The National Scene

Week Thirty-Nine

2009-11-03T20:27:00.000-08:00

National Scene 10/28/09 – 11/02/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

As the pundits reflect on his first year in office, President Obama continues to push for health care reform while stimulating the economy with his Recovery Act funds, and determining the best course of action for the war in Afghanistan.

As his decision on Afghanistan war strategy nears, President Obama made a surprise late-night trip to Dover Air Force Base to attend the return of 18 fallen soldiers and DEA personnel who were killed in Afghanistan.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

First and Second Ladies Attend World Series

First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of the Vice-President, traveled to Yankee Stadium to honor American veterans at Game 1 of the 2009 World Series. Before settling into their seats, they took the field with baseball legend Yogi Berra to watch Lieutenant Anthony Odierno (U.S. Army) throw out the first pitch.

The Hate Crimes Prevention Act

President Obama commemorated the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which passed in the Senate last week. The bill is named for Matthew Shepard, a gay teenager from Wyoming beaten to death in 1998, and James Byrd, Jr., an African-American man from Texas who was dragged to death from a pick-up truck, also in 1998. About 400 people gathered in the White House East Room for the reception including family members of Matthew Shepard and James Byrd.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Economic Growth, Finally

Speaking to a group of business owners, the President lauded new economic indicators which show the economy is improving. Obama spoke to members of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Federation of Independent Business, and small business owners and organizations from across the country, stating:

“I am gratified that our economy grew in the third quarter of this year. We’ve come a long way since the first three months of 2009, when our economy shrunk by an alarming 6.4 percent. In fact, the 3.5 percent growth in the third quarter is the largest three-month gain we have seen in two years. This is obviously welcome news and an affirmation that this recession is abating and the steps we've taken have made a difference.

But I also know that we got a long way to go to fully restore our economy and recover from what's been the longest and deepest downturn since the Great Depression. And while this report today represents real progress, the benchmark I use to measure the strength of our economy is not just whether our GDP is growing, but whether we're creating jobs, whether families are having an easier time paying their bills, and whether our businesses are hiring and doing well.”

Michelle Obama’s Garden

First Lady Michelle Obama welcomed fifth graders from two DC public schools, Bancroft Elementary and Kimball Elementary, to the garden they have been tending for months -- the White House Kitchen Garden. The Fall harvest included large sweet potatoes, carrots, fennel, turnips, and lettuce.

Friday, October 30, 2009

HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act

President Obama signed the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009. The bill was named after the young teenager who, before he died, became an AIDS activist. White acquired the disease from a blood transfusion. His mother, Jeanne White-Ginder, was present at the bill signing.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Halloween at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue

The First Family opened the decorated White House to trick-or-treaters and several staff members donned costumes to greet guests. The First Lady (also in costume) passed out candy with the President to the lucky DC area children who attended. Children were given a Halloween cookie baked by the White House chef and Presidential M&Ms. Guests included local school children, military families and White House staff families..

Week Thirty-Eight

2009-10-27T20:01:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Why Small Businesses Need Health Care Reform
The Administration listed the top reasons health care reform is needed by the nation’s small businesses, including: (as listed on whitehouse.gov)

“The same skyrocketing costs that are devastating family budgets and exploding our national deficit are also threatening the viability of American businesses.”

“Lacking the bargaining power of large firms, small businesses pay as much as 18 percent more for the same health insurance. They are also at risk for the possibility that one of their workers will become seriously ill – which can dramatically increase their premiums in subsequent years.”

“Fewer and fewer small businesses are choosing to offer insurance to their employees. And those that do offer coverage tend to have less generous policies and are less likely to offer a choice of plans. Entrepreneurs and small business employees are nearly three times as likely to be uninsured as their counterparts at large firms.”

“Health insurance reform will reverse the disturbing trends in our current system and spur job creation in small businesses.”

“By creating a health insurance exchange, reform will give small businesses and their employees more affordable options. Small firms that choose to offer health insurance to their employees will be eligible for tax credits. And, small businesses that don’t offer coverage will not be penalized.”

“Reform will crack down on some of the insurance industry's worst practices. They will no longer be able to arbitrarily penalize small businesses if one or more of their employees become seriously ill. Nor will they be allowed to deny coverage to small businesses or their employees because of pre-existing conditions.”

“And because potential entrepreneurs will no longer be discouraged from pursuing their dreams due to a lack of affordable and reliable health insurance options, reform will also lead to the creation of more small businesses. This is crucial given the economic downturn that began almost two years ago, as we know that small businesses and new startups are the drivers of job creation as the economy pulls out of recession.”

President Awards Citation to Vietnams’ Alpha Troop
President Obama bestowed the Presidential Unit Citation to the entire Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry -- known as the Blackhorse Regiment during the Vietnam War. The President honored the veterans by saying: “Now, these men might be a little bit older, a little bit grayer. But make no mistake -- these soldiers define the meaning of bravery and heroism. It was March 1970, deep in the jungles of Vietnam. And through the static and crackle of their radios Alpha Troop heard that another unit was in trouble. That’s when Alpha Troop’s captain gave the order: “Saddle up and move out.” It’s the story of how this team of some 200 men set out to save their fellow Americans.”
Wednesday, October 21, 2009

First Lady Hula Hoops on South Lawn
First Lady Michelle Obama hosted the first ever Healthy Kids Fair on the White House South Lawn. The event, which included fun and games, was designed to teach families the importance of healthy living. Mrs. Obama reminded the attendees of the childhood obesity epidemic. Health Fair activities included learning to cook nutritious meals and snacks, and fun exercises such as jump roping and hula hooping. The visitors were thrilled to see the First Lady join the fun!
Thursday, October 22, 2009

The President Signs Legislation to Benefit Veterans
President Obama signed the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House. The bill requires the VA’s budget to be passed a year in advance, to better prepare for needed services to Veterans and their family members. With the signing of the bill the President commented, “In short, this is common-sense reform. It promotes accountability at the VA. It ensures oversight by Congress. It is fiscally responsible by not adding a dime to the deficit. And it ensures that Veterans’ health care will no longer be held hostage to the annual budget battles in Washington.”
Friday, October 23, 2009
Obama Visits M.I.T.
President Obama addressed a group of 750 students and faculty members at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He encouraged the use of technology to meet his Administration’s clean energy goals, telling the students, “This is the nation that harnessed electricity and the energy contained in the atom, that developed the steamboat and the modern solar cell. This is the nation that pushed westward and then looked skyward. We have always sought out new frontiers and this generation is no different.”
Monday, October 26, 2009

President Obama Signs Emergency Declaration for H1N1 (Swine) Flu
As H1N1 rates increased across the country, the President signed a National Emergency Declaration on H1N1 that allows healthcare systems to quickly implement disaster plans should they become overwhelmed.
Obama Visits Troops in Jacksonville
President Barack Obama spoke to servicemen and women at the Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida. He also honored the fourteen Americans killed in the crash in Afghanistan that morning saying, “Fourteen Americans gave their lives. And our prayers are with these service members, their civilian colleagues, and the families who loved them. And while no words can ease the ache in their hearts today, may they find some comfort in knowing this: Like all those who give their lives in service to America, they were doing their duty and they were doing this nation proud.”

Week Thirty-Seven

2009-10-20T19:58:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Fiesta Latina en la Casa Blanca (Latin Celebration at the White House)

The President and guests danced the Salsa as the la Casa Blanca was filled with the sounds of Latin music. In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, President Barack Obama and the First Lady welcomed Latin performers to the White House. Guests included Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, and members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. Performers included Jose Feliciano, Pete Escovedo, Marc Anthony, Gloria Estefan, Tito el Bambino, Thalia, and event producer, Sheila E. Jimmy Smits, Eva Longoria, and George Lopez hosted the event.

Obama Meets with Spain’s Prime Minister

Earlier in the day, the President met with Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero. The two leaders discussed world issues including the global economy and the situation in Afghanistan. The United States and Spain are NATO allies.

The First American President to Observe Diwali

President Obama observed the Hindu holiday of Diwali, or festival of lights, in the East Room of the White House. The occasion marked the first time that an American President has observed the holiday. Sri Narayanachar Digalakote, a Sanskrit scholar and ordained Hindu priest chanted Asatoma Sadgamaya while the President lit the ceremonial lamp himself. In a statement, the Hindu American Foundation said, “Never before had a sitting U.S. President personally celebrated the Diwali holiday, and with that one gesture, two million Hindu-Americans felt a bit more like they belonged -- one more reason to feel at home.”

Friday, October 16, 2009

The President Remembers Katrina

President Obama spent time in New Orleans, acknowledging the challenges faced by residents since Hurricane Katrina. First, Obama visited with children who lived through the tragedy in their neighborhoods. He encouraged them to continue to do well in school and overcome obstacles. The President also spoke to residents at a town hall in New Orleans.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Stimulus Saves 250,000 Teacher Jobs

The Administration released a report showing 250,000 teacher jobs across the country had been saved by Recovery Act funds. President Obama continued the focus on education on this day by meeting with the winners of the National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge including African-American student Kalief Rollins, who hails from Carson, CA. The President then visited nearby Silver Spring, Maryland to spend classroom time with third and fourth grade students at Viers Mill Elementary School. Telling the students, “I wanted to come by and introduce myself,” Obama encouraged them to “read, read, read!”

Astronomy Night at the White House

Joined by Astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Sally Ride, the First Family welcomed local middle school students to stargaze. The White House South Lawn was lined with telescopes and science exhibits featuring moon rocks, mars rocks, meteorites and more for Astronomy Night.

Week Thirty-Six

2009-10-13T19:53:00.000-07:00

National Scene 10/13/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

A Nobel Prize for a Noble President

“Only very rarely has a person to the same extent as Obama captured the world’s attention and given its people hope for a better future. His diplomacy is founded in the concept that those who are to lead the world must do so on the basis of values and attitudes that are shared by the majority of the world’s population.”

The Norwegian Nobel Committee

October 9, 2009

Highlights of Obama’s Foreign Diplomacy:

President Outlines End of Iraq War (2/27/09) Fulfilling a promise he made during his campaign, the President outlined a plan for troop withdrawal from Iraq.
The President’s First Foreign Trip (2/29/09) President Obama took his first foreign trip as President to Ottawa, Canada. After a successful meeting and press conference with the Prime Minister, the President visited a local store, cheered on by the throngs of Canadians who had come out to greet him.
Obama Greets President of Brazil (3/14/09) President Obama and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva discussed the economy, energy and the environment. Silva, who spoke through a translator, stressed “the importance of President Obama's election, what it represents to the world and especially to Latin America.”

· Obama Signals New Beginning to Iran (3/20/09) President Obama released a video message, subtitled in Farsi, for all those celebrating “Nowruz” or the beginning of the New Year for millions in Iran and other communities around the world. Acknowledging the strain in US—Iranian relations over the last few decades, he stated, “At this holiday we are reminded of the common humanity that binds us together, we have serious differences that have grown over time.” Stressing the need to move forward Obama continued, “My administration is now committed to diplomacy that addresses the full range of issues before us and to pursuing constructive ties among the United States, Iran, and the international community.”

· Obama’s Worldwide Op-Ed and Televised News Conference (3/24/09) The President published a rare “simultaneous op-ed” in thirty papers around the world, calling for “a collective effort” to address the economic peril found in all corners of the globe. “The United States is ready to lead, and we call upon our partners to join us with a sense of urgency and common purpose,” he writes.

· New strategy for Afghanistan (3/27/09) Describing our purpose in Afghanistan as increasingly dangerous and unstable, the President stated, “let me be clear: al Qaeda and its allies—the terrorists who planned and supported the 9/11 attacks—are in Pakistan and Afghanistan,” he continued. “Multiple intelligence estimates have warned that al Qaeda is actively planning attacks on the U.S. homeland from its safe-haven in Pakistan.” Obama also lobbied Congress for more aid to Pakistan to help stabilize the region.

· President Begins London Visit With Morning Meetings (4/1/09) President Obama met with world leaders including—British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and Chinese President Hu Jintao. The Prime Minister told President Obama, “Your first 70 days in office have changed America, and you've changed America's relationship with the world.”

· The Obama’s meet the Queen (4/1/09) President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama were greeted by Britain's Queen Elizabeth. Afterward, the royal couple held a reception for all the world leaders and the Queen made headlines by extending her arm in a “hug” of Michelle Obama who reciprocated. It was a rare expression of affection from the royal highness.

· Lifting Restrictions on Cubans (4/09) President Obama signaled an increased flow of information and humanitarian items to the Cuban people.

· The Obama’s Host Seder Dinner (4/9/09) The Obama family hosted a Seder dinner in the Old Family Dining Room of the White House in recognition of the Jewish holiday of Passover. It is believed to be the first time the White House has had a Seder hosted by a U.S. President.

· Obama Approves Use of Force against Somali Pirates (4/14/09) In what is being called his first national security test, President Obama directed the use of necessary military force in the rescue of American Captain Richard Phillips.

· Obama at the G-20 (4/2/09) The President, who said he was there “to listen and learn” took a leadership role at the summit and later held a press conference in which he stated the next steps, include creating a united international front to create jobs and stimulate the global economy, helping emerging economies stay afloat, and encouraging trade. Obama also insisted there be an international effort to reform financial regulatory systems.

· First Lady Makes Surprise Visit to London School (4/2/09) In an emotional visit to students in a poorer part of London, Mrs. Obama inspired female students at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School. She encouraged the appreciative girls to follow their own dreams.

· On to France and Germany (4/3/09) President Obama told thousands of students gathered in a town hall in the Rhenus Sports Arena in Strasbourg, France: “This is our generation. This is our time. And I am confident that we can meet any challenge as long as we are together.”

20,000 in Prague to See Obama (4/6/09) Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd of over 20,000 that gathered outside a castle in Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, President Obama acknowledged, “Few people would have predicted that someone like me would one day become the President of the United States. Few people would have predicted that an American President would one day be permitted to speak to an audience like this in Prague.”
The President Visits Turkey (4/6/09) Obama visited the country of Turkey, which he calls a “critical ally” in addressing the problems in that part of the world. Obama spoke to the majority-Muslim population in a speech to the Turkish Grand National Assembly and acknowledged the positive contributions of Muslims in America and worldwide. Many Turks lined the streets in support of the new American President.
President Obama Surprises Troops in Iraq (4/7/09) Obama an unannounced visit to Iraq. The President told hundreds of cheering soldiers: “You have given Iraq the opportunity to stand on its own as a democratic country. That is an extraordinary

· Obama in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (4/16/09) Signaling a change in approach from past administrations, the President told the leaders they faced a clear choice: “We can overcome our shared challenges with a sense of common purpose, or we can stay mired in the old debates of the past. For the sake of all our people, we must choose the future.” In an op-ed column by the President that appeared in 15 newspapers across the Americas, Obama stated his intention to increase U.S. partnerships with Latin America and the Caribbean.

· Obama meets King Abdullah of Jordan (4/21/09) The President held a one-on-one meeting with King Abdullah of Jordan. The first Arab leader to meet Obama in the White House offered “warm thanks on behalf of many Arabs and Muslims who really had an outstanding response to the President's outreach to the Muslim Arab world.”

· Bringing Pakistan and Afghanistan to the Table (5/6/09) The President signaled the importance by saying, “We meet today as three sovereign nations joined by a common goal: to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al Qaeda and its extremist allies in Pakistan and Afghanistan…to achieve that goal, we must deny them the space to threaten the Pakistani, Afghan, or American people.”

· President Meets with Israeli Prime Minister (5/18/09) The President met for over two hours with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel, discussing the need to get back to the negotiating table and restart Palestinian-Israeli peace talks. The leaders also discussed Iran’s nuclear program and the Administration’s diplomatic outreach to the country, with the president declaring the United States wanted to bring Iran into the world community, however: “We're not going to have talks forever.”

· Palestinian President at the White House (5/28/09) Determined to negotiate a fair and lasting peace in the Middle East, President Obama pressed both sides for action. While meeting at the White House with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Obama told him, “The Palestinians must find a way to halt the incitement of anti-Israeli sentiments that are sometimes expressed in schools, mosques, and public arenas. All those things are impediments to peace.”

· Obama Speaks to Muslim World from Cairo, Egypt (6/4/09) In a major speech, addressed to Muslims around the world, President Obama signaled a new beginning of relations between the US and Muslim countries. Muslims from around the world praised the speech and the respect showed to their culture. The crowd at Cairo University gave the President cheers and a standing ovation at the conclusion of his speech.

· Obama Visits Buchenwald Concentration Camp (6/5/09) Obama described the significance of the visit saying, “We are here today because we know this work is not yet finished. To this day, there are those who insist that the Holocaust never happened -- a denial of fact and truth that is baseless and ignorant and hateful. This place is the ultimate rebuke to such thoughts; a reminder of our duty to confront those who would tell lies about our history.”

· The Obama in Russia (7/6/09) President Obama described his meetings with Russian leaders as a chance to push ‘the reset’ button in U.S.-Russian relations. Obama summed up their meeting by saying, “President Medvedev and I agreed that the relationship between Russia and the United States has suffered from a sense of drift. We resolved to reset U.S.-Russian relations, so that we can cooperate more effectively in areas of common interest.” As a result of the meeting, President Obama and the Russian leader agreed in principle to reduce their permitted nuclear arsenals by nearly a third to try to ease tensions between the former Cold War rival nations.

· President Attends G-8 in Italy (7/9/09) President Barack Obama arrived in Italy for a summit of the Group of Eight (G-8) industrial nations. Obama presided over a side meeting of the major economies with a focus on global climate issues.

· Obama Has Audience with Pope (7/10/09) In a break from tradition; Pope Benedict had sent Obama a personal note of congratulations the day after his election and rearranged his schedule to meet with the President following the current G-8 Summit.

· Obama Reminds Ghana “Yes We Can!” (7/11/09) Stating, “I have the blood of Africa within me,” President Obama addressed the Ghanaian parliament and President John Atta Mills in Accra, Ghana. Obama, who was warmly greeted by masses of people in Ghana, stated, “Despite the progress across Africa that has been made in the latter half of the 20th century and the early 21st, much of Africa’s promise has not been fulfilled.”

· Full Circle -- Obama Stands at “Door of No Return” (7/11/09) Following his speech in Accra, the President and first family traveled to Ghana’s Atlantic coast to visit the fort in which men, women, and children were housed in barbaric conditions before being sent on a treacherous journey into slavery. The Obama’s toured the castle including the infamous “Door of No Return” which was the last stop for Africans as they left their home continent. The President implied the fort should be a source of hope as well as repository of painful memories saying, “It reminds us that as bad as history can be, it’s always possible to overcome.”

· Obama Meets with Prime Minister of Iraq (7/22/09) The President described the transition in which all U.S. troops withdrew from Iraqi cities, and transferred power to Iraq’s security forces. Saying the action was “an important step forward,” Obama stressed the importance of the endeavor.

· U.S. – China Blueprint for the Future (7/27/09) President Obama addressed the opening session of the first U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. The President, in his trademark manner, presented his vision for the future by first looking at the historical context of the relationship between America and China.

· President Travels to Mexico for North American Summit (8/10/09) President Obama traveled to Guadalajara, Mexico to meet with fellow North American Leaders--Mexican President Felipe Calderón and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. The President described North America as “defined not simply by our borders, but by our bonds.”

· Obamas Support Chicago for 2016 Olympics (9/16/09) The President and First Lady took time out from their busy schedules to lobby on behalf of their country, and home city – Chicago – to host the 2016 Olympics.

· President Addresses United Nations (9/23/09) President Obama gave a speech to the United Nations General Assembly where he spoke of, “The four pillars fundamental to the future that we want for our children: 1.) non-proliferation and disarmament; 2.) the promotion of peace and security; 3.) the preservation of our planet; and 4.) a global economy that advances opportunity for all people.” He concluded by defining “a new era of engagement with the world.”

· Obama Chairs UN Security Council (9/23/09) Barack Obama became the first United States President to chair a meeting of the United Nations Security Council. The President spoke of the need to halt the proliferation of nuclear weapons.

Obama Awarded Nobel Peace Prize (10/9/09) The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for 2009 to President Barack Obama for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy

Week Thirty-Five

2009-10-06T19:50:00.000-07:00

National Scene 9/30 – 10/6/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Despite an impassioned plea from First Lady Michelle Obama, and an in-person request from the President, Olympic officials did not award the 2016 Olympic Games to Chicago. Obama was in a catch-22 regarding the Olympics bid – if he had not gone, he would have been accused of not using his exceptional communication skills on behalf of an American city; however, by going he was accused of ‘wasting time.’ Nevertheless, most agree the loss of the 2016 Olympics was an ‘American’ loss.

On a lighter note this week, the President and First Lady celebrated their seventeenth anniversary with an intimate dinner at the Blueduck Tavern in D.C.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Administration Announces Grants for Medical Research Industry

The President announced $5 billion in grant awards to fund medical research and create tens of thousands of American jobs over the next two years. Obama announced that more than 12,000 grants would be awarded with the purpose of funding research facilities, manufacturing and supplying medical equipment, and, building and modernizing laboratories. He lauded the project stating, “The goal of the Recovery Act was not to create make-work jobs, but jobs making a difference for our future.”

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Response to American Samoa Natural Disaster

The U.S. Territory of American Samoa was struck by a major tsunami, causing widespread death and destruction in its coastal communities. President Obama acted immediately by granting a Major Disaster Declaration so that FEMA could begin delivering resources to the island.

American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of the sovereign state of Samoa. FEMA has pre-positioned supplies in Hawaii to allow for quick response to disasters in U.S. territories in the Pacific. The Administration offered support and prayers to all Samoans affected by the disaster.

Friday, October 2, 2009

Ending Distracted Driving

President Obama issued an Executive Order directing federal employees not to engage in texting while driving government vehicles or while driving their own vehicles on government business. The order extends to federal contractors and others doing business with the government, asking these firms to adopt and enforce policies banning texting while driving on the job. The Administration through the Department of Transportation has additional goals to address the issue, including:

Make permanent restrictions on the use of cell phones and other electronic devices in rail operations.
Restrict the use of cell phones by truck drivers and interstate bus operators.
Disqualify school bus drivers convicted of texting while driving from maintaining commercial driver’s licenses.
Call on state and local governments to make distracted driving part of their state highway plans and pass laws prohibiting distracted driving in all types of vehicles, particularly school buses.

Community Call-to-Action: HIV/AIDS

In response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the Administration has issued a “Call to Action: Americans Speak about HIV/AIDS” project. The goal is to encourage community-based organizations, faith-based organizations and other groups to hold their own discussions and submit their concerns to the Office of National AIDS Policy (ONAP) web site:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/onap/action/

ONAP will accept public input from Friday, October 2, 2009, through Friday, November 13, 2009. For more information on the “Call to Action,” or to submit a recommendation for the National HIV/AIDS strategy visit the website.

Targets for Stimulus Funds

Vice President Joe Biden discussed Recovery Act progress, including a local project to widen I-215. The Vice President quoted a Wall Street Journal report on the project that is expected to create 450 to 600 jobs in the Inland Empire, stating, “Without the stimulus money, the Interstate 215 project would have been another victim of California’s budget crisis.”

Biden also announced nine year-end targets for Recovery Act funds: (as listed on whitehouse.gov)

Batteries for Vehicle Electrification: By the end of the year, the Department of Energy will have put in place funding for battery manufacturing plants that can power 400,000 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles each year.
Military Hospitals: The Department of Defense will begin 34 construction and modernization projects at hospitals and medical centers throughout the country over the next 90 days, making a total of 65 hospitals and medical centers with projects under construction since passage of the Act.
National Parks: The Department of Interior will begin on-site construction improvement work in 105 more national parks throughout the country over the next 90 days.
Small Business Assistance: The Small Business Administration will provide and leverage $5 billion in capital to over 12,000 small businesses through two key lending programs (7a and 504) in the next 90 days.
Fuel-Efficient Bus Purchases: By the end of the year, the Federal Transit Agency will have awarded enough grants to enable the purchase of approximately 10,000 new transit vehicles across the country.
Housing Loans and Rehabilitation: By the end of the year, the Department of Agriculture and the Housing and Urban Development Department will have provided housing loans and capital funding to finance, build, or renovate over 100,000 households across America.
Renewable Energy: By the end of the year, the Departments of Energy and Treasury will help fund renewable energy projects that will generate enough alternative energy to power 900,000 homes in the United States once completed.
Road Projects: By the end of the year, the Department of Transportation will have obligated enough funds to support 10,000 highway projects.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Jobs Report: “A Sobering Reminder”

During his weekly address, the President discussed his efforts to “beat back the recession” while acknowledging, “the September job losses were a sobering reminder that progress comes in fits and starts, and that we will need to grind out this recovery step by step.” Obama said he is working with his economic team to look at additional options for job creation in the months ahead, saying:

“I won’t let up until those who seek jobs can find them; until businesses that seek capital and credit can thrive; and until all responsible homeowners can stay in their homes….It won’t be easy. It will require us to lay a new foundation for our economy – one that gives our workers the skills and education they need to compete; that invests in renewable energy and the jobs of the future; and that makes health care affordable for families and businesses – particularly small businesses, many of which have been overwhelmed by rising health care costs.”

Monday, October 5, 2009

Doctors Join Health Care Reform Fight

President Obama welcomed doctors from across the country to the White House for a discussion of health care reform from their perspective. The doctors—from all fifty states—stood with Obama to show their support for his health care reform initiatives. The President reminded his audience, “When you cut through all the noise and all the distractions that are out there, I think what’s most telling is that some of the people who are most supportive of reform are the very medical professionals who know the health care system best -- the doctors and n

Week Thirty-Four

2009-09-29T19:47:00.000-07:00

National Scene 9/23 – 9/29/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Barack Obama became the first United States President to chair a meeting of the United Nations Security Council. Sitting directly behind the President as he led the meeting were Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, and the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Susan E. Rice—the first African-American woman to hold the position.

