Week Forty-One

National Scene    11/18/09 – 11/24/09

As President Obama prepares to make his announcement on troop deployment in Afghanistan, the Senate tackles health care, and nervous retailers hope this holiday shopping season will be better than last year’s.

On a lighter note, the President and the First Lady will welcome Prime Minister Singh of India and Mrs. Kaur to the White House – hosting their first State Dinner. The guest list was kept secret however, it was revealed singer Jennifer Hudson would provide the entertainment.

Following tradition, the White House pardoned the official Thanksgiving Turkey!

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

First Lady Michelle Obama Honors Military Women

A ‘Women in the Military’ Tea was held in the East Room of the White House to celebrate the nation’s history of women in the armed services. Mrs. Obama, along with Dr. Jill Biden, welcomed over 130 military women including the first female four star general (General Ann Dunwoody), and the first African-American woman to serve as Chief Nurse at Walter Reed Hospital (General Hazel Johnson). 

The First Lady praised the women from all branches of the U.S. Military by saying, “I hope you all know that your service -- that your legacy, is more than just your own service. I hope that you know that your legacy will be measured in the service of every woman who follows in the trails that you’ve blazed -- every woman who benefits from your daring and determination. It will be measured in the inspiration that you provide to our daughters and our granddaughters -- and to our sons and our grandsons as well.”

Friday, November 20, 2009

President Obama Thanks American Troops in South Korea

As part of his recent trip to Asia, the President stopped at Osan Air Base in Osan, South Korea to address the troops, saying, “I couldn't come to the Republic of Korea without coming to see you to deliver a simple message -- a message of thanks to you and your families.”

The President shared a story from the leader of South Korea saying President Lee, “talked to me about what it was like when he was a young child here in Korea, this country having been torn by war, and the poverty that still existed in the country.” Obama related that it was the U.S. presence in South Korea that helped to positively change the country, saying Lee added, “I hope the American people understand how grateful we are for what you’ve done, because we would not be the extraordinarily strong, prosperous nation that we are, had it not been for the sacrifices of your armed services and the continued contributions that you’ve made.”

Another White House First – Honoring the Sikh Community

The White House hosted a reception commemorating the 540th anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first guru in Sikhism. It was the first time this holiday has been celebrated at the White House. Members of the Sikh community from around the country joined administration officials including Dr. John Holdren (Office of Science & Technology Policy), Tina Tchen (Office of Public Engagement), Michael Strautmanis (Chief of Staff to Valerie Jarrett), Adolfo Carrion (Urban Affairs), and Nancy Anne DeParle (Health Reform). 

Information on the event released by the White House says, “Representatives from the Sikh Council on Religion and Education, United Sikhs, and other grassroots leaders came together to recognize the important contributions of Sikhs to our national life. The first Sikhs arrived as laborers in the western United States around 1899 and gradually moved around the country. They went on to become owners of successful businesses, serve honorably in the U.S. military in both world wars and other conflicts, lawyers, doctors, bankers, and members of many other professions.”

Monday, November 23, 2009

President Launches ‘Educate to Innovate’

President Obama launched a new campaign ‘Educate to Innovate,’ designed to encourage America’s students to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The President continues to highlight the importance of STEM studies for America’s future.  

Obama described the program as “a nationwide effort to help reach the goal this administration has set: moving to the top in science and math education in the next decade.” Lauding the public-private partnerships he stated:  

“We’ve got leaders from private companies and universities, foundations and non-profits, and organizations representing millions of scientists, engineers, and teachers from across America. The initial commitment of the private sector to this campaign is more than $260 million –- and we only expect the campaign to grow.

Business leaders from Intel, Xerox, Kodak, and Time Warner Cable are teaming up with Sally Ride, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, as well as the Carnegie Corporation, to find and replicate successful science, math, and technology programs all across America. Sesame Street has begun a two-year initiative to teach young kids about math and science. And Discovery Communications is going to deliver interactive science content to 60,000 schools reaching 35 million students.

These efforts extend beyond the classroom. Time Warner Cable is joining with the Coalition for Science After School and FIRST Robotics -- the program created by inventor Dean Kamen, which gave us the “Cougar Cannon” -- to connect one million students with fun after-school activities, like robotics competitions. The MacArthur Foundation and industry leaders like Sony are launching a nationwide challenge to design compelling, freely available, science-related video games.  And organizations representing teachers, scientists, mathematicians, and engineers -- joined by volunteers in the community -- are participating in a grassroots effort called “National Lab Day” to reach 10 million young people with hands-on learning.”

The President also announced a White House Science Fair, saying: “If you win the NCAA championship, you come to the White House.  Well, if you’re a young person and you’ve produced the best experiment or design, the best hardware or software, you ought to be recognized for that achievement, too.”

Week Thirty-Nine

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

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

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

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

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:

1. Make permanent restrictions on the use of cell phones and other electronic devices in rail operations.
2. Restrict the use of cell phones by truck drivers and interstate bus operators.
3. Disqualify school bus drivers convicted of texting while driving from maintaining commercial driver’s licenses.
4. 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)

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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

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:

1. Put together an emergency supply kit.
2. Make a family emergency plan.
3. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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.”