George Wythe College

Something interesting actually happened in Southern Utah yesterday. One of the local Talk Radio Hosts (Bryan Hyde) quit his job, in order to attend a College that I had never heard of. The School, George Wythe College: http://gwc.edu, is an extremely small, unacredited College. Since Bryan Hyde ocassionaly had the guts to critisize President Bush; I will miss listening to him on the Radio.

I am still doing some research on the Christian Taliban in America, and around the World. I ask my readers to be patient.

Ahmad Chalabi

Something good finally happened in Iraq. Ahmad Chalabi was voted out of office. For those who don't know who this fellow is, simply look up the word opportunist, and you will find Ahmad Chalabi's picture.

According to Mother Jones Magazine there is a Conservative Christian movement referred to as Christian Reconstruction that should be scrutinized. I am doing further research on this topic for my readers.

Mother Jones

The last couple of days I have been reading Mother Jones Magazine (December Issue). This Issue focuses on The Christian Right. I Will write more about the Christian Right soon.

Comedy Club

On Christmas Eve I went to a Comedy Club in Las Vegas. There were 3 Comedians who were all very funny! They were all making fun of the audience, accusing us of being atheists, since we were watching their performance, instead of being at home with our families on Christmas Eve.

It looks like there is going to be a Western States Primary at the Presidential Level in 2008. Utah has already budgeted $850,000 for this, and it looks like New Mexico, and Arizona, want to participate also.

Ted Stevens

Some people grower wiser with age, but Senator Ted Stevens simply becomes more Wrong-Headed. At 82, you would think he would simply retire, but he seems to live on for the sole purpose of attempting to destroy the Environment. At least he was thwarted this time!

Arctic Drilling

Arctic Drilling has once again been blocked. I really do believe in Santa Claus now! For more information: http://charcoalmoon.blogspot.com/2005/12/dems-grow-backbone.html.

General Motors

If anyone has any money invested in General Motors, I would recommend selling your investment. It looks as if GM will probably go Bankrupt. Kirk Kerkorian sold 12 Million of his own shares recently. This is not a good sign.

The Renewal of the Patriot Act received a setback recently in the U.S. Senate. Also Artic Drilling was also temporarily blocked in the Senate. It looks like this is going to be a good Christmas, after all!

First

I played in my First Chess Tournament last Saturday. I tied for first with two other Competitors in the Unrated Category. My total prize money amounted to 16 dollars. I plan on playing in more Chess Tournaments.

Evo Morales has been elected President of Bolivia. He claims to be striving for Social Justice. I will be watching his Presidency with interest. Hopefully he will be a good Leader for the people of Bolivia.

Did anyone read about the Protests against the WTO (World Trade Organization) in Hong Kong? It sounded like the Korean Protesters were the most energetic.

Chess Tournament

On Saturday I will be playing in my first Chess Tournament. Although I'm not expecting to beat the Grandmasters, I do expect to do well for an unrated player. To play in the tournament I will have to join the U.S. Chess Federation. The good part about joining, is that I will receive a monthly Chess Magazine. During the tournament I will play 5 opponents throughout the day. Wish me Luck!

An aquaintance of mine asked me if I ever write anything about China on my Blog. I told him that I haven't, but that I ought to.

Today my family, and I celebrated my Step-Dad's 74th Birthday. He was in the Hospital, so we brought him an Ice Cream Birthday Cake, that we purchased at Dairy Queen. That reminds me; I better put the Cake in the freezer before it melts.

Tookie Williams

I see that many of the Conservative Blogs are mocking Tookie Williams. It seems to me that regardless of how you felt about the man, that showing disrespect for someone who is going to be executed, shows incredibly poor taste. I suppose that expecting maturity from Conservative Bloggers, is asking for something that will never be.

Narnia

Yesterday I went to see Chronicles of Narnia. The Movie was quite good. I had previously seen TV Versions that were good also. I must admit that I never finished reading any of the Narnia Books, although I have read other books by C.S. Lewis.

One of my Russian Friends e-mailed me something interesting about Christmas. In Russia they celebrate Christmas on January 7th.

Today I was thinking about the variety of Religions in the World today, and I was trying to figure out what would make the (Ideal Religion). Here are my thoughts:

#1 No paid Clergy.

#2 Encourages their members to take part in Politics.

#3 Allows their members to decide who or what God is.

#4 Has a genuinely Ecumenical Approach.

#5 Gives Alms to the Poor.

#6 Has a decentralized Hierarchy.

#7 Teaches Ethical Concepts rather than Dogma.

Blogging

To get the latest info about the Blogging Convention that will be held in NYC, here is a link: http://Xpatriatedtexan.blogspot.com/.

I will be participating in my first Chess Tournament on December 17th. So if my Blog has some references to Chess, over the next week, it just means I'm trying to share with my readers some of the excitement of one of my hobbies!

Interfaith

I attended my first organizing meeting for the Interfaith Expo. Since I actually have to work, I missed most of the meeting, but got there in time to have a few cookies, and introduce myself to some of the other organizers. I'm looking forward to helping put on the Interfaith Expo.

Convention

In a previous post, I said that I was going to hold a Blogging Convention. However, today I discovered that someone else is already working on this project. So I'm going to help sponsor and attend a fantastic Blogging Convention, that will take place in New York City: http://Progressivefaithblogcon.com.

Sorry

Sorry that I didn't post yesterday, but I was having technical difficulties with my blog.

Yesterday evening I was watching the trial of Saddam Hussein on C-SPAN. Can you say Kangaroo Court? It was obvious that the Presiding Judge had a very cynical attitude about the whole trial. He was even extremely rude, and abrupt when he spoke with Ramsey Clark. Of course my local newspaper: http://thespectrum.com, didn't have any articles that adequately covered the sham trial that I witnessed on C-SPAN.

