Pray For Barack Obama

Open Letter: Barack Obama Writes To Malia & Sasha

2009-01-25T16:26:00.000-08:00

Obama's letter to his daughters was published in PARADE Magazine two days prior to the inauguration. Then-President-Elect explains why he ran for the highest office in the land:

Dear Malia and Sasha,

I know that you've both had a lot of fun these last two years on the campaign trail, going to picnics and parades and state fairs, eating all sorts of junk food your mother and I probably shouldn't have let you have. But I also know that it hasn't always been easy for you and Mom, and that as excited as you both are about that new puppy, it doesn't make up for all the time we've been apart. I know how much I've missed these past two years, and today I want to tell you a little more about why I decided to take our family on this journey.

When I was a young man, I thought life was all about me—about how I'd make my way in the world, become successful, and get the things I want. But then the two of you came into my world with all your curiosity and mischief and those smiles that never fail to fill my heart and light up my day. And suddenly, all my big plans for myself didn't seem so important anymore. I soon found that the greatest joy in my life was the joy I saw in yours. And I realized that my own life wouldn't count for much unless I was able to ensure that you had every opportunity for happiness and fulfillment in yours. In the end, girls, that's why I ran for President: because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation. [...]

I am so proud of both of you. I love you more than you can ever know. And I am grateful every day for your patience, poise, grace, and humor as we prepare to start our new life together in the White House. Read more>

A National Day of Renewal and Reconciliation

2009-01-21T15:54:00.000-08:00

In his first official act since taking the oath of office, President Barack Obama issued a proclamation, calling on Americans to serve one another and our common purpose on this National Day of Renewal and Reconciliation. Check it out below, or read it on the WhiteHouse.gov proclamations page.

NATIONAL DAY OF RENEWAL AND RECONCILIATION, 2009

- - - - - - -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

As I take the sacred oath of the highest office in the land, I am humbled by the responsibility placed upon my shoulders, renewed by the courage and decency of the American people, and fortified by my faith in an awesome God.

We are in the midst of a season of trial. Our Nation is being tested, and our people know great uncertainty. Yet the story of America is one of renewal in the face of adversity, reconciliation in a time of discord, and we know that there is a purpose for everything under heaven.

On this Inauguration Day, we are reminded that we are heirs to over two centuries of American democracy, and that this legacy is not simply a birthright -- it is a glorious burden. Now it falls to us to come together as a people to carry it forward once more.

So in the words of President Abraham Lincoln, let us remember that: "The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim January 20, 2009, a National Day of Renewal and Reconciliation, and call upon all of our citizens to serve one another and the common purpose of remaking this Nation for our new century.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

God Bless You: President Barack H. Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, Malia & Sacha O. (Inauguration Day + First couple dance-- Photos/Videos)

2009-01-21T15:12:00.000-08:00

Last updated: Jan 25, 2009

Thanks to fellow blogger 'The Face of AfriKa' for sharing the photos and videos below:

First Dance: President Barack Obama And First Lady Michelle Obama

Above-- Video Essay: A Look Back At The Inauguration

Video Essay: 'The Moment' of Presidency

First Day At Work
All photos credit: AP/CBS

President Obama (Photos & Videos)

2009-01-21T14:57:00.000-08:00

Thank you to fellow blogger The Face of AfriKa for allowing me to reproduce posts about Obama here (I've been very busy lately).

By Cathleen Decker
9:06 AM PST, January 20, 2009

Reporting from Los Angeles -- Barack Hussein Obama was sworn into office as the nation's 44th president today, assuming leadership of a nation riven by war and economic despair but embracing the improbable ascension of a first-term Illinois senator as the nation's first black chief executive.

With his hand on a Bible used by Abraham Lincoln more than a century ago, Obama repeated the 35-word oath before a rapturous and massive crowd, supplemented across the country with separate, if just as boisterous, celebrations. Obama sworn in on the steps of the US Capitol and in sight of the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King once proclaimed "I have a dream". On the stand as Obama took the oath were members of the Supreme Court, Congress and family and friends of the incoming leaders.

After formally becoming president, Obama was due to deliver an inaugural address that will warn Americans of difficult days ahead and call for a new spirit of bipartisan sacrifice to solve the varied problems facing the country -- themes familiar from Obama's long trek to the White House.

Obama and his wife, Michelle, and Biden and his wife, Jill, began their day by attending services at St. John's Episcopal Church, the traditional destination for an incoming president, located across Lafayette Park from the White House. Read more>

Barack Obama Sworn In as the 44th President of the United States

The new President's priorities include banning the use of harsh interrogation techniques on suspected terrorists, a go-ahead for stem cell research and the introduction of new healthcare programs for children from poor families.

Mr Obama is also expected to declare a goal of closing Guantanamo Bay military prison in Cuba, a promise he has made before but which takes greater significance after today's inauguration.

One of his most anticipated foreign policy moves in the first few months will be his commitment to travel to a large Muslim country to deliver a speech in which he will make a diplomatic push to engage Islamic nations.

Americans poured into their capital to celebrate the inauguration of the nation's first black President with parades and parties. More than two million people were expected to witness the event. Read More>

Obama's inauguration speech

Obama's inauguration speech transcript

My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors.

I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace.

Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms.

At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred.

Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered.

Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies.

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land - a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met.

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less.