The President spoke of the need to halt the proliferation of nuclear weapons and quoted former President Ronald Reagan who said: “A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. And no matter how great the obstacles may seem, we must never stop our efforts to reduce the weapons of war. We must never stop at all until we see the day when nuclear arms have been banished from the face of the Earth.”

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

President Addresses United Nations

President Obama gave a speech to the United Nations General Assembly where he spoke of, “The four pillars fundamental to the future that we want for our children: 1.)non-proliferation and disarmament; 2.)the promotion of peace and security; 3.)the preservation of our planet; and 4.)a global economy that advances opportunity for all people.”

In outlining the difference between his and the prior Administration, Obama stated his foreign policy actions:

“On my first day in office, I prohibited -- without exception or equivocation -- the use of torture by the United States of America.”
“I ordered the prison at Guantanamo Bay closed, and we are doing the hard work of forging a framework to combat extremism within the rule of law.”
“We have set a clear and focused goal: to work with all members of this body to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al Qaeda and its extremist allies.”
“In Iraq, we are responsibly ending a war. We have removed American combat brigades from Iraqi cities, and set a deadline of next August to remove all our combat brigades from Iraqi territory.”
“I have outlined a comprehensive agenda to seek the goal of a world without nuclear weapons.”
“I appointed a Special Envoy for Middle East Peace, and America has worked steadily and aggressively to advance the cause of two states -- Israel and Palestine -- in which peace and security take root, and the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians are respected.”
“We’ve also re-engaged the United Nations. We have paid our bills. We have joined the Human Rights Council. We have signed the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”

The President concluded by defining “a new era of engagement with the world.”

Thursday, September 24, 2009

G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh

President Obama joined leaders of the world’s top economies in discussing a global recovery and what he called, “a 21st century economy.” He summarized the meeting by saying: “In Pittsburgh, the world’s major economies agreed to continue our effort to spur global demand to put our people back to work. We committed ourselves to economic growth that is balanced and sustained— so that we avoid the booms and busts of the past. We reached an historic agreement to reform the global financial system—to promote responsibility and prevent abuse so that we never face a crisis like this again.”

First Lady Hosts Dinner at Farm

While the President had a working dinner with G20 leaders at The Phipps Conservatory, First Lady Michelle Obama hosted a dinner for their spouses at Rosemont Farm. Located just outside Pittsburgh, Rosemont is a working farm owned by philanthropist Teresa Heinz Kerry, wife of Sen. John Kerry.

The next day, Mrs. Obama led the spouses on a tour of the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, and to a performance by students at a performing arts high school in the city.

Friday, September 25, 2009

Be Prepared

Once again reminding Americans of the threat from man-made or natural disasters, the Administration’s Department of Homeland Security issued guidelines for preparedness including:

Put together an emergency supply kit.
Make a family emergency plan.
Get informed about the types of emergencies that could take place in your community and appropriate responses. (For inland Southern California it could be earthquakes, fires, floods, flu pandemic, etc.)

For more information on emergency kits and plans, visit www.ready.gov.

For information on the H1N1 (Swine) Flu including vaccination availability, visit www.flu.gov.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

President Attends Congressional Black Caucus Event

The President and First Lady attended the Annual Phoenix Awards Dinner -- part of the 2009 Annual Legislative Conference of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. The awards recognize outstanding contributions to society, symbolizing the immortality of the human spirit and an eternal desire to reach its full potential. President Obama received the award in 2008. This year’s recipients include:

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Susan E. Rice;
President of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, Calvin Smyre;
Actor, Danny Glover;
Actress, Cicely Tyson:
Actress, Sheryl Lee Ralph;
Musician, Wyclef Jean.

Week Thirty-Three

2009-09-22T19:29:00.000-07:00

National Scene 9/15 – 9/22/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

The President, who has stayed above the fray over perceived racial attacks against him, addressed the issue head-on in a quip during an appearance on the David Letterman Show. “It's important to realize that I was actually black before the election,” Obama pointed out to Dave. “That tells you a lot, I think, about where the country is at.”

This week, Obama continued the push for health care reform and prepared for an upcoming appearance before the Untied Nations.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

President Obama spends Day with America’s Workers

The President began the day at a GM plant in Ohio. He acknowledged the economic downturn that has hit this community hard; however, he called on the workers to maintain their fighting spirit, saying, “We've still got a long way to go. But there is little debate that the decisions we've made and the steps we've taken helped stop our economic freefall. In some places, they've helped us turn the corner. Home sales are up; business investment is starting to stabilize. For the first time in 18 months, we're actually seeing growth in American manufacturing, instead of decline.

Addressing thousands of GM workers, the President restated his commitment to full employment in America, telling the workers: “It's going to take some time to achieve a complete recovery. But I want you all to know, I will not rest until anybody who's looking for a job can find one -- and I'm not talking about just any job, but good jobs that give every American decent wages and decent benefits and a fair shot at the American Dream. That's what I'm fighting for every single day.

After leaving Ohio, Obama traveled to Pittsburgh, PA to talk to workers at the AFL-CIO Convention. The supportive crowd heard the President’s plan for health insurance coverage for all Americans.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage

President Barack Obama has proclaimed Hispanic Heritage Month to be celebrated from September 15th to October 15th. The President’s proclamation states: “The story of Hispanics in America is the story of America itself. The Hispanic community's values -- love of family, a deep and abiding faith, and a strong work ethic -- are America's values. Hispanics bring together the rich traditions of communities with centuries-old roots in America and the energy and drive of recent immigrants. Many have taken great risks to begin a new life in the hopes of achieving a better future for themselves and their families. Hispanics have served with honor and distinction in every conflict since the Revolutionary War, and they have made invaluable contributions through their service to our country. They lead corporations and not-for-profits, and social movements and places of learning. They serve in government at every level from school boards to statehouses, and from city councils to Congress. And for the first time in our Nation's history, a Latina is seated among the nine Justices of the Supreme Court of the United States.”

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Obamas Support Chicago for 2016 Olympics

The President and First Lady took time out from their busy schedules to lobby on behalf of their home city – Chicago – to host the 2016 Olympics. In lauding the city, the President said, “I love Washington, D.C. And our house here is a little bigger than the one we got in Chicago. But I've called Chicago home for nearly 25 years. It's a city of broad shoulders and big hearts and bold dreams.” Michelle Obama, who will travel to Copenhagen to meet with Olympics decision-makers, added, “I cannot think of a better city to host the 2016 Games than my hometown. I was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago.”

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Health Care Reform and College Students - Why They Will Need It!

The President addressed students at the University of Maryland in College Park, reminding them of their part in the battle for health care reform. Citing statistics on the lack of health insurance coverage among young adults, Obama told the students, “One in three young adults who don't have health insurance live one accident or one illness away from bankruptcy. Nearly half of these young people have trouble paying their medical bills. Nearly 40 percent are in debt because of them. I mean, think about adding the debt you already have for college -- on top of that, another $10,000 or $20,000 or $30,000 or $50,000 worth of debt because you get sick.”

A New Approach to Missile Defense

Acting upon recommendations from the Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Administration signaled a new approach to missile defense that is designed to provide a quicker response, and greater defense against attacks, than prior missile defense programs.

Friday, September 18, 2009

Celebrating Rosh Hashanah

President Obama signaled the start of the Jewish New Year - Rosh Hashanah - stating, “This sacred time provides not just an opportunity for individual renewal and reconciliation, but for families, communities and even nations to heal old divisions, seek new understandings, and come together to build a better world for our children and grandchildren. At the dawn of this New Year, let us rededicate ourselves to that work. Let us reject the impulse to harden ourselves to others’ suffering, and instead make a habit of empathy – of recognizing ourselves in each other and extending our compassion to those in need. Let us resist prejudice, intolerance, and indifference in whatever forms they may take -- let us stand up strongly to the scourge of anti-Semitism, which is still prevalent in far too many corners of our world.”

Administration Launches Spanish-Language Volunteer Site

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Obama Administration launched a site Servir.gov, to encourage and support Hispanic volunteer service. According to Whitehouse.gov, the site will allow users to:

--Find A Volunteer Opportunity: Visitors can enter their zip code and interests to find local volunteer opportunities from a database of more than 250,000 opportunities across the country
--Register A Project: Organizations or individuals looking to recruit volunteers for their efforts can post their volunteer opportunities (in English or Spanish)
--Plan A Project: To help individuals plan their own projects with their friends, family, or neighbors, easy-to-use toolkits in Spanish are available on projects such as organizing a book drive, creating a community garden, or conducting a home energy audit. Spanish translation provided by AARP.
--Share A Story: Visitors are invited to share how they are making a difference through service.

The English version is Serve.gov;

The First Lady Visits Farmers Market

Michelle Obama shopped at a new farmer’s market located near the White House, telling visitors to the Freshfarm Market, “Farmers' markets are a simple but major ingredient in solving access issues in many communities. And for those who think that fresh fruits and vegetables are out of their reach financially….I want to reinforce the fact that this market and other farmers' markets around the city participate in the WIC program, the SNAP program, the Double Dollar program, and the Seniors benefits program. And each SNAP and WIC dollar equals two dollars at a farmers' market to purchase fresh produce. So that's something -- and we want to get that word out as well.”

The First Lady Takes On Health Care Reform

Speaking to women’s health advocates, the First Lady reminded the audience that health care reform is very much a woman’s issue because women across the United States are “being crushed by the current structure of our health care.” Mrs. Obama spoke of her husband’s plan for health care reform and the need for passage of the legislation.

Week Thirty-Two

2009-09-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

National Scene 9/9 - 9/15/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Our 'Jackie Robinson' in the White House

Facing the same kinds of taunts and vitriol that greeted the nation's first black major-league baseball player Jackie Robinson, America's President handles animosity and rudeness with a style and grace reminiscent of the Brooklyn Dodger great.

This week President Obama took ownership of health care reform legislation with a decisive tone in an address to Congress. He made clear he will not accept "the status quo" and is determined to pass reform legislation this year. The President concluded his remarks to Congress by reading a letter he received from Senator Ted Kennedy shortly before he lost his battle with brain cancer. In the letter, Senator Kennedy wrote: "What we face is above all a moral issue; at stake are not just the details of policy, but fundamental principles of social justice and the character of our country." Kennedy was writing about health care, but the passage could just as easily refer to the current state of public discourse in America.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

President Obama Addresses Congress and the Nation

In a rare appearance before both houses of Congress, the President outlined his plan for health care reform and his determination to see a bill passed this year. The President's bill is summarized as follows: (from WhiteHouse.gov)

Plan Benefits If You Currently Have Health Insurance

---Allows Americans who have health insurance and like it to keep it.

---Ends discrimination against people with pre-existing conditions.

---Limits premium discrimination based on gender and age.

---Prevents insurance companies from dropping coverage when people are sick and need it most.

---Caps out-of pocket expenses and prohibits insurance companies from imposing annual or lifetime caps on benefit payments.

---Eliminates extra charges for preventive care like mammograms, flu shots and diabetes tests to ensure that all Americans have access to free preventive services under their health insurance plans.

---Protects Medicare for seniors and extends new protections for Medicare beneficiaries that improve quality, coordinate care and reduce beneficiary and program costs.

---Closes the Medicare "donut hole" - a current gap in its drug benefit - by providing a 50 percent discount on brand-name prescription drugs for seniors who fall into it.

Plan Benefits If You Don't Have Insurance

---Creates a new insurance marketplace - the Exchange - that allows people without insurance and small businesses to compare plans and buy insurance at competitive prices.

---Provides new tax credits to help people buy insurance. The President's plan will provide new tax credits on a sliding scale to individuals and families that will limit how much of their income can be spent on premiums.

---Provides small businesses tax credits and affordable options for covering employees. Small businesses who for too long have faced higher prices than larger businesses, will now be eligible to enter the exchange so that they have lower costs and more choices for covering their workers.

---Offers a public health insurance option to provide the uninsured and those who cannot find affordable coverage with a real choice. The President believes this option will promote competition, hold insurance companies accountable and assure affordable choices. It is completely voluntary.

---Immediately offers new, low-cost coverage through a national "high risk" pool to protect people with preexisting conditions from financial ruin.

The President's plan also includes details on how health care reform will be paid for, and he has promised the plan, "will not add one dime to the deficit today or in the future and is paid for in a fiscally responsible way."

The President Attends Memorial Service for Walter Cronkite

President Obama joined dignitaries and journalists at a celebration of the life of veteran reporter Walter Cronkite. Cronkite- an American icon was remembered as a trusted voice that saw the country through difficult times. Obama recalled, "He was forever there, reporting through world war and cold war; marches and milestones; scandal and success; calmly and authoritatively telling us what we needed to know. He was a voice of certainty in a world that was growing more and more uncertain. And through it all, he never lost the integrity or the plainspoken speaking style that he gained growing up in the heartland. He was a familiar and welcome voice that spoke to each and every one of us personally."

Friday, September 11, 2009

The Nation and the Administration Remembers September 11, 2001

Members of the Obama Administration joined Americans across the country in remembering the victims of the 9-11 attack:

--The President placed a wreath and led a service at the Pentagon. He honored the victims by saying, "We remember with reverence the lives we lost. We read their names. We press their photos to our hearts. And on this day that marks their death, we recall the beauty and meaning of their lives; men and women and children of every color and every creed, from across our nation and from more than 100 others. They were innocent. Harming no one, they went about their daily lives. Gone in a horrible instant, they now "dwell in the House of the Lord forever."

--After declaring September 11^th a National Day of Service, the President and First Lady Michelle Obama painted walls at a Habitat for Humanity site in Washington, D.C.

--Attorney General Eric Holder delivered remarks at a ceremony at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The ceremony honored the 72 law enforcement officers killed in the terrorist attacks.

--Vice President Biden joined officials and families at ground zero in New York - the site of the Trade Center. The Vice President joined New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg in placing flowers in the ground zero reflecting pool.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Obama Fires Up Crowd in Minnesota

The President gave a rousing speech on health care reform to an audience at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He asked for help in getting the word out on his plan and dispelling rumors and false truths. Obama stated that he was still, "Fired Up, and Ready To Go!"

Week Thirty-One

2009-09-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

National Scene 9/2 – 9/8/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

The President Encourages School Children

Following in the footsteps of his predecessors, including Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, President Barack Obama addressed the nation’s schoolchildren in a moving speech in which he shared his own challenges as a youngster. The President made it clear that ALL children are capable of achieving and encouraged kids to not give up on school, “even when you’re struggling, even when you’re discouraged, and you feel like other people have given up on you, don’t ever give up on yourself, because when you give up on yourself, you give up on your country.”

Many African-American and Latino parents—whose kids have represented a large percentage of the nation’s dropouts—are making the speech mandatory viewing for their children.

Here is a link to the text of the speech: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/A-Message-of-Hope-and-Responsibility-for-Americas-Students/

Here is link to text of the speech: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Remarks-by-the-President-in-a-National-Address-to-Americas-Schoolchildren/

Follow-up activities for pre-K- 6^th grade: http://www.ed.gov/teachers/how/lessons/prek-6.pdf

Follow-up activities for 7^th - 12^th grade:

http://www.ed.gov/teachers/how/lessons/7-12.pdf

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

“What’s in it for you” Quiz

Responding to critics who continue to distort the President’s health care reform initiatives, the Administration has created an interactive quiz which will show American’s how health care reform will help them and their families. Participants answer basic questions about their current situation (no identifying information is collected) and are shown the possible benefits they will receive from health care reform. The quiz can be found at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/realitycheck/quiz/

Friday, September 4, 2009

Historic Move to Release White House Visitor’s List

Continuing Administration efforts toward transparency and openness, the President stated: “For the first time in history, records of White House visitors will be made available to the public on an ongoing basis. We will achieve our goal of making this administration the most open and transparent administration in history not only by opening the doors of the White House to more Americans, but by shining a light on the business conducted inside it. Americans have a right to know whose voices are being heard in the policymaking process.”

Monday, September 7, 2009

“Fired Up and Ready to Go!”— Still

Signaling a new passion and demeanor following his vacation, the President displayed vigor as he addressed a town hall in Cincinnati Ohio. Speaking at an AFL-CIO Labor Day rally, Obama reminded the audience: “You're enjoying some good music, some good food, some famous Cincinnati chili. But today we also pause. We pause to remember and to reflect and to reaffirm. We remember that the rights and benefits we enjoy today weren’t simply handed to America’s working men and women. They had to be won. They had to be fought for, by men and women of courage and conviction, from the factory floors of the Industrial Revolution to the shopping aisles of today's superstores. They stood up and they spoke out to demand a fair shake and an honest day's pay for an honest day's work.”

The President displayed a renewed willingness to fight for the needs of working Americans, including health care improvements, saying:

“We’ve been fighting for quality, affordable health care for every American for nearly a century -- since Teddy Roosevelt. Think about that -- long time. The Congress and the country have now been vigorously debating the issue for many months. The debate has been good, and that’s important because we’ve got to get this right. But every debate at some point comes to an end. At some point, it’s time to decide. At some point, it’s time to act. Ohio, it’s time to act and get this thing done. We have never been this close. We’ve never had such broad agreement on what needs to be done. And because we’re so close to real reform, suddenly the special interests are doing what they always do, which is just try to scare the heck out of people.”

Addressing critics of his health care policies, the President questioned naysayers: “I’ve got a question for all these folks who say, you know, we’re going to pull the plug on Grandma and this is all about illegal immigrants – you’ve heard all the lies. I’ve got a question for all those folks: What are you going to do? What’s your answer? What’s your solution? And you know what? They don't have one.”

Week Thirty

2009-09-01T15:21:00.000-07:00

National Scene 8/26 – 9/1/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Fires, Floods, Earthquakes – Are We Ready?

The Obama Administration’s Department of Homeland Security announced the beginning of National Preparedness Month. During the month of September, the Department will release disaster preparedness information to equip individuals and communities in the case of natural or man-made disasters.

The agency provides a website with information about emergency planning, visit www.ready.gov or the Spanish-language site, www.listo.gov.
The site lists the following requirements for emergency kits:

*Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit: When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it’s best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth.

Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

Prescription medications and glasses
Infant formula and diapers
Pet food and extra water for your pet
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
Cash or traveler's checks and change
Emergency reference material such as a first aid book
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
Fire Extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Personal hygiene items
Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
Paper and pencil
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

*from Ready.gov

Tributes to a Man of the People

President Obama interrupted his vacation to lead the nation in saying goodbye to his friend and mentor – Senator Edward Kennedy. Most of the activity at the White House and Capital Hill this past week, involved remembrances and tributes to Kennedy. Excerpts are listed below:

President Obama from Chilmark, Massachusetts near the Obama’s vacation area: “I wanted to say a few words this morning about the passing of an extraordinary leader, Senator Edward Kennedy. Over the past several years, I've had the honor to call Teddy a colleague, a counselor, and a friend. And even though we have known this day was coming for some time now, we awaited it with no small amount of dread.”

Vice-President Biden: “He [Kennedy]and I were talking after his diagnosis. And I said, I think you’re the only other person I’ve met, who like me, is more optimistic, more enthusiastic, more idealistic, sees greater possibilities after 36 years than when we were elected. He was 30 years-old when he was elected; I was 29 years-old. And you’d think that would be the peak of our idealism. But I genuinely feel more optimistic about the prospect for my country today than I did -- I have been any time in my life.

And it was infectious when you were with him. You could see it, those of you who knew him and those of you who didn’t know him. You could just see it in the nature of his debate, in the nature of his embrace, in the nature of how he every single day attacked these problems. And, you know, he was never defeatist. He never was petty -- never was petty. He was never small. And in the process of his doing, he made everybody he worked with bigger -- both his adversaries as well as his allies.”

Presidential Proclamation:

“Senator Edward M. Kennedy was not only one of the greatest senators of our time, but one of the most accomplished Americans ever to serve our democracy. Over the past half-century, nearly every major piece of legislation that has advanced the civil rights, health, and economic well-being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts. With his passing, an important chapter in our American story has come to an end.

As a mark of respect for the memory of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset on August 30, 2009. I also direct that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of his interment. I further direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same periods at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth. Barack Obama.”

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton:

"When I was First Lady, we worked together to provide health insurance for America’s children. When I arrived in the Senate, he was a generous mentor and a thoughtful colleague. We worked together to raise the minimum wage, improve education, and champion the cause we shared so deeply: ensuring that all Americans have access to quality, affordable health care. And as Secretary of State, I valued his counsel on how to make America a force for peace and progress around the world.”

Attorney General Eric Holder:

"Every day I look at the portrait of his brother Robert that hangs in my office and I am reminded that the Kennedy family has shown to America, through its actions, the importance of fighting for what is right even in the face of difficult odds. I would not be in the office I now hold were it not for their contributions and commitment to our nation. Senator Kennedy’s accomplished life came to a close last night but in the struggle to provide justice and equality for all Americans we will work every day to ensure that his cause endures and that his dreams for a better America never die."

President Obama, from Eulogy of Senator Kennedy:

“Today we say goodbye to the youngest child of Rose and Joseph Kennedy. The world will long remember their son Edward as the heir to a weighty legacy; a champion for those who had none; the soul of the Democratic Party; and the lion of the United States Senate -- a man who graces nearly 1,000 laws, and who penned more than 300 laws himself….”

“Through his own suffering, Ted Kennedy became more alive to the plight and the suffering of others -- the sick child who could not see a doctor; the young soldier denied her rights because of what she looks like or who she loves or where she comes from. The landmark laws that he championed -- the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, immigration reform, children's health insurance, the Family and Medical Leave Act -- all have a running thread. Ted Kennedy's life work was not to champion the causes of those with wealth or power or special connections. It was to give a voice to those who were not heard; to add a rung to the ladder of opportunity; to make real the dream of our founding. He was given the gift of time that his brothers were not, and he used that gift to touch as many lives and right as many wrongs as the years would allow.”

Week Twenty-Nine

2009-08-18T15:19:00.000-07:00

National Scene 8/11 – 8/18/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

The Online White House!

The Obama Administration is the most technically savvy of any prior Presidency. Partly because of advancements in new media, but also because of a willingness to take advantage of the technology. Obama first displayed this prowess during the campaign with the legendary BarackObama.com and his presence on many social media sites. Using these sites he raised more money than any candidate in the history of campaigning, and took his message directly to the people.

Currently, the Administration has sites devoted to most of its departments and policies, including health care reform, the Recovery Act, mortgage help, etc. The starting point is the official ‘Welcome to the White House’ site: Whitehouse.gov

Other sites of interest:

Want to see streaming videos of White House hosted concerts as they occur: www.whitehouse.gov/live

Want to see videos of Obama speeches and town halls? www.youtube.com/whitehouse

Want to check out pictures of the first family during trips abroad –especially the Africa trip! www.flickr.com/whitehouse/sets

Want the “real deal” on health care reform in Spanish? Visit WhiteHouse.gov/LaRealidad in English: www.WhiteHouse.gov/realitycheck

The President is also on all of the major social media sites; and, most online news, entertainment, and political sites have sections devoted to the Administration.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Obama Fights Health Care Reform “Scare Tactics”

Telling his audience,”We can’t let them do it again!” President Obama hosted a town hall in Portsmouth, New Hampshire on health insurance reform, reminding the crowd, “Every time we come close to passing health insurance reform, the special interests fight back with everything they’ve got.”

An area woman who cannot get health care because of a pre-existing condition, introduced the President. Describing his opponents methods as “scare tactics,” Obama told the crowd, “What is truly scary -- what is truly risky -- is if we do nothing. If we let this moment pass -- if we keep the system the way it is right now -- we will continue to see 14,000 Americans lose their health insurance every day. Your premiums will continue to skyrocket. They have gone up three times faster than your wages and they will keep on going up.”

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Reception for the New Justice

The President and Mrs. Obama hosted a reception in the East Room of the White House for the newly sworn in Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Guests included Sotomayor’s family and friends, leaders of the Hispanic community, members of Congress, other Supreme Court justices, judges from the federal Courts of Appeals, and former co-workers of Sotomayor.

Giving an historical perspective on Sotomayor’s ascent to the high court, the President said:

“Nearly 80 years ago, as the cornerstone was laid for the building that became our Supreme Court, Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes declared, ‘The Republic endures and this is the symbol of its faith.’ Justice Sotomayor's rise from humble beginnings to the height of achievement is yet another symbol of that faith -- faith that the American Dream still endures; faith that ‘equal justice under the law’ is not just an inscription in marble, but an animating ideal of our democracy; faith that in this great nation, all things are still possible for all people. This is a great day for America, and I know that all of us here are proud and honored to have been a part of it.”

Thursday, August 13, 2009

“President Obama is My Homeboy”

Eleven-year-old African-American student Damon Weaver, from Kathryn E. Cunningham/Canal Point Elementary, Florida, got a chance to interview the President on behalf of the KEC TV News Team. Weaver asked well-rounded questions about the economy and issues facing kids, and got an exclusive when the President announced his plans to address American schoolchildren on September 8. At the end of the session, Obama and Weaver announced that they were now “homeboy’s.”

Friday, August 14, 2009

Obama Takes Healthcare Fight to Montana

Saying: “We are held hostage at any given moment by health insurance companies that deny coverage, or drop coverage, or charge fees that people can't afford at a time when they desperately need care,” the President continued to deliver the message for health care reform. This time he led a town hall in Belgrade, Montana and challenged attendees to express their concerns and ask him hard questions. He stressed the importance of honest debate instead of staged outrage and scare tactics.

Week Twenty-Eight

2009-08-18T15:16:00.000-07:00

National Scene 8/5 – 8/11/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

American Hispanics of various origins—from Mexico, Central America, South America, Puerto Rico, and Cuba—celebrated the swearing-in of Bronx-native Sonia Sotomayor as the 111^th Supreme Court Justice. Chief Justice John Roberts swore in Sotomayor on August 8, 2009, as her Puerto Rico-born mother, an 82-year-old former nurse, held the Bible.

Also, this week—in a significant sign that the recession may be easing, and that the Administration’s economic efforts are working, the unemployment rate dropped to its lowest level in fifteen months.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Just the Facts, Please!