The Conservative Talk Radio Personalities are still beating the Dead Horse, they refer to as the War on Christmas. I suppose if they ever stopped raising false issues, they might have to deal with serious things like Republican Money Laundering, How rendition differs from torture, what are the details regarding secret CIA Dungeons, and how does Predatory Lending Practices benefit the American Economy?

Here are some interesting websites for my readers: http://Billmon.org/, http://Thismodernworld.com/.

War on Christmas

What is up with these Conservatives? I was attending a Christmas Church Service with a dozen Community of Christ people in someones home. The service was going fine untill the most Conservative fellow in the group started droning on about how the Liberals weren't supporting the War in Iraq, and how everyone was conspiring to subvert Christmas. It wouldn't have been so bad, but nearly everyone in the group began agreeing with him. So the next time you think that the Conservative Noise Machine doesn't have any effect on people, just remember the experience that I had today.

Here is a Website that seems to be willing to tackle important issues: http://Pandagon.net/.

Access to Information

There is fantastic information on the Internet. The only problem is continually weeding through the continual blabbering of the Conservative Noise Machine. Even though I detest Conservative Propaganda, we should occasionally research what they are up to, so that we are able to counter their corrupt Strategy, and Tactics.

Here are some progressive Websites that my readers will be interested in seeing: http://Huffingtonpost.com, http://Commondreams.org.

Also here is a link, for the Sundance Film Festival: http://Sundance.org.

Sundance

I will be attending the Sundance Film Festival. Probably only for a day or two.

Igor Ivanov

A few weeks ago, Chess Grandmaster (Igor Ivanov) died. He was someone who tried to help me improve my Chess Game, over the last 3 months. He jokingly would refer to me, as his favorite Liberal.

Blogging Convention

I am going to organize a Blogging Convention. Although I don't know very much about Podcasting, Podcasters will also be invited to attend.

Courage

Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's Courage.

(Anais Nin)

I am too great to battle with mere mortals. Bring me Giants!

(Cyrano de Bergerac)

You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along'... You must do the thing you cannot do.

(Eleanor Roosevelt)

Interfaith Expo

I am going to be the Booth's Director for the Interfaith Expo. This Expo will be held in St. George, Utah, during September, 2006. It will be a one day event. I attended the Expo this year, but next years Expo is going to be much larger. I will be attending monthly meetings in order to help out.

Pete Ashdown #2

I attended Pete Ashdown's lecture yesterday. Although I have heard him speak before, this is the first time I have heard him lay down a political platform, for his campaign against Orin Hatch. Wouldn't it be great to vote Orin Hatch out of office. I am impressed with Pete Ashdown. He is not your typical Politician. Instead of being a Lawyer, he is an entrepeneur who made his money on the Internet. His ideas are innovative, and progressive. Best of, all he pointed out that Orin Hatch is a supporter of torture. Why is it that the same Republicans, who were constantly complaining about Soviet Gulags, are rushing to build American ones?

Pete Ashdown

Tonight I am attending a lecture, given by Pete Ashdown, explaining why he is running for the U.S. Senate against Orin Hatch. I plan to ask him some questions.

Bob Graham

Mr. Bush even has former Senator Bob Graham pointing out what a lying hypocrite our Commander in Chief, truly is! Here is the link for a very articulate article: http://Washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/11/18/AR2005111802397.html.

John Murtha #2

It sounds to me like Jean Schmidt is the one who is the Coward. She called John Murtha, someone who has been awarded the Semper Fidelis Award, a coward. Then she doesn't even have the conviction to stand by her statement, a few minutes later. This Lady who has only been a member of Congress for 3 months said she received a telephone call from a Colonel telling her to call John Murtha a Coward. Who was this Colonel? Colonel Oliver North?

For more info: http://Abcnews.go.com/GMA/Politics/story?id=1328704, http://Washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/11/18/AR2005111802896.html.

John Murtha

The Republicans are scared to death of John Murtha. John Murtha committed Conservative Heresy, by asking that the troops be brought home.

C.S. Lewis

For those who are interested in the new C.S. Lewis Movie, here is the Official Website: http://Disney.go.com/disneypictures/narnia/.

Prediction: Disney will make a humungous amount of money on this movie.

2008 Iowa Caucuses

Democratic Presidential Hopefulls are already beginning to test the Political Waters. However, before any of us become committed to any potential candidate, we should ask ourselves several pertinent questions.

1# Did they ever support the War in Iraq? If they did, what was their reason?

2# Did they ever support the Patriot Act? If so Why?

3# Did they ever support Legislation that effectively let's Credit Card Companies off the hook
for cramming Credit Cards down the throats of those people who would be unlikely to ever
pay off their Credit Card Bills?

4# Have they ever joined one of Yale's Secret Societies?

5# What will they do to protect the Environment?

6# What is their Energy Policy?

7# How will they protect Human Rights?

These questions are merely a starting point for the types of questions that we should be asking potential Democratic Presidential Candidates.

Community of Christ #2

The other differences I noticed between The Community of Christ Church, and the Mainline Mormon Church, is that the former doesn't require it's adult members to wear Temple Garments or participate in Secret Temple Ceremonies. Also the Community of Christ has a completely different hymn book. I didn't even recognize one song that was the same. I must admit that the service I attended at the Community of Christ Church left me impressed. Especially the potluck that I participated in.

Community of Christ

I visited a Community of Christ Church yesterday. The group consisted of about 10 people who met in someones home. Worldwide this denomination has 250,000 members. This church split from the Mainline Mormons in the 1800's. Will write more about this later.

Pat Robertson

Pat Robertson is one twisted fellow. He told the people of a city in Pennsylvania not to come to God for help, since they voted against the school board members who supported Intelligent Design. You would think that after he called for the assassination of Hugo Chavez, that he would tone down the rhetoric a little. I suppose critical thinking skills are too much to ask for from a Conservative Man of God!

Strategy

What should be the overall strategy of Progressive-Minded People, over the next year?

#1 We need to educate American Citizens on the difference between a Just War, and (Halluburton inspired) Colonialism.