It has not been the path for the faint-hearted - for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame.

Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things - some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.

For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.

Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life.

They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began.

Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished.

But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions - that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act - not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth.

We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost.

We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories.

And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions - who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short.

For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them - that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply.

The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works - whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end.

And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account - to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day - because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control - and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous.

The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart - not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals.

Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations.

Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake.

And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions.

They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please.

Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort - even greater cooperation and understanding between nations.

We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet.

We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers.

We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect.

To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West - know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy.

To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds.

And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains.

They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves.

And yet, at this moment - a moment that will define a generation - it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies.

It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours.

It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new.

But those values upon which our success depends - hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism - these things are old.

These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history.

What is demanded then is a return to these truths.

What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility - a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence - the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned.

The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world...that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."

America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words.

With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come.

Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

The Obamas' farewell the Bushes

Barack Obama Inaugural Concert In Washington DC

2009-01-19T19:21:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted anything here for a while... the inauguration kicks off in few hours!!!!! Wow, time flies. In the meantime, below is the recap of Sunday's inaugural concert.

AFP and MTV report:

Music legends joined Sunday with hundreds of thousands of people at Washington's Lincoln Memorial in a vast emotional celebration of Barack Obama's upcoming inauguration as the first black US president.

Obama and his family sang to the music along with a massive crowd who braved biting cold to witness mega-stars: Mary J. Blige sang "Lean on Me," which was followed up by Jon Bon Jovi's duet with Bettye LaVette on Sam Cooke's civil-rights anthem " Change Is Gonna Come". James Taylor and John Legend got together for Taylor's hit "Shower the People." Then John Mellencamp got onstage for his song "Ain't That America."
The celebrity sightings didn't end there. Sheryl Crow and Will.I.Am collaborated on Bob Marley's "One Love," while Usher, Shakira and Stevie Wonder joined up for "Higher Ground."
The big performances of the night came at the end. U2 performed two of their hits, , "Pride (In the Name of Love)" and the Obama-approved "City of Blinding Lights," noting that the whole world is ready for Obama's presidency.

Barack and Michelle Obama arrive at concert

photos credit NYT

Obama sings at inaugural concert

President-Elect Obama inaugural concert speech

Bill Gates: Opened To A Role In The Obama Administration

2008-12-08T16:36:00.000-08:00

As we all know, President-elect Obama has been choosing members of his administration. On December 2nd among other appointments, he 'officially' named rival Clinton secretary of state. I guess the best place to obtain fresh news about the Obama-Biden Transition including the President-elect's weekly address is on Change.gov, the Office of the President-elect.

Today I was surprised to read that Bill Gates would love to join the the Obama Administration. According to Philip Rucker, Bill Gates said: " If there was some committee or pretty focused task where I could contribute, I'd be glad to consider that, and I hope that the things we've learned about education -- including the mistakes we've made -- I hope we do get a strong dialogue and I'm very optimistic we'll have that with these people."

Gates met with Vice President-elect Joe Biden at Obama's Washington transition headquarters in the beginning of the month. Biden and Gates discussed "a wide range of issues, including global health and development, as well as the need to improve resources for secondary education, particularly for community colleges."

Photo (top-left): U. S. President-elect Barack Obama speaks with Senator Hillary Clinton after announcing her selection to the secretary of state post Monday in Chicago. - Photograph by : John Gress, Reuters

Photo (Above): Bill Gates

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 25-26

2008-11-30T06:25:00.000-08:00

For wisdom for the President- and Vice President-Elect as they make decisions regarding their families and the move to the White House and the Vice President’s residence in Washington, D. C.
The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.
—Proverbs 14:8

Holy God, thank You for being a loving, reaching God who longs for fellowship and intimacy with us. Thank You for the blessing and privilege of prayer so we may speak with You about all our needs and concerns, not matter how large or small they are.

Lord, work now in the lives of the families of the President- and Vice President-Elect, so that they may make the transition to Washington, D.C. with ease. Help those impacted by these moves, Lord, to be open and eager to be in a new place, develop new relationships and face new challenges. Give newly-elected Barack Obama and Vice President insight to do what is best for their families, particularly in the choice of schools. We give You glory, in the name of Christ, for hearing our prayer, amen.

By the Presidential Prayer Team

MTV To Host Inaugural Ball For Obama

2008-11-28T20:09:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday (November 25), MTV announced that it has partnered with ServiceNation to co-host the "Be the Change Inaugural Ball" in Washington, D.C., on January 20, 2009 — the same day President-elect Barack Obama will take his oath of office.

The event will celebrate the massive youth-voter turnout in this month's presidential election and an active commitment from America's youth to impart positive social change through volunteer service. ServiceNation is an organization that campaigns to increase support for expanding national service programs like the Peace Corps and Americorps. Read more here>

Related article:
http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1598633/20081105/puff_daddy.jhtml

Official Inaugural website:
http://inaugural.senate.gov/index.cfm

Photo courtesy of Essence

Michelle & Barack Obama Interview by Barbara Walters

2008-11-28T16:15:00.000-08:00

President-elect Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama sat down for an exclusive interview with ABC News' Barbara Walters. They discussed a variety of issues.

Photo courtesy of George Burns/abc news

Part 1

part 2

part 3

part 4

part 5

part 6

Seeking