To counter false arguments on health care reform that are being circulated around the country by opponents, the Administration launched a ‘Reality Check’ initiative to dispel what officials deem as “inaccurate statements” being put forth by critics. The responses include a “Reality Check Website” -- http://www.whitehouse.gov/realitycheck/ that addresses oft-repeated issues including:

Myth – “Health care will be rationed under Obama’s plan for health reform. I won’t be able to get certain tests or procedures.”

Reality – “First, there is widespread rationing in today’s system. Right now, decisions about what doctor you can see and what treatment you can receive are made by insurance companies, which routinely deny coverage because of cost or the insurance company rules. Health reform will do away with many of those rules that result in rationing today.

Health Insurance Reform will prevent insurance companies from denying coverage because you have a pre-existing condition; prevent them for canceling coverage because you get sick; ban annual and lifetime limits on coverage, which often force people to pay huge sums out of pocket if they develop a serious illness; and prevent discrimination based on gender. With health insurance reform, we will also put treatment decisions back into the hands of doctors in consultation with their patients.”

Myth – “Health reform is going to put more burdens on federal and state governments because we will be covering more people without insurance.”

Reality – “American families with insurance pay a hidden tax of roughly $1000 for the cost of caring for people without insurance. As more Americans become insured, that hidden tax will begin to disappear. In addition, covering everyone will put downward pressure on costs. Bringing younger, healthier people into the system will spread the risk. As more Americans become covered, insurance companies will compete for their business. That will begin to lower costs. And health insurance reform will create stability and security for everyone. If you lose or change jobs you will have the peace of mind of knowing that you will always be able to find an affordable health insurance option for your family.”

Myth – “Why would health reform be good for seniors and what’s up with counseling for end of life care?

Reality – “If we don’t begin to rein in escalating health care costs, Medicare will be threatened over the long-run. Health reform will benefit seniors in many ways:

· We are committed to shrinking the donut hole in Medicare Part D that has forced so many seniors—more than 4 million every year—to pay exorbitant costs out of pocket or go without the drugs they need.

· For those of you who retire between the ages of 55 and 64, health reform will provide financial assistance to employer health plans that cover early retirees, bringing down health costs and premiums by as much as $1,200 per family per year for some plans.

· We want to strengthen preventive care under Medicare—no co-payments for checkups and wellness visits. Preventive care is especially important for seniors, because it will increase the chance that your doctor can catch an illness in its early stages.

· Most importantly, by reducing waste and improving the efficiency of Medicare, the Administration will strengthen the program to be sure it is always there for you and the generations to come. As you know, the Medicare Trust fund is projected to run out of money in about 8 years. Health insurance reform would extend the life of the fund for additional years—through at least 2022—and give it greater stability and security.

· [The “end-of-life”] provision, which has been supported by the AARP, would allow senior citizens access to a professional medical counselor who will provide them with any information they might need about preparing a living will, providing medical power of attorney, and—if they are seeking this kind of advice—end of life decisions. These counseling sessions are not mandatory; they are simply made available to those who wish to use the service because they are unable to receive the information from another source. This means that if a senior is seeking such advice and guidance, Medicare would cover it. This measure would allow Medicare to compensate doctors for discussing with their patients the most difficult care choices—those that happen at the end of life. It would actually empower individuals to make the best decisions for themselves and their families, and better ensure that their wishes will be followed.”

Obama and Administration officials will be traveling the country with town halls to address health care reform. For more information on the Administration’s plan, visit the website: http://www.whitehouse.gov/realitycheck/faq

Release of American Journalists from North Korea

President Obama thanked former President Bill Clinton for his help in securing the release of American journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling whom had been detained in North Korea since March. The women were reunited with their families at the Burbank Airport. President Obama contacted the women and their families and called the reunion a “source of happiness not only for the families but for the entire country.”

The President lauded both President Clinton and former Vice President Gore (the women worked for Gore’s organization) for their tireless efforts to secure the release of the women saying, “All Americans should be grateful to both former President Clinton and Vice President Gore for their extraordinary work.”

Town Hall in Elkhart, Indiana

The President traveled to Elkhart County, Indiana, an area once known as the “RV Capital of the World” which has been hit hard by the recession. Elkhart has experienced a 10% increase in unemployment over the last year. The President chose a RV plant—Monaco RV Manufacturing, to conduct a town hall meeting. He restated his commitment to moving the economy forward saying, “If we hope to lead this century like we did the last century, we have to create the conditions and the opportunities for places like Elkhart to succeed.”

The President announced a Recovery Act program to provide a $2.4 billion investment in 48 new advanced battery and electric drive projects, stating the investment for hybrid and electric drive vehicles will “create of tens of thousands of manufacturing jobs that are much needed in places like Elkhart.”

Addressing critics who want to “defend the status quo,” Obama said, “There are those who want to seek political advantage. They want to oppose these efforts. Some of them caused the problems that we got now in the first place, and then suddenly they're blaming other folks for it.”

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Senate’s Lone Hispanic Resigns After Casting Vote for Sotomayor

Obama nominee, Judge Sonia Sotomayor was confirmed by the Senate as the 111th Supreme Court Justice with a vote of 68-31. Sotomayor is the first Hispanic Justice in the history of the country, and the third female to hold the post. The 31 votes against Sotomayor were all from Republicans. The Senate’s lone Hispanic member, Republican Senator Mel Martinez from Florida, joined eight other members of his party in voting for Sotomayor. Coincidentally, Martinez abruptly and immediately resigned his Senate seat the next day.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Unemployment Rate Drops

The Bureau of Labor Statistics released unemployment figures for the month of July showing the unemployment rate dropped for the first time in fifteen months. While admitting, “Every job lost is a tragedy, and we still have a ways to go,” the President further stated, “these numbers are a promising indication that the deep recession is easing.”

Summarizing his efforts to restore the economy with the Recovery Act, Obama reminded Americans, “Today we’re pointed in the right direction. We’re losing jobs at less than half the rate we were when I took office. We’ve pulled the financial system back from the brink, and a rising market is restoring value to those 401(k)s that are the foundation of a secure retirement. We’ve enabled families to reduce the payments on their mortgages, making their homes more affordable and reducing the number of foreclosures. We helped revive the credit markets and opened up loans for families and small businesses.”

Monday, August 10, 2009

President Travels to Mexico for North American Summit

President Obama traveled to Guadalajara, Mexico to meet with fellow North American Leaders--Mexican President Felipe Calderón and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. The President described North America as “defined not simply by our borders, but by our bonds.”

Week Twenty-Seven

2009-08-04T15:14:00.000-07:00

National Scene 7/29 – 8/4/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Six months into his first term, President Obama continues to move the country forward by leading the charge for economic and health care reform. He has adeptly handled distractions, such as the “Gates Arrest Affair,” while fighting a loud chorus of critics who have shown they will resort to outright lies (denying Obama’s birthplace), to diminish the President of the United States. Even in the face of an American success—the large number of Americans trading in cars through the “Cash for Clunkers” program—the critics find fault with Obama. Economic indicators however, show signs of hope that the country is moving past the recession Obama inherited when he became President.

President Obama celebrated his 48^th Birthday on August 4, 2009.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

“What Health Care Reform Means To Me”

At a town-hall meeting in Raleigh, North Carolina, the President addressed health care reform by summarizing what an Obama supported health reform initiative contains. This includes: (from Whitehouse.gov)

No Discrimination for Pre-Existing Conditions
Insurance companies will be prohibited from refusing you coverage because of your medical history.
No Exorbitant Out-of-Pocket Expenses, Deductibles or Co-Pays
Insurance companies will have to abide by yearly caps on how much they can charge for out-of-pocket expenses.
No Cost-Sharing for Preventive Care
Insurance companies must fully cover, without charge, regular checkups and tests that help you prevent illness, such as mammograms or eye and foot exams for diabetics.
No Dropping of Coverage for Seriously Ill
Insurance companies will be prohibited from dropping or watering down insurance coverage for those who become seriously ill.
No Gender Discrimination
Insurance companies will be prohibited from charging you more because of your gender.
No Annual or Lifetime Caps on Coverage
Insurance companies will be prevented from placing annual or lifetime caps on the coverage you receive.
Extended Coverage for Young Adults
Children would continue to be eligible for family coverage through the age of 26.
Guaranteed Insurance Renewal
Insurance companies will be required to renew any policy as long as the policyholder pays their premium in full. Insurance companies won't be allowed to refuse renewal because someone became sick.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Eclectic Group Nominated for Medal of Freedom

The President announced the 16 recipients of the 2009 Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian honor. This year’s recipients include:

· Nancy Goodman Brinker, founder of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the world’s leading breast cancer grassroots organization.

· Pedro José Greer, Jr., the Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs and Florida International University School of Medicine and founder of Camillus Health Concern, an agency that provides medical care to over 10,000 homeless and low-income patients each year in Miami.

· Stephen Hawking, an internationally-recognized theoretical physicist, who suffers from the motor neuronal disease ALS.

· Jack Kemp, former U.S. Congressman, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and Republican Nominee for Vice President in 1996. (He died in May, 2009)

· Sen. Edward Kennedy, long-serving Senator from Massachusetts.

· Billie Jean King, former tennis player, who champions gender equality.

· Rev. Joseph Lowery, who co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Dr. Martin Luther King.

· Dr. Joseph Medicine Crow, the last living Plains Indian war chief, and author of works on Native American history and culture.

· Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official from a major city in the United States. He was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977. (He died in 1978)

· Sandra Day O’Connor, a Supreme Court Justice from 1981 until her retirement in 2006. She was the first woman ever to sit on the Supreme Court.

· Sidney Poitier, the first African American to be nominated and win a Best Actor Academy Award.

· Chita Rivera, an actress, singer and dancer, who was the first Hispanic to receive the Kennedy Center Honor.

· Mary Robinson, the first female President of Ireland and former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

· Janet Davison Rowley, M.D., who discovered the first consistent chromosome translocation in a human cancer.

· Desmond Tutu, an Anglican Archbishop and a leading anti-apartheid activist in South Africa.

· Muhammad Yunus, a global leader in anti-poverty efforts who pioneered the use of "micro-loans" to provide credit to poor individuals.

The “Beer Summit”

Diffusing tensions, as well as the media frenzy that ensued following the President’s comments on the arrest of Harvard Professor Henry Gates—Obama and Vice President Joe Biden sat down with Gates and arresting officer Sergeant James Crowley for a beer in the Rose Garden of the White House.

Friday, July 31, 2009

“This Too Shall Pass”

In his weekly address to the nation, President Obama reminded Americans of the progress the Administration is making in turning the economy back to positive footing. Describing the Recovery Act as, “helping to put the brakes on this recession,” the President continued to stress the need to weather the storm. He acknowledged the challenges facing the country, saying: “Every day, I hear from Americans who are feeling firsthand the pain of this recession; these are folks who share their stories with me in letters and at town hall meetings; folks who remain in my mind and on my agenda each and every day. I know that there are countless families and businesses struggling to just hang on until this storm passes. But I also know that if we do the things we know we must, this storm will pass. And it will yield to a brighter day.”

Monday, August 3, 2009

First Lady Welcomes Home USNS Comfort and USS Eisenhower

First Lady Michelle Obama, traveled to Norfolk, Virginia to welcome the safe return of the United States Naval Ship Comfort and the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. The crew of the USNS Comfort provided aid during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and most recently, provided medical care to countries in the Caribbean, Latin America, and South America. The USS Eisenhower supported missions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Mrs. Obama saluted the crews and their families on their outstanding service and devotion to their country.

The President Hosts the Amir of Kuwait

The President met with His Highness Shaykh Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait in the Oval Office. The two leaders discussed strengthening U.S.-Kuwaiti relations during their meeting, with Obama concluding: “Kuwait and the United States enjoy very strong bilateral relations. We are looking to make those relations even stronger. Kuwait has been an outstanding host for the United States Armed Forces during its operations in Iraq. And as we transition our operations in Iraq, it's important for us to emphasize not only our gratitude to Kuwait, but also our ongoing commitment to Kuwait's security.”

Week Twenty-Six

2009-07-28T15:12:00.000-07:00

National Scene 7/22-7/28/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Repeating his mantra —“We can get this done. We don't shirk from a challenge,” the President continued to beat the drum for health care reform this week with a prime time news conference and town hall meetings. Hoping for significant progress on a health care reform bill before Congress breaks for a month-long summer vacation, the President had to settle for assurances from Democratic leaders that they will indeed deliver a health care reform bill this fall.

The President’s full court press for health care reform was somewhat side-tracked this week when his comments on the arrest of Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates, prompted a flurry of news stories on Obama’s statement in which he said the Cambridge police had acted “stupidly.” The President later suggested he could have used different words, and invited both the Professor and the arresting officer for a ‘beer’ at the White House to clear the air. They each accepted the President’s offer.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Obama Meets With Prime Minister of Iraq

As American troops deploy from the Iraq war, President Obama met with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to discuss the future role of the United States in Iraq. In a Rose Garden press conference after their meeting, the President described the transition in which all U.S. troops withdrew from Iraqi cities, and transferred power to Iraq’s security forces. Saying the action was “an important step forward,” Obama stressed the importance of the endeavor, “This transition was part of our security agreement, and should send an unmistakable signal that we will keep our commitments with the sovereign Iraqi government. As I said before, we seek no bases in Iraq, nor do we make any claim on Iraq’s territory or resources. Going forward, we will continue to provide training and support for Iraqi security forces that are capable and nonsectarian. We'll move forward with our strategy to responsibly remove all American combat brigades from Iraq by the end of next August, and to fulfill our commitment to remove all American troops from Iraq by the end of 2011.”

The Iraq War, began by the Bush Administration in 2002, had deeply divided both Americans and International supporters of the U.S. Although combat is winding down, Obama made it clear that battles remain: “As we move forward, Prime Minister Maliki and I have no doubt that there will be some tough days ahead. There will be attacks on Iraqi security forces and the American troops supporting them. There are still those in Iraq who would murder innocent men, women and children. There are still those who want to foment sectarian conflict. But make no mistake: Those efforts will fail.”

Press Conference on Health Care

The President brought his health care reform message to prime time, seeking to answer questions and calm the concerns of Americans. Addressing the importance of reform the President stated the following:

“This is not just about the 47 million Americans who don't have any health insurance at all. Reform is about every American who has ever feared that they may lose their coverage if they become too sick, or lose their job, or change their job. It's about every small business that has been forced to lay off employees or cut back on their coverage because it became too expensive. And it's about the fact that the biggest driving force behind our federal deficit is the skyrocketing cost of Medicare and Medicaid.

So let me be clear: If we do not control these costs, we will not be able to control our deficit. If we do not reform health care, your premiums and out-of-pocket costs will continue to skyrocket. If we don't act, 14,000 Americans will continue to lose their health insurance every single day. These are the consequences of inaction. These are the stakes of the debate that we're having right now.”

Obama pointedly described his passion for immediate health care reform by reminding Americans:

“This isn't about me. I have great health insurance, and so does every member of Congress. This debate is about the letters I read when I sit in the Oval Office every day, and the stories I hear at town hall meetings. This is about the woman in Colorado who paid $700 a month to her insurance company only to find out that they wouldn't pay a dime for her cancer treatment -- who had to use up her retirement funds to save her own life. This is about the middle-class college graduate from Maryland whose health insurance expired when he changed jobs and woke up from the emergency surgery that he required with $10,000 worth of debt. This is about every family, every business, and every taxpayer who continues to shoulder the burden of a problem that Washington has failed to solve for decades.”

Thursday, July 23, 2009

President on the Road for Health Care Reform – Too much, Too soon?

The President traveled to Ohio today, where he visited the renowned Cleveland Clinic and held a town hall at Shaker Heights High School. He responded to critics who accuse him of ‘too much, too soon,’ saying, “Whenever I hear people say that it’s happening too soon, I think that’s a little odd. We've been talking about health care reform since the days of Harry Truman. How could it be too soon? I don't think it’s too soon for the families who've seen their premiums rise faster than wages year after year. It’s not too soon for the businesses forced to drop coverage or shed workers because of mounting health care expenses. It’s not too soon for taxpayers asked to close widening deficits that stem from rising health care costs -- costs that threaten to leave our children with a mountain of debt. Reform may be coming too soon for some in Washington, but it's not soon enough for the American people. We can get this done. We don't shirk from a challenge.”

Friday, July 24, 2009

President signals "Race to the Top" for Education

Saying “for too long we have simply talked about the problems of our education system,” President Obama signaled the start of what the Administration calls “The Race to the Top.” The goal is to improve K-12 education, including improving the quality of education and reducing drop-out rates. In comments at the White House, the President ‘dropped the starting flag’ by saying, “The race starts today. I'm issuing a challenge to our nation's governors, to school boards and principals and teachers, to businesses and non-for-profits, to parents and students: if you set and enforce rigorous and challenging standards and assessments; if you put outstanding teachers at the front of the classroom; if you turn around failing schools -- your state can win a Race to the Top grant that will not only help students out-compete workers around the world, but let them fulfill their God-given potential.”

Monday, July 27, 2009

U.S. – China Blueprint for the Future

President Obama addressed the opening session of the first U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. The President, in his trademark manner, presented his vision for the future by first looking at the historical context of the relationship between America and China:

“One hundred years ago -- in the early days of the 20th century -- it was clear that there were momentous choices to be made -- choices about the borders of nations and the rights of human beings. But in Woodrow Wilson's day, no one could have foreseen the arc of history that led to a wall coming down in Berlin, nor could they have imagined the conflict and upheaval that characterized the years in between. For people everywhere -- from Boston to Beijing -- the 20th century was a time of great progress, but that progress also came with a great price.

Today, we look out on the horizon of a new century. And as we launch this dialogue, it's important for us to reflect upon the questions that will shape the 21st century. Will growth be stalled by events like our current financial crisis, or will we cooperate to create balanced and sustainable growth, lifting more people out of poverty and creating a broader prosperity around the world? Will the need for energy breed competition and climate change, or will we build partnerships to produce clean power and to protect our planet? Will nuclear weapons spread unchecked, or will we forge a new consensus to use this power for only peaceful purposes? Will extremists be able to stir conflict and division, or will we unite on behalf of our shared security? Will nations and peoples define themselves solely by their differences, or can we find common ground necessary to meet our common challenges, and to respect the dignity of every human being?

We can't predict with certainty what the future will bring, but we can be certain about the issues that will define our times. And we also know this: The relationship between the United States and China will shape the 21st century, which makes it as important as any bilateral relationship in the world. That really must underpin our partnership. That is the responsibility that together we bear.”

Week Twenty-Five

2009-07-21T15:10:00.000-07:00

National Scene 7/14-7/21/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

The President turned up the heat on Congress this week to stress the importance of passing health care reform legislation this year. He even took a swipe at one of his Republican critics who suggested being against health care is a way to “get” Obama. The President reminded critics, “this is not about me, it is about the American people” and the need to fix a broken health care system.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

The American Graduation Initiative

Speaking at Macomb Community College in Michigan, President Obama announced an initiative to strengthen our nation’s community colleges, and called for five million additional graduates by 2020. Stating a desire to build on the strength of the nation’s community colleges, and “ensure that we’re educating and preparing our people for the new jobs of the 21st century,” the President rolled out the American Graduation Initiative, which includes:

Creating the Community College Challenge Fund – a public-private partnership to create career pathways where workers can earn new credentials and build basic skills; expand course offerings and offer dual enrollment with high schools and universities; improve remedial and adult education programs; and, offer students comprehensive, personalized services to help them plan their careers and stay in school;
Funding Innovative Strategies to Promote College Completion;
Modernizing Community College Facilities, and
Creating a New Online Skills Laboratory for community college students.

The President and the “Say Hey” Kid

President Barack Obama met with baseball legend Willie Mays aboard Air Force One. The President gave Mays a “lift” to St. Louis for the All-Star game in which Obama threw out the first pitch. During their meeting, Mays talked about how proud he was to see Obama get elected. Obama in turn thanked Mays saying, “It was because of you and Jackie [Robinson] that we were able to get so far. Your spirit, your attitude, the way you played the game – that changed a lot of people’s attitudes...and here we are on Air Force One. That’s alright!”

Friday, July 17, 2009

Celebrating 100 Years of the NAACP

Over 4000 people at the New York Hilton hotel witnessed the country’s first African-American President address the nation’s oldest civil-rights organization on their 100 year anniversary. Surrounded by many of the leaders who had led the fight the past few decades, Obama delivered a fiery speech that honored their legacy while calling for African-Americans to take ownership of their own future, saying: “Our kids can’t all aspire to be LeBron or Lil Wayne. I want them aspiring to be scientists and engineers -- doctors and teachers -- not just ballers and rappers. I want them aspiring to be a Supreme Court Justice. I want them aspiring to be the President of the United States of America.”

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

The President Talks Nuts-and-Bolts on Health Care

Stating, “the status quo is unacceptable” the President expressed his determination to pass health care reform despite fierce opposition from Republicans and special interests. He again outlined his plan stressing, “We must reform health care now to bring down costs, while expanding coverage and providing choice.” Obama defined his plan as:

Extending coverage and choices for all Americans, “including those with pre-existing conditions.”
Making sure Americans “won't lose your health care if you change jobs, if you lose your job, or if you start a business. And you won’t lose your insurance if you get sick.”
Emphasizing prevention and wellness.
Limiting out-of-pocket expenses.
And, promoting choice so that “Americans will be able to compare the price and quality of different plans, and pick the plan that they want. If you like your current plan, you will be able to keep it. Let me repeat that: If you like your plan, you’ll be able to keep it.”

Obama says a public option is needed to “keep insurance companies honest” and provide the competition necessary to make coverage affordable.

White House Music Series: Salute to Country Music

The President and Mrs. Obama continued the White House Music Series by hosting Country Music stars in a concert. The event included performances by Country stars, Charley Pride, Brad Paisley, Alison Krause, and Union Station. First Daughters Malia and Sasha joined their parents for the concert. Earlier in the day, over 120 middle and high school students from across the country learned about the craft of songwriting and the genres of country music including bluegrass, honky-tonk and rockabilly.

Week Twenty-Four

2009-07-14T15:06:00.000-07:00

National Scene 7/8-7/14/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Barack Hussein Obama – President of the United States, stood at the “Door of No Return” in Ghana this past week. The infamous “door” was where millions of captured Africans last saw their homeland before they were sent into slavery. Although the President himself is not descended from slaves, his wife and daughters are, and as an American of African descent he surely understood the symbolism of his visit.

Through Obama’s visit, African-Americans struggling with the ravages of this country’s economic downturn, were reminded of the fortitude of both those who survived the journey from Africa, and their descendants.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Where is the Stimulus Money?

Various members of the Administration, including Vice President Joe Biden, are meeting with citizens in person and online to identify the use of Recovery Act stimulus funds. The White House maintains a website with Recovery Act information: www.recovery.gov. For the state of California, stimulus fund spending information can be found at : www.recovery.ca.gov.

Some local highlights of recently announced Recovery Act projects include:

In Riverside, stimulus funds are being used to provide summer jobs to over 4000 disadvantaged young people ages 14 through 24.
In Corona, funds are being used to save 300 employee jobs, including school counselors and high school librarians.
Temecula was able to drop planned furlough days for over 2800 school employees because of stimulus funds.
Stimulus money is funding meals for elderly Inland residents.
Transportation and water reclamation projects are being funded in the Inland area.

Critics of the Administration, including most Inland Republicans, continue to denounce the stimulus bill as not helping economic conditions.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

President Attends G-8 in Italy

President Barack Obama arrived in Italy for a summit of the Group of Eight (G-8) industrial nations. The meeting took place in L’Aquila, a region of Italy struck by an earthquake in April. Leaders, including Obama, toured the damaged area. The G-8 representatives continued their discussion on ways to combat the global recession and stop Iran’s nuclear proliferation. Obama presided over a side meeting of the major economies with a focus on global climate issues.

Friday, July 10, 2009

Obama Has Audience With Pope

President Barack Obama, his family, and some senior members of the Administration met with Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican. The President met privately with Pope Benedict and was then joined by the first lady. L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican’s daily newspaper, has given Obama favorable reviews despite disagreements on abortion and stem-cell research. In a break from tradition, Pope Benedict had sent Obama a personal note of congratulations the day after his election and rearranged his schedule to meet with the President following the current G-8 Summit.

U.S. President Online in Africa

In preparation for his first trip as President to sub-Saharan Africa, the Administration collected questions and comments from over 75 African countries via text messaging, Twitter, Facebook, and newspapers. Similar to the way online town halls are conducted in America, the Administration selected journalists in Africa to field questions for the President from the many that were received. The African journalists included:

Ms. Angela Quintal of Independent Newspapers in South Africa,
Mr. Mamadou Thior of Radio Television Senegal (RTS), and
Mr. Peter Kimani of The Standard in Kenya.

President Obama was also interviewed by AllAfrica.com prior to his trip.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Obama Reminds Ghana “Yes We Can!”

Stating, “I have the blood of Africa within me,” President Obama addressed the Ghanaian parliament and President John Atta Mills in Accra, Ghana. Obama, who was warmly greeted by masses of people in Ghana, stated that “despite the progress across Africa that has been made in the latter half of the 20th century and the early 21st, much of Africa’s promise has not been fulfilled.”

In his trademark approach, Obama gave a speech that was part tough love (“Good governance is the key to development…that’s the change that can unlock Africa’s potential. And that is a responsibility that can only be met by Africans.”) part history lesson, (“Disease and conflict have ravaged parts of the African continent. In many places, the hope of my father’s generation gave way to cynicism, even despair.”) and, part inspiration (“For just as it is important to emerge from the control of other nations, it is even more important to build one’s own nation.”)

The President concluded his speech at the Accra International Conference Center by reminding Ghanaians:

“Here is what you must know: The world will be what you make of it. You have the power to hold your leaders accountable, and to build institutions that serve the people. You can serve in your communities and harness your energy and education to create new wealth and build new connections to the world. You can conquer disease and end conflicts and make change from the bottom up. You can do that. Yes you can .”