2# If you belong to a Conservative Religious Faith (like I do) , stop contributing money, and begin searching for a more Progressive Faith that more accurately reflects who you are, and what you believe.

3# Now is the time for Democrat to organize, in order to gain control of the U.S. House of Rpresentatives (

Good Link

Here is a good link: http://reverendmom.blogspot.com/2005/11/inconvenient-woman.html.

Progressive Christianity

For those who are interested in Progressive Christianity, here is a good link: http://crossleft.org.

The Christian Right

Although I am deeply concerned about the rioting in France, I have chosen instead to write about the serious threat that the Christian Right poses to America. Please don't take people like James Dobson lightly. They have alot of money, and highly organized people behind them. Here are some links for further research: http://brilliantatbreakfast.blogspot.com/2005/11/only-churches-that-support-our-lord.html, http://ajbenjaminjr.blogspot.com/2005/11/dont-say-we-didnt-warn-you.html.

Michael Scanlon

For those of you who haven't heard about Michael Scanlon, some of his emails have exposed the cynicism of the Republicans. For more information: http://Thelastbestplace.blogspot.com/2005/11/christian-conservative-chumps.html, http://John_m_burt.blogspot.com/2005/11/dear-christian-right.html.

Also for those who loathe Bill O'Reilly: http://Sweetjesusihatebilloreilly.com.

Fire Karl Rove

This is really too much! Why is Karl Rove still working for the White House? This Benedict Arnold should have his Security Clearance removed from his treasonous hands. I suppose that I shouldn't be surprised that Karl Rove is also good friends with Kenneth Tomlinson. Kenneth Tomlinson is the person who tried to turn PBS into a Conservative Think Tank.

Here are some links that I recommend: http://DemocraticUnderground.com/top10/index.html, http://Leoni77.blogspot.com/, http://RufnKiddingme.blogspot.com/.

Joe Wilson

Joe Wilson has the right idea. Karl Rove doesn't deserve to resign. Instead he should be fired. Here is a good blog: http://political-stuff.blogspot.com/2005/10/ethics-time-to-get-out-broom.html.

Harry Reid

Senate Minority Leader, Harry Reid has called for Karl Roves resignation. Bravo! Somebody needs to have the courage to expose the Bush Administration for what it is!

Plame-Gate Continues

I have been viewing numerous blogs in order to provide my readers with the most pertinent information regarding Plame-Gate. Please read: http://reedbetweenthelines.blogspot.com/2005/10/morris-claims-indictment-may-implicate.html.

Also for some humor that isn't too far from the truth, read: http://neoconjob.blogspot.com/2005/10/fox-news-shocked-by-indictments.html.

Frightened

Hariett Miers became so frightened after reading my blog yesterday, that she withdrew her nomination to the Supreme Court this morning.

Now the compelling question is who will be the next nominee to the Supreme Court?

2000 Dead

2000 of our soldiers have died in Iraq! For what? Where are these Weapons of Mass Destruction. Saddam Hussein must have done a better job of hiding them, then he did hiding himself. Not only have we lost 2000 of our soldiers, but 20 to 30 Thousand Iraqi's have lost their lives as well. I met numerous people, who prior to the war, told me that the only reason they supported the push for war, was that they thought it would make it cheaper to fuel their cars. Unfortunately for them, they failed to calculate the greed of the oil cartels, who put Bush Jr. in the White House.

What about Osama bin Forgotten? Where is he? I understand that he might be hard to corner, but would it be too much to at least ask for the capture of Mullah Omar?

I'm not even sure how to spell Harriet Meiers, but I do have some tactics that us Liberals should use, in dealing with her nomination. First of all, I'm not even sure that her name will make it out of the Judiciary Committee. A Conservative Group is already buying up television time to run ads against her. This nomination has placed the Conservatives in a quandry. For the first time, they are being forced to admit that God's annointed (George W. Bush) might be fallible. What Democratic Senators should do is demand that she be given a vote before the full Senate. Than we can all witness the spectacle of the same Republican Senators, who said they thought the fillibuster should be removed from the Senate, actually fillibustering her nomination! If we handle this correctly, there is nothing but upside for the Democratic Party!

Dick Cheney

Finally, Dick Cheney gets his cover blown! Mr. Cheney has spent all this time saying he didn't know anything about Plame-Gate. Now Scooter Libby's own notebook, reveals what a fraud the Vice-President truly is! Look for the Vice-President to resign.

Sorry

Sorry I haven't posted for a while, but there have been so many things going on in America, and the World, that I haven't been able to figure out where to begin. I am still following the Valerie Plame story, and it has come to my attention that prominent Republicans now believe that Perjury, and Obstruction of Justice, before a Grand Jury are mere technicalities that should be ignored. Wow! It sure is ironic that they didn't view the Law that way when Bill Clinton was President!

Scooter and Karl

The direct involvement of Karl Rove, and Scooter Libby, in the traitorous act of exposing an undercover agent, is the most important Political Story in America today! So what does the mainstream media do? They run and hide from the story! Let's have some justice in this Country for a change! Let Mr.Rove and Scooter repent of their lack of Patriotism, in a Federal Penitentiary! Here are some important links:http://3oldmen.com/2005/10/03/waiting-waiting/, http://Brandoland.blogspot.com/2005/10/monday_03.html.

Peace Movement

Here is an interesting article:http://villagevoice.com/news/0539,ferguscd,68201,2.html.

Good Government

If you want to have Good Government, you have to take the steps neccesary to achieve it! Today I was doing just that, helping Todd Hohbein campaign for the LaVerkin City Council. I did a honk and wave on a busy street corner for 30 minutes. After that I spent 2 hours, handing out his brochures at peoples homes. I believe that Mr. Hohbein will make it through the Primary on October 4th. We will soon find out if my prediction is correct.

Courage

Here is an interesting profile in courage: http://freep.com/news/latestnews/pm6207_20050923.htm. Also here is a possible alternative to the Oil Cartels: http://Biodiesel.com.

