional inaugural ceremonies and events. For the first time ever, the length of the National Mall will be open to those wishing to attend the swearing-in ceremony.  Festivities will commence at 10 a.m. on the west front of the U.S. Capitol and will include:

•    Musical Selections:  The United States Marine Band, followed by The San Francisco Boys Chorus and the San Francisco Girls Chorus
•    Call to Order and Welcoming Remarks: Senator Dianne Feinstein
•    Invocation: Dr. Rick Warren
•    Musical Selection: Aretha Franklin
•    Vice President-elect Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will be sworn into office by Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, the Honorable John Paul Stevens
•    Musical Selection: John Williams, composer/arranger with Itzhak Perlman, (violin), Yo-Yo Ma  (cello), Gabriela Montero (piano) and Anthony McGill (clarinet)
•    President-elect Barack H. Obama will take the Oath of Office, using President Lincoln’s Inaugural Bible, administered by the Chief Justice of the United States, the Honorable John G. Roberts, Jr.
•    Inaugural Address
•    Poem: Elizabeth Alexander
•    Benediction: The Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery
•    The National Anthem: The United States Navy Band “Sea Chanters”

After President Obama gives his Inaugural Address, he will escort outgoing President George W. Bush to a departure ceremony before attending a luncheon in the Capitol’s Statuary Hall. The 56th Inaugural Parade will then make its way down Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol to the White House with groups traveling from all over the country to participate.

Later that day, the Presidential Inaugural Committee will host ten official Inaugural Balls.  More details about the Inaugural Balls will be released at a later date.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays

Wishing all the readers of Ich Kalliope the happiest of holidays, and may the new year bring us much HOPE, JOY and most of all PEACE throughout the world.  Particularly in the United States, January 20, 2009 will be the real start to the new year.  With possibility, trust and respect as the cornerstone of a new foundation, replacing the one that has crumbled.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!  "Getting to know" so many of you has been a wonderful highlight of 2008.  Thank you all.

A Barack Wall

Check out this portrait mural of our next president that my friend Zara over at Autologue and her friend Jerry created from post-it notes prior to our elections here in the US!  It's on display at the South Waterfront Community Relations office at the Atwater Place, 0841 SW Gaines Street, Portland, OR. 

Bless their hearts, they did one of the other guy too. 

Narci-SO Beautiful

One of my absolute favorite fashion designers is Narciso Rodriguez. An amazing designer, most famous for his design of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's ultra-simple, incredibly crafted wedding gown.  Well, most famous until his Spring 2009 dress was worn by our new first lady Michelle Obama on election night. Now he will be most famous for this historic night.  This one will be hard to beat!  No one deserves this stage more than Rodriguez in my humble opinon.

His incredible talent for tailoring, form and color is a perfect match for Michelle.  How refreshing.  Bravo Narciso, more, more, more!!  The real proof of his incredible talent, is how it looks better on the real woman, than on the runway model.  Yes we can!!!

Waking up...

... to thank Indiana, you did it too!!

Yes we Did!!!!

The first family of the United States of America. 
We are a country of hope, progress and change. 
Witnessing history and the future in the making.
Yes we can, oh yes we did!

Do not read this...

unless you've voted.  Vote like your life depends on it.

Let it Be

 

We're almost there, three days until the first election results start to come in.  When I came home from dinner last night an old friend from high school had sent me an uplifting email sharing that Barack Obama was speaking that evening, at that moment, less than 2 miles away from where we grew up.  It was the first I heard that he would be speaking in a park that I know so well.

History in the making is how she put it! 

What inspiring, uniting moments I've had with friends and strangers over the past many months since Senator Obama announced his candidacy.  I was grateful that my friend shared this with me, and we could revel in this moment together.  She would have done the same if my favorite performer was appearing in a neighborhood park near my childhood home, if she liked their music or not.  On this one, we're singing the same tune.  I hope we're singing it on November 5th, it sounds a lot like "Oh Happy Day".  Oh let it be!

VOTE November 4th - OBAMA/BIDEN '08

Inspire Greatness

Just look at what greatness inspires! 

Artists for Obama is a collection of posters designed for the candidate and his history-making campaign.  When was the last time a politician, inspired art and design at this level?  I am guessing it was in the late 1960's, but it's just a guess.

