2006 Elections

Yesterday was an eventful day! The filing closed for those who are running for office in Utah. Here in Washington County, Democrats (myself included) are running for two County Commissioner Seats. At the State Legislature level, all three districts in this County will be contested by Democratic Candidates. Even the Mainstream Media is amazed by the Political Turmoil taking place in Utah! On Tuesday I will be helping with the Precinct Caucuses. Jim Guard and I, will be supervising 19 Precincts at a Middle School.

Religion

Progressively-Minded People need to stop allowing the Conservatives from convincing The Public that they have a Monopoly on Religion. Just because Liberals don't always wear there Religion on their sleeves, doesn't mean that Liberals are any less Spiritual!

Book

Even though I haven't written very much of my Book yet, I am very excited about it. My plan is to write a short book about Progressive Politics, so that aspiring Political Activists can receive a bit of mentoring. My book should also be interesting to those who already have some experience in Politics.

Newspaper Article

The Newspaper Article about me appeared on page #2 of the Spectrum!

Also I am still writing a Book about Progressive Politics. I will be Self- Publishing this book.

Miracle

Sometimes Miracles occur! However, we tend to look for natural explanations, so that we don't become to overwhelmed by what's happening directly in front of us! The Current Miracle that I'm referring to, is happening in Washington County, Utah. Where I live, the filing date for Political Office this year is March 7th---March 17th. When March 17th rolls around, look at how many Democrats will have filed for County Offices, and the State Legislature. If after careful study, you don't believe this is a Miracle, than you have more humbug in you than Ebeneezer Scrooge!

Brian Passey

Today I was interviewed by Brian Passey, the best reporter at The Spectrum newspaper. He is going to put an article in the local Newspaper, about my bid for County Commissioner. My Mother doesn't know that I'm running for Political Office, so I hope she doesn't faint when she reads about it in the Newspaper!

Bahai Blog

Here is an interesting Bahai Blog: http://BahaiViews.blogspot.com. I discovered this blog, when Technorati informed me that they had linked to my blog.

Yesterday I went to my C.S. Lewis Study Group for the 2nd time. They made me pretend that I was one of the Characters in one of his books.

Candidate

Yesterday I filed to run for County Commissioner (Seat A). I am running against a longtime incumbent. The filing period will be open for another week. Then I will know if I am running in a Primary, or if I will simply be running in the General Election!

Elections

Tomorrow I will be filing to run for the office of County Commissioner.

Iran

Why can't the Bush Administration leave Iran alone? Mr. Cheney comes within an inch of killing someone with a Shotgun, yet he feels the need to beat the War-Drum against Iran! It is an interesting World, we live in.

Progressive Politics

The Title of the book I'm writing is: Progressive Politics. The sections will be: Blogging, Grassroots Politicking, and Social Justice.

Yesterday I went to the Lecture on C.S. Lewis. The lecture was good, and the lecturer encouraged questions and comments from the audience. Also the Potluck was quite good. Especially the desserts!

Laptop Computer

I received my Laptop Computer in the mail yesterday. It works! However, I don't have it hooked up to the Internet yet.

I attended a Bahai Study Group this morning. I have been meeting with this group for several weeks. We have almost finished studying a manual, that was published by The Ruhi Institute.

Tonight I am going to visit Grace Episcopal Church. They are having a Study Group this entire month about C.S. Lewis, and The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe. Being somewhat familiar with C.S. Lewis's writings, I thought I would go down there, and give everyone my two-cents.

Quote

He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; Who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children; Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who has left the world better than he found it, Whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; Who has never lacked appreciation of Earth's Beauty or failed to express it; Who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had; Whose life was an inspiration; whose memory a benediction.

(Ralph Waldo Emerson)

Write a Book

This year I am going to write a Book! I will let everyone know what it will be about, when I figure that out myself.

Blogging Conference

There will be an important Blogging Conference that will be held July 14-16th, in New Jersey. There will not be an admission fee, but the information that will be learned there will be invaluable. I will be posting more information about this Conference, as the time gets closer!

Wikipedia

I know that everyone is probably already familiar with http://Wikipedia.org, but I would advise my progressively-minded readers to dig deeper into this valuable resource.

Sands of Time

Lives of Great Men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime
And departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time.