Katrina and Chess

Before I post some blogs and Websites commenting on Hurricane Katrina, let me talk about something on the lighter side. For those of you, who follow my blog, you already know that I a am trying to improve my skills in the game of Chess. Well, I am now beginning to beat opponents that I previously had no chance against. My secret weapon is a book that I have been reading called "The Winning Way" by Bruce Pandolfini.

Now on a more serious note, here is some information that is well worth reading:http://Michaelmoore.com/words/message/index.php?id=185, http://Livejournal.com/users/tylerburnham/63095.html.

Hurricane Katrina

Hurricane Katrina has wreaked utter devestation on the Gulf Coast. Anyone with even a casual interest in Hurricanes, has known for many years that New Orleans was a highly vulnerable city. When the Levees held for a day it looked as if New Orleans might escape complete destruction once again. But cruelly two of the Levees busted to create the calamity we are now witnessing.

The response to this disaster by Mr. Bush was predictable. He sat around twiddling his thumbs untill a few of his advisers finally told him it might be politically expedient, to do something.

New Orleans will never be as large as it once was, and that is alright. With Global Warming taking place, large hurricanes will constantly threaten vulnerable coastal cities (i.e. New Orleans, Miami, etc.) . So we can either voluntarily scale back the size of those coastal cities, or face natures wrath needlessly.

Once again my heart goes out to those people who have been to hell and back. Hopefully we all will do our part to help the Gulf Coast Refugees.

God Bless

Thoughts

These are my thoughts concerning the disaster facing New Orleans. It appears the most immediate help the people need, is to be evacuated. The Busses aren't getting the job done, so let's send in boats. If the government needs to comandeer some privately owned boats in order to evacuate the refugees, then let's do it!

New Orleans and Biloxi

My heart goes out to the people of New Orleans and Biloxi! If there are people who have ideas about how additional help can be brought to those people, please post a comment.

Devil's Playground

Today I watched a DVD called "Devils Playground." It was about Amish Teenagers deciding whether or not they wanted to join the Amish Church. Although the Movie wasn't a masterpiece, it did hold my interest.

Also Yesterday I visited a small Fair in St.George, where different religious groups, and non-profit organizations were handing out information. The Bahai Literature seemed the most interesting.

Pat Robertson

Here is an interesting perspective on Pat Robertson: http://Dissidentvoice.org/Aug05/Zingh0827.htm.

Censorship in America

Television Stations are refusing to carry ads that are critical of Mr. Bush. It's examples like this, that make all thinking people, favor Media Reform! http://sltrib.com/tv/ci_2971343.

Protest the War!

Mr. Bush has had his military adventure (at the cost of 1800+ American Lives)! Let's bring the troops home! Enough is enough!

Please look at this website:http://Post-gazette.com/pg/05236/558658.stm.

Mr.Bush

Mr.Bush says that he won't change his schedule to meet with Cindy Sheehan. Question: what schedule does he have? He is on vacation!

The Church

The church renews itself. We cannot preserve those structures in which sin has enthroned itself and from which come abuses, injustice, and disorders. We cannot call a society, a government, or a situation Christian when our brothers and sisters suffer so much in those inveterate and unjust structures.

(Bishop Oscar Romero)

There is room for improvement in this World!

(Kris)

Grandmaster

Yesterday I played the Grandmaster of Chess, Igor Ivanov. At least when I lost to him, I had an excuse for losing. Here are some websites for more information about Igor: http://onegoodmove.org/1gm/chess/igorbio.html, http://Chessgames.com/perl/chessplayer?pid=72129.

New Job

I just got a new job, that I will be starting on Monday. I will be working Construction. Tonight I am going to the Chess Center. I will be meeting (Igor Ivanov) who is a Grand Master of Chess.

Vigil

I attended the Candle Light Vigil in St.George. 17 people showed up, which is pretty good for this area. People at the vigil had already heard that I am running for County Commissioner next year, and were very supportive of my efforts. The vigil went well, and I drove home feeling great about all the awesome people who attended it!

Chess

Yesterday I went to the Chess Center in St.George. This is the 2nd time I have visited, and I still haven't beaten anyone yet. Unless you count the small child that I showed no mercy on, on my first visit. The good news however, is that I'm learning some trick moves in some Chess Books that I have been reading. So I'm getting better.

Tonight I'm going to Toastmasters, and after that I'm going to a candle light vigil, in support of
Cindy Sheehan. Yes, St.George,Utah, is progressive enough to pull something like this off. At least that's what I'm hoping!

New Developments

I attended the Washington County Executive Committee yesterday. There was a very positive development that our Chairman was able to share with us. It turned out that when our Chairman was watching over the Democratic Booth at the County Fair, that a Man (31 years old) approached him and said he didn't want to be a Republican anymore. This man was so disgusted by the War, and Mr. Bush destroying our Natural Environment, that he no longer wanted to be affiliated with the Republican Party. So of course our Chairman changed this fellows registration, so that he could be a Democrat! Well the good news doesn't stop there, since it turns out that this fellow (Todd B. Hohbein) is also going to be running for the City Council in Laverkin, Utah. Although that is a non-partisan race, it is good to know that a fellow Democrat is competing for that office.

Blue Hobgoblin recommends this Blog, and so do I: http://Religiousliberal.blogspot.com.

County Commissioner

Next year I plan on running for County Commissioner of Washington County. The filing date is March 10-17th.

Tonight I will be attending the Executive Committee for Washington County Democrats.

Here is a website that I recommend: http://Catholicworker.org.

Truth

None reaches the rank of truth until a thousand honest people testify that he is a heretic.

(Junaid of Baghdad)

Merely doing good to the evil may be equivalent to doing evil to the good.

(Saadi of Shiraz)

I hope ever to see America among the foremost nations of justice and liberality.

(George Washington)

All men recognize the right of Revolution; that is, the right to refuse allegiance to and resist the government, when its tyranny or its inefficiency are great and unendurable.