The list of artists who donated their craft to this collection is impressive.  The prints are available in limited quantities, many are already sold-out, like the first one shown below by contemporary artist, graphic designer and illustrator Shepard Fairey.  This single image has become iconic with the campaign.  My goddaughter, husband and I all proudly sport T-shirts with the image, and can only wish we had gotten one of the original screenprints that were given away at Obama rallies in the early days of the campaign.  They are collector's items now.  Fairey shared that he believed that making art for Obama, is making art for peace.

Shepard Fairey

The most recent piece is by Lance Wyman, the renowned graphic designer responsible for the iconic images of the Mexico City Olympics in 1968.  This piece is still available at Artists for Obama for only $60.00.  Interesting that someone so relevant to the iconic images of the first Olympic Games in a Latin American country, would be inspired to donate his time to create a unique graphic that captures the energy of Barack Obama.                                                                                                                                                            

 Lance Wyman

Robert Indiana, the most senior of the group represented here is famous for his iconic work LOVE, as a print and in sculpture.  Created in 1964 for a Museum of Modern Art Christmas Card, it later graced a US postage stamp in 1973.  Mr. Indiana just turned 80 years old this year and prefers to stay in the world of art, but believing that this year's election is most critical, he was inspired to create HOPE. 

 Robert Indiana

Greatness inspires greatness.

Trading Places

Thanks to Hello Gorgeous who shared this post, origin not known, but it has made the rounds.  As well it should.  It's thought provoking, and shines a light on the possible role of race in this general election.  Although Barack Obama has a healthy lead in the current polls, nothing can be taken for granted.  But I find myself wondering how John McCain is as close as he is... imagine if you will if the tables were turned, how different the political landscape would look today. All the points are compelling, I've edited for this post, but the entire post can be read at The Engaged Observer.

Please consider the following, and ask if the country's point of view would be different...

Ask simply, what if?

What if the Obamas had paraded five children across the stage, including a three month old infant and an unwed, pregnant teenage daughter?

What if John McCain was a former president of the Harvard Law Review?

What if Barack Obama finished fifth from the bottom of his graduating class?

What if McCain had only married once, and Obama was a divorcee?

What if Obama had met his second wife in a bar and had a long affair while he was still married?

What if Michelle Obama was the wife who not only became addicted to pain killers but also acquired them illegally through her charitable organization?

What if Cindy McCain graduated from Harvard?

What if McCain was a charismatic, eloquent speaker?

What if Obama couldn't read from a teleprompter?

What if Obama was the one who had military experience that included discipline problems and a record of crashing seven planes?

If these questions were a true reflection of reality, do we think for a second that the race would be this close?  In this contest between Senators Obama and McCain, positive qualities have been disregarded and at best minimized, and negative qualities are overlooked.  

For the record, and because we don't hear much about this either, here are the facts on the candidates educational background. 

Barack Obama
Columbia University - B.A. Political Science with a specialization in International Relations
Harvard University - Juris Doctor (J.D.) Magna Cum Laude

Joseph Biden
University of Delaware - B.A. in History and B.A. in Political Science.
Syracuse University College of Law - Juris Doctor (J.D.)

versus

John McCain
United States Naval Academy - Class rank: 894 of 899

Sarah Palin
Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester
North Idaho College - 2 semesters - general study
University of Idaho - 2 semesters - journalism
Matanuska-Susitna College - 1 semester
University of Idaho - 3 semesters - B.A. in Journalism

In conclusion what a truly exceptional leader we have in Barack Obama, and the Democratic ticket.

What rhymes with dope?

    

 The cover of this week's Willamette Week is simple and impactful.  The November 2008 Voter's Guide, sports McCain's running mate.  Obviously, the paper supports Obama/Biden and in their review of Senator McCain says:

"Any lingering illusion that McCain is a man of integrity has been shattered. He has flip-flopped positions regularly, and his bad judgment has never been more evident than his choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate.".

Tina and Me

I have found a kindred spirit in the comedienne and actress Tina Fey.  I've always been a fan of hers, but the deep connection I felt towards her after watching the opening skit of last week's SNL for the fifth... ok, sixth time was very strong.  We have so much in common, really.  I think we might be related.  

FOUR THINGS KALLIOPE HAS IN COMMON WITH TINA FEY

1. GREEK-AMERICANS, you thought I was kidding with the related thing huh?  We're both of Greek descent.  Her middle name is Stamatina.  I think I had a great aunt named Stamatina.