Full Circle -- Obama Stands at “Door of No Return”

Following his speech in Accra, the President and first family traveled to Ghana’s Atlantic coast to visit the fort in which men, women, and children were housed in barbaric conditions before being sent on a treacherous journey into slavery. Built in the 1600s, Cape Coast Castle served as Britain’s West Africa headquarters for the trans-Atlantic slave trade, which saw millions of shackled Africans exported to Europe, the Caribbean, and the Americas.

The Obama’s toured the castle including the infamous “Door of No Return” which was the last stop for Africans as they left their home continent. In brief comments the President noted that a church was housed above the dungeons that held the prisoners. He also implied the fort should be a source of hope as well as repository of painful memories saying, “It reminds us that as bad as history can be, it’s always possible to overcome.”

Monday, July 13, 2009

Alabama Physician Nominated for U.S. Surgeon General

President Obama announced his nominee for Surgeon General, Dr. Regina Benjamin. Dr. Benjamin is an Alabama family physician, who runs the Bayou La Batre Rural Health Clinic, which provides care to people regardless of their financial situation. The clinic was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, however Benjamin, who founded the clinic in 1990, fought to rebuild it. In 2002, Dr. Benjamin became president of the Alabama State Medical Association, making her the first African American woman to head a state medical society. Among her other honors: she served as Chair of the Federation of State Medical Boards of the United States, and as the Associate Dean for Rural Health at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. She was also the first African-American woman and physician under 40 to be elected to the American Medical Association Board of Trustees. She received the Nelson Mandela Award for Health and Human Rights in 1998.

Benjamin, 52, attended Xavier University in New Orleans and was in the second class of Morehouse School of Medicine. She received her MD degree from the University of Alabama Birmingham, and an MBA from Tulane University. In announcing the nomination, the President highlighted Dr. Benjamin’s dedication to the community, saying “Even though she could have left the state to make more money as a specialist or as a doctor in a wealthier community, Regina Benjamin returned to Alabama and opened a small clinic in Bayou La Batre.”

Rebuilding Urban Communities

In a day-long discussion hosted by The White House Office of Urban Affairs and the Domestic Policy Council policy experts were joined by the President and members of the Administration to discuss the changing landscape in urban communities across the country. The roundtable discussions included what currently works in these environments, as well as how the federal government can be a more effective partner with community leaders.

The President, drawing on his own experience as a community organizer, spoke on some of the challenges facing urban communities today, saying: “What is clear is we’re going to need to do more than just help our cities weather the current economic storm. We’ve got to figure out ways to rebuild them on a newer, firmer, stronger foundation for our future. And that requires new strategies for our cities and metropolitan areas that focus on advancing opportunity through competitive, sustainable, and inclusive growth.”

Obama didn’t just look at the nation’s inner cities, but added, “Even as we’ve seen many of our central cities continuing to grow in recent years, we’ve seen their suburbs and exurbs grow roughly twice as fast -- that spreads homes and jobs and businesses to a broader geographic area. And this transformation is creating new pressures and problems, of course, but it’s also opening up new opportunities, because it’s not just our cities that are hotbeds of innovation anymore, it’s our growing metropolitan areas.”

The President outlined some specific goals, including:

· “Taking a hard look at how Washington helps or hinders our cities and metro areas -- from infrastructure to transportation; from housing to energy; from sustainable development to education. And we’re going to make sure federal policies aren’t hostile to good ideas or best practices on the local levels. We’re going to put an end to throwing money at what doesn’t work -- and we’re going to start investing in what does work and make sure that we’re encouraging that.

· Investments in innovative and proven strategies. The first, Promise Neighborhoods, is modeled on Geoffrey Canada’s successful Harlem Children’s Zone. It’s an all-encompassing, all-hands-on-deck effort that’s turning around the lives of New York City’s children, block by block. And what we want to do is to make grants available for communities in other cities to jumpstart their own neighborhood-level interventions that change the odds for our kids.

· The second proposal we call Choice Neighborhoods -- focuses on new ideas for housing in our cities by recognizing that different communities need different solutions. So instead of isolated and monolithic public housing projects that too often trap residents in a cycle of poverty and isolate them further, we want to invest in proven strategies that actually transform communities and enhance opportunity for residents and businesses alike.”

Sotomayor Faces Senate

The Senate Judiciary Committee began confirmation hearings for Supreme Court Nominee, Judge Sonia Sotomayor. In her opening statement, Judge Sotomayor addressed the Senators saying, “In the past month, many Senators have asked me about my judicial philosophy. It is simple: fidelity to the law. The task of a judge is not to make the law -- it is to apply the law. And it is clear, I believe, that my record in two courts reflects my rigorous commitment to interpreting the Constitution according to its terms; interpreting statutes according to their terms and Congress's intent; and hewing faithfully to precedents established by the Supreme Court and my Circuit Court. In each case I have heard, I have applied the law to the facts at hand.”

Week Twenty-Three

2009-07-07T14:59:00.000-07:00

National Scene 7/1-7/7/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

After celebrating the nation’s birthday with military families at the White House, the Obama family left the country for a trip to Russia, Italy and Ghana. In what will be one of the most moving experiences for people of African descent the world over—in Ghana on Friday, President Barack Obama will visit the Cape Coast Castle, where enslaved Africans were once held before being loaded into ships and traded in the Americas and Caribbean.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Online Town Hall Meeting

President Obama held an “online town hall” in which he took questions submitted online, as well as from the live audience, at Northern Virginia Community College. The topic was healthcare and the President reiterated his determination to pass a health care reform bill this year. He heard health care stories and answered questions as he described the Senate’s progress on a plan, “that will hold down costs, improve patient care and ensure that you will not lose your coverage if you lose your job, change your job, or have a pre-existing medical condition.” Obama has stated he wants the health care reform bill on his desk by October 1, 2009.

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Green Jobs for a New Economy

Touting a new economy, with energy related jobs as a main pillar—President Obama met with a group of leaders from both large and small energy firms to discuss job creation and long-term plans. In describing Administration plans to grow the economy, Obama stated, “I'm pleased to say that we’ve achieved more in the past few months to create a new clean energy economy than we had achieved in many decades before. The recovery plan will double our country's supply of renewable energy, and is already creating new clean energy jobs.”

The President praised the innovation that is taking place in the energy industry and stressed the importance of continuing the path, saying, “The American people I believe want us to make the right choice….for at every juncture in our history, we’ve chosen to seize big opportunities -- rather than fear big challenges. We've chosen to take responsibility. We've chosen to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us -- and fulfill our obligations to generations to come. That's what we’re going to do this time, as well.”

Saturday, July 4, 2009

The First Family Celebrates the Nation’s Birthday

President Obama and the First Family celebrated their first 4th of July as residents of the White House. Their special guests were military families who gathered at picnic tables and on blankets on the South Lawn to meet the President and enjoy a special concert to honor our troops. The USO sponsored event featured Jimmy Fallon, Michelle Branch and the Foo Fighters. The evening’s festivities closed with fireworks over the National Mall.

In remarks before the concert, the President thanked the troops and their families and pledged as President, “This Fourth of July, I renew my pledge to each and every one of you -- that for as long as I have that immeasurable honor, you will always have the equipment and support you need to get the job done. Your families will always be a priority of Michelle’s and mine, and remain on our hearts and on our minds. And when our service members do return home, it will be to an America that always welcomes them home with the care that they were promised.”

Monday, July 6, 2009

The Obamas in Russia

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, along with their daughters Malia and Sasha, were greeted by Russian President Medvedev and Mrs. Medvedev at the Kremlin in Moscow. President Obama described his meetings with Russian leaders as a chance to push ‘the reset’ button in U.S.-Russian relations. In a joint press conference with President Medvedev, Obama summed up their meeting by saying, “President Medvedev and I agreed that the relationship between Russia and the United States has suffered from a sense of drift. We resolved to reset U.S.-Russian relations, so that we can cooperate more effectively in areas of common interest.”

As a result of the meeting, President Obama and the Russian leader agreed in principle to reduce their permitted nuclear arsenals by nearly a third to try to ease tensions between the former Cold War rival nations. The tentative nuclear accord is intended to serve as a follow-up to the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START), which is set to expire Dec. 5. START was signed in 1991, just five months after the collapse of the Soviet Union and nearly a decade after it was first proposed by President Reagan.

President Obama met with Russia’s Prime Minister Vladimir Putin the following day. Putin had been Russia's president--until he handpicked Medvedev to replace him.

Week Twenty-Two

2009-06-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

National Scene 6/24-6/30/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

As the first half of the year ends, the Administration can look back on significant efforts to get America back on track, including -- an economic stimulus, a revamped energy policy, the beginnings of health care reform, and a new approach to international relations. Moreover, the following legislation has been passed and signed by President Barack Obama in 2009:

1. Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act – (fair pay for women) Signed: January 29, 2009

2. Children’s Health Insurance Reauthorization Act – (continue state program SCHIP) Signed: February 4, 2009

3. DTV Delay Act – (delayed implementation of digital TV until June 2009) Signed: February 11, 2009

4. American Recovery and Reinvestment Act – (major economic stimulus bill) Signed: February 17, 2009

5. Small Business Act Temporary Extension – (temporarily extends SBA programs) Signed: March 20, 2009

6. Omnibus Public Lands Management Act – (public land conservation) Signed: March 30, 2009

7. Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act – (increases and manages community service programs and funding) Signed: April 21, 2009

8. Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act – (steps to end mortgage fraud and predatory lending) Signed: May 20, 2009

9. Helping Families Save Their Homes Act – (steps to prevent foreclosures and rewrite mortgage loans) Signed: May 20, 2009

10. Weapons Systems Acquisition Reform Act – (defense procurement reform) Signed: May 22, 2009

11. Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure (CARD) Act of 2009 – (consumer credit protection) Signed: May 22, 2009

12. Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act – (steps to prevent children and teens from smoking) Signed: June 22, 2009

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Gets Easier

The cumbersome application process for college student financial aid has gotten a lot simpler with the newly redesigned FAFSA. Fulfilling a campaign promise, the Obama Administration announced a new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) that will make it easier to apply for college financial aid. The changes are designed to increase college enrollment, particularly among low- and middle-income students. They include:

Effective May 2009 -- instant estimates of Pell Grant and student loan eligibility, rather than forcing applicants to wait weeks. Links to graduation rates and other college information are also provided;
Effective summer 2009 -- enhanced logic used in the new web-based FAFSA will reduce user navigation for many applicants.
Effective January 2010 -- students applying for financial aid for the spring semester will be able to retrieve their relevant tax information from the IRS for easy completion of the online FAFSA.
The Administration will seek authority from Congress to eliminate 26 financial questions from the FAFSA form that have little impact on aid awards and can be difficult to complete.

In addition, Whitehouse.gov lists the following activities the Administration has pursued to improve access to higher education and make it more affordable:

· Expanding Pell Grants and College Tax Credits: The Recovery Act increased Pell Grants by $500 to $5,350 for 2009-2010 and created the American Opportunity Tax Credit, a new $2,500 tax credit for four years of college tuition.

· Modernizing and Expanding the Perkins Loan Program: The President's 2010 Budget proposes to make this vital program available to over 2,600 additional schools and an estimated 2.7 million additional students each year. By providing an additional $5 billion in Perkins Loans and continuing the low five percent interest rate, President Obama hopes that the neediest of students will have access to federal financial resources they did not have before.

· Creating a New College Access and Completion Fund: In his 2010 budget proposal, President Obama proposes a five-year, $2.5 billion fund to build federal-state-local partnerships aimed at improving college access and completion, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

· To help families in special circumstances during these challenging economic times, the Administration sent a letter in early April to financial aid administrators reminding them of their authority to make adjustments, on a case-by-case basis, to address circumstances, such as unemployment, not reflected on the original application.

More information on financial aid for college is available at http://studentaid.ed.gov.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

President Addresses Immigration Reform

President Obama and Vice President Biden met with Congressional leaders to discuss immigration reform. The bi-partisan group included Rep. Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas), Rep. Luis Guitierrez (D-Illinois), Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-New York), Rep. James Clyburn (D-South Carolina), Sen. John McCain (R-Arizona), and Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont). The Administration indicated this is the first of more working meetings to come up with practical solutions to immigration problems. President Obama also announced a new website that will allow immigrant applicants to get updates on the status of their applications online, or via e-mail or text message.

Summer Community Service – “United We Serve”

The Administration’s summer community service project—“United We Serve” continues until the National Day of Service on September 11, 2009. The First Family participated in packing backpacks for children of our armed forces at Fort McNair in D.C. The First Family was joined by several members of Congress and their families, with the goal of packing 15,000 backpacks for the children to bring with them to camp. The backpacks were filled with letters, healthy snacks, Frisbees, and a Bo Jackson baseball card!

The President encouraged all American families to get involved with community service, saying: “We want to ask every American to take some time out this summer to do something for others. Parents, take your kids….once a week, take them down -- whether it's to a soup kitchen or to volunteer on a community project -- teach them what it means to be a real citizen. You'll find that actually the kids love it, and it's going to make a lasting impression on them.”

Friday, June 26, 2009

President Applauds House for Passing Energy Bill

In a close vote, the House of Representatives passed an Energy Build supported by the President. Obama saluted this effort saying: “For more than three decades, we've talked about our dependence on foreign oil. And for more than three decades, we've seen that dependence grow. We've seen our reliance on fossil fuels jeopardize our national security. We've seen it pollute the air we breathe and endanger our planet. And most of all, we've seen that others countries realize a critical truth: The nation that leads in the creation of a clean energy economy will be the nation that leads the 21st century global economy…..Now, make no mistake -- this is a jobs bill. We're already seeing why this is true in the clean energy investments we're making through the Recovery Act. In California, 3,000 people will be employed to build a new solar plant that will create 1,000 jobs.”

The bill must now past the Senate. The President hopes to sign it in early fall.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Another White House First – Welcoming the Deaf and Blind

President Obama became one of the few sitting Presidents to greet and welcome persons who are deaf and blind to the White House Oval Office. The group, from the Helen Keller National Center, received a tour of the White House in addition to meeting with the President.

Official Bee-Keeper Brings Honey to White House

Speaking of Obama first’s -- White House carpenter Charles Brandts—a beekeeper in his spare time—has brought beehives to the White House. The hives, tended by Brandts, pollinate the First Lady’s garden and provide honey to the White House kitchen.

Week Twenty-One

2009-06-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

National Scene 6/17-6/23/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

While encouraging volunteerism in America this summer with his “United We Serve” campaign—the President continued to monitor the escalating violence in Iran following the election. Ignoring the calls of his Republican critics who say he should speak more forcefully against the current Iranian leadership, Obama instead found the right tone by expressing outrage, however not allowing America to become as he put it, “the political football” in Iran.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

President Announces ‘United We Serve’

President Barack Obama laid the groundwork for a nationwide community service program this summer. Called ‘United We Serve’ the volunteer program will run from June 22 to September 11, 2009. In announcing the program the President stated, “This summer, I'm calling on all of you to make volunteerism and community service part of your daily life and the life of this nation. And when I say “all,” I mean everyone – young and old, from every background, all across this country. We need individuals, community organizations, corporations, foundations, and our government to be part of this effort.”

The President encouraged Americans to visit the website Serve.gov to find a local project, or to register an ongoing community service project:

“If you’re involved in a service project in your community, go to Serve.gov and register it on this website, so that other people can sign up to join you. If you have an idea for a project – like getting a group together to volunteer each week at a homeless shelter, or read to kids at your local library, or pick up trash in a local park – you can go online and register that too. The website has everything you need to get started. And if you’re someone who’s interested in volunteering, you can go to Serve.gov to find opportunities in your community.”

A ‘Unique Moment in History”

Continuing the theme of community service, First Lady Michelle Obama addressed the Greater DC Cares Annual Business and Non-profit Philanthropy Summit. She thanked community leaders for their hard work and encouraged them to continue, saying: “…I believe that we’re in a unique moment in history. Maybe you’re seeing the same thing. I’m feeling it as I’m traveling not just around D.C. but around the country. But people really want to get involved….They're looking for a way to turn their frustration, excitement, anxiety into action.”

The First Lady also hosted a harvest party in the White House garden with students from Bancroft Elementary in D.C. who helped with the planting. A healthy meal was prepared with produce from the garden, including harvested lettuce, sugar snap peas, and berries. Mrs. Obama said the garden was “a fun and interesting way to talk to kids about healthy eating and nutrition.”

Friday, June 19, 2009

Obama Addresses Hispanic Prayer Breakfast

Speaking on the role of faith in America’s history, the President addressed the Esperanza National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast and Conference. In describing the importance of prayer, President Obama said, “Prayer is more than a last resort. Prayer helps us search for meaning in our own lives, and it helps us find the vision and the strength to see the world that we want to build.”

While addressing the group of Hispanic leaders the President also discussed immigration stating:

“The American people believe in immigration, but they also believe that we can't tolerate a situation where people come to the United States in violation of the law, nor can we tolerate employers who exploit undocumented workers in order to drive down wages. That's why we're taking steps to strengthen border security, and we must build on those efforts. We must also clarify the status of millions who are here illegally, many who have put down roots. For those who wish to become citizens, we should require them to pay a penalty and pay taxes, learn English, go to the back of the line behind those who played by the rules. That is the fair, practical, and promising way forward, and that's what I'm committed to passing as President of the United States. We must never forget that time and again, the promise of America has been renewed by immigrants who make their story part of the American story. We see it in every state of our country. We see it in our families and in our neighborhoods.”

The Importance of Dads

In honor of Father’s Day, the President kicked off a series of events and conversations on what it means to be a father, including:

· A barbeque at the White House for students from local schools to discuss the importance of fatherhood and personal responsibility. Renowned chef Booby Flay prepared the meal.

A White House town hall meeting where the President was joined by well-known fathers from across the country, including Dwayne Wade, Antwaan Randle El, Morehouse College President Dr. Robert Franklin, Motorola CEO Greg Brown, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and White House staffers Reggie Love and Michael Strautmanis.

Obama discussed his own goals as a father and addressed absentee fathers by saying:

“When fathers are absent -- when they abandon their responsibilities to their children -- we know the damage that that does to our families. Some of you know the statistics: Children who grow up without fathers are more likely to drop out of school and wind up in prison. They’re more likely to have substance abuse problems, run away from home, and become teenage parents themselves. And I say this as someone who grew up without a father in my own life. I had a heroic mom and wonderful grandparents who helped raise me and my sister, and it’s because of them that I’m able to stand here today. But despite all their extraordinary love and attention, that doesn’t mean that I didn’t feel my father’s absence. That's something that leaves a hole in a child’s heart that a government can’t fill. That's why it is time for all men to step up and be responsible fathers.”

Some of you might be worried that if you didn’t have a father, then you don’t know how to be one when your turn comes. Some of you might even use that as an excuse, and say, ‘Well, if my dad wasn’t around, why should I be?’ Let’s be clear: Just because your own father wasn’t there for you, that’s not an excuse for you to be absent also -- it’s all the more reason for you to be present. There’s no rule that says that you have to repeat your father’s mistakes. Just the opposite -- you have an obligation to break the cycle and to learn from those mistakes, and to rise up where your own fathers fell short and to do better than they did with your own children. That’s what I’ve tried to do in my life.”

Monday, June 22, 2009

The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act

The President signed the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, to protect Americans, particularly children, from the dangers of smoking. Obama said that more than 8 million Americans suffer from at least one serious illness caused by smoking, and that almost 90% of all smokers began before their 18th birthday, concluding, “I know -- I was one of these teenagers, and so I know how difficult it can be to break this habit when it's been with you for a long time….This legislation will not ban all tobacco products, and it will allow adults to make their own choices. But it will also ban tobacco advertising within a thousand feet of schools and playgrounds. It will curb the ability of tobacco companies to market products to our children by using appealing flavors. It will force these companies to more clearly and publicly acknowledge the harmful and deadly effects of the products they sell. And it will allow the scientists at the FDA to take other common-sense steps to reduce the harmful effects of smoking.”

Lower Drug Costs for Seniors

The President announced a significant agreement with pharmaceutical companies that will help lower drug costs for Seniors. As reported on whitehouse.gov: “The companies agreed to $80 billion in prescription drug discounts over the next 10 years. The agreement was described as part of the upcoming health care reform legislation. Drug manufacturers that participate in Medicare Part D will either pay a rebate to Medicare or offer a substantial discount of at least 50 percent on prescription drugs to seniors who fall within the infamous “doughnut hole”— payments between $2700 and $6153.75 not covered by Medicare. The deal will help close this unfair gap in coverage, providing relief for millions of seniors who have been burdened by these out-of-pocket expenses, making it easier for them to get the prescriptions that they need. In addition to providing half-price discounts, the pharmaceutical companies will offer other discounts and savings to total an $80 billion reduction in costs.”

Week Twenty

2009-06-16T14:51:00.000-07:00

National Scene 6/9-6/16/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Health care reform continues to be front and center on the President’s radar screen, and this week he went to somewhat hostile territory—the annual conference of the American Medical Association—to pitch his ideas. The Administration continues to address America’s economic situation, while keeping abreast of troubling events abroad, particularly North Korea’s nuclear threats, and the disputed election in Iran.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Banks Return Bailout Funds: “A Positive Sign”

The Administration announced that several of the financial institutions, which received bailouts from the federal government, are ready to repay the funds. While acknowledging that the economic crisis is by no means over, the President applauded the return of the funds, saying, “Several financial institutions are set to pay back $68 billion to taxpayers. And while we know that we will not escape the worst financial crisis in decades without some losses to taxpayers, it’s worth noting that in the first round of repayments from these companies the government has actually turned a profit.”

Obama went on to say, “This is not a sign that our troubles are over -- far from it….But it is a positive sign. We’re seeing an initial return on a few of these investments. We’re restoring funds to the Treasury where they’ll be available to safeguard against continuing risks to financial stability. And as this money is returned, we’ll see our national debt lessened by $68 billion -- billions of dollars that this generation will not have to borrow and future generations will not have to repay.”

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

President Comments on Holocaust Museum Shooting

President Obama issued the following comment on the shooting at the National Holocaust Museum, where African-American security guard Stephen Johns was killed by an alleged white supremacist: “I am shocked and saddened by today’s shooting at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. This outrageous act reminds us that we must remain vigilant against anti-Semitism and prejudice in all its forms. No American institution is more important to this effort than the Holocaust Museum, and no act of violence will diminish our determination to honor those who were lost by building a more peaceful and tolerant world. Today, we have lost a courageous security guard who stood watch at this place of solemn remembrance. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends in this painful time.”

Thursday, June 11, 2009

The President Hits the Road for Health Care Reform

President Obama spoke at a town hall meeting on health care reform at Southwest High School in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The President continued to drive home his vision for health care reform, which includes what the Administration calls three core principles:

Reduce costs — Rising health care costs are crushing the budgets of governments, businesses, individuals, and families, and they must be brought under control.
Guarantee choice — Every American must have the freedom to choose their plan and doctor – including the choice of a public insurance option.
Ensure quality care for all — All Americans must have quality and affordable health care.

Obama went outside the beltway to bring his position to the American people, however he has made it clear to lawmakers in Washington that he expects legislation on this issue to be on his desk this year.

Friday, June 12, 2009

United Nations Sanctions North Korea’s Nuclear Testing

UN Ambassador Susan Rice, (the first African-American female to hold the post), joined world leaders in condemning recent actions by North Korea and imposing sanctions against the country. She described the unanimous resolution as “a very robust, tough regime with teeth that will bite North Korea.” Secretary Rice continued, “It would be unwise for the United States or other members of the Security Council to fail to take strong action in response to a very provocative and illegal action on the part of North Korea out of concern that they may take strong action. I mean, the point is that we needed to demonstrate -- and today we have demonstrated -- that provocative, reckless actions come at a cost and that North Korea will pay a price for its actions.”

Obama Meets with Zimbabwe's Prime Minister

President Obama met with the Prime Minister of Zimbabwe, Morgan Tsvangirai, and discussed humanitarian aid to the country. Tsvangirai shares the leadership of Zimbabwe with President Robert Mugabe, who has been in power almost 30 years. Obama addressed human rights concerns over Mugabe’s leadership saying, “President Mugabe has not acted oftentimes in the best interest of the Zimbabwean people and has been resistant to the kinds of democratic changes that need to take place…I've committed $73 million in assistance to Zimbabwe. It will not be going to the government directly because we continue to be concerned about consolidating democracy, human rights, and rule of law, but it will be going directly to the people in Zimbabwe and I think can be of assistance to the Prime Minister in his efforts.”

Monday, June 15, 2009

Obama Addresses Doctor’s Group

President Obama took his health care vision directly to one of the special interest groups most associated with health care – the American Medical Association. The group warmly received the President although some bristled at his suggestion of not reducing malpractice payments to deserving beneficiaries. There was general agreement however on his description of what will happen if we fail to act on health care reform. Obama stated,

“If we fail to act -- and you know this because you see it in your own individual practices -- if we fail to act, premiums will climb higher, benefits will erode further, the rolls of the uninsured will swell to include millions more Americans -- all of which will affect your practice. If we fail to act, one out of every five dollars we earn will be spent on health care within a decade. And if we fail to act, federal spending on Medicaid and Medicare will grow over the coming decades by an amount almost equal to the amount our government currently spends on our nation's defense. It will, in fact, eventually grow larger than what our government spends on anything else today. So to say it as plainly as I can, health care is the single most important thing we can do for America's long-term fiscal health. That is a fact. That's a fact.”

The President suggested reforming the way doctors and hospitals are compensated, telling the doctors,

“We need to bundle payments so you aren’t paid for every single treatment you offer a patient with a chronic condition like diabetes, but instead paid well for how you treat the overall disease. We need to create incentives for physicians to team up, because we know that when that happens, it results in a healthier patient. We need to give doctors bonuses for good health outcomes, so we’re not promoting just more treatment, but better care. So one thing we need to do is to figure out what works, and encourage rapid implementation of what works into your practices. That's why we're making a major investment in research to identify the best treatments for a variety of ailments and conditions.”