(Henry David Thoreau)

These are some thoughts worth pondering.

Discussion

I was in charge of the Democratic Booth from 8-10 PM yesterday. The first hour I was there, I had an interesting Political Discussion with a fellow named Dan, who is a Kubota Tractor Salesman. He isn't a member of any Political Party, but is someone who is deeply interested in Politics. After that I handed out some brochures to people who stopped by the booth.

As a side note, Another interesting booth at the Washington County Fair was sponsored by the St. George Chess Center. For those who don't know, Chess is a game that I enjoy playing. Their Website is http://stgeorgechess.com.

Mission

Here is a test to find whether your mission on earth is finished: if you are alive, it isn't.

(Richard Bach)

Yesterday I went to the Washington County Fair. The Democratic booth looks good, and we have produced a great Brochure that is written in both English and Spanish! The only thing that marred my experience yesterday was having to pass by the two Republican Booths. Especially the one sponsored by The Republican Women that had a life-size cut-out of Mr. Bush. I had to call on all my reserves of self control, not to push that cut-out over. One of my Democrat Friends wanted to throw darts at it. Tonight I will be working at the Democratic Booth from 8-10 PM.

Today

Today was my last day working at Zion National Park. I had a great 4 1/2 Months up there, but it is time to move on to new challenges. I am back in St. George.

Today the Washington County Fair begins. Believe it or not the only cost to get in, on opening night, is $1 for parking. Even though I don't work at the Democratic Booth until tomorrow, I am going to go there tonight to visit the Booth, and see the rest of the Fair also.

Another interesting development in Utah is that Multi-Millionaire Mark Cuban is so upset with Senator Orin Hatch, that he is donating $4,200 to a no-name Democratic Challenger.

Also on August 15th, The Washington County Democrats will be holding a Town Hall style meeting, where we will adopt a Statement of Ideology. The question that will be posed is "What is the difference between us and the other Political Parties?"

Washington County Fair

At the Washington County Fair in Southern Utah, Democrats will have an information booth. I look forward to helping out with the booth as much as possible. The Fair is August 10-13.

I am still working at Zion National Park. It nice to be able to commune with nature in such a beautiful setting. Also I am practicing my Chess, and improving a little.

"The ruler is a shepherd and his flock is the people. He has to help them and save them, not to exploit and destroy them. Is the shepherd there for the flock, or the flock for the shepherd?"

(Hakim Jami)

Hispanic Committee

Although I am not Hispanic, I am now a member of the Washington County Democrats (Hispanic Committee). This is a committee that was recently formed to provide a political outreach to the large numbers of Hispanics that are moving into Southern Utah.

White Ribbon

I won a White Ribbon in my Toastmasters Club last night for my impromptu speaking abilities. That portion of our meeting is called Table Topics. It is challenging, because you are given a topic to speak on without any notice, and expected to speak on it for 1-2 minutes.

In Southern Utah we are expecting severe flooding. Especially in Zion National Park, which is where I happen to be working.

Meeting

The Meeting went well last night. Those who attended the discussion on Abortion were more Progressive on that issue than I am, but it was good to get a sense of how other Democrats in Washington County feel about this topic.

Volunteer Work

I have been doing some volunteer work, helping to weed the vegetable garden at the Elementary School in Springdale, Utah. The Srawberries are almost ripe already. The Principal of the Elementary School, says he will keep the garden going all summer, since the children like to visit the garden.

The speech I gave in Toastmasters was well received. I won a blue ribbon for my speech.

I have returned From the State Democratic Convention in Salt Lake City. Tonight I will be the Parliamentarian at a meeting for Democrats in Washington County.

Toastmasters

Tomorrow I have a Toastmasters meeting. I will be giving a speech. Since my speech is supposed to be a dramatic speech, I am going to talk about when I was in Elementary School and I fell on a stick.

Also I am planning on doing some Volunteer Gardening, in Springdale, which is a small town, just outside of Zion National Park.

Will write more soon!

Salt Lake City

As I have previously mentioned, I will be attending the Democratic Convention for the State of Utah. This event will be held in the Salt Palace, in Salt Lake City. Here is the Web Site: http://Utdemocrats.org.

State Convention

On May 7th, I will be attending the Utah State Democratic Convention, in Salt Lake City. Since I am a Delegate, I will be voting on who will be the State Party Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer.

Sorry I haven't corresponded more frequently, but I have been sick!

What do my readers think about the new Pope?

Working

I have been working the last three days at the Zion Lodge, but came into town to let my readers know, that I will not rest until I have properly tormented all Conservatives with my Liberalism.

Busy Day

Today has been a busy, yet rewarding day. This morning I was elected Treasurer of the Washington County Democrats (Utah). I am also going to be a delegate to the State Convention next month. I wasn't asked to give a speech, since I ran uncontested.

Right now, however, I am preparing to attend a Toastmasters Area Speech Competition, this evening. It has been snowing, so I hope I don't get stranded. Thanks Blue Hobgoblin, for the Good Luck Wish!

Tomorrow

Tomorrow is the big day. Tomorrow Morning I will find out if I will be elected Treasurer of the Democratic Party, for Washington County, Utah. Nobody is running against me yet, but it is still possible someone could announce their candidacy from the floor of the Convention. I have been asked to give a 5 Minute speech at the County Convention, in order to explain my qualifications, and why people should vote for me. I will let my readers know more, as soon as I am able to.

Toastmasters

I'm on my way to a Toastmasters Meeting. Will write more in a few days.

Day Off

I finally got a day off, so I came into town to update my blog. If anyone would like to work at Zion's Lodge, in Zion Canyon National Park, they are still hiring. I have been working as a Host, at the Red Rock Grille, at Zion's Lodge. I have been treated very well, by my Supervisors, Co-Workers, and Guests. I am living in the Dormitories up there and have done a little hiking. Climbing (Walter's Wiggles) has been the most challenging hike, thus far. My readers might be surprised if they saw how many Shuttle-Busses transport Tourists through Zion Canyon.