2. FUNNY, I'm not fond of the spotlight, although I'm pretty comfortable with a microphone in front of a group, and I've been told I'm pretty funny.  I'm no star, but I can make people laugh.

3. SARAH PALIN, the day after Black Friday when Palin was announced as McCain's running mate, I put my hair up at the start of the flat ironing process, grabbed my not-so-designer glasses and saw an uncanny resemblance to a certain Veep candidate from Alaska.  My husband, and a couple of friends thought that I had a good chance of getting the part of Palin on SNL.  Yes they did... they said it! The fact that I lost the part to Tina, is well-known now in most circles.  And I don't begrudge her success, although my dear friend still says I would have done a better job.  I love her for that!

4. WE LOVE OUR COUNTRY, we really do.  In an interview this past Sunday, after winning three Emmy awards and being praised for her uncanny portrayal of Palin on the SNL season opener, Fey responded with the following:

"I want to be done playing this lady Nov. 5," she said. "So if anybody can help me be done playing this lady Nov. 5, that would be good for me."

I'm here to help Tina!!  I want you to stop playing that lady too.  I hope that on November 5, 2008 that you and I only have THREE THINGS IN COMMON, unless it turns out you're my sister. 

Swamp, polls, surge, crush

I need to stop reading the newspaper in the morning.  It's an old habit, and one that I have come to enjoy, but as of late it's just not a good way to start the day.  Summer is not a bad time to read the paper, there's not a lot of news, but with this being an election year, there's always something ridiculous to read in the morning paper.  Summer is ending.  This morning, there were a couple of paragraphs, off to the side of the page, with barely a headline that caught my attention:

TROUBLE ON NOV. 4: New voters, procedures may swamp polls

Faced with a surge in voter registrations leading up to Nov. 4, election officials across the nation are bracing for long lines, equipment failures and confusion about polling procedures that could cost thousands the chance to cast a ballot.

What????   With record numbers of registered Democrats this election year, it should come as no surprise that "significant problems in the basic functions of the American election administration system persist".

The inconspicuous article continues to report that:

The crush of voters will strain a system already in the midst of transformation...

Really.  Does the election come as some surprise?  The way the Olympics sneaks up on a city right before the Opening Ceremonies.  Hey... does Vancouver, BC know they're hosting the Winter games in 2010? 

Let's hope we don't go warring into another country to bring them freedom, and the right to vote.  Let's clean our own house.  Let's clean it good.  Then let's all dip our fingers in some purple ink, and know it stands for the FACT that our vote has been counted.

McWhat?

Remember when a friend of yours was so excited to introduce you to his new girlfriend, or her new husband?  And you met them, saw them together ... and proceeded to get a twisted, sinking, sick feeling in your stomach, BECAUSE they reminded you of their previous love.  The one who so let them down, so hurt them deeply and did irreparable damage to your dear friend. 

That's how I'm feeling for my Republican "friends" as their new guy comes into the picture.  Some are already married to him, but for those who are just in the dating phase... look again.

 

Last week it was McSame, this week's message seems to be McChange.  Really?  Change?  John McCain? 

In a divided country, with the stakes so high, I dare to say that even Republicans deserve better than McCain/Palin.  I am hopeful that they are more intelligent and concerned than their candidates think. 

So IF there are any Republicans reading this blog, I am concerned for your party and for your next relationship.  I know that the previous one had to be disappointing, had to hurt and was even a bit embarrassing.  So don't let this next one be a rebound relationship that you (and the world) will live to regret.  I can tell you, you have had some bad luck at picking the best candidate.  Perhaps this is a time for an arranged marriage, a matchmaker called in to point you in the better direction.  You know what they say, sometimes those that care about you, know what's best for you. 

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

March into the Future

Obama'08
Yes we can!
Witnessing history being made,
was more incredible than I could ever have imagined.
This is our time.

Sign me just another, flag-waving, pro-choice, Christian, tolerant, liberal.

      

      

"At this moment, in this election, we must pledge once more to march into the future."
Barack Obama, August 28, 2008

Call me

Was planning on an interesting, creative and humorous post this morning, but it will be delayed.  I'm a bit distracted.  You see, I'm waiting for a call from Barack Obama. 

OK, not actually a call, but a text message.  He's going to let me know who he selects for his vice presidential candidate.  Bless his heart, poor John McCain probably doesn't know what a text message is, and is probably in a secret meeting, at a an undisclosed location with his pals trying to figure out how to wiretap something to get the announcement.