President Obama concluded by asking for unity in reforming the health care system, reminding the providers, “We are not a nation that accepts nearly 46 million uninsured men, women and children.”

The White House Jazz Studio

First Lady Michelle Obama, hosted both jazz greats and students of jazz at what was called, “The White House Jazz Studio.” Invited performers included jazz greats Paquito D’Rivera, Zach Brown, Kush Abadey, Elijah Easton, and child protégé Tony Madruga. Jazz students from across the country, many from New Orleans, participated in the event.

Election Violence in Iran

As the world watches the reaction to the election in Iran, America’s President reassured the nation by saying he is deeply troubled by the “violence perpetrated on people who are peacefully dissenting.” However, he made it clear, “It is up to Iranians to make decisions about who Iran's leaders will be; we respect Iranian sovereignty and want to avoid the United States being the issue inside of Iran….having said all that, I am deeply troubled by the violence that I've been seeing on television. I think that the democratic process -- free speech, the ability of people to peacefully dissent -- all those are universal values and need to be respected. And whenever I see violence, and whenever the American people see that, I think they're, rightfully, troubled.”

Obama said the United States will “continue to pursue a tough, direct dialogue between our two countries, and we'll see where it takes us.”

Week Nineteen

2009-06-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

National Scene 6/2-6/9/2009

By Linnie Frank Bailey

During his 2008 campaign, candidate Obama described a speech he would one day present to the Muslim world if he became President. This week, in Cairo, Egypt, President Barack Obama delivered that speech. From Cairo University, the President used his outstanding communication skills—and his ability to bridge cultural divides—to speak of a ‘new beginning’ between Americans and Muslims. He addressed the world’s 1.5 billion followers of Islam and received positive responses from Muslims around the globe.

Obama also got tough on the economy this week….instructing his Cabinet to move faster with Recovery Act funds, and signaling the urgency of health care reform legislation to Senate leaders.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Obama Rolls-Up-His-Sleeves for Health Care Reform

On the other hand, maybe we should say—the President is putting on his boxing gloves for what is sure to be a battle to get health care reform passed this year. In a meeting with lawmakers, Obama expressed the importance of health care reform stating, “We can't afford to put this off, and the dedicated public servants who are gathered here today understand that and they are ready to get going, and this window between now and the August recess I think is going to be the make-or-break period. This is the time where we've got to get this running.”

In a letter addressed to Senators Ted Kennedy and Max Baucus, the Chairmen of the key committees in the Senate handling health care reform, the President made clear that, “in 2009, health care reform is not a luxury.” He went on to describe the urgency of the situation by stating:

“It’s a necessity we cannot defer. Soaring health care costs make our current course unsustainable. It is unsustainable for our families, whose spiraling premiums and out-of-pocket expenses are pushing them into bankruptcy and forcing them to go without the checkups and prescriptions they need. It is unsustainable for businesses, forcing more and more of them to choose between keeping their doors open or covering their workers….In short, the status quo is broken, and pouring money into a broken system only perpetuates its inefficiencies. Doing nothing would only put our entire health care system at risk. Without meaningful reform, one fifth of our economy is projected to be tied up in our health care system in 10 years; millions more Americans are expected to go without insurance; and outside of what they are receiving for health care, workers are projected to see their take-home pay actually fall over time. We simply cannot afford to postpone health care reform any longer.”

First Lady Speaks to Graduates at DC High School

Stating she wanted to speak at a Washington, D.C. public school to celebrate the achievements of young people in her new hometown, First Lady Michelle Obama gave the commencement address to graduating seniors at the Washington Math and Science Technology Public Charter High School. The well-respected school has a 99% graduation rate and Mrs. Obama told the graduates not to be intimidated when they go to college, reminding them:

“It is natural for graduates to doubt themselves and question their abilities when they first set foot onto their new college campuses. When you set foot on the soil of whatever campus that has admitted you, understand that you are responsible for your own experiences. So what I want you to do is ‘own’ your voice. Own it. Don't be intimidated by your new surroundings. Remember, everyone else is in the same position that you’re in. Be an engaged and active participant in all of your classes. Never, ever sit in silence, ever. That first day, raise your hand, use your voice, ask a question. Don't be afraid to be wrong, don’t be afraid to sound unclear, because understand this is the only way you’ll learn.”

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Obama Speaks to Muslim World from Cairo, Egypt

In a major speech, addressed to Muslims around the world, President Obama signaled a new beginning of relations between the US and Muslim countries. Starting with the customary Muslim greeting ‘Assalaamu’alaykun’, Obama’s well-received talk was part introduction to his background (“I am a Christian, but my father came from a Kenyan family that includes generations of Muslims. As a boy, I spent several years in Indonesia and heard the call of the azaan at the break of dawn and the fall of dusk. As a young man, I worked in Chicago communities where many found dignity and peace in their Muslim faith.”); part history lesson (he described the mistrust that has grown over the years between the U.S. and Muslim countries); part religious discourse (he quoted from the Quran, the Talmud and the Bible), and part policy speech (he spoke of the current hot-spots in the middle east and his administration’s approach to the region, and also addressed women’s rights in Islamic nations.)

During the speech, President Obama pointed out the commonalities of our cultures and our religion—and cautioned, “Just as Muslims do not fit a crude stereotype, America is not the crude stereotype of a self-interested empire. The United States has been one of the greatest sources of progress that the world has ever known. ... We are shaped by every culture, drawn from every end of the Earth, and dedicated to a simple concept: E pluribus unum: ‘Out of many, one.’”

Muslims from around the world praised the speech and the respect showed to their culture. The crowd at Cairo University gave the President cheers and a standing ovation at the conclusion of his speech.

Friday, June 5, 2009

Obama Visits Buchenwald Concentration Camp

The President visited German Chancellor Angela Merkel at Dresden Castle in Germany and toured the Church of Our Lady. This was followed by a trip to Buchenwald Concentration Camp, where Bertrand Herz, a survivor of the camp, and Nobel Laureate and fellow holocaust survivor, Elie Wiesel, joined them. During the emotional visit at the former camp, the President recounted his great uncle, who was part of the 89th Infantry Division, the first Americans to reach a concentration camp. They liberated Ohrdruf, one of Buchenwald's sub-camps.

Obama described the significance of the visit saying, “We are here today because we know this work is not yet finished. To this day, there are those who insist that the Holocaust never happened -- a denial of fact and truth that is baseless and ignorant and hateful. This place is the ultimate rebuke to such thoughts; a reminder of our duty to confront those who would tell lies about our history.”

Saturday, June 6, 2009

President Attends D-Day Remembrance

President Barack Obama spoke during a ceremony marking the 65th anniversary of the Allied D-Day landings in Normandy at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville sur Mer in Western France. Addressing the few remaining D-Day veterans who were also present, the President stated, “It came down to the men who landed here -- those who now rest in this place for eternity, and those who are with us here today. Perhaps more than any other reason, you, the veterans of that landing, are why we still remember what happened on D-Day. You're why we keep coming back. For you remind us that in the end, human destiny is not determined by forces beyond our control. You remind us that our future is not shaped by mere chance or circumstance. Our history has always been the sum total of the choices made and the actions taken by each individual man and woman. It has always been up to us.”

The President was joined by the First Lady and foreign leaders, including: Britain's Prince Charles, Britain's Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Canada's Prime Minister Stephen Harper and France's President Nicolas Sarkozy.

President and First Lady Enjoy Dinner in France

While in France, the President and his wife were spotted dining at a cozy French Bistro. The restaurant, not lavish by any means, was filled with diners who were ecstatic to be joined by the new American President and his wife. The following day the President returned to the U.S., while Mrs. Obama and the First Daughters, Malia and Sasha, toured London and France.

Monday, June 8, 2009

President Accelerates Recovery Act

Citing increasing unemployment numbers, the President summoned his Cabinet and instructed them to move faster in implementing Recovery Act projects across the country.

The President has made it clear—he wants the Stimulus money to help struggling Americans, and he wants to cut through the bureaucratic red tape that normally slows down federal projects.

Week Eighteen

2009-06-02T14:46:00.000-07:00

National Scene 5/27 – 6/1/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

The Administration began the week addressing right-wing concern over his candidate for the U.S. Supreme Court – Judge Sonia Sotomayor. It is expected that Sotomayor will win confirmation in the Senate, despite the protests. In other news, the President commented on the bankruptcy of General Motors by assuring Americans a new, stronger GM will emerge. Still, dealers and autoworkers across the country are awaiting news of plant and dealership closings. Many African-Americans who work in the auto industry—from mechanics and assembly workers, to dealership owners—have been hard hit by the failure of Chrysler and General Motors.

This week the President heads to Egypt and Saudi Arabia for a major speech on mid-East peace, which will be watched closely by Israel and the Muslim world. “I want to use the occasion to deliver a broader message about how the United States can change for the better its relationship with the Muslim world,” Obama said of his Egypt speech. “That will require, I think, recognition on both the part of the United States as well as many majority Muslim countries ….a better sense of understanding, and I think possibilities to achieve common ground.”

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

The President Visits Los Angeles for Fundraiser

Landing at LAX aboard Air Force One, the President made an evening visit to Southern California to speak at a fundraiser for the DNC held at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Obama made brief remarks to supporters who paid $1,000 to $2,500, and saw performances by Jennifer Hudson and Earth, Wind, & Fire. A dinner, hosted by Steven Spielberg and Jeffrey Katzenberg, followed for donors who paid $15,000 and up.

Celebrating Solar Power in Nevada

Earlier in the day, President Obama visited Nellis Air Force Base, in Las Vegas, Nevada to highlight what he called “the largest solar electric plant of its kind in the entire Western Hemisphere!” Using geothermal and solar energy, the plant is expected to save the United States Air Force (the largest consumer of energy in the federal government), nearly $1 million a year. Addressing Nevada Senator Harry Reid and other officials, Obama concluded, “This base serves as a shining example of what’s possible when we harness the power of clean, renewable energy to build a new, firmer foundation for economic growth.”

While in Nevada, the President also noted the 100^th day since the passage of the Recovery Act, stating, “One hundred days ago, in the midst of the worst economic crisis in half a century, we passed the most sweeping economic recovery act in history -- a plan designed to save jobs, create new ones, and put money in people's pockets. It's a plan designed not only to revive the economy in the short term, but to rebuild the economy over the long term.”

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Palestinian President at the White House

Determined to negotiate a fair and lasting peace in the Middle East, President Obama pressed both sides for action. While meeting at the White House with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Obama told him, “The Palestinians must find a way to halt the incitement of anti-Israeli sentiments that are sometimes expressed in schools, mosques and public arenas. All those things are impediments to peace.”

Speaking to the other side, Obama called on Israel to halt settlement construction in the West Bank, stating it is part of Israel’s obligations to peace in the area. “I am confident that we can move this process forward,” Obama said after meeting with the Palestinian President.

Israel has signaled it does not intend to halt the construction of settlements in the West Bank; however, the President and Secretary of State Clinton will continue to press for action.

Friday, May 29, 2009

First Lady Visits Young Gardeners

Joined by White House Chef Sam Kass, First Lady Michelle Obama visited D.C.’s Bancroft Elementary School where she discussed the importance of nutritious eating and helped the students tend to their vegetable gardens. Students from the school have helped Mrs. Obama with the White House garden the past few months.

President to Name Cyber Czar

Signaling a new age, and the importance of technology to America’s security, President Obama announced he will name a new cyber czar to protect the country’s computer networks. The as-yet-unnamed person will report to the National Security Council as well as to the National Economic Council, and will only be responsible for government systems, not those of private industry.

Calling the appointment a “transformational moment” for the country, Obama discussed the challenges of monitoring the nation’s computer networks, which he says, are probed and attacked millions of times a day. “We’re not as prepared as we should be, as a government or as a country,” he said, calling cyber threats one of the most serious economic and military dangers the nation faces. The President stated that during the campaign season, his own databases were hacked but sensitive data was protected.

Monday, June 1, 2009

The President Addresses the End of an American Icon

Automobile manufacturer General Motors, thought to be one of the bedrock companies of American culture, filed for bankruptcy today, however the President assured us that the company would begin again. Stating that he and his economic team have “a credible plan that is full of promise,” Obama described the new investors in GM, which include the U.S. Government, Canada, and the United Autoworkers Union (UAW).

Stating that American taxpayers will own about 60% of GM, Obama explained, “we’re making these investments not because I want to spend the American people’s tax dollars, but because I want to protect them.” He went on to say the government has no intention to ‘run’ GM, but, “to get GM back on its feet, take a hands-off approach, and get out quickly.”

The President has said repeatedly that it is “vital that the U.S. maintain an auto industry,” and that the action his Administration is taking “will bring about a new GM that can produce the high-quality, safe, and fuel-efficient cars of tomorrow; that can lead America towards an energy independent future; and that is once more a symbol of America's success.”

Week Seventeen

2009-05-26T14:45:00.000-07:00

National Scene 5/19 – 5/26/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

A busy week for the President as he signed into law major bills designed to, make home refinancing easier; end mortgage fraud; reform credit card policies; and monitor defense procurement. He also met with his economic advisory board to gauge progress, and took on former Vice-President Dick Cheney on national security. Obama created a couple of “firsts” this week by naming an African-American as his choice to lead NASA, and in a move applauded by Latino activists across the country—nominated a Hispanic woman for the Supreme Court.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

African-American Business Leaders Attend White House Briefing

Senior Obama Advisor Valerie Jarrett hosted a meeting at the White House for over 150 African-American business leaders. The purpose of the meeting was to lay out the administration’s agenda for the year, and to encourage the leaders to implement the policies in their home areas. The meeting was well attended by MBA’s, with the Harvard Business School’s African-American Alumni Association serving as the lead organizer, and members of the National Black MBA Association in attendance. The group participated in a question-and-answer session with Ms. Jarrett and members of her staff. She stressed that the White House will “always be open” to hearing new ideas.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Obama Meets With Economic Recovery Advisory Board

The President held his first official quarterly meeting with members of his economic advisory board to discuss policy, and the status of the recovery. Members of the board* include (in alphabetical order):

· Anna Burger, Secretary-Treasurer, SEIU

· John Doerr, Partner, Kleiner, Perkins, Caufield & Byers

· William H. Donaldson, Former Chairman, SEC

· Roger W. Ferguson, Jr., President & CEO, TIAA-CREF

· Mark T. Gallogly, Founder & Managing Partner, Centerbridge Partners L.P.

· Austan Goolsbee, Staff Director and Chief Economist

· Jeff Immelt, Chairman and CEO, GE

· Monica C. Lozano, Publisher & Chief Executive Officer, La Opinion

· James W. Owens, Chairman and CEO, Caterpillar Inc.

· Charles E. Phillips, Jr., President, Oracle Corporation

· Penny Pritzker, Chairman & Founder, Pritzker Realty Group

· David F. Swensen, Chief Investment Officer, Yale University

· Richard L. Trumka, Secretary-Treasurer, AFL-CIO

· Laura D'Andrea Tyson, Dean, Haas School of Business at the University of California at Berkeley

· Paul Volcker, Chairman

· Robert Wolf, Chairman & CEO, UBS Group Americas
*as listed on whitehouse.gov

President Signs Laws to Help Families

The President signed two pieces of legislation to help cash-strapped families across America. Obama described the “The Helping Families Save Their Homes Act,” as “advancing the goals of our existing housing plan by providing assistance to responsible homeowners and preventing avoidable foreclosures….to help families who found themselves “underwater” as a result of declining home values -- families who owed more on their mortgages than their homes are worth.”

The bill is designed to remove the bureaucratic hurdles that keep eligible families from applying for much needed assistance, including providing homeowners with FHA mortgages the opportunity to refinance to more affordable rates. Stating, “Any plan is only as effective as the number of people who take advantage of it,” the President encouraged all concerned homeowners to visit the website: MakingHomeAffordable.gov to determine eligibility for new federal programs.

The President also signed the “Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act” into law, which gives the government the tools to crack down on consumer scams, mortgage fraud, and questionable lender policies at all levels. Addressing communities hard hit by consumer and mortgage fraud, the President stressed, “This bill nearly doubles the FBI's mortgage and financial fraud program, allowing it to better target fraud in hard-hit areas.”

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Obama versus Cheney

After being rebuffed by the Senate, which voted against funding to close the controversial base—Guantanamo, the President gave a major foreign policy speech while standing alongside the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. While stating that the protection of the American people will always come first, Obama went on to describe the post 9-11 “season of fear” that caused the country to sway from the values it was founded on. He addressed past policies by saying, “Too many of us -- Democrats and Republicans, politicians, journalists, and citizens -- fell silent. In other words, we went off course. And this is not my assessment alone. It was an assessment that was shared by the American people who nominated candidates for President from both major parties who, despite our many differences, called for a new approach -- one that rejected torture and one that recognized the imperative of closing the prison at Guantanamo Bay.”

Following Obama’s speech, former Vice-President Dick Cheney gave an address to the conservative think-tank The American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research. Cheney’s policy speech revisited much of the “neo-conservatism” which gained ground post 9-11, during the first term of the Bush administration. Following the talk, it was noted by many pundits that although Cheney addressed his national security disagreement to the Obama administration, much of what he argued against had taken place during the second term of the Bush administration—of which he served.

Friday, May 22, 2009

Obama Signs McCain-Supported Law

The President signed the “Weapons Systems Acquisition Reform Act” to implement defense procurement reform. Designed to review defense project spending, the bill had bi-partisan support, and has been championed as needed legislation for years by former Presidential candidate John McCain. The President acknowledged his former rival by saying, “Defense procurement reform was one of the issues that John McCain and I discussed in our first meeting after the election. We pledged to work together to get it done, and today I'm extraordinarily proud to stand here and sign a bill that passed with unanimous support from both parties at every step of the way.”

Obama Greets McCain’s Son at Graduation

Following his signing of the McCain supported defense procurement law; the President joined the McCain family in Annapolis, Maryland where the President spoke at the US Naval Academy Commencement. Senator McCain’s son—John Sidney McCain IV, commonly known as Jack, became the fourth McCain to graduate from the Naval Academy, and the fourth with the same name.

President Signs Credit-Card Legislation

Describing the need for “common-sense” reforms in the credit-card industry, the President signed a sweeping bill—the “Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure (CARD) Act of 2009” that he says will:

Ban unfair rate increases;
Prevent unfair fee traps;
Require plain language in plain sight for disclosures;
Increase accountability all around;
And institute protections for students and young people.

Furthermore, the President stated, “Because of this new law:

Statements will be required to tell credit card holders how long it will take to pay off a balance and what it will cost in interest if they only make the minimum monthly payments.
We will put a stop to retroactive rate hikes that appear on a bill suddenly with no rhyme or reason.
Every card company will have to post its credit card agreements online, and we'll monitor those agreements to see if new protections are needed.
Consumers will have more time to understand their statements as well: Companies will have to mail them 21 days before payment is due, not 14.
And, this law ends the practice of shifting payment dates.”

He continued: “Lastly, among many other provisions, there will be no more sudden charges -- changes to terms and conditions. We require at least 45 days notice if the credit card company is going to change terms and conditions. So we're not going to give people a free pass; we expect consumers to live within their means and pay what they owe. But we also expect financial institutions to act with the same sense of responsibility that the American people aspire to in their own lives.”

Monday, May 25, 2009

Obama and Memorial Day

After spending family time at Camp David, the President honored all who have served our country in the military. Obama participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, and spoke at the cemetery’s amphitheater, saying: “Here lies Presidents and privates; Supreme Court justices and slaves; generals familiar to history, and unknown soldiers known only to God…I laid a wreath at their tomb to pay tribute to all who have given their lives for this country.”

African-American Nominated to Lead NASA

Former Astronaut, and retired Marine Corps Major General, Charles Bolden Jr., was chosen by President Obama to head the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Bolden, has flown on four Shuttle missions and previously served as NASA’s assistant deputy administrator. Once he wins the expected approval of the Senate, Bolden will be the first African-American to lead the agency.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Obama Nominates Hispanic Woman to Supreme Court

President Obama nominated Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court of the United States. Solamayor, of Puerto Rican ancestry, rose from a housing project in the South Bronx, to Princeton and Yale. She has served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit since October 1998. In describing her amazing story the President said, “Along the way she's faced down barriers, overcome the odds, lived out the American Dream that brought her parents here so long ago. And even as she has accomplished so much in her life, she has never forgotten where she began, never lost touch with the community that supported her. What Sonia will bring to the Court, then, is not only the knowledge and experience acquired over a course of a brilliant legal career, but the wisdom accumulated from an inspiring life's journey.”

Week Sixteen

2009-05-19T14:42:00.000-07:00

National Scene 5/13 – 5/19/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Barack and Michelle Obama, as President and First Lady, continue to open the doors of the White House to new cultural experiences. Fulfilling a campaign pledge to make the White House the “People’s House,” the Obamas hosted the first ever Poetry Jam to celebrate the ‘spoken word.’ The Obamas also participated in news-making graduations this week, with the President giving the commencement address at Notre Dame University, while protestors criticized his pro-choice stance; and Michelle Obama addressing the first graduating class of UC Merced after being wooed there by student letters and cards.

In policy meetings this week, the President made strong statements regarding Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, auto emission controls, and his desire to see healthcare legislation passed this year.

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Poetry Jam at the White House

In the East Room of the White House, the President and the First Lady hosted an evening celebrating poetry, music and the spoken word. With a coffeehouse, jazz-club-like, atmosphere – the East Room was transformed for the event with small, candle-laden tables and dim lights. Speakers and musicians included, Joshua Bennett, Eric Lewis, Jamaica Heolimeleikalani Osorio, Mayda Del Valle, Esperanza Spalding, and James Earl Jones—who gave a mesmerizing speaking performance from “Othello.”

The President and First Lady were joined by the First-Mom-In-Law—Marian Robinson. Other guests included Spike Lee and his wife, actor Hill Harper, Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett, the President’s aide and friend Reggie Love, and students from local colleges, including American University, Gallaudet, Georgetown, and Howard.

“We're here to celebrate the power of words,” President Obama said, adding, “Words help us appreciate beauty and also understand pain. They inspire us to action.” He introduced the first lady as his own poet. She continued by saying, “I have wanted to do this from day one. It is one thing for people to tell stories in their own space, but it’s something entirely different to tell them in this space.”

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Healthcare Reform This Year

The President met with members of Congress, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, House Education and Labor Committee Chair Rep. George Miller, House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Rep. Henry Waxman, and House Ways and Means Committee Chair Rep. Charlie Rangel—to discuss his desire to pass healthcare legislation in the House by July 31, before their August recess.

Calling the meeting encouraging, the President stressed that “urgency and determination” are needed to achieve “what I believe will be historic legislation!” He reiterated his desire to see healthcare reform passed by both the House and the Senate this year, saying, “Whatever plans emerge, both from the House and the Senate, I do believe that they've got to uphold three basic principles: first, that the rising cost of health care has to be brought down; second, that Americans have to be able to choose their own doctor and their own plan; and third, all Americans have to have quality, affordable health care.”

Friday, May 15, 2009

President and Vice-President Release Personal Financial Disclosures

As required by The Ethics in Government Act of 1978, both President Obama and Vice President Biden released their 2008 financial disclosure reports. Neither have any conflicts of interest, and their reports have been certified by the independent Office of Government Ethics. Copies of the reports, which detail assets and income, can be found on the web at the following sites:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/assets/documents/president_278_form_final.pdf

http://www.whitehouse.gov/assets/documents/vicepresident_278_form_final.pdf

Protecting the Country Comes First

Stating, "This is the best way to protect our country, while upholding our deeply held values,” President Obama restarted a Bush-era military trial system for a small number of Guantanamo detainees. The military trials, established by President George W. Bush, had been criticized by Obama as ineffective and unnecessary, however in a briefing to reporters indicating a change in plans, White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said, “First and foremost, the president does what is in the best security interest of the United States.”

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Obama Gives Commencement Address at Notre Dame

Acknowledging the controversy surrounding his appearance at a Catholic university because of his pro-choice stance, President Obama gave the commencement address at Notre Dame University. He calmed the crowd, which included a few protesters that had managed to get inside the auditorium, and spoke on the importance of mutual respect for all opinions and finding common ground.

The President reminded the audience, “The question, then…. is how do we work through these conflicts? Is it possible for us to join hands in common effort? As citizens of a vibrant and varied democracy, how do we engage in vigorous debate? How does each of us remain firm in our principles, and fight for what we consider right, without demonizing those with just as strongly held convictions on the other side?”

Michelle Obama Gives Commencement Address at UC Merced

Addressing the first graduating class at the University of California-Merced, the First Lady told the roughly 500 graduates she believed in them and their power to change their community. UC Merced, the newest campus in the UC System, achieved quite a coup by getting the First Lady to appear at their small, diverse college of students from mostly working class families.

In February, the students launched a “Dear Michelle” Campaign, which included over 1,000 letters and hand-written Valentine’s cards telling Mrs. Obama what she meant to them, and begging her to speak at their commencement. Mrs. Obama stated she was moved by their effort.

Monday, May 18, 2009

President Meets with Israeli Prime Minister

The President met for over two hours with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel, discussing the need to get back to the negotiating table and restart Palestinian-Israeli peace talks. Netanyahu stated he is ready to resume talks with the Palestinians, but that any agreement is contingent on their acceptance of Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state. Recapping their meeting, the President stated: “We have seen progress stalled on this front, and I suggested to the prime minister that he has a historic opportunity to get a serious movement on this issue during his tenure….that means that all the parties involved have to take seriously obligations that they have previously agreed to."

The leaders also discussed Iran’s nuclear program and the Administration’s diplomatic outreach to the country, with the president declaring the United States wanted to bring Iran into the world community, however: “We're not going to have talks forever.”