(Longfellow)

Jefferson/Jackson Dinner

It has come to my attention that some people think that I should mention the price of the Jefferson/Jackson Dinner that will be held in Washington County, Utah. The price for a ticket is $35. This includes Prime Rib with all the trimmings, Speeches, and Entertainment as well. Although this Dinner is primarily for Southern Utah Democratic Activists, there is no reason that others can't attend. However since we are limited to 400 seats, I recommend that people buy their tickets soon!

Europe

Europe seems to be an interesting place. A fellow (David Irving) will spend a minimum two years in jail for denying that The Holocaust happened, but when Religious Cartoons result in the death and injury of numerous people, that is called Freedom of Expression.

Good News

Here in Washington County, Utah we are going to have a big Jefferson/Jackson Dinner, on April 28th. This will be the night before the Democratic County Convention. We are still putting all the details together, but we do know that we will be having our Prime Rib Dinner in The Garden Room, at the Dixie Center. We will only be able to host 400 People at the Dinner, so I know I will be buying my ticket early!

Filtering

I often access the Internet, via the Public Library. So I probably notice something that many people who have their own computer, never do. Many Public Libraries have filtered the Internet beyond the realm of Common Sense. It is not my intention to shock my Fellow Library Patrons with what I view on the Internet. However, when I have to get Library Personel to help me over-ride the filters, so that I can search for "Paul Goodman" on the Internet, I think the concept of filtering has been taken beyond what is reasonable.

Links

Here is a Religious Link that deserves a visit: http://mysticmontage.blogspot.com. Also here is a Political Blog that started about the same time as mine: http://nebraskanliberation.blogspot.com. Although I have previously made a link to Nebraskan, it was quite awhile ago, and I am embarrased to admit that I have fallen behind in reading his Blog.

Pamela Willeford

Who is this Pamela Willeford? Until today, I didn't know she was the Ambassador of Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Now it turns out that she was on this fake hunting expedition also. Some people are speculating that she may have had a Romantic Relationship with the Vice-President. I will let inquiring minds do the research on that. What troubles me however, is why didn't the Vice-President pay the $7 for a hunting tag? Which leads me to ask another question. When Arnold Schwarzenhager got into a Motorcycle Accident, why didn't he have a Motorcycle Endorsement? It seems there is a separate form of Justice for Republican Officials!

John Brown's Speech

Unfortunately John Brown's Speech: http://education.ucdavis.edu/new/stc/lesson/socstud/railroad/benet.htm is as relevant today, as it was in 1859.

Fake Hunting

It seems the Vice President can't even hunt like a normal person. He goes hunting for quail that are domesticated animals. He also is in such poor health that he has to have an ambulance stationed nearby, in case he has another Heart-Attack. He only goes hunting with Fellow Multi-Millionaires. He is so incompetent that he shoots another person, instead of a bird. He doesn't even have the proper Hunting Tags, in order to go hunting in Texas. He hides the hunting accident for 18 hours, untill someone else breaks the story. The Secret Service prevents Local Officials from investigating the incident. Can you imagine what would have happened if Al Gore had done something like this?

Now for something completely different. I would like my readers to tell me what they think of John Brown? Yes, the John Brown who tried to help free the Slaves, prior to the Civil War?

Although I still use Blogger, I have stopped using the Google Search Engine. It looks like others are becoming disenchanted with Google: http://noluv4google.com/article.php?list=type&type=92.

Spiritual Longing

I believe there is a Spiritual Longing in the World. There is something that people are searching for, and they can't quite put their finger on it. Sometimes this noble impulse is distorted by those who are able to persuade people to things that are wrong, and sometime downright Evil.

Media Reform

Here is some useful information for those who are interested in Media Reform: http://FreeRadio.org.

Rocky Anderson

For those who don't know who Rocky Anderson is, he happens to be the Mayor of Salt Lake City. Although I live 300 miles from Salt Lake City, his Political Influence is felt even out here. This might surprise some people, but Salt Lake City is one of the 100 most Liberal Cities in the Country! Rocky Anderson even had the guts to lead a protest against President Bush, when Mr. Bush visited Utah! That is why I wanted to let everyone know about Rocky

Media

Have you ever wanted your very own Radio Station? It just might be more feasible than you think. Here is a site that will provide more information, and in some cases even assistance: http://PrometheusRadio.org.