In any case, I gotta go, the person who I believe can regain confidence in America’s potential and position globally, and regain the world’s trust and respect in our country, is going to call me.  Text me.  Barack, I'm waiting!

Don't it Make My Green Eyes Blue

I hope that there is a silent majority, sitting back, waiting to cast their votes in the remaining presidential primaries that do not want politics as usual.  Who understand the importance of casting their vote for a candidate who can regain confidence in America’s potential and position globally, by regaining the world’s trust and respect in our country.  Voting on the content of their character.  The recent conversations flooding our airwaves have little to do with what is best for America and Americans, and the real issues we face after almost 8 years of ignorance and hubris. Not to mention decades of politics as usual, Republican and Democrat.  It simply makes these green eyes blue. 

Seeing with my Heart

As you know I am a big supporter of Barack Obama in this year's elections.  Still am.  Bottom line, I think he's the best candidate and I want the Democrats to win.

But this morning, as I watched Hillary on the campaign trail, I was brought close to tears, seeing how hard she was working.  What a solitary, brave figure she cut in the middle of the masses that she speaks to daily.  What I saw today was a strong silhouette of her as a woman. Leaving all the baggage, and all the politics, and all the strategizing behind, for the first time I really saw her as a woman.  And I was filled with respect for all it took for her to get to where she is today.  I related to her purely on our shared gender this morning, I believe I saw her with my heart, and not my head.   It made me reconsider my vote.  A dear friend of mine put it this way, "a vote for Hillary is a vote for us".

The number of us who can relate to Hillary through our hearts is large in 2008.  As we continue to gain more of what we have earned and deserve as time moves on, younger women will be voting with their heads and their hearts. 

But today, in 2008, this baby-boomer's heart votes for Hillary, but her head won't follow!

Shelf Life

Almost everything has a shelf life nowadays.  You know the "best by" stamp on most perishable goods.  Heck even cans of soup have expiration dates.  They might last a little longer than something like milk or yogurt, but they still expire.  John McCain is like a can of soup, his "best by" date has finally expired.  Yes it lasted a little longer than most others, and it's been on our shelf for as long as anyone can remember, but no one ever took it off the shelf, and gave it a try.  And now... it's time is up.

I'm sure the first thought is this has something to do with his age.  Trust me, it doesn't.  It has nothing to do with the expiration date as it relates to his age, but his ideas.  His ideas have expired. 

A quick read of our local newspaper this morning brings this to life so clearly.

Campaigning in Seattle, in front of nearly 500 (yes 500) people in a ballroom (yes a ballroom) at the Westin Hotel, Senator McCain says "I will get Osama bin Laden".  Now, hasn't that communication style expired?  Hasn't that quote seen it's "best by" date?  Don't we deserve better than that, fresher, an idea with a longer shelf life?  Yes we do.

Conversely, campaigning in Seattle on that same day, Senator Obama, in front of more than 18,000 (yes 18,000) at Key Arena (yes an arena) said "the last thing we need is the same old folks, doing the same old things, over and over again".  Now that's got some fresh shelf life!!  Yes it does.

OBAMA '08
Yes we can!

UNITED

United is an important word in this year's presidential campaign.  Uniting the Democrats maybe easier than uniting the Republicans who appear to be all over the place to date.  That's good news! 

It appears that there is one candidate who CAN unite the Republican party and that is Hillary Clinton.  She will unite them better, stronger and more committed than their own candidates are able to do.   

OBAMA '08

For the Record

A second career doesn't seem likely, but I've been thinking that I would like to be a Political Pundit.  And not just any political pundit, one with a fulltime gig on a major news channel or blog.  One who gets invited to sit on the panel of Real Time with Bill Maher.  Like I said, not likely, but I'm not giving up hope.  So as I wait patiently for my big break, "ich Kalliope" is my platform. 

Today, I'd like to take a chance and forecast who I believe will be the two candidates running for President of the United States this year.  I predict it will be Barack Obama and John McCain.  You all know how I feel, and where my vote, support and dollars will go (do you get to be a pundit if you disclose who you're supporting... lots to learn!!).  I think this would be a good race.  In fact, John McCain was the last Republican I ever considered voting for, this was back in 2000, albeit a fleeting moment, he had my ear.