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Joined by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, as well as auto industry executives, President Obama announced new auto emissions and mileage rules designed to combat pollution from greenhouse gasses. The National emissions standard is patterned after policies in California sought by the Governor. “For the first time in history, we have set in motion a national policy aimed at both increasing gas mileage and decreasing greenhouse gas pollution for all new trucks and cars sold in the United States of America,” President Obama said in remarks from the Rose Garden.

Week Fifteen

2009-05-12T14:41:00.000-07:00

National Scene 5/6 – 5/12/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

It was a week of significant meetings for President Barack Obama, beginning with a trilateral conference with the leaders of Afghanistan and Pakistan to discuss stabilizing the region, and ending with a first-of-its-kind coming together of all of the major players involved in healthcare, to discuss reform. Not to go unnoticed, was an Oval Office chit-chat between Obama, Al Sharpton, and Newt Gingrich to discuss education reform.

This President is surely building bridges!

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Bringing Pakistan and Afghanistan to the Table

The President was joined by Vice-President Joe Biden in a meeting with President Karzai of Afghanistan and President Zardari of Pakistan. Initially, President Obama met separately with each leader, followed by a trilateral conference. Pakistan and Afghanistan are considered critical to America’s ‘war on terror’ and the President signaled the importance by saying, “We meet today as three sovereign nations joined by a common goal: to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al Qaeda and its extremist allies in Pakistan and Afghanistan…to achieve that goal, we must deny them the space to threaten the Pakistani, Afghan, or American people.”

Obama, who has committed additional U.S. troops to Afghanistan, announced future steps there to: grow the economy, develop alternatives to the country’s drug trade, and support free and open national elections. Addressing internal strife within Pakistan, Obama offered “lasting support to democratic institutions, while helping the government confront the insurgents who are the single greatest threat to the Pakistani state.”

First Lady Attends TIME 100 Gala

First Lady Michelle Obama attended and gave remarks at the TIME 100 Annual Dinner at the Rose Jazz Center in New York City. Honorees were presented with the Time 100 Most Influential People Awards. The First Lady spoke of the need to nurture a new generation of innovators and entrepreneurs who will lend their talents towards addressing social problems in communities across America.

Obama Creates ‘Social Innovation Fund’

Fulfilling a campaign pledge to support non-profit programs ‘that work’, the President announced that he would ask Congress in the FY2010 budget to provide $50 million in seed capital for his Social Innovation Fund. The Fund will identify the most promising, results-oriented non-profit programs and expand their reach throughout the country. Obama has stated repeatedly that “government alone cannot solve our nation’s problems” and that the country must be “innovative” in finding new solutions to old problems.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Cutting Government Waste: Line-by-Line

The Administration continues to review existing Federal spending programs and has suggested more than one-hundred terminations or reductions that take nearly $17 billion off the federal government’s bottom line. While acknowledging that each program has supporters, the Administration has identified some that should not be funded because they either do not accomplish the goals set for them, do not do so efficiently, or do a job already done by another initiative. Some of the programs suggested for elimination include:

Educational attaché, Paris, France -- $632,000 (The Department of Education can use e-mail, video conferencing, and modest travel to replace a full-time representative to UNESCO in Paris, France.)
Even Start Program -- $66 million (The most recent evaluation found no difference between families in the program and those not in it. Strengthening early childhood education is accomplished through significant investments in proven, more effective programs such as Head Start, Early Head Start, and the Early Learning Challenge Fund.)
Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation -- $1 million (Due to high overhead, the Foundation would spend only 20 percent of its appropriation on the fellowships it awards.)
Advanced Earned Income Tax Credit -- $125 million – (This program benefits very few taxpayers, and has an extremely high error rate: GAO found that 80 percent of recipients did not meet at least one of its requirements.)
Javits Gifted and Talented Education Program -- $7 million (Grants from this program go to only 15 school districts nationwide, and there are no empirical measures to judge their effectiveness)
Public Broadcasting Grants -- $5 million (USDA made these grants to support rural public broadcasting stations in their conversions to digital broadcasting. That transition is now almost complete.)
Rail Line Relocation Grants -- $25 million (This program, duplicative of a merit-based program, is loaded with earmarks.)

The Administration stresses these steps are part of a larger effort to change how Washington does business and put the nation’s fiscal house in order.

Sharpton, Gingrich, and Obama – Huh?

“You're probably the only President who can make this happen,” the Reverend Al Sharpton told President Obama as he and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich met with the President in the Oval Office. The far-left civil rights activist, and the far-right former House speaker, shared a sofa as they discussed improving education. Expressing the need for a spotlight on the nation’s educational issues, Obama joked, “these are the two guys who know more than anybody how to get attention.”

The former adversaries were joined by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Education Secretary Arne Duncan to discuss ways to bridge the education gap between Black and White students. “We have a crisis of inequality in this nation,” said Sharpton, noting that the problem persists despite the 55th anniversary of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision. “There must be a commitment in this country to equal education," he continued. "There can be no sacred cows.”

Gingrich, an advocate of Bush’s No Child Left Behind policy, (which Obama has criticized), chose instead to focus on common ground, stating “The President has stood up for charter schools and he has made it clear that he believes in teacher accountability.”

Some areas where they did come together include: Paying teachers more for improved student performance, getting rid of poorly performing teachers, and ending “social promotion,” the practice of moving underperforming students to the next grade to keep them with their peers.

The National Day of Prayer

The first Thursday in May, was deemed the National Day of Prayer in 1952, however it was not celebrated publicly in the White House until former President George W. Bush held religious events—with prayers led by religious leaders from various faiths. Unlike his predecessor, President Obama did not hold a White House special event, opting instead to mark the day with a proclamation. His spokesperson, Robert Gibbs commented that the President decided against a public display saying, “Prayer is something that the President does every day.”

Friday, May 8, 2009

Town Hall in Spanish

President Barack Obama held the first-ever Spanish language town hall meeting to address the Hispanic community's concerns on the impact of the H1N1 virus. The town hall featured Administration officials including Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis, and an audience of health care workers, community activists, and concerned citizens. The event was moderated by Univision Anchor Edna Schmidt. The President joking about his own limitations with speaking Spanish said, “I'm very proud of this first White House town hall meeting conducted entirely in Spanish….except for my part…..I'm kind of messing up the whole thing!”

Re-Training Workers – Visit the Website Opportunity.Gov

Addressing the need for unemployed workers to find training for new jobs, the President described a woman who lost her job as a physician's receptionist, but kept afloat with unemployment benefits and used Pell Grants to become a registered nurse through a community college. Saying, “far too many Americans are denied that opportunity,” Obama gave the following example: “Say an unemployed factory worker wants to upgrade his skills to become a mechanic or a technician. In many states, that worker might lose temporary financial support if he enrolls in a training program. And to make matters worse, unemployment might mean he can't afford higher education, and he likely won't qualify for federal help simply because he may have made a decent salary a year ago, before he was laid off.” He continued, “Well, that doesn't make much sense for our economy or our country. So we're going to change it. First, we'll open new doors to higher education and job training programs to recently laid-off workers who are receiving unemployment benefits. And if those displaced workers need help paying for their education, they should get it -- and that's why the next step is to make it easier for them to receive Pell Grants.”

The President also discussed the role community colleges can play in retraining unemployed workers, encouraging people to “take advantage of one of America's underappreciated assets -- our community colleges. These schools offer practical education and technical training, and they're increasingly important centers of learning where Americans can prepare for the jobs of the future.”

The President highlighted a new website for the unemployed, created by the Department of Education and the Department of Labor called opportunity.gov.

Reopening of Statue of Liberty’s Crown.

Following the firing of an aide who authorized an ill-advised flyover to take pictures of Air Force One with the Statue of Liberty as a backdrop, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced the reopening of the exhibit’s crown on July 4^th. (The crown has been closed since the 9-11 attacks). Access to the crown will be limited to 10 people at a time.

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Sykes Socks-It-To-Them

This Sunday morning found Washington abuzz discussing comments made by comedian Wanda Sykes at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner the night before. Some feigned shock and displeasure, while others thought Sykes’ pointed jabs, particularly those aimed at Rush Limbaugh and former Vice-President Dick Cheney, were right on target. During the routine, Sykes herself summed up the reaction to some of her jokes by saying: “You’re not laughing now, but you’ll be retelling this tomorrow!”

Showing that he too can crack a joke, the President got high marks for his humor and put to rest once and for all criticisms of his wife’s wardrobe, saying the First Lady “has a right to bare arms.”

Monday, May 11, 2009

Historic, Unprecedented Meeting to Address Healthcare

President Obama made a major step toward health care reform by bringing together all of the major players and getting them to agree to changes that can bring about savings of more than $2 trillion on health care costs. Representatives from hospitals, the insurance industry, medical device and pharmaceutical companies, labor and physicians came to the White House to discuss major steps to lower health care costs across the board.

The President, calling the first-of-its-kind meeting “remarkable,” explained the significance of having so many diverse stakeholders at the table: “The groups who are here today represent different constituencies with different sets of interests. They've not always seen eye to eye with each other or with our government on what needs to be done to reform health care in this country. In fact, some of these groups were among the strongest critics of past plans for comprehensive reform…But what's brought us all together today is a recognition that we can't continue down the same dangerous road we've been traveling for so many years; that costs are out of control; and that reform is not a luxury that can be postponed, but a necessity that cannot wait.”

The President invoked the memory of his own mother’s challenges with the health care system—a point he made often during the campaign—by recalling: “As I've mentioned before….my mother passed away from ovarian cancer a little over a decade ago. And in the last weeks of her life, when she was coming to grips with her own mortality and showing extraordinary courage just to get through each day, she was spending too much time worrying about whether her health insurance would cover her bills. So I know what it's like to see a loved one who is suffering, but also having to deal with a broken health care system. I know that pain is shared by millions of Americans all across this country.”

Week Fourteen

2009-05-05T14:39:00.000-07:00

National Scene 4/29 – 5/4/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

The Administration began the week with the confirmation of the President’s cabinet pick for the Department of Health and Human Services—former Kansas Governor, Kathleen Sebelius. Sebelius was the last of Obama’s picks to be confirmed (by a vote of 65-31) and the new Secretary had to hit the ground running as the nation dealt with the swine flu pandemic. The vote came after Democrats urged quick action so that Sebelius could get to work leading the federal response to the world-wide flu outbreak. The week ended with reassurances that the flu was not as severe as first suggested. However, the Administration vowed to keep close tabs on the outbreak as it spread across the country.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

100^th Day celebrated in Missouri

President Obama marked the actual one hundredth day of his administration at a town hall meeting in Arnold, Missouri. During a moment of retrospection, he recalled, “Now, back in November, some folks were surprised that we showed up in Springfield at the end of our campaign. But then again, some folks were surprised that we even started our campaign in the first place. They didn't give us much of a chance. They didn't think we could do things differently. They didn't know if this country was ready to move in a new direction. But here's the thing -- my campaign wasn't born in Washington. My campaign was rooted in neighborhoods just like this one, in towns and cities all across America; rooted in folks who work hard and look after their families and seek a brighter future for their children and for their communities and for their country.”

Obama’s Deal for Teachers

During his town hall in Missouri, Obama repeated a pledge he made during his campaign to improve the educational system. Speaking of the challenges, Obama stated: “The deal I've got to strike with teachers, though -- I may not get as much applause on this -- is I would like to work with teachers and the teachers unions, because I'm a union guy, but I do believe that it's important for the unions to work flexibly with school districts ….so that if you've got a really excellent teacher, after 15, 20 years, they can get paid a little bit more if they're doing a really good job. And now the flip side -- I'm telling you, I'm getting to the point where I'm not going to get applause. If you've got a bad teacher who can't -- after given all the support and the training that they need -- is just not performing up to snuff, we've got to find that person a new job.”

Monday, May 4, 2009

Ending Offshore Tax Havens

Addressing another campaign pledge, President Obama submitted a proposal to curb tax havens and end benefits for companies who create jobs overseas. Instead, the Administration wants to provide incentives for businesses to create jobs in America. Describing his proposal as “restoring fairness and balance to our tax code,” Obama continued, “On the campaign, I used to talk about the outrage of a building in the Cayman Islands that had over 12,000 businesses claim this building as their headquarters. And I've said before, either this is the largest building in the world or the largest tax scam in the world,” Obama said. “And I think the American people know which it is.”

The Administration expects strong opposition from businesses that want to hold on to their tax loopholes. Their Congressional supporters may also provide opposition. However, in announcing proposals aimed at overhauling the U.S. tax code, Obama complained that existing law makes it possible to “pay lower taxes if you create a job in Bangalore, India, than if you create one in Buffalo, N.Y.”

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo

The Obamas each celebrated Cinco Del Mayo—the President with Mexican Ambassador Arturo Sarukhan at the White House—and the First Lady at D.C.’s Latin American Montessori Bilingual Public Charter School, a small institution serving 145 pre-school through fourth grade students. “Feliz Cuatro de Mayo!” said Michelle Obama as she greeted her audience and enjoyed student performances of folk dances from El Salvador, Colombia and Mexico. The students were dressed in colorful, native costumes. “Que fantastico!” Mrs. Obama exclaimed after the performances.

Week Thirteen

2009-04-30T14:37:00.000-07:00

National Scene 4/21 – 4/28/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

As the Administration completes the first one hundred days, the President continues his campaign promise of bringing change, common sense, and competence to Washington. Addressing middle-class concerns such as improving credit card practices, and access to student loans, Obama kept up his pace which included meeting with a world leader, as well as students at a Southeast D.C. High School. The President added another item to his packed agenda with concerns rising over the Swine Flu outbreak. He assured the public that he is personally monitoring the possible spread of the disease, and that his Administration will make every effort to keep Americans healthy.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act – “Connecting Deeds to Needs”

Students from the SEED school in Washington, DC were excited to see entertainer Usher at their school, however their most enthusiastic applause was for their President, Barack Obama. The school of mostly African-American students, located in the Southeast section of the city, is a campus and dormitory for college-bound teenagers which includes public service as a key part of its curriculum. The President—joined by former President Bill Clinton, Congressional leaders, and community activists—addressed the students after a rousing introduction from Senator Edward Kennedy.

Obama announced a major call to community service prior to signing the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, stating: “We need your service, right now, at this moment in history….I’m asking you to stand up and play your part. I’m asking you to help change history’s course. Put your shoulder up against the wheel. And if you do, I promise you – your life will be richer, our country will be stronger, and someday, years from now, you may remember it as the moment when your own story and the American story converged, when they came together, and we met the challenges of our new century.”

Encouraging Americans who wish to serve their community to sign up on the website Serve.gov, the President said now is the time to “connect deeds to needs.”

Obama meets King Abdullah of Jordan

The President held a one-on-one meeting with King Abdullah of Jordan in the Personal Dining Room at the White House, followed by an expanded meeting in the Oval Office. King Abdullah, the first Arab leader to meet Obama in the White House, offered “warm thanks on behalf of many Arabs and Muslims who really had an outstanding response to the President's outreach to the Muslim Arab world.”

First Lady Michelle Obama hosted Abdullah’s wife—Queen Rania in the Yellow Oval Room in the White House Residence.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Obama Returns to Iowa on Earth Day

The Obama Administration celebrated Earth Day with the President in Iowa laying out his vision for creating a new clean energy economy, including independence from foreign oil, reduced pollution of our air and water, and finally addressing climate change. Meanwhile, African-American “Green” activist, Van Jones, who serves the Administration as Special Advisor for Green Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation on the Council on Environmental Quality, released a video describing an emerging green economy.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

The President Remembers the Holocaust

President Obama spoke at a Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony, asking, “How do we ensure that ‘never again’ isn't an empty slogan, or merely an aspiration, but also a call to action?” He went on to say, “ I believe we start by doing what we are doing today -- by bearing witness, by fighting the silence that is evil's greatest co-conspirator.”

The President Versus The Credit Card Industry

The President joined the fray over reported abuses by credit card lenders by bringing in

representatives from the credit card industry to discuss the need for greater consumer protections and fairer practices.

The Administration released the following statistics which illustrate the problem:

Almost half of American families currently carry a balance, and for those families the average balance was $7,300 (in 2007 the median was around $3,000).
Penalty fees on credit cards are around $15 billion annually, an estimated 10 percent of total credit card industry revenue.
Approximately one-fifth of those carrying credit card debt pay an interest rate above 20 percent.

After acknowledging that neither credit cards nor credit card companies are inherently bad, President Obama made clear “some new lines in the sand needed to be drawn.” These include:

Protections that ban unfair rate increases and forbid abusive fees and penalties. “The days of any time, any reason rate hikes and late fee traps have to end.”
All the forms and statements that credit card companies send out have to be written in plain language and be in plain sight. “No more fine print, no more confusing terms and conditions. We want clarity and transparency from here on out.”
Allow consumers to comparison shop for cards without being afraid that they're going to be taken advantage of. “It's important to require firms to make all their contract terms easily accessible online in a fashion that allows people to shop for the best deal for their needs.”

The President ended the session by calling for more accountability in the system with “effective oversight and more effective enforcement so that people who are issuing credit cards but violate law, they will feel the full weight of the law.”

Take Your Child to Work Day at the White House

First Lady Michelle Obama celebrated Take Your Child to Work Day with about 150 children of executive office employees. After welcoming the group, the First Lady answered questions on life in the White House and then grouped the children with volunteers for a tour—including stops at the South Lawn garden and throughout the West Wing. Other activities for participants included a mock swearing-in ceremony and a chat with Secret Service agents.

Friday, April 24, 2009

Increasing Access to College

President Obama spoke at the White House Diplomatic Room with Stephanie Stevenson, an African-American junior at the University of Maryland. After an introduction by Stevenson, who is also a first-generation college student and struggling with the cost of school, Obama took the podium to discuss his efforts to make college more affordable.

Obama started off by repeating his view that the future of America’s economy depends on the quality of our education. “America cannot lead in the 21st century unless we have the best educated, most competitive workforce in the world,” he said as he discussed ways to fund programs that increase college enrollment Obama is calling for eliminating fees in the federal student loan program by cutting out banks and private lenders as middlemen. Obama said he knows he will face a battle from the banking interests “who have reaped a windfall from these subsidies” however, he will “fight for Stephanie, and other American students and their families.”

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Sojourner Truth Statue Unveiled

The National Congress of Black Women fought for over a decade to get a statue of Sojourner Truth, abolitionist and woman's rights activist, in the U.S. Capitol Building. The project (originally started by their late president, Dr. C. Delores Tucker) became reality at an unveiling ceremony at the Capitol Visitors Center's Emancipation Hall. Guests for the event included the First Lady and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton who years ago co-sponsored legislation with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee to bring the statue to the Capitol.

Remarking on the 10 years it took to place the statue in the hall, Representative Lee remembered C. Delores Tucker’s determination, stating, “She must have had this exact time in mind. Who could have imagined that the presidency would be held by Barack Obama, and that the First Lady would be here today?”

Added Secretary Clinton, “What a wonderful day, when Sojourner Truth takes her rightful place alongside the heroes who have helped shape America.” She briefly recounted the story of Sojourner Truth, born a slave and without the ability to read or write, but who rose to become a well-respected leader for the causes of abolition and woman's suffrage, counting Presidents Lincoln and Grant among her associates.

“Dr. Tucker's driving force for this was that she didn't want children to come to the Capitol and not be told the truth, that African-American women were not involved in the suffrage moment,” said Representative Lee.

During the ceremony, actress Cicely Tyson gave a powerful reading of Sojourner Truth’s most famous speech, “Ain’t I A Woman?” The hall was filled to capacity with visitors who witnessed this historic event.

Week Twelve

2009-04-21T14:34:00.000-07:00

Presidential Archive 4/15 – 4/21/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

“Teabaggers”, most of whom will benefit from the President’s tax cuts, held protest rallies across the country on tax day, as the President’s economic stimulus money continued to boost state and local coffers. Also this week, President Obama, representing the United States at the Summit of the Americas, reminded leaders: “I didn't come here to debate the past -- I came here to deal with the future.” While signaling a break from the approach of the past, Obama made clear his support of Democratic ideals and common purpose.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Tax Cuts and Tea Parties

As many Americans rushed to meet the April 15^th deadline for filing their 2008 taxes, critics of the President held rallies across the country protesting his fiscal policies. These GOP-led events were called ‘tea parties’ in reference to the protests over taxation many years ago that led to the Revolutionary War and the founding of our country. Meanwhile, President Obama used Tax Day in America to highlight his administration’s tax relief for working families, stating: “I know that April 15th isn't exactly everyone's favorite date on the calendar. But it is an important opportunity for those of us in Washington to consider our responsibilities to the people who sent us here and who pay the bills.”

Addressing those who practice divisive politics, Obama continued: “For too long, we've seen taxes used as a wedge to scare people into supporting policies that actually increased the burden on working people instead of helping them live their dreams.” He reinforced his campaign pledge that “families that earn less than $250,000 a year will not see their taxes increase by a single dime. We've given tax relief to the Americans who need it and the workers who have earned it.”

Thursday, April 16, 2009

High-Speed Rail in America

Rail trips between Los Angeles and San Francisco, or from Anaheim to Las Vegas, may get a lot faster in the coming years if President Obama has his way. Citing France as an example, and stating that his vision for high-speed rail is not “some fanciful, pie-in-the-sky vision of the future,” the President described the possibility of “whisking through towns at speeds over 100 miles an hour, walking only a few steps to public transportation, and ending up just blocks from your destination. Imagine what a great project that would be to rebuild America.”

Obama in Mexico

The President arrived in Mexico, where he met with President Felipe Calderon. The two men discussed their upcoming trip to the Summit of Americas and US-Mexico economic and border concerns.

Obama in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago,

President Obama attended the Summit of the Americas where he met with leaders from the Americas (North, Central, and South) and the Caribbean, to discuss shared concerns—particularly the global economy and erasing poverty. Signaling a change in approach from past administrations, the President told the leaders they faced a clear choice: “We can overcome our shared challenges with a sense of common purpose, or we can stay mired in the old debates of the past. For the sake of all our people, we must choose the future.” In an op-ed column by the President that appeared in 15 newspapers across the Americas, Obama stated his intention to increase U.S. partnerships with Latin America and the Caribbean.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Torture Documents Released

The President directed the U.S. Justice Department to release C.I.A. memos describing interrogation techniques used in secret overseas prisons, including waterboarding, forced nudity, keeping detainees awake for more than 10 days straight, and putting them in boxes with insects. President Obama banned such interrogation techniques in a February executive order and in defending the release of the documents stated: “Withholding these memos would only serve to deny facts that have been in the public domain for some time.” While assuring that the C.I.A. operatives involved will not be prosecuted, the President reminded Americans, “This is a time for reflection, not retribution. We have been through a dark and painful chapter in our history. But at a time of great challenges and disturbing disunity, nothing will be gained by spending our time and energy laying blame for the past.”

Simplifiying FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, which contains well over 100 questions on income, assets, family characteristics, personal characteristics, and other items—will get a major overhaul by the Obama Administration. Calling the complicated form “another obstacle to federal student aid” and citing statistics that well over one million students who could qualify for aid went without it because of the form, the administration has begun efforts to simplify the financial aid application process.

Monday, April 20, 2009

First Cabinet Meeting

The President held his first cabinet meeting, and used the occasion to remind his cabinet members of the importance of cutting waste and streamlining their departments. Obama praised the work done thus far, but reiterated: “There are a host of efficiencies that can be gained without increasing our personnel or our budget, but rather decreasing the amount of money that's spent on unnecessary things…. And in the next few weeks we expect to cut at least 100 current programs in the federal budget so that we can free up those dollars in order to put them to use for critical areas like health care, education, energy, our foreign policy apparatus, which is so important.” The President expects $100 million in cuts within ninety days.

Week Eleven

2009-04-14T14:31:00.000-07:00

Presidential Archive 4/9 – 4/14/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Upon completion of a successful trip abroad, President Obama recognized the 2000^th project approved under his Recovery Act. From road construction projects, to child disease prevention programs, the stimulus money makes it way across the country. The President gave a major economic speech to the nation this week, and quoting Scripture, reminded Americans we must build our financial house “upon the rock.”

Thursday, April 9, 2009

The Obama’s Host Seder Dinner

The Obama family hosted a Seder dinner in the Old Family Dining Room of the White House in recognition of the Jewish holiday of Passover. Friends and White House staff and their families joined in the sit down dinner which included traditional foods such as matzo and bitter herbs, and featured a reading from Jewish religious text. It is believed to be the first time the White House has had a Seder hosted by a U.S. President.

A 21st-century VA

Days after visiting our troops in Iraq, the President announced needed changes for VA Health Centers. Saying the time is now to give our veterans “the care they were promised and the benefits they have earned,” Obama announced the creation of a “unified lifetime electronic health record” for members of the armed services that will contain their administrative and medical information – “from the day they first enlist to the day that they are laid to rest.” The President signaled a newfound cooperation between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veteran Affairs to better address the needs of service members and veterans, stating as a goal: “When a member of the Armed Forces separates from the military, he or she will no longer have to walk paperwork from a DOD duty station to a local VA health center; their electronic records will transition along with them and remain with them forever.”

Monday, April 13, 2009

Bo, The First Dog, Arrives

The Obama girls—Sasha and Malia—finally got that puppy their father promised them during his Presidential campaign. Bo, a 6-month-old male Portuguese water dog was given to the family as a gift from Senator Ted Kennedy. It is reported that Bo is actually related to Kennedy's own two pooches. The name Bo is for Michelle Obama’s late dad who was reported to be a fan of musician Bo Diddley. The national obsession with the First Dog is sure to continue!

The White House Easter Egg Roll

There was double-dutch jump roping at the White House on Easter Monday, along with egg hunts and fun and games as the First Family hosted the annual White House Easter Egg Hunt. Thousands of lucky children, whose families had signed up online, joined the Obama’s, along with performers Fergie and Ziggy Marley.