Have you ever wondered Who actually owns whom, in the Mainstream Media? Here is some very detailed information: http://CJR.org/tools/owners.

American Soldiers

When I read the Newspaper in the morning, usually one of the first topics that I turn to is the information/propaganda about the turmoil in Iraq and Afghanistan. Although I am not a Pacifist, I am deeply concerned about the intentions of our Commander in Chief. There are times when War is justified, but I am sickened by the Powerful Cabal that has misused our Military. Another thing that troubles me, is the Propaganda Machine (i.e. The Mainstream Media) that enables this attempt at Empire Building to continue. Let those of us who are opposed to this unjust use of force, being carried out by our Government, resolve to redouble our efforts to bring sanity back to America!

Here are some facts about what is actually happening in Iraq and Afghanistan: http://icasualties.org.

Iran

I hope my gut instincts are wrong, but I have a feeling that an artificially contrived crisis is brewing. I sincerely believe that unless the American People can shake off the shackles of Mainstream Media Propaganda, that American Soldiers will be sent to fight in Iran.

Glenn Greenwald

I have been having some trouble accessing this blog, but if you can get through on this link: glenngreenwald.blogspot.com there is important information on the Alberto Gonzales Hearings.

Alberto Gonzales

Alberto Gonzales has got to go! Here is a fellow who should never have been confirmed Attorney General in the first place, and he conducts himself as if he and the President are above the Law!

Here is a good website for Liberals to keep on top of the technology that we are going to need, if we are going to beat the Conservative Noise Machine: TechnologyReview.com

Today

Today has been a relaxing day. I discussed some Bahai Principles with some members of that faith, and after that did some organizing on my storage space. Some people say that if you eliminate clutter, that you have more energy. Since I have begun to reduce my clutter, I do feel a little better.

I am probably the only one in America who hasn't been watching the Super Bowl. After I finish blogging I will check the score.

I have been feeling especially Conscious of the the Environment the last few weeks. Maybe it is because the weather has been so beautiful here in Southern Utah.

More Difficulties

Blogger is acting up again. The only way I can access my own blog is through blogger itself, and even then I can only view the editing section. Very Strange!

Technical Difficulties

I had technical difficulties with Blogger yesterday, so I lost my post. Hopefully today will go better!

I was playing Chess until midnight at the St.George Chess Center. Tuesday and Friday Nights are my Chess Nights.

I was looking at Pete Ashdown's Wiki, or Website, or whatever it is. For those who don't know who Pete is, he is running for the Senate against Orin Hatch. He said some vandals stole his 80 year old Fathers Campaign Sign, off the top of his car. Why doesn't that surprise me?

Fashion

I was visiting a blog today, when I came across a post about Cindy Sheehan. My automatic assumption was that the people in that particular blog would be praising Mrs. Sheehan, for standing up for her convictions. Instead it was a petty discussion over whether Mrs. Sheehan had proper fashion sense. 2245+ American Soldiers are killed, and people are debating Fashion Sense! Sometimes I worry about My Country, when I see such nonsense on the Internet!

Speech

My speech in Toastmasters went well yesterday. The title of my speech was "Make the Butterflies fly in formation." The speech was about dealing with nervousness when speaking in Public. I was supposed to speak for 5-7 minutes. No-one timed me, so I just tried to estimate the amout of time I was speaking, since I felt it would be wrong to continually be looking at my watch.

I am still in amazement that Cindy Sheehan was arrested for wearing a T-Shirt! I guess when you are persona non grata with the Bush Administration, that is considered to be a crime.

Some people are wondering why Google's stock went down. However, God revealed to me that he/she/it is punishing Google for allowing Censorship in China. I no longer use the Google Search Engine, and will stop using Google controlled Blogger, unless Google gets there act together!

T-Shirts

T-Shirts seem to be powerful merchandise these days. Just ask Cindy Sheehan who was arrested http://truthout.org/docs_2006/020106Z.shtml for wearing one! For those who aren't afraid of protesting against tyranny, please contact me for a Social Justice Coalition T-Shirt. I will be producing and mailing them at cost.

For those who don't think that any Progressive People live inside the State of Utah, here is your chance to think outside the box: http://democratsofsouthernutah.org, http://utdemocrats.org.

If you loathe Senator Orin Hatch, here is your chance to contribute to his downfall http://pashdown.org.