Just let me state for the record, I have voted for Republican in the past, at least one I know of for sure, never for president.  The last one was in 1990 when I voted for the pro-choice Republican William Weld for governor of Massachusetts.

If my forecast is correct and it's a Obama vs McCain race, I think there are a couple of images worth putting into the public eye again.  With all due respect there are images of Senator McCain that garner respect, not this one.  The one I can't seem to forget.

McCain's Antiestablishment Photo-Opp

In today's New York Times, In This Race, Independents Are the Prize, Jeff Zeleny reports that:

"There is competition in the parties for undeclared voters, but the most intriguing matchup is between two candidates from opposing sides who have cultivated antiestablishment images: Senators Barack Obama and John McCain.

Driving these voters, campaign strategists in both parties say, is a thirst for change and a strong desire to break with the Bush administration. Concern over the war in Iraq, despite recent advances in security there, also remains on the minds of independent voters and has contributed to a shift toward Democrats in New Hampshire."

Really??? Driving these voters is a thirst for change, and a strong desire to break with the Bush administration.  And they are considering McCain?  Yuk.

Happy New Year!!

Wishing all the best for the new year!  Happiness, health, peace and love.  And all that 2008 holds.  A sabbatical, elections, adventures, good deeds, an Audi S4... elections.  What's on your list? 

Fierce Urgency of Now

 

In less than 48 hours, we will be able to say that we will elect a new US president THIS year.  Can it really be over three years ago where the surreal results of the 2004 election became real.  The disappointment, shock and disbelief that my country could have possibly elected George W. Bush for a second term.  For many of us that grief took awhile to wear off, and I'm not sure if it's completely gone considering the ongoing downward spiral he has lead this country into.  Regaining respect and trust in the world is the road to repair.  Massive change is what is needed at this juncture. 

This morning on "Meet the Press", Barack Obama quoted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., that there is a "fierce urgency of now".  Fierce urgency.  That's exactly what it feels like.  In mid-November of this year, in a speech in Iowa, Sen. Obama said:

"I am not in this race to fulfill some longheld ambitions or because I believe it's somehow owed to me. I never expected to be here. I always knew this journey was improbable. I am running in this race because of of what Dr. King called "the fierce urgency of now." Because I believe that there’s such a thing as being too late, and that hour is almost upon us."

It was my most sincere belief and hope that this urgency had been felt in 2004, it wasn't.  There is such a thing as being too late.  There is no choice now.  I hope that Barack Obama is our next president.  But most of all I hope that the majority of this country shares the urgency that is upon us.  That no victory is assumed because of the obvious mess we Americans find ourselves in, at home and abroad. 

Here's to 2008, and all the possibilities it holds.  Here's to diligence, hardwork and getting the message out.  Here's to Obama, but most importantly here's to the Democrats.  Oh, am I blue!

Acute goes Chronic

Another week of headlines (I will highlight only three) that poses the question, is there really anyone out there that believes replacing Bush with another Republican next year could possibly be the best thing to do for our country?  I hate to answer my own question, but it's my blog, so I will - yes there are.  Even with this in the news in the span of four days.

1. Climate Change 
This week was the start of the UN Climate Control Conference in Bali, Indonesia. But before coming to Bali, the delegation from the Bush administration made it clear that the United States will not support mandatory limits on greenhouse gas emissions, and it has stuck to that stance.  Really?

2. Gun Control
In Nebraska, a 19-year old open fired in a shopping mall, with an assault rifle, killing 8, wounding 4.  This flatout does not happen in countries with stringent gun control laws.  Simple.

3. Bully Pulpit
It was revealed this week that the White House knew back in August that Iran had stalled it's nuclear program in 2003.  But Bush and Cheney continued to keep up their war rhetoric, and continue to do so.  Why not, proceeding to war with false information didn't get much pushback the first time.  Why now?  

What will it take between now and November 4, 2008, to communicate the dangers of turning our acute national nightmare into a chronic one?   It can get worse.  It can.

Tie Breaker

I cannot think of one area that is not better when it is diversified.  This would include neckties. 

I would like to suggest that just because you wear a blue or red tie, this does not make you more qualified to be the President of the United States, or more American.  What it does suggest is that you have no idea how cookie-cutter it makes you appear.  When did this nonsense start?  Is there some kind of rule that says if you are running for political office in the US, or are somehow involved in a political campaign, and you are a man, that your tie must be red or blue? 