On the Political Front, I will have my name on the ballot on April 9th, for Democratic Party Treasurer of Washington County.

In Toastmasters (the largest Public Speaking Organization in the World), I am still President of my local club, and I want to start a club in Zion Canyon as well.

I want to thank Blue Hobgoblin, and Milad for their Kind Comments!

Cordially Kris

Zion Canyon

I have accepted a job at Zion Canyon National Park. Since I will be living out there, I won't be able to update my blog very often. I leave you all with this thought.

You have a duty to perform. Do anything else, do any number of things, occupy your time fully, and yet, if you do not this task, all your time will have been wasted.

(Rumi)

Peace Rallies

A very important Peace Rally is being held in Fayetteville, North Carolina, today.

Donkey

A donkey stabled in a Library does not become literate.

(Abdal Ali Haidar)

A Jackass stabled in the Whitehouse is incapable of becoming
a Statesman/Stateswoman.

(Kris)

United States

The United States spends more on arms than all the other major industrial nations combined.

(Michael Parenti)

Make Peace with the Universe.

(Rumi)

Public Speaking

For those who would like to improve their Public Speaking Skills, I highly recommend: http://Toastmasters.org. I have found it to be a good Organization.

Oxbow

Still having trouble posting comments to your blog. I am also having touble posting comments on my blog.

Ibn al-Arabi

O Marvel! a garden amidst the flames.
My heart has become capable of every form:
it is a pasture for gazelles and a convent for Christian Monks,
and a temple for idols and the pilgrim's Kaa'ba,
and the tables of the Torah and the book of the Quran.
I follow the religion of Love: whatever way Love's camels take,
that is my religion and my faith.

Ibn al-Arabi (1165-1240)

Let me know what you think of this poem that was written several
Centuries ago?

Oxbow

I was unable to post to your blog, Oxbow.

Idries Shah

The way I learned about the Poet Rumi, was when I was reading a book by Idries Shah, titled Learning How To Learn. I thought the book by Idries Shah had some interesting insights.

Rumi

Several years ago, I became intrigued by the poetry of Rumi. Indeed, thus far, he is my favorite poet. Here are some other Sufi Poets, I want to learn more about: http://Wahiduddin.net/sufi_poetry.htm.

Minimum Wage

Let's see if I have this straight. The Republicans are opposed to raising the Minimum Wage, but in favor of tightening up the Bankruptcy Laws. They are also opposed to every form of Welfare other than Corporate Welfare. Seriously folks, I believe the Republicans would bring back Debtors Prisons, if they thought they could get away with it.

1500 Dead

1500 Dead American Soldiers in Iraq, thousands more wounded. Does the world seem any safer to you? It sure doesn't to me. If I was a young American Male, I would be concerned about the possibility of a Military Draft, in the near future.

Church

I attended an interesting religious group today. They had a guest speaker who is a University Professor, and he also happens to be Hindu. Although I'm not interested in becoming Hindu, he was very well spoken, and mentioned repeatedly that Religion shouldn't be overly rigid. I could relate to that, because I'm also opposed to excessive Dogmatism, whether in the religious, or political world.

Another thing I did today is sign up with: http://43things.com. It seems like an interesting experiment, in the realm of Social Networking. I had to use a different user-name, since Kris was already taken.

Toastmasters

On Wednesday I gave a speech in my Toastmasters Club, on The Irish Potato Famine. The speech was well received, and one Lady in the Club said my speech was a good illustration of compassion.

I have been thinking about the power of Liberal Blogging lately. Although some of the large blogs have great resources, I think it is the numerous small blogs, that give blogging it's true strength.

Ann Coulter

Ann Coulter has made an ass out of herself once again. I had noticed a few days ago, that her Newspaper Column had been edited, when she referred to reporter Helen Thomas, as That Old Arab. I was going to mention that on my blog earlier, but decided not to, since Ann Coulter gets to much publicity already. However, the tongue-lashing she got from Alan Colmes after she referred to him as a liar, was too good not to share. Check the video on: http://Crooksandliars.com.

Joe Lieberman, Sun Myung Moon, and Tin-Foil Hats.

First of all Joe Liebeman needs to be removed from office at the Midterm Elections. Here is someone that has the right idea: http://Timetogojoe.com. The next order of business to address, is that menace to Society, Reverend Moon. Here are some sites that debunk this Power Hungry Man: http://iapprovethismessiah.com, http://Freedomofmind.com, and http://Moonbook.com. This Moon Fellow is one frightening Senior Citizen. Since I care about my readers, I am offering some low-cost information, to protect you from Moonie Mind Control: http://Zapatopi.net/afdb.html.

Time

Where does all the time go? I found an off-beat website that I think my readers will find amusing: http://Anxietyculture.com.

Peace Vigils

Get ready for the Peace Vigils, and Peace Rallies, that are going to be taking place across the Country. So far the closest one to where I live is going to be in Las Vegas. That is over 100 miles away. Let's all work together to bring the troops home, before the Neocons do something tragic, like bringing back the Draft. Here are some Websites for further information: http://Clnnlc.org, http://Unitedforpeace.org.

So Much

So much going on in the World, so little time to cover it. Jeff/Jim Gannon/Guckert, has now started a Non-Male-Prostitute website: http://Jeffgannon.com, where he feels sorry for himself. Also I have been doing some research on The American Enterprise Institute (AEI), as well as the Cato Institute. I always knew these were sick institutions, but they are even more evil than I previously realized. Also Talon News has been shut down, they claim it's temporarily, but it looks permanent to me. Finally it was good to see Vladimir Putin turn the tables on Bush Jr., by planting his own fake journalists, so they could ask hostile questions of our President.

Quotes

Where would we be if the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., had kept his faith to himself? He did it with a bible in one hand, and the Constitution in the other hand, and had a moral discourse on politics in a way that made everybody feel invited.