Lifting Restrictions on Cubans

In a statement that was announced in English and Spanish, President Obama signaled an increased flow of information and humanitarian items to the Cuban people, and a lifting of restrictions on family travel and money transfers between Americans and their relatives in Cuba. He stressed however, the need for the Cuban government to embrace Democratic values.

Under Obama's plan, Americans would be able to make unlimited trips to visit relatives in Cuba and provide unrestricted financial aid to family members there. The administration will also begin issuing licenses for companies to provide cellular telephone and television to the island, and it will allow Cuban-Americans to pay for relatives on the island to get these services, officials said.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Obama Approves Use of Force Against Somali Pirates

In what is being called his first national security test, President Obama directed the use of necessary military force in the rescue of American Captain Richard Phillips who had been held hostage for five days. Phillip’s ship, which contained humanitarian aide items, had been hijacked by Somali pirates. With approval from their Commander-in-Chief, Navy Seal snipers shot the hijackers and the Captain was rescued.

Build Upon the Rock

In a major economic address, held at Georgetown University, President Obama—quoting from the Sermon on the Mount—told Americans we must build our financial foundation as the man who built his house “on the rock,” not on shifting sand. The President began by saying, “I want to step back for a moment and explain our strategy as clearly as I can. This is going to be prose, not hope.” He continued by describing his actions to date while cautioning that the road ahead may still contain pitfalls.

President Obama concluded: “I want every American to know that each action we take and each policy we pursue is driven by a larger vision of America’s future – a future where sustained economic growth creates good jobs and rising incomes; a future where prosperity is fueled not by excessive debt, or reckless speculation, or fleeting profit, but is instead built by skilled, productive workers; by sound investments that will spread opportunity at home and allow this nation to lead the world in the technologies, innovations, and discoveries that will shape the 21st century. That is the America I see.”

Week Ten

2009-04-07T14:29:00.000-07:00

Presidential Archive 4/1 – 4/7/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

“Yes We Can!” became a world-wide chant as President Obama took his message across the shores. The President and First Lady left America this week to meet with world leaders overseas. The successful trip included a visit with Queen Elizabeth and a speech to a Muslim audience in Turkey. Mrs. Obama made headlines of her own as pundits saluted her fashion choices and her inspirational visit with London school girls. The President concluded his trip with a surprise visit to Iraq to thank the troops.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

President Begins London Visit With Morning Meetings

Prior to the G-20 summit of world leaders to address the financial climate, President Obama met with world leaders including—British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and Chinese President Hu Jintao.

President Obama and Brown held a joint press conference in which the President stated: “Ours is not an alliance of convenience; it is a partnership of purpose. It's a partnership that at times of challenge is resilient and at times of change is constant.” The Prime Minister told President Obama, “Your first 70 days in office have changed America, and you've changed America's relationship with the world.”

While meeting with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, the President suggested a shift in prior foreign policy by discussing the need for a new arms control treaty. At the request of the Russian President, Obama agreed to visit Moscow in the summer to further arms-control talks. Chinese President Hu Jintao also invited Obama to visit his country and agreed to start an economic dialogue with the U.S.

First Lady Michelle Obama joined the Prime Minister’s wife Sarah Brown for a tour of a cancer treatment center.

The Obama’s Meet the Queen

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama were greeted by Britain's Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh at Buckingham Palace in London. Thousands gathered in front of Buckingham Palace to catch a glimpse of the first couple. The President and First Lady presented Queen Elizabeth with an iPod of video footage from her 2007 visit to America, along with a rare songbook signed by composer Richard Rodgers. In return, the Queen and Prince Philip gave them a signed portrait of themselves. Afterward, the royal couple held a reception for all the world leaders and the Queen made headlines by extending her arm in a “hug” of Michelle Obama who reciprocated. It was a rare expression of affection from the royal highness.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Obama at the G-20

While protestors outside clashed with London police, world leaders, including President Obama, met to discuss solutions to the economic crisis gripping most nations. The President, who said he was there “to listen and learn” took a leadership role at the summit and later held a press conference in which he stated the next steps, include: creating a united international front to create jobs and stimulate the global economy, helping emerging economies stay afloat, and encouraging trade. Obama also insisted there be an international effort to reform financial regulatory systems.

First Lady Makes Surprise Visit to London School

In an emotional visit to students in a poorer part of London, Mrs. Obama told 100 female students at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School: “If you want to know the reason why I am standing here, it's because of education. I never cut class. I loved getting A's, I liked being smart. ... I thought being smart is cooler than anything in the world.” She encouraged the appreciative girls to follow their own dreams.

House and Senate Pass Budget

While President Obama represented American financial interests at the G-20 in London, members of the House and Senate passed his Fiscal Year 2010 Budget with few modifications. In the House of Representatives, the Budget – which the President insists will bring economic stimulus and relief to American taxpayers—received not a single Republican vote.

McCain Wants Pardon of Jack Johnson

Former Republican Presidential candidate, John McCain announced his support of a presidential pardon for the nation’s first Black heavyweight boxing champion—Jack Johnson. Johnson, who was immortalized by actor James Earl Jones in the movie The Great White Hope, was wrongly convicted in 1913 for transporting a White woman (who became his wife) across state lines for immoral purposes. McCain made a similar request to President Bush in 2005.

Friday, April 3, 2009

On to France and Germany

In France, the Obama’s were greeted by French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife Carla Bruni-Surkozy. Later, President Obama told nearly four thousand students gathered in a town hall in the Rhenus Sports Arena in Strasbourg, France: “This is our generation. This is our time. And I am confident that we can meet any challenge as long as we are together.”

In Germany, President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama were welcomed by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and her husband, professor Joachim Sauer. During a NATO summit the President spoke of his concerns on the situation in Afghanistan and solicited world support to rid terrorism.

Monday, April 6, 2009

20,000 in Prague to See Obama

Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd of over 20,000 that gathered outside a castle in Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, President Obama acknowledged, “Few people would have predicted that someone like me would one day become the President of the United States. Few people would have predicted that an American President would one day be permitted to speak to an audience like this in Prague.”

Later, Obama addressed a missile launch by North Korea saying, “Rules must be binding, violations must be punished. Words must mean something. The world must stand together to prevent the spread of these weapons. Now is the time for a strong international response.” The U.N. Security Council met for a three-hour emergency session to discuss possible sanctions against North Korea, however a decision was not made. U.N. Ambassador, and the first African-American female in the role—Susan Rice, represented the United States at the meeting.

The President Visits Turkey

President Obama visited the country of Turkey, which he calls a “critical ally” in addressing the problems in that part of the world. Obama spoke to the majority-Muslim population in a speech to the Turkish Grand National Assembly and acknowledged the positive contributions of Muslims in America and worldwide. He even referenced that he himself once lived in a Muslim nation. The President concluded his visit with a tour of an ancient mosque and a town hall with students in Istanbul. Many Turks lined the streets in support of the new American President.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

President Obama Surprises Troops in Iraq

President Obama’s overseas trip took a surprise turn today, when he made an unannounced visit to Iraq. Landing in the capital city of Baghdad, the President met with Iraqi leaders and American commanders and troops. At Camp Victory, the heavily fortified American base, the President told hundreds of cheering soldiers: “You have given Iraq the opportunity to stand on its own as a democratic country. That is an extraordinary

Week Nine

2009-03-31T14:27:00.000-07:00

Presidential Archive 3/25 – 3/31/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

With still high approval ratings, the President got tough with the automakers this past week, forcing the departure of General Motors Chairman Rick Wagoner. Meanwhile, as global economic conditions continue to prevent growth in developed countries, the President prepared to meet with world leaders at the G-20 economic summit in London. Accompanied by the First Lady, the eight-day European trip will be Obama’s first as President.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Obama Monitors Flooding in North Dakota

In a pro-active action, President Obama signed a Major Disaster Declaration for North Dakota and met with Senators and Representatives from North Dakota and Minnesota to discuss the record level flooding that was expected.

National Medal of Honor Day

The President participated in a wreath-laying ceremony for National Medal of Honor Day at Arlington National Cemetery, along with more than 30 of the 98 living Medal of Honor recipients. His statement included, “Since it was first awarded during the Civil War to the current battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan, Medal of Honor recipients have displayed tremendous courage, an unfailing determination to succeed, and a humbling willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice. “

Thursday, March 26, 2009

The First Online Town Hall

In a continuing effort to make use of today’s technology in government, the President conducted the first ever “virtual town hall” with almost a hundred thousand participants and more than three and a half million votes on questions. The session mixed online participants with a White House audience of about a hundred. The President answered questions from both groups.

Outreach in Spanish

Continuing his outreach to the Spanish-speaking public, The President taped a greeting in Spanish that was broadcast on Spanish-language TV station – Univision.

Friday, March 27, 2009

New strategy for Afghanistan

Flanked by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert Gates, President Obama outlined his plan to deploy 4,000 more troops to Afghanistan. Describing our purpose in Afghanistan as increasingly dangerous and unstable, the President stated, “let me be clear: al Qaeda and its allies—the terrorists who planned and supported the 9/11 attacks—are in Pakistan and Afghanistan,” he continued. “Multiple intelligence estimates have warned that al Qaeda is actively planning attacks on the U.S. homeland from its safe-haven in Pakistan.” Obama also lobbied Congress for more aid to Pakistan to help stabilize the region.

Issa Wants Tabs on First Lady

House Republicans, led by California’s own Representative Darrell Issa (R-Vista), the ranking Republican member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, are pushing for a change in federal law that could force First Lady Michelle Obama to publicly disclose more of her policy work.

In a debate on the issue Rep. William Clay (D-Mo.) suggested the legislation might be regarded as an attack on the Obamas, stating, “I think that, no matter what you’re intending with this amendment, that the president may view this as an attack on his wife. And I’m just saying, you know, let’s be careful--if we want to open up that can of worms. Let’s not go in that direction.”

Referring to the President Obama’s oft-stated transparency goals, Issa responded, “I believe this is open government at its finest.”

Issa initially proposed the change early last year (when many in Washington believed Bill Clinton might become the first spouse). He ultimately withdrew the amendment, but may reintroduce it at a later time.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Changes at GM and Chrysler

This morning the President announced that his Auto Task Force has completed a thorough review of the viability of General Motors and Chrysler – companies that have requested additional federal assistance to continue operating. The President set tough conditions for another government bailout and raised the possibility of a structured bankruptcy to get the companies on the road to profitability. Signifying the departure of General Motors Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner, the President said that GM would be under new leadership as the company struggles to reinvent itself. "We cannot make the survival of our auto industry dependent on an unending flow of tax dollars. These companies — and this industry — must ultimately stand on their own, not as wards of the state," Obama said. CEO Wagoner will leave General Motors with a financial package worth an estimated $23 million.

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Financial Transparency for Bailout Funds

The Treasury Department has launched FinancialStability.gov, a website dedicated to showing the public how monies are spent and documenting the administration’s economic actions.

First Presidential Visit to Europe

President Obama, along with the First Lady, departed for an eight-day, five-country trip to Europe—Obama’s first visit overseas since taking office. First stop is the G-20 summit in London, an annual meeting of the leaders of the world’s largest economies.

Week Eight

2009-03-24T14:25:00.000-07:00

Presidential Archive 3/18 – 3/24/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

Leaving the “bubble of the White House” as he calls it, the President visited Southern California last week. His stops included town hall meetings in Orange County and Los Angeles, an appearance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and in his only Inland Empire visit -- a tour of the Edison Electric Vehicle facility in Pomona.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Obama Meets with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus

The President held a meeting with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus to discuss immigration and the US-Mexico relationship, including how the two countries can work together to stem Mexico’s drug-related violence. President Obama, who supports comprehensive immigration reform, announced that he will travel to Mexico next month to meet with President Calderon.

March Madness at the White House

Before leaving on his well-anticipated trip to Southern California, the President joined legions of NCAA Basketball fans by completing his picks for the finals. His Final Four include: Louisville, Memphis, Pittsburgh, and North Carolina. The President believes the North Carolina Tar Heels will be this year's national champs.

The President Visits Orange County

President Barack Obama led a town hall meeting in an auditorium on the Orange County Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa. The purpose of the meeting was to drum up support for his economic plans while reassuring “average” Americans that he understands the economic challenges they are facing. Attendees waited in long lines overnight to get seats to the event.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

MakingHomeAffordable.gov

As part of the Administration’s desire to disseminate needed information on the economic stimulus, the Treasury Department launched a website called -- MakingHomeAffordable.gov. The purpose of the site is to ensure that everybody who can take advantage of the President’s housing plan has access to information which explains how the plan works and who qualifies. The site is one of several tools the Administration is using to slow down the foreclosure crisis that has gripped the nation. The site includes a calculator that allows homeowners to estimate the reduction to their monthly mortgage payment that the plan provides. Another tool for distressed homeowners is the Homeowner's HOPE Hotline (888-995-HOPE).

The President Visits Pomona

In his only Inland appearance, President Obama toured the Edison Electric Vehicle Technical Center in Pomona. The Center "provides a broad range of electric transportation services, focusing on solutions for automakers, battery manufacturers, government agencies, business and industrial fleet customers, residential customers and more." During the visit the President explained that the kind of green industries and jobs being created by the center will be a focus of his economic plan throughout his presidency. He stated, “Over the next three years, we will double this nation's supply of renewable energy. We will invest $15 billion a year to develop technologies like wind power and solar power, advanced biofuels, clean coal, and fuel-efficient cars and trucks that are built right here in the United States of America.”

The First Lady—and Friends—Encourage High School Students

As the President met with residents at a town hall in Los Angeles, First Lady Michelle Obama continued her community outreach and celebration of Women’s History Month. She met with a racially diverse group of over 100 young women from D.C. high schools. The First Lady invited the girls to join her for dinner, along with celebrated women including musicians—Alicia Keys and Sheryl Crowe; actresses—Debbie Allen, Phylicia Rashad, Kerry Washington, Alfre Woodard, and Fran Drescher, businesswomen—CEO Bobbi Brown and BET executive Debra Lee; opera singer—Denyce Graves; athletes—the WNBA’s Lisa Leslie and Olympic gymnast Dominique Dawes, the first female four-star general in the military—General Ann Dunwoody, the first African-American woman to be the Ambassador to the United Nations—Susan Rice, and the first woman of color to go to space—Astronaut Mae Jemison. Mrs. Obama’s mother, Marian Robinson, and daughters Sasha and Malia were also in attendance.

The event capped off a day of outreach by the First Lady and the accomplished women as they fanned out to area high schools. Mrs. Obama surprised students at Anacostia High School in Southeast DC. In an impromptu visit, she related her own background and similarities to them, while stressing the importance of hard work and discipline. Recapping later, Mrs. Obama stated: “In the DC schools, many of these kids need to see us. There's nothing more powerful than going into their space and talking to them.”

Friday, March 20, 2009

Obama Signals New Beginning to Iran

President Obama released a video message, subtitled in Farsi, for all those celebrating “Nowruz” or the beginning of the New Year for millions in Iran and other communities around the world. Acknowledging the strain in US—Iranian relations over the last few decades, he stated, “At this holiday we are reminded of the common humanity that binds us together, we have serious differences that have grown over time.” Stressing the need to move forward Obama continued, “my administration is now committed to diplomacy that addresses the full range of issues before us and to pursuing constructive ties among the United States, Iran, and the international community.”

The White House Garden

“This is a big day!” stated First Lady Michelle Obama, as she and chefs from the White House kitchen and 26 fifth graders from Bancroft Elementary School in DC, broke ground on the White House Kitchen Garden on the South Lawn of the White House. “We've been talking about it since the day we moved in," said the First Lady. The students will be involved in the garden as it develops and grows, producing delicious, healthy vegetables to be cooked in the White House Kitchen and given to Miriam's Kitchen, which serves the homeless in Washington, DC. The first lady used the occasion to encourage nutritious eating.

Lessons Learned in California

While meeting representatives from the National Conference of State Legislatures, President Obama described lessons from his town halls in California, namely—on the heels of the AIG bonus scandal—the need for accountability. The President stated, “Over the last two days I've been traveling in California, talking with Americans about the challenges they're facing as a result of this economic crisis.” He stressed the importance of responsible investing by the Legislators saying, “Decisions about how Recovery Act dollars are spent will be based on the merits. Let me repeat that: Decisions about how Recovery money will be spent will be based on the merits.”

Saturday, March 21, 2009

President Obama sat down for a wide-ranging interview with 60 Minutes correspondent Steve Kroft in which he stressed his support for Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and defended himself against criticism from former Vice President Dick Cheney regarding Guantanamo Bay. Last week Cheney argued that the President’s decision to shut down the detention center and end certain interrogation practices made the nation less safe. The President countered that the interrogation practices only fuel anti-American sentiment in the Arab world and were an ineffective measure for getting convictions. Further he added that he had the support of both liberals and conservatives on the issue.

Monday, March 23, 2009

The Importance of Green Jobs to American Recovery

The President hosted an event focused on “Investing in Our Clean Energy Future,” with experts from the business world and the government. As part of the program, African-American Van Jones, newly minted as the Senior Advisor for Green Jobs, Innovation, and Enterprise, led a discussion about how to help companies and technologies make the leap to energy efficiency and develop new products.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

The President Calls the Space Station

President Obama, joined by Congressional leaders and middle school students from the Washington, DC area, called the astronauts on the International Space Station and the Space Shuttle Discovery to congratulate them on their successful ongoing mission.

Obama’s Op-Ed and Televised News Conference

The President published a rare “simultaneous op-ed” in thirty papers around the world, calling for “a collective effort” to address the economic peril found in all corners of the globe. “The United States is ready to lead, and we call upon our partners to join us with a sense of urgency and common purpose,” he writes. His op-ed appeared in the following publications:

Al Watan (Gulf States), Arab Times (Gulf States), Asharq Al Awsat (Arab-wide paper in Arabic), The Australian (Australia), Bangkok Post (Thailand), Chicago Tribune (United States), Clarin (Argentina), Corriere della Sera (Italy), Die Welt (Germany), El Pais (Madrid), El Mercurio (Chile), Eleftyropiea (Greece), Estado de Sao Paulo (Brazil), Gulf News (Gulf States), The Hindustan Times/ The Hindu (India), International Herald Tribune (London), Kristeligt Dagblad (Denmark), Le Monde (Paris), Lidove Noviny (Czech), Los Angeles Times (United States), The News (Pakistan), NRC Handelsblad (Netherlands), Saudi Gazette (Saudi Arabia), South China Morning Post (Hong Kong), Straits Times (Singapore), Sunday Times (South Africa), Svenska Dagbladet (Sweden), Sydney Morning Herald (Australia), WProst (Poland), Yomiuri Shimbun (Japan)

The President is pitching his Recovery Plan to Americans in a televised speech this evening.

Week Seven

2009-03-17T14:22:00.000-07:00

Presidential Archive 3/11 – 3/17/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

As the Administration’s Middle Class Task Force travels the country explaining the Recovery Act, the President made it clear to Wall Street giant AIG he is not happy with the bonuses they paid to executives after receiving taxpayer money.

The popularity of the new President remains high as thousands of Southern Californians camp out for tickets to his town hall meeting in Costa Mesa and anxiously await his first official visit to California as President.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

President Creates Council on Women and Girls

Surrounded by powerful women, including political commentator Donna Brazile, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Olympic gymnast Dominique Dawes, Congresswoman Donna Edwards, and retired WNBA player Lisa Leslie, President Obama signed an executive order creating the White House Council on Women and Girls. The President invoked memories of the women in his life, stating: “I sign this order not just as a President, but as a son, a grandson, a husband, and a father.”

The Council on Women and Girls will be chaired by Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett and will focus on: women’s economic empowerment and financial security, work and family balance for women, and ways to prevent violence against women.

First Lady Honors Courageous Women

First Lady Michelle Obama joined Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in honoring women from around the world who lead the fight for women’s rights. Eight women were presented with the State Department’s International Women of Courage Award. Mrs. Obama saluted the women saying, “The women we honor today teach us three very important lessons. One, that as women, we must stand up for ourselves. The second, as women, we must stand up for each other. And finally, as women, we must stand up for justice for all.”

Thursday, March 12, 2009

President Meets Chinese Foreign Minister

President Obama met with the Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jieche in the Oval Office. The administration reported the two leaders discussed the overall state of U.S.-China relations, agreeing to work together to stabilize the global economy.

Obama Gives Marching Orders for Federal Money

The President dropped in on a meeting of State Officials during the White House Conference on American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Implementation. He stressed that accountability will never fall by the wayside, saying: “We're going to need to work really hard and we're going to have to make sure that every single dollar is well spent. We've got to go above and beyond what I think is the typical ways of doing business in order to make sure that the American people get the help that they need and that our economy gets the boost that it needs.”

The White House Recovery and Reinvestment Act Implementation Conference, led by Vice President Joe Biden, is part of a large effort to ensure that dollars invested and spent as part of the Recovery Act are effective, transparent, and efficient.

Later in the afternoon, the President made a similar point of accountability to a Business Roundtable at the St. Regis Hotel in Washington.:

Saturday, March 14, 2009

The President Addresses Food Safety in America

Calling the nation's food safety system a “hazard to public health” the President used his weekly radio address to announce the nomination of former New York City Health Commissioner Margaret Hamburg as agency commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration. Obama is also creating a special advisory group to coordinate food safety laws and recommend how to update them stating, “Many of these laws have not changed since they were written early in the last century.” Emphasizing government responsibility the President continued, “There are certain things only a government can do, and one of those things is ensuring that the foods we eat, and the medicines we take, are safe and do not cause us harm.”

President Barack Obama greets President of Brazil

President Barack Obama and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva discussed the economy, energy and the environment Saturday during their first White House meeting. President Obama described their conversation as “A wonderful meeting of the minds.” Silva, who spoke through a translator, stressed “the importance of President Obama's election, what it represents to the world and especially to Latin America.”

Monday, March 16, 2009

AIG Bonuses Anger Obama

Speaking to a group of small business owners, Obama contrasted their hard work with the greed and excess displayed in reports of tens of millions of dollars in bonuses being given out to employees of AIG, stating: “I've asked Secretary Geithner to use leverage and pursue every single legal avenue to block these bonuses,” President Obama made it clear that he was not happy with executive bonuses paid by the insurance conglomerate after receiving a massive bailout from the federal government.

The President continued, “Everybody involved needs to understand this is not just a matter of dollars and cents. All across the country, there are people who are working hard and meeting their responsibilities every day, without the benefit of government bailouts or multi-million dollar bonuses. You've got a bunch of small business people here who are struggling just to keep their credit line open -- they are foregoing pay, as one of our entrepreneurs talked about, they are in some cases mortgaging their homes, and doing a whole host of things just in order to keep things afloat. All they ask is that everyone, from Main Street to Wall Street to Washington, play by the same rules.”

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

St. Patrick’s Day Meeting With Irish Prime Minister

President Obama met with Brian Cowen the Prime Minister of Ireland. The meeting was followed by the appointment of NFL Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney as United States Ambassador to Ireland.

Week Six

2009-03-10T14:20:00.000-07:00

Presidential Archive 3/4 – 3/10/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

As Barack Obama completes his first 50 days in office—and while critics are suggesting his agenda is too ambitious—the President continues to tackle the major issues of our time. Introducing new proposals for health care reform, stem cell research, and an overhaul of the education system, Obama stressed the need for government leaders to multi-task. Acknowledging a change from business-as-usual in Washington, Obama insists all of these issues, as well as the economic crisis, need to be addressed simultaneously to move America forward.

Could it be this generation of Americans are not used to a working President?

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Reforming Government Spending

The President signed a memorandum that will reform government contracting, particularly by the Defense Department, by strengthening oversight and management of taxpayer dollars, stating “The American people's money must be spent to advance their priorities -- not to line the pockets of contractors or to maintain projects that don't work.” He was joined by a bipartisan group of legislators including Senators John McCain (R-AZ), Carl Levin (D-MI), and Claire McCaskill (D-Mo), and Representatives Edolphus Towns (D-NY) and Peter Welch.(D-VT).

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Bringing Everyone to the Table to Address Healthcare

In the East Room of the White House, President Obama addressed an assembled group consisting of medical personnel, members of Congress, health care lobbyists, business owners, insurers, and everyday Americans - all with a stake in the health reform effort. After joking, “This was the hottest ticket in town,” the President made the agenda clear to the invited guests, stressing, “Our goal will be to enact comprehensive health reform by the end of this year.” After the President’s remarks the attendees met in break-out sessions to plot their course.

The First Lady Serves Meals to DC Homeless

First Lady Michelle Obama served food at Miriam’s’ Kitchen in Washington, D.C. while discussing the need to support food banks and soup kitchens around the country. The non-profit organization, located in the basement of Western Presbyterian Church, provides nutritious meals to the area’s poor and homeless. Mrs. Obama, who surprised diners with her presence, lauded the organization saying, Miriam’s Kitchen “is an example of what we can do, as a country and as a community, to help folks when they’re down. We’re all going to need one another in these times. We’re going to need to keep lifting each other up, in prayer and in hope.”

Entertaining at “The People’s House”

The President and First Lady continued their ‘hospitality initiative’ by hosting another gathering in what they call “The People’s House.” This dinner was for Congressional leaders from both parties and the President welcomed them explaining, “Given how hard so many of you are working on both sides of the aisle, day in, day out, we thought it was important for us to be able to step back for a moment, remind ourselves that we have things in common—family, friends, laughter—and hopefully, we'll have a chance to appreciate each other a little bit, take a timeout before we dive back into the game,” he said. “So we hope you have a wonderful evening—not to mention the fact that this is a pretty big house, so we get lonely.”

Friday, March 6, 2009

The President Visits Columbus, Ohio

President Obama went to Columbus, Ohio for the Graduation of the Columbus Police Division’s 114th Class. Earlier in the year, it was doubtful the recruits would be hired by the police department due to budget restraints, however last week Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman announced that he would use money from the economic recovery package to pay for their salaries. The city received funding from the Department of Justice as part of their $2 billion in Justice Assistance Grants from the recovery act. The funding is for law enforcement, including personnel and equipment.