Let's be honest, the shades of the American flag, are not flattering when placed in close proximity to most skin tones.  In fact, the shades of the American flag were probably never meant to be worn on the human body. Seriously, politicians, check out the vast array of beautiful ties available.  A chance to communicate something about yourself, non-verbally.  Color and pattern are powerful weapons, use them.  There are people who specialize in helping the color challenged, reach out!!

Just how far left?

Sometimes all it takes is a beautiful day, to make you thankful and get you thinking.

It was a perfect fall day yesterday here in the Pacific Northwest.  The sky was a rich crystal blue, without a single cloud.  Rain had been predicted, so my husband and I were especially enjoying our luck on this Saturday as we were heading over to Costco to pickup some frozen Spanakopita, it is absolutely delicious.  As I was trying to decide how many boxes I would get this visit, I mentioned to my husband that I thought Costco's Spanakopita was so good, that I could serve it to my Greek family, and claim that I had made it, and they would believe me.  Of course, Greek guilt would get to me, and my Greek Orthodox Christian values of "thou shall not lie" would kick in.  But this isn't about Spanakopita, blue skies or Greek guilt.

As we drove along on this gorgeous morning, we passed George Fox University, a Christian university which offers an excellent Executive MBA program.  Globally respected for it's foundation in ethical leadership.  Nothing wrong with that we both agreed.  Except that in the United States, over the last 7 years of, all that is George W. Bush, the Christian religion has been hijacked by the conservative extremists.  Giving all of us Christians a bad name.  Kind of like the terrorists of 9/11 and Muslim extremists giving all Muslims a bad rap.  But this isn't about an MBA, Bush or terrorism.

We decided at that point that Jesus was a liberal.  After all, doesn't "love your neighbor as yourself", "blessed are the peacemakers"  and "love your enemies" sound more Democrat than Republican?  The values of diversity, inclusion and tolerance are liberal and Christian.  Comical to even put those three words in the same sentence as our conservative politicians. 

Is it too much to expect that the politicians who choose to mix religion with politics, and invoke the values of Christianity into their platforms, at least be accurate?  Why do we let them?  Isn't it up to real Christians to hold them to it?  Lying about Spanakopita pales in comparison.

Is the clock broken?

I still remember the year between my 15th and 16th birthday, waiting until I was legal age to get my drivers' license.  That particular year took so very long.  Time stood still.  I can say the same thing about the year between my 20th and 21st birthday, waiting until I was legal age to drink.  That year seemed to creep by.  That said... the last 20 years have flown by.  Flown by.  Most times I just don't know where the time goes.  Years go by, they feel like days (there must be a song in there somewhere). 

But lately I have another nagging feeling that the clock's broken.  Things are slowing down again.  This time it's not waiting for something that is so self-absorbing, it's waiting until my country gets its' values and respect back.  Waiting until the time that Bush is out of office just seems endless.   It's crazy making isn't it?  Watching what continues to happen after the sweet optimism that was felt just about a year ago after the mid-term elections. 

The clock got a little slower today as the house sustained his veto of a bill to provide health insurance to 10 million children.  The harm to our country continues.  Shame on him, shame on the Republicans.  I can understand how many Republicans, feel abandoned by their party. 

Nothing to do but count the days, 459 days left.  I apologize for readers of my blog for my ongoing crankiness, and whining as it relates to all thing George W.  If I could stop I would, but until January 20, 2009, I can't promise anything. 

 

I Swear

This week congress voted on and passed an amendment (!*@!?**?!) that condemned MoveOn.org for an ad that criticized General Petraeus. Worst of all, a large majority of Democrats voted in favor (!*@!?**?!) of it.  And we the American public spent more time (!*@!?**?!) hearing the media coverage on that, and the political fallout against those who did not condemn MoveOn.org.

We spent another week not paying attention to what really counts. 

I swear it's much easier for me to just rail against the Republicans, but when my party goes along with the nonsense, I swear (!*@!?**?!).  It was less than a year ago I was saying sweet ... now I'm saying something else that starts with S and ends in T (!*@!?**?!).

There is still no Democrat better than President Bill Clinton, who stands up for what all Democrats should be standing up for.  He spoke of the hypocrisy of it all.  That the same politicians that supported relentless television ads against Vietnam war veterans Max Cleland and John Kerry, were on the floor of the senate voting on an amendment condemning a newspaper ad.  The text and video from his interview with Anderson Cooper is really worth checking out if you haven't seen it.  If anyone reading this is still using Monica Lewinsky against Bill Clinton... (!*@!?**?!).  Oops there I go again.