(Jim Wallis)

How did Jesus become Pro-Rich, Pro-War, and only Pro-American.

(Jim Wallis)

I find 3,000 verses in the Bible on the poor, so fighting poverty is a moral value.

(Jim Wallis)

Leo Strauss

If you want to know how the Neocons started, it began with Leo Strauss (1899-1973). Yes, that insidious Cabal that controls our Foreign Policy in America, started with a University of Chicago professor, who enjoyed watching The Gunsmoke TV Series. Just when it seemed that this Man's Ideas were going to die in obscurity, Irving Kristol decided to become his Disciple. The Neocon Movement then began to spread it's tentacles, and hasn't looked back since. Their Political Philosophy can be summed up in one word: Deception.

Republican Dirty Tricks

Every day this Gannon/Guckert Scandal gets sleazier. If nothing else, it allows us Liberals to peer behind the curtain of The Republican Dirty Tricks Machine. Here are some links, for those who have strong stomachs: http://Nashuaadvocate.blogspot.com, http://Americablog.blogspot.com, and http://Mediamatters.org. If the Conservatives have nothing to hide than why do they keep erasing information from their Websites, and Blogs? The Conservative Cabal is Powerful, but not Omnipotent.

Establishment Media

Establishment Media is not where it's at. People need to start using their critical thinking skills, and hold the Establishment Media responsible for their blatant propaganda. One example of this is the Gannon/Guckert Story. This fellow who worked for a fake News Agency, was at White House Press Briefings, before he even started working for Talon News. The reason that many people didn't realize that he was a fake reporter, was since there are so many fake reporters working for major News Agencies, he blended in. Let's have some real reporting in America. Otherwise, we must assume that Liberal Blogs are more credible sources of accurate information, than the Establishment Media.

Washington Times

If you were an intelligent Business Person, would you invest in a Newspaper that has never turned a profit in over 20 years. Would it make sense to lose 2-4 Billion Dollars on a Newspaper that has a relatively small readership. If you are Sun Myung Moon it makes perfect sense. You see, he isn't interested in making money on the The Washington Times. He is primarily interested in turning America into a Theocracy, controlled by himself. When you consider that he has spent more money than even Richard Mellon Scaife to infiltrate The Conservative Movement, it's no wonder that even Jerry Falwell likes to hug Rev. Moon. It has been said that if you want to understand Politics, that you need to follow the money. By this standard, Mr. Moon is definitely one of the Pillars of The Republican Party.

Sun Myung Moon

I have never been a big fan of Rev. Moon. Today I came across a blog that has some information about Mr. Moon's Political Influence on America. I was already aware that Mr. Moon owned The Washington Times, but this blog filled in some details, that I didn't know. For more info: http://Cellwhitman.blogspot.com.

Treasurer

For those who want to see the information I posted about myself, with regards to my campaigning for Democratic Party County Treasurer, here is a link: http://soutahdemocrats.com, then click on County, then click on Treasurer.

Gannon-Gate

It has been officially confirmed that James Guckert/Jeff Gannon, has advertised himself on Websites as a Male Prostitute. This is only one more example of Republican Hypocrisy.

John Aravosis

John Aravosis of http://Americablog.blogspot.com, claims he is going to release a major story on the Gannon/Guckert Saga tomorrow.

Other bloggers have been talking about how Sun Myung Moon and the Moonies have used their millions of dollars to infiltrate, and in some cases to even dominate the Republican Party. Not exactly a New Story, except for those who let FOX News do their thinking for them.

I heard a few days ago that Al Franken wants to run for the U.S. Senate in 2006, from his home State of Minnesota. I say give 'em Hell Al! If I ever get any money, I will gladly contribute it to your candidacy.

Howard Dean

Howard Dean is officially the new DNC Chair. Let's get behind Howard Dean, and Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, and really accomplish something over the next two years!

With regards to the fake journalist, Gannon/Guckert, who wrote for a fake News Organization (Talon News), it turns out that he may be a Marine. Although he is 47 years old, some people within the blogosphere believe he should be sent to fight in Iraq.

Howard Kurtz

It looks like Howard Kurtz, reporter for The Washington Post, is officially in the Liberal Blogging Dog-House. His defense of Gannon/Guckert, or whatever the heck his name is, coupled with Mr. Kurtz's bashing of Liberal Bloggers, has made him Persona Non Grata. Even http://Buzzflash.com, has declared Howard Kurtz to be the most hypocritical Republican of The Week. Mr. Kurtz is probably insulated enough, over at the Post, to withstand the Firestorm he has generated, but he is definitely taking his lumps.

Corruption

When will the corruption in the Bush Jr. Whitehouse end? Just when I was marveling at the millions of dollars that Bush Jr., and the Republicans are currently spending to tarnish one of the few honorable Politicians in this Country (Senator Harry Reid), I also find out that Bush Jr., and company had given White House Press Credentials to someone using a fake name (James Guckert/Jeff Gannon). For more info: http://Americablog.blogspot.com.

More Thoughts

I would like to ask my readers to check out this Political Website that I discovered yesterday: http://ctx3.com.

Also I have been called today, and told that I need to put a bit of information about myself on a Website that a Politically Active group of people maintain here in Utah. I was told I should do it yesterday also, so now that I have been told twice, I think I will actually start working on it. In case anybody missed yesterdays post, I am campaigning for Democratic Party County Treasurer. Thanks for everyones encouragement.

March 19th

There will be a Peace Rally in Fayettville, North Carolina on March 19th. Although I live on the other end of the Country, and won't be able to attend that particular Rally, it sounds like it has the potential to become a large gathering. Let's organize Rallies around the Country on that day, and build some momentum to Bring Our Troops Home.

Campaigning

I have been encouraged to run for the office of Democratic Party County Treasurer. I have decided to throw my hat into the ring, and will know the results in April.

It looks as if Howard Dean, will be the new DNC Chair. He will definitely give a different direction to the Party. Although Mr. Dean wasn't my first choice for this position, he will be an improvement over Terry McCaullife.