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Happy Birthday to Ted Kennedy

In a surprise appearance, President Obama led a chorus of “Happy Birthday” for Senator Ted Kennedy at the Kennedy Center, celebrating the senator's 77th birthday this past February. The event featured dignitaries from the world of politics and entertainment, including Bill Cosby, Lauren Bacall, and members of Senator Kennedy’s family. Kennedy, who has been battling brain cancer, was presented the Profile in Courage Award.

Monday, March 9, 2009

Ban on Stem Cell Research Reversed

Fulfilling a campaign promise, President Barack Obama removed restrictions on the federal funding of embryonic stem cell research put in place by the Bush administration. Acknowledging that there are those that strongly oppose his move, the President stated, “Medical miracles do not happen simply by accident. They result from painstaking and costly research; from years of lonely trial and error, much of which never bears fruit; and from a government willing to support that work.” Continuing, he said, “As a person of faith, I believe we are called to care for each other and work to ease human suffering.” He also issued a presidential memorandum intended to further separate politics and science.

Invoking the memory of the paralyzed actor Christopher Reeve, and his late wife Dana, who both fought hard for stem cell research, the President stated, “we honor those we know, who used their influence to help others and bring attention to this cause – people like Christopher and Dana Reeve, who we wish could be here to see this moment.”

Many believe the research will greatly improve the prognosis for patients with spinal cord injuries, as well as neuro-based diseases.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

President Speaks to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Speaking to members of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at their annual Conference, the President took on critics who say he is changing too much, too fast. Giving them a history lesson, he stated, “I know there are some who believe we can only handle one challenge at a time. They forget that Lincoln helped lay down the transcontinental railroad, passed the Homestead Act, and created the National Academy of Sciences in the midst of Civil War. Likewise, President Roosevelt didn’t have the luxury of choosing between ending a depression and fighting a war. President Kennedy didn’t have the luxury of choosing between civil rights and sending us to the moon. And we don’t have the luxury of choosing between getting our economy moving now and rebuilding it over the long term.”

Obama continued by explaining why, on education in particular, we cannot afford to wait, noting that even within a few years America will see a different reality: “By 2016, four out of every ten new jobs will require at least some advanced education or training.” He outlined a new approach to education that would reward good teachers, remove limits on charter schools, strengthen early-education, and lengthen both the school day and the school year. Obama acknowledged that some of his proposals would be unpopular with both parties, however he stated an over-hauling of the education system is “an economic imperative that can't wait despite the urgency of the financial crisis and other matters.”

Week Five

2009-03-03T13:05:00.000-08:00

Presidential Archive 2/25 – 3/3/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

President Barack Obama continues to ride high in the polls, with Americans not blaming him for the state of the economy. In a recently released poll by NBC News and the Wall Street Journal, the President’s approval rating remains above 60%. Obama’s major activities this past week included submitting a budget for the fiscal year and outlining a plan for troop withdrawal from Iraq.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

President Welcomes Japanese Prime Minister

Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso became the first foreign leader to meet with the President in the White House. The two discussed economic and foreign policy issues.

New Commerce Secretary Designee

Former Washington Governor Gary Locke was introduced as a nominee for the Commerce Department cabinet position. Locke, the son of Chinese immigrants, grew up in Seattle public housing and subsequently attended Yale and Boston University. He replaces GOP governor Judd Gregg who withdrew his nomination.

In announcing his choice of Gregg, President Obama stated: “Gary knows the American Dream. He's lived it. And that's why he shares my commitment to do whatever it takes to keep it alive in our time.” As Commerce Secretary, one of Locke’s responsibilities will be overseeing the 2010 census.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Fiscal Year 2010 Budget Released

President Obama sent a budget to Congress for the coming fiscal year. The budget projects a $1.75 trillion deficit and calls for more than $3.5 trillion in spending. The budget reflects the administration’s attempt to turnaround the country’s financial crisis.

Chicago Bulls Visit the President

President Obama greeted members of the Chicago Bulls, his hometown basketball team. The President was presented with a team jersey.

Stevie Wonder Honored at the White House

Stevie Wonder was presented with the 2nd annual Gershwin Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Library of Congress during an intimate White House Ceremony. Entertainers, including Tony Bennett, Mary Mary, India Arie, and Paul Simon, sang Wonder songs during the tribute. Wonder himself performed the classic “Signed, Sealed, Delivered,” an anthem at all Obama campaign events.

First Lady Visits Environmental Protection Agency

First Lady Michelle Obama continued her visits to Federal departments with a stop at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As with her other visits, the First Lady was met by hundreds of enthusiastic employees.

President meets Congressional Black Caucus

President Obama met with the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) to discuss his economic recovery plan.

Friday, February 27, 2009

President Outlines End of Iraq War

Fulfilling a promise he made during his campaign, the President outlined a plan for troop withdrawal from Iraq. He stated, "Let me say this as plainly as I can: by August 31, 2010, our combat mission in Iraq will end,." The President made his remarks at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Sebelius Nominated for Health and Human Services

Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius was nominated to serve as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. The President stated, “Kathleen Sebelius has a remarkable intellect, unquestioned integrity, and the kind of pragmatic wisdom you’ll tend to find in a Kansan. I know she will bring some much-needed grace and good humor to Washington, and she will be a tremendous asset to my cabinet.” Sebelius replaces nominee Tom Daschle who resigned over to tax issues.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

British Prime Minister Meets the President

“I think that there are a set of shared values and shared assumptions between us,” President Obama said during a meeting with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. “That we believe in the free market, we believe in a government that is not overbearing and allows entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive, but we also share a common belief that there have to be sufficient regulatory structures in place so that the market doesn't spin out of control.”

First Lady Visits Women’s War Memorial

First Lady Michelle Obama visited the Women's Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery in honor of women in the military and military families—a cause she has championed. The event marked Women’s History Month, and Mrs. Obama began her remarks by highlighting the achievements of U.S. military women throughout history and thanking them for their service to the country.

Week Four

2009-02-24T13:15:00.000-08:00

Presidential Archive 2/18 – 2/24/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

The President completed his first month in office with poll numbers showing most Americans support his ambitious plans to jolt the country out of recession. Legislation signed by the President during his first month included:

Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act

Signed: Thursday, Jan. 29, 2009

Children’s Health Insurance Reauthorization Act

Signed: Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2009

Digital Television (DTV) Delay Act

Signed: Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2009

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Signed: Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2009

The week ended with President Obama laying out his plans for future economic stability in a major prime-time speech to a joint session of Congress. While insisting the road ahead is hard, the President inspired the country to join him in meeting the challenges we face.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Housing Plan Rolled Out in Phoenix

President Obama unveiled his housing plan—the Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan—in Arizona, the home state of his Presidential opponent John McCain. Arizona is one of many states hard hit by the mortgage crisis. It is estimated that Obama’s plan could directly help up to 9 million American homeowners facing foreclosure.

The President stressed that all homeowners will benefit from the plan because “in the end, all of us are paying a price for this home mortgage crisis. And all of us will pay an even steeper price if we allow this crisis to continue to deepen, but if we act boldly and swiftly to arrest this downward spiral, every American will benefit.” He laid out key elements of the plan including, refinancing help for some homeowners who receive their mortgages through Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac; incentives for lenders to modify the terms of sub-prime loans at risk of default and foreclosure; and, steps to keep mortgage rates low for millions of middle class families looking to secure new mortgages.

"The plan I’m announcing focuses on rescuing families who have played by the rules and acted responsibly," the President said, "by refinancing loans for millions of families in traditional mortgages who are underwater or close to it; by modifying loans for families stuck in sub-prime mortgages they can’t afford as a result of skyrocketing interest rates or personal misfortune; and by taking broader steps to keep mortgage rates low so that families can secure loans with affordable monthly payments."

First Lady Opens White House to DC Schoolchildren

“Did you know that African American slaves helped to build this house?” First Lady Michelle Obama asked a group of 180 DC-area 6th and 7th graders on a visit to the White House. The event, celebrating African American History Month, was hosted by the First Lady, with daughters Sasha and Malia sitting in the front row.

Mrs. Obama stressed the openness of the White House stating, “As the President and First Lady, Barack and I are just the caretakers of this house. We're just borrowing it for a little bit,” she stressed. “And while we live here, we're your neighbors. And we want you to feel welcome at the White House, which really is the people's house that belongs to all of us. So just remember that, okay?”

The First Lady encouraged the children to succeed and look to good role models. She highlighted the example of the White House's Director of the Executive Residence and Chief Usher, Rear Admiral Stephen W. Rochon, and then introduced the group Sweet Honey In The Rock, who performed for the guests.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

The President’s First Foreign Trip

President Obama took his first foreign trip as President to Ottawa, Canada. He met with Governor General of Canada Michaelle Jean, Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and Leader of the Official Opposition Michael Ignatieff, as well as US Embassy employees and their families. After a successful meeting and press conference with the Prime Minister, the President visited a local store, cheered on by the throngs of Canadians who had come out to greet him.

Leon Panetta Becomes CIA Director

Vice President Joe Biden led the swearing-in of the President’s pick for CIA Director—Leon Panetta, stating, “He has the experience, the independence and the judgment to lead this agency, and to help it depart dramatically from the legacy of the last eight years.”

The First Lady Visits the Agriculture Department

First Lady Michelle Obama continued her federal agency tour with a visit to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. About 300 employees rose to their feet in applause as she walked out on stage. Mrs. Obama presented a plant for a community garden that the USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack is starting. The seedling she brought came from the Jackson magnolia tree, which sits on the south portico of the White House. The tree was planted 180 years ago by President Andrew Jackson in honor of his wife Rachel, who passed away before he moved to the White House. This was the First Lady’s fourth visit to a federal agency, following earlier stops to the Department of Education, the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of the Interior.

Friday, February 20, 2009

President Meets With Mayors

“You're on the front lines,” President Obama told a gathering of 85 mayors from America’s top cities. During a question and answer session all parties agreed with Obama’s assessment that mayors “are familiar with the pain that comes with making cuts that are broad and deep.” He went on to outline the importance of the newly signed Stimulus Bill in providing assistance to cities and states. He also stressed the need for vigilance in making sure the money from the act is spent efficiently and wisely, stating, "We can't tolerate business as usual -- not in Washington, not in our state capitals, not in our cities and towns."

Remembering the Gulf Coast

"We must ensure that the failures of the past are never repeated," President Obama said as he announced the extension of the Office of the Federal Coordinator for Gulf Coast Rebuilding and his decision to send two cabinet members to the region. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan are heading to the Gulf Coast and New Orleans in early March to evaluate firsthand the progress that's been made and assess the region's needs.

“The residents of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast who are helping rebuild are heroes who believe in their communities and they are succeeding despite the fact that they have not always received the support they deserve from the Federal government,” the President said. “This executive order is a first step of a sustained commitment by my Administration to rebuild now, stronger than ever.”

This August will mark the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

Michelle Obama Visits Transportation Department

In her fifth visit to a federal agency, First Lady Michelle Obama visited the Department of Transportation. As with her other agency stops, she explained it as a small gesture to introduce herself as a new resident of the city, and to thank federal workers for their service. With each visit, Mrs. Obama is met with thrilled federal employees and heavy applause.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Obama’s Host First Formal Dinner

President and Mrs. Obama hosted their first formal White House dinner, entertaining the country's governors at the National Governors Association Dinner. According to the Presidential website whitehouse.gov:

“After mingling in the main hall to jazz played by a small Marine music ensemble, the governors gathered in the State Dining Room. The President and First Lady, glamorously dressed in a sparkly black strapless gown and multi-strand necklace of pearls and diamonds, entered last to a greeting of applause.

The President gave a toast to the governors for their work—they’re “where the rubber hits the road,” he said—before dining on Wagyu beef, scallops, creamed spinach and huckleberry cobbler. The event’s formality grew more relaxed when guests made their way to the East Room, cleared out to form a dance floor, for a concert by Earth, Wind & Fire.”

Monday, February 23, 2009

Southern Governors May Turn Down Stimulus Money

A group of Southern Republican governors, led by probable 2012 Presidential candidate Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, say they will turn down some of the money from the economic stimulus package because they don't believe it will stimulate the economy. South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford and Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour have also said they may not take the stimulus package's unemployment money. They oppose expanding eligibility for unemployment, because they believe it would increase employer taxes.

Representative Jim Clyburn of South Carolina questioned the motives of the Southern governors. Noting the large number of blacks in their states, he said their opposition to stimulus money is a “slap in the face to African-Americans.”

Darfur a Priority for Administration

President Obama and Vice President Biden met with actor and activist George Clooney to discuss the situation in Darfur where after six years of fighting, it is estimated that 300,000 people have been killed and more than 2.7 million have been displaced. Bringing relief to the battered region of Darfur is a top priority for the administration, the President and Vice President assured Mr. Clooney.

Deficit Cut in Half by 2013

President Obama unveiled his plans to cut the massive deficit in half by the end of his first term, stating, “This will not be easy. It will require us to make difficult decisions and face challenges we've long neglected, but I refuse to leave our children with a debt that they cannot repay -- and that means taking responsibility right now, in this administration, for getting our spending under control.”

The President made these comments during an unprecedented summit—open to the press- in which he took questions from guests which included members of Congress and leaders of the business and non-profit communities. He started with Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), who emphasized the need to cut excess from defense spending -- citing as an example reports that the two-year-old plan to overhaul the fleet of Marine One helicopters had gone significantly over-budget. Not missing a beat, the President stated that he had already given an order to investigate the matter and joked that he was happy with the current helicopter.

The administration also announced that $15 billion of funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will be available in two days—a week after the act was signed into law.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

President Addresses Congress

With polls indicating support from large majorities of Americans, President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress tonight. In the prime-time speech, given to members of Congress, but also meant for the American populace, the President reiterated the ‘long road ahead’ to turn the country’s economic crisis around. He assured the American people of our ability to rise to the challenge as he outlined his plans for economic recovery.

On Thursday, the President is set to unveil his first budget proposal.

Week Three

2009-02-19T12:55:00.000-08:00

Presidential Archive 2/11 – 2/17/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

In his first major act as President, Obama shepherded his Stimulus Bill through Congress this week, and signed the bill—called the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act—into law. The bill had strong opposition from Congressional Republicans, although the public, as well as revenue-strapped Governors and Mayors from both parties, tended to support the legislation.

The Administration suggested this needed stimulus package was only the first step in solving America’s economic challenges.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

First Lady Advises College Students

First Lady Michelle Obama spoke to students at Howard University in D.C. She told them it is okay to be in college and not sure where your life is heading. She stated, "The question that I hate most that we ask of young people is, 'What are you going to be when you grow up?' And the truth is, I still don't know, and I'm 45 years old," she said. "All I know is that it's important for you to be true to yourselves, not to worry too much about what other people are going to think or make of your choices, because everyone will question what you do and tell you you should've done it the other way."

Negotiations Continued on Stimulus Bill

Democrats and Republicans, House members and Senators, continued their fight over provisions in the President’s Stimulus Bill—with Republicans wanting more tax cuts, and Democrats wanting to keep spending programs intact. Despite some contentious sessions, they eventually brought the House and Senate versions of the bill into accord.

"I want to thank the Democrats and Republicans in Congress who came together around a hard-fought compromise that will save or create more than 3.5 million jobs and get our economy back on track," the President said in an official statement.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Celebrating “The Great Emancipator”

Marking the 200^th birthday of Abraham Lincoln, President Obama, who has stated his admiration of the 16^th President, participated in several commemorative activities.

In the morning, he spoke at the Lincoln bicentennial celebration on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, and later that evening he addressed the 102nd Abraham Lincoln Association Annual Banquet Dinner. The previous night he appeared at the Re-Opening of Ford’s Theatre, the site of the April 14, 1865, assassination of President Lincoln

At the Lincoln Memorial celebration, the 44th President commended Lincoln stating, “And so even as we meet here today, in a moment when we are far less divided than in Lincoln's day, but when we are once again debating the critical issues of our time -- and debating them sometimes fiercely -- let us remember that we are doing so as servants of the same flag, as representatives of the same people, and as stakeholders in a common future. That is the most fitting tribute we can pay -- the most lasting monument we can build -- to that most remarkable of men, Abraham Lincoln.”

Commerce Secretary Nominee Withdraws

President Obama’s choice for commerce secretary, Senator Judd Gregg, withdrew his nomination on Thursday, saying there were “irresolvable conflicts” between him and the administration. At a news conference after his statement was released, Gregg said it had become clear that he had made a mistake in accepting the president’s offer to join the cabinet. “That was my mistake, not his,” the senator said, adding that he admired President Obama and the team he has assembled. “Bottom line,” he concluded, “this is simply a bridge too far for me.”

White House spokesmen seemed surprised at the sudden withdrawal. Robert Gibbs, the White House press secretary, issued a statement that Mr. Gregg had “reached out to the president and offered his name for secretary of commerce.”

“He was very clear throughout the interviewing process that despite past disagreements about policies, he would support, embrace, and move forward with the President’s agenda,” Mr. Gibbs said. “Once it became clear after his nomination that Senator Gregg was not going to be supporting some of President Obama’s key economic priorities, it became necessary for Senator Gregg and the Obama administration to part ways.”

The president selected Mr. Gregg after his first choice for commerce secretary, Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico, withdrew from consideration because of a federal investigation into state contracts.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Congress Passes the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Nearing midnight, the Senate passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Three Republican Senators, Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe of Maine and Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania, were among the sixty votes required for passage. Earlier in the day, the House of Representatives passed the same version by a vote of 246-183.

The bill was then sent to President Obama to be signed into law.

Monday, February 16, 2009

The First Family returned from a weekend visit to their home in Chicago, during which the President and First Lady shared a Valentine’s Day meal at a local restaurant. This was the family’s first trip home since the President assumed office.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

The Bill Becomes Law, with a Website to Track Spending

President Barack Obama signed into law the $787 billion rescue plan designed to spur consumer spending and create millions of jobs. With the economy still in a tailspin, Obama chose the Rocky Mountain state to sign what has been called the most sweeping economic overhaul plan put forth in decades.

The setting was the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. It was chosen to underscore the investments the new law will make in "green" energy-related jobs.

Simultaneously, the administration launched Recovery.gov, billed as: “a website that lets you, the taxpayer, figure out where the money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is going…..the money is being distributed by Federal agencies, and soon you'll be able to see where it's going -- to which states, to which congressional districts, even to which Federal contractors.”

The website is a first for the American public and continues the deft use of technological innovations by the Obama staff.

Week Two

2009-02-10T12:47:00.000-08:00

Presidential Archive 2/3 – 2/10/09

By Linnie Frank Bailey

After starting his first week in office by offering an olive branch to Republicans, the President took a more forceful approach this past week to assure passage of his stimulus bill. He took his case directly to the people and the bill passed the Senate with only three Republican votes.

President Obama suffered a setback with the withdrawal of Tom Daschle to head his healthcare effort, however he admitted to his mistake and moved forward noting, “I don't want to send a message to the American people that there are two sets of standards -- one for powerful people and one for ordinary folks who are working every day and paying their taxes.” A new nominee has not yet been announced.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Third Republican Added to Cabinet

President Obama nominated the third Republican to his cabinet -- Senator Judd Gregg of New Hampshire. The President called Gregg a “master of reaching across the aisle” in announcing him as his choice to lead the Commerce Department today. Gregg joins Secretary Ray LaHood (Transportation) and Secretary Robert Gates for a total of three Republicans in the cabinet.

First African-American Attorney General

Eric Holder was sworn in as the 82nd Attorney General of the United States, becoming the first African-American to hold the position.

Daschle Withdraws

Former Sen. Tom Daschle withdrew his nomination to head the Department of Health and Human Services, after controversy over unpaid taxes and relationships with healthcare corporations. Daschle, the former Senate majority leader, apologized for failing to pay his taxes in full. He said earlier he was “deeply embarrassed” for a series of errors that included failing to report $15,000 in charitable donations, unreported car service and more than $80,000 in unreported income from consulting. (Daschle recently filed amended tax returns and paid more than $140,000 in back taxes and interest for 2005-2007.) Daschle's resignation came hours after Nancy Killefer's withdrawal as Obama's chief performance officer, a new post in the administration. It was reported that Ms. Killefer’s withdrawal also involved tax issues.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Out and About in DC

The President and the First Lady made an unannounced visit to a class of second graders at the Capital City Public Charter School. “We were just tired of being in the White House,” the President joked to the students. After reading a book to the students, the President fielded questions from them about life in the White House.

New Caps on Executive Compensation

President Obama and Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner issued imposing new restrictions on executive compensation at firms taking money from the government – including a 500K salary cap. The action is not retroactive for firms previously receiving bailout money.

First Lady Visits HUD

First Lady Michelle Obama began her visits to Federal agencies with an appearance at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Workers were reported to be inspired by her visit and speech. She also planned to drop in on the Department of the Interior, which has not received a First Lady since Eleanor Roosevelt.

Health Care for Uninsured Children

President Obama signed his second major piece of legislation into law to expand health care coverage to 4 million uninsured children. “In a decent society, there are certain obligations that are not subject to tradeoffs or negotiation,” he said at a signing ceremony in the White House East Room. “Health care for our children is one of those obligations.”

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Washington Post Op-Ed

The Washington Post ran an op-ed by President Obama entitled: The Action Americans Need. The piece was an argument for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan.

First Flights on Presidential Helicopter and Airplane

President Obama took his first flights aboard Marine One and Air Force One, on his way to the House Democratic Issues Conference in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Friday, February 6th, 2009

Faith-based Partnerships.

The President attended the National Prayer Breakfast where he stated, “Instead of driving us apart, our very beliefs can bring us together.”

After the breakfast he announced an executive order establishing the new White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, and talked about the role faith-based and secular community organizations will play in our economic recovery.

"People trust them. Communities rely on them. And we will help them," he said.

The President named Joshua DuBois to lead the office, and also announced the creation of the President’s Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships -- a group of 25 religious and secular leaders, listed below.

Monday, February 9, 2009

Town Hall in Elkhart, Indiana

The President held a town hall in this Indiana town which has been hard hit by the economic downturn. Elkhart has seen its unemployment rate more than triple over the past year -- from 4.7% in December 2007 to 15.3% this past December. The President used this occasion to push the stimulus bill.

The First Press Conference

President Obama held his first press conference, in the East Room of the White House. The topic—the economic status of the country and the need for the Stimulus bill passage. The President stated, “the single most important part of this Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Plan is the fact that it will save or create up to 4 million jobs. Because that is what America needs most right now.” He reminded critics of the bill, including Senate Republicans who are pushing for more tax cuts, “we learned very clearly and conclusively over the last eight years, tax cuts alone cannot solve all our economic problems – especially tax cuts that are targeted to the wealthiest few Americans. We have tried that strategy time and time again, and it has only helped lead us to the crisis we face right now.”

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Town Hall in Ft. Myers, Florida

The President visited another town hard hit by the bad economy. He listened to personal stories of job loss and homelessness and promised to try to help struggling Americans.

Senate Passes Stimulus Bill

The Senate voted to pass the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Three Republican Senators joined Democrats in passing the bill. Now, lawmakers must reconcile the House and Senate versions of the bill before President Obama can sign it.

Week One

2009-01-26T12:40:00.000-08:00

The past few years have shown us the importance of paying attention to National politics. After eight years of the Bush-Cheney administration many Americas, of all races, creeds and cultures, voted for a change in how business is conducted in Washington. Barack Obama was elected with the promise of transparency, good judgment, a change in the tone of partisan politics.

With that in mind, the Black Voices News will bring you weekly summaries of what is occurring on our National political scene. We will document the efforts of our new President to and provide an archive of his Presidency. We encourage you to visit the online edition of this column and follow the links which will provide additional information and allow you to interact directly with your representatives. Questions and comments are also encouraged. Visit: www.theblackvoicenews.com.

Week of January 26, 2009:

President Barack Obama courted Republicans in the House in an attempt to gain support for the economic stimulus bill and to deliver on a promise made during the election to work with leaders on both sides of the aisle. The 825 billion dollar economic recovery bill, called ‘The America Recovery and Reinvestment Plan,’ passed without a single Republican vote. Rep. Joe Baca, D-Rialto, the region's sole Democrat, was the only area lawmaker to vote in favor of the bill. Inland representatives who voted against the bill included: Rep. Ken Calvert, D-Corona (who won a narrow victory to return to Congress largely dependent on Orange County voters), Rep. Mary Bono Mack, R-Palm Springs, Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Vista, Rep. Jerry Lewis, R-Redlands, and David Dreier, R-San Dimas. This week the bill heads to the Senate for further deliberations.

Organizing for America, the continuation of the grassroots Obama movement, is calling on Americans to hold Economic Recovery House Meetings. Director Mitch Stewart says, “The President's plan passed the House of Representatives on Wednesday. But if it's going to move forward, we need to avoid the usual partisan games. That's why supporters are opening their homes to talk with neighbors and friends about how the plan will work -- and what it means for their community.”

On Thursday, January 29, President Barack Obama signed his first piece of legislation, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, that will make it easier for anyone to get equal pay for equal work regardless of age, race, or gender. The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act is named after a woman who was paid less than her male co-workers at an Alabama tire factory. After the signing, first lady Michelle Obama held a reception in the State Dining Room honoring Lilly Ledbetter. Mrs. Obama said she supported the measure for fair pay, especially “at a time when so many families are facing economic insecurity and instability.” Speaking to guests at the luncheon, she encouraged them, “feel free, walk around, touch some stuff, just don't break anything.”

The Republican National Committee, seeking to rebuild the party after November’s defeat, elected former Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele as their Chairman. Steele becomes the first African-American to hold the post.

President Obama concluded the week by expressing his dissatisfaction with the huge bonuses being paid to Wall Street execs, many of whom benefited from the recent bail-out. He stated, “The American people will not tolerate arrogance and greed.”