Tonight I am going to give a speech in Toastmasters. It will be an Advanced Level Speech from the Public Relations Manual.

Press Conference

I have returned from the Wayne Holland Meeting. It turned out to be a bit of a Press Conference. One of the Local TV Stations was there. There was about 25 People in attendance. We bought a small plate of food for $5 each. Someone at the meeting said that Bill Press is supposed to be the Keynote Speaker at our State Convention this year. They said they are also trying to get another famous speaker, but they don't want to say who it is until it is confirmed.

Wayne Holland

I have to run since "Wayne Holland", the Utah State Democratic Party Chair is going to be meeting with a group of us at The Painted Pony Restaurant in St. George, Utah.

Podcasting

Although I am still not Podcasting, I think that Liberal Minded People should check into it. Do you want Podcasting dominated by Rush Limbaugh Ditto-Heads, or Thoughtful, and Interesting People?

Today I drove up to Cedar City, Utah. I have been walking around the Southern Utah University Campus. Can you believe they actually give away the New York Times Newspaper for free at this Campus. I normally don't read the New York Times, except for an occasional article that catches my eye on the Internet. With people like David Brooks writing for them, I generally consider them to be too Conservative!

I am putting together a Business Plan for a Nonprofit Organization. I will let my readers know more about this, in the Near-Future.

Cindy Sheehan

Cindy Sheehan is considering running against Diane Feinstein, for the Democratic Nomination for the Senate. I hope she does! Even though her chances of actually winning the Democratic Nomination are according to my reckoning, at least 10,000 to 1, I believe the attempt might put some backbone into the Democratic Party! Also Mrs. Sheehan is planning on protesting over by Mr. Bush's Ranch in Texas, in April. I hope that many people will join her in her noble effort to save the lives of American Soldiers.

Now on a different note, here is the Website for the Bloggies: http://2006.bloggies.com.

Progress

Here is an informative Website: http://ThinkProgress.org.

Today I attended a Seminar sponsored by a Life Coach. A group of us talked about the information contained in the Book: Life is a Do-Over. Cindy Clemens the Author was there, and I felt that the Seminar was very motivational.

Iraq

Are you opposed to the Quagmire in Iraq? Here are some resources that are unlikely to be advertised by the Mainstream Media: http://Objector.org, http://MFSO.org, http://NLG.org, http://Quakerhouse.org.

Web Beacons

I don't use Yahoo, but I have just received word about the Web Beacons they use. It seems that if someone is part of a Yahoo User Group, that Yahoo not only tracks that person while they are on Yahoo, but also on outside Websites as well. Scary, isn't it! Is possible for a Search Engine to exist without selling out to the Establishment?

T-Shirt

I produced a T-Shirt yesterday (with the help of a local shop) that says, Social Justice Coalition in White Letters, on a Navy Blue Background. It looks quite good! When I get more money, I will sell this type of T-Shirt at cost, to those who are interested.

I am recommending two blogs that are written by the same person: http://rocrebelgranny.blogspot.com/, http://isamericaburning.blogspot.com/.

Best Friends

I had dinner with several people yesterday who work for the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. This seems like a good organization that deserves support. Here is the website: http://BestFriends.org.

I saw Brokeback Mountain on Saturday. Although it isn't the type of Movie, I would normally see, I chose to see it in order to financially reward the Movie Theater in Southern Utah that actually had the guts to show it!

New Job

I was out of work, for 3 hours yesterday. I got a new Job working for a Tile and Marble company.

For those who are interested in Privacy Issues, I recommend: http://Epic.org.

I still haven't seen Brokeback Mountain. I am going to see it tonight.

Layed Off

I got layed off today, which is a nice way of saying I got fired.

Today us Democrats in Washington County, Utah, are planning on seeing the Movie "Brokeback Mountain", in order to get on the Conservatives Last Nerve.

I approve of Google standing up to the Bush Administration on Privacy Issues. I just wish they were as courageous with the Chinese Government.

There is more turmoil in the Middle East. Iran is withdrawing their money from European Banks, and is also considering reducing their output of Oil.

Impromptu Speaking

I gave my Impromptu Speech yesterday. When I was giving my speech, I thought nobody liked it. However, after my speech everyone complimented me, and said I did a good job. The topic I spoke about was Science Fiction. That was the topic that was chosen from the 5 strips of paper. If you are wondering about the strips of paper, please read yesterdays post.