A fellow blogger has brought an important Political, as well as Moral Issue to my attention. There will be some Peace Rallies held on March 19th. This is the 2nd Anniversary of the invasion of Iraq. It is time to bring the troops home. Here is a link for additional info: http://Nebraskanliberation.blogspot.com.

Kentucky Fried Cruelty

Al Sharpton is calling for a Boycott of Kentucky Fried Chicken. He has joined forces with PETA, to denounce the terrible conditions that these birds face. I say that we should support this Animal Welfare Movement. Although I'm not a Vegetarian, clearly the substandard food that is foisted on America, and The World needs to be improved. Also there is no need to senselessly torture animals. Maybe if we can learn to treat Chickens with respect, we can also learn to treat each other with respect also.

For more info: http://Kentuckyfriedcruelty.com .

Life on Earth

It is not a matter of getting individuals into heaven, but of transforming the life on earth into the harmony of heaven.

(Walter Rauschenbusch)

Here is a large Website that has alot of useful information. http://Religioustolerance.org .

Washington Gladden

Washington Gladden (1836-1918) was another important person in the Social Gospel Movement. He not only was a Religious Leader, but served 2 years on the Columbus, Ohio, City Council.

I have found an important blog, written by a Seminary Student, that covers various Social Issues. http://Chuckcurrie.blogs.com .

Social Gospel

I have been doing some research on The Social Gospel Movement that took shape during the late 19th Century, to early 20th Century. I haven't got too far yet, but most people seem to think that Walter Rauschenbusch (1861-1918) was the Key Person, in this movement. Will give more details tomorrow on this.

For those who would like general information about the fallacies of Excessively Conservative Christianity, click on this link: http://Liberalslikechrist.org .

Alberto Gonzales confirmed (60-36)

The day I dreaded almost as much as the day Condi Rice was confirmed, has finally arrived. Alberto Gonzales was confirmed by a vote of (60-36) by the Senate. I was hoping for a last minute fillibuster, but wasn't too optimistic that would occur.

Here are a few more commendable Web Sites: http://Nowarforiran.blogspot.com , and http://Rebeccablood.net . Rebecca Blood's site is especially helpful because not only does it have alot of useful links, but she has written and edited books about blogging.

Interesting Blogs

I thought my readers might find these blogs interesting. Have I steered you wrong yet? http://Thehomelessguy.blogspot.com , http://Hobopoet.blogspot.com .

Posting Comments

Has anyone been having trouble posting comments today?

Alberto Gonzales

I just received 38 Emails, of bloggers who are opposed to the confirmation of Alberto Gonzales, as Attorney General. I am opposed to the confirmation of Alberto Gonzales also.

Here is an Internet Site if you would like more information: http://Newsfare.com .

Compassion

We are taught to look out after #1, and then wonder why we have Enron's, and WorldCom's. Something isn't right when an executive makes 500 times as much as an ordinary worker. I am not opposed to Capitalism, but Avarice must have some limitations.

Here are some blogs that have impressed me: http://oxbow344.blogspot.com , http://Liberalreview.blogspot.com .

Father Sun, Sister Moon

Father Sun, Sister Moon; is an excellent movie that I saw several years ago, about the life of Saint Francis. Saint Francis was so different from those who equate spirituality with prosperity. To the best of my knowledge, Saint Francis never criticized the Teletubbies either.

Here are some interesting blogs: http://hobbyjustice.blogspot.com, and http://nebraskanliberation.blogspot.com.

Creed

Here is my creed: I believe in one God, the Creator of the universe. That he governs it by his providence. That the most acceptable acceptable service we render him is doing good to his other children. That the soul of man is immortal, and will be treated with justice in another life respecting its conduct in this.

(Benjamin Franklin)

Spiritual Worth

Certainly, thinking of individuals as being children of God or of infinite spiritual worth because they are an expression of the Ultimate is a pretty good basis for the kind of mutual respect and nonviolence one wants in a diverse society.

(Roger S. Gottlieb)

The People

Whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive...It is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it.

(Declaration of Independence)

Purpose of SJC

The purpose of The Social Justice Coalition, isn't merely to unite the Religious Left against the wrong-headed ideas of The Christian Coalition, and the Religious Right. Atheists and Agnostics will hopefully also participate. As the Social Justice Coalition grows larger, we want there to be plenty of diversity in our membership. We hope that Atheists and Agnostics, will unite in Common Cause with the Religious Left, under the banner of The Social Justice Coalition, in order to combat the excessive Religious Fundamentalism, which is distorting The Political Process.

Rebellion

Rebellion to Tyrants is obedience to God.

(Thomas Jefferson)

Fearing Religion

Fearing religion as "divisive" or as inherently tied to conservative activism, liberals fall back on secular arguments about individual or group economic self-interest. Such arguments, however, may be too anemic to serve as a basis for a bold new movement for social justice in America.

(Theda Skopcol)

Desmond Tutu

How anyone having read the prophets could say, 'Do not mix religion with politics' is quite baffling. Which bible had they read? In situations of injustice nothing could be so revolutionary and so subversive of the status quo than the Bible and its prophets.

(Desmond Tutu)

Thomas Paine

Thomas Paine not only was a Founding father, but was considered a Religious Heretic by many people. If Thomas Paine were alive today, I bet him and Jerry Falwell, Pat Robertson, and Bill Graham would have gone the rounds.

Joining Hands

I have been reading an interesting book by Roger S. Gottlieb called Joining Hands. There are alot of interesting quotes in his book, that show that Liberals don't need to hide their Religious Beliefs. Another good Author is Jim Wallis.

We don't want to change your oil, we want to change the World.

The Social Justice Coalition is a group that is in it's formative stage. The Social Justice Coalition is the Liberal answer to The Christian Coalition, and The Religious Right. Thus far our group consists of three Internet Activists. Please feel free to post your comments.