I swear.

12. September 2001

The anniversary of September 12, 2001 is an important and perhaps even sadder day for me than the anniversary of September 11, 2001.  The Bush administration took world support and solidarity, and turned it into hostility and hatred towards the US that is much more widespread than prior to 9/11.  On this day I find myself asking, how did we let him do this, how did we re-elect him, how do we continue to sit back and let things get worse.  Looking back doesn't help much, except to learn what must never happen again.  Learning from the past to influence the future is a worthy reflection.  We need to move towards a better future.

Certainly not conservative...

but conventional?  Am I conventional? 

One definition of liberal is "open-minded or tolerant, especially free of or not bound by traditional or conventional ideas, values, etc.".  Free of conventional ideas... I am, I am... I'm not.  At least not when it comes to home mortgages.

In Sunday's New York Times magazine there is a short, very informative article by Roger Lowenstein titled Subprime Time about the current home mortgage and real estate crisis.  This is by far the most simple and clear explanation as to the root cause of the financial vulnerability of what always was seen as the most solid of all investments - real estate. 

Because mortgages are traded like stocks, local lenders have very little to do with the risk associated with loans.  Simply, loans were given to those who could not afford them. 

In the article, Lowenstein writes:

As mortgage bankers discovered that investors would buy virtually any loan whatsoever, they naturally lowered their standards. What difference whether a loan was sound if you could flip it in 48 hours? The market thus corrupted, it only wanted for the right circumstances to implode. And over the last few years, as Robert Barbera, the chief economist at the investment advisory firm ITG, observed, the Federal Reserve took short-term interest rates from 1 percent to 5 1/4 percent. This raised mortgage rates and put home buyers at risk of being priced out of the market. But bankers lent to them anyway, offering, in effect, “junk mortgages” — risky loans with low teaser rates (and much higher rates later), as well as other deviations from sound finance. Lenders and borrowers alike knew that such loans were dicey; they were counting on the borrowers to refinance — which, as long as home prices kept rising, was a cinch. Naturally, when prices stopped rising, the music stopped.

He goes on to say:

Homeowners should not be induced to gamble on mortgages that will leave them insolvent should prices fall. Fewer mortgages might be written, but more mortgagees would stay solvent.

This is when I turn conventional... not conservative.  "Homeowners should not be INDUCED to gamble on mortgages"???  What are they threatening these people if they don't signup for one of these "junk mortgages"?  What about buying within one's means?  What about knowing what you can afford?  What about buying a smaller home?  I need to stop before I sound too... conventional.

We need more commitment to affordable housing.  We need to find new, unconventional ways for providing more access to housing other than risky loans.  We need some additional tax benefits and protection for those who rent.  And stop buying McMansions and starter castles even if that friendly loan officer across the desk says you can swing it.  Progress and reform, a true liberal p.o.v.

We are NOT the same

For all my constant thoughts and ramblings about EQUALITY, TOLERANCE and INTEGRITY, I realized on a summer's night in August of 2007, in an open field in Troutdale, Oregon that in fact we are NOT all equal.  We are not the same.

Case in point - Stevie Wonder is different!  The genius kind of different.  That transcends generations.  And deserves the respect and the love he certainly heard and felt from his audience, for the most part.

For the most part.

At one point this living legend, invited members of the audience up to help him in an audience interaction.  These LUCKY people were on stage, NEXT to Stevie Wonder, and do you know what they did?  They tried to upstage him.  Seriously, they felt as if this was their "Place in the Sun".  They failed miserably, but what prompts this?  Is it too much reality TV?  Is it American Idol-itis?  What is it?

Yes, we all deserve our place in the sun.  Yes, we are all created equal.  We are NOT the same.

And really... bottom line, IT WAS STEVIE WONDER people!!

State of Stillness

I haven't blogged about the political state of the United States since mid-April.  I have been rather still on the entire topic of presidential politics.  I can guarantee it won't stay this way.  Does the current stillness help me gather energy for 2008?  My stillness disappoints me on many levels, but my stillness remains vigilant. 

still fired-up
still sad
still concerned
still angry
still surprised
still disappointed
still active
still optimistic
still worried
still shocked
still confused

still wondering, how much more damage the current administration can inflict on our future before January 20, 2009.

still hopeful.