One interesting thing about the State of Utah, is that Utah has the highest Bankruptcy Rate in the Nation. I'm not sure why this is. I like to badger Conservatives by telling them it's due to lack of Family Planning.

Toastmasters International

I'm on my way to a Toastmasters Meeting. I will be be giving a 5-7 minute impromptu speech. According to my Manual, I will write down 5 different subjects on different slips of paper that I am Knowledgeable about, and give those topics to my Speech Evaluator. Then my Speech Evaluator will select at random, which of those topics I should speak on, to the group. Wish me Luck!

It is essential that Progressives do well in this years Mid-Term Elections. Please note that Joe Lieberman is not a Progressive Candidate.

Although I have never had any personal dealings with Heifer International: http://Heifer.org, they seem to be a good Organization. That is why I am posting their Website for the 2nd time.

Study Group

On Sunday I attended a Bahai Study Group for the 2nd time. They gave me some new Literature to read, but I haven't looked at it yet. When I attend their meetings, they provide a very nice lunch.

On Sunday Evening and Monday Evening I attended Democratic Organizational Meetings for Washington County in Utah. We are trying to recruit Democratic Candidates for this area.

I will be attending a Seminar sponsored by Cindy Clemens on January 28th. Cindy Clemens is a Life Coach.

Cindy

Here is Cindy Clemens Website: http://CindyClemens.com.

EMail

I finally got caught up on my EMail! At least temporarily.

I have been reading a book that was written by Cindy Clemens. I think it's called: Life is a Do-Over. Anyway I purchased the book directly from the Author, several days ago, and am impressed with her ideas.

Samuel Alito

I have been listening to some of the Samuel Alito Confirmation Hearings the last few days on NPR. Although I personally don't want him to be confirmed, I think we should be asking an even more important question. Why should members of the Supreme Court be confirmed for life? Thomas Jefferson suggested that Justices should only serve for 12 years, and I believe that 10 years is sufficient. I got in an argument with a fellow yesterday over this very issue. He told me that what I was saying was an opinion, and that what he was saying was fact. He got a smug expression on his face, when he told me this. However, he almost fainted when I told him that what he thought were facts, were his Personal Opinions also. I try to be nice, but some people make it difficult!

Heifer International

I keep hearing good things about Heifer International! Everyone from Barbara Kingsolver, to Business Magazines are praising them. I will definitely keep learning more about this organization, since they want to help the poor, and also encourage people to farm Organically! Here is there Website: http://Heifer.org.

Yesterday I attended a Bahai Study Group. I told them that although I feel they have alot of good Ideas, I don't think I would ever join their Religion, since they discourage Political Involvement. I do however plan to attend their study group, next Sunday.

Tom Delay

Wow! It has sure taken Tom Delay a while to confront Reality! He finally resigned from his Majority Leader post, only when Fellow Republicans circulated a petition, asking him to resign. If Tom Delay knew how to do anything besides laundering money, he would resign from Congress also.

Even though I'm Technologically Illiterate, I can see that Podcasting, and similar Technologies are the wave of the future. Although I don't Podcast yet, I would recommend that us Progressively-Minded People take advantage of these New Technologies to get our Message out!

11 Soldiers Killed

11 American Soldiers were killed in a single day in Iraq. When will the American Public wake up and realize that our troops are on a suicidal mission. Let's bring the troops home now!

Toastmasters Meeting

The Toastmasters Meeting went great yesterday. We had lively conversation, and did some impromptu speaking.

Toastmasters Club

I'm on my way to a Toastmasters Meeting. Although I have written about Toastmasters before on this Blog, I want my readers to know that Toastmasters is not only a great way to improve your Public Speaking Skills, but also a great way to improve ones Leadership Skills as well.
I believe that those of us with Progressive Ideas, can increase the likelihood of getting these important thoughts across to others by learning what the Toastmasters Club has to offer.

Daughter

I went to see my daughter yesterday. I takes over 2 hours to drive to her house. This is much better than when she lived in Seattle. We had a great visit.

How about Jack Abramoff? I bet a lot of people are squirming, in Congress. President Bush Even accepted $100,000 from Mr. Abramoff, according to what I heard on NPR today.

I'm probably going to go to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas on Saturday. I'm not sure how much the Tickets will cost.

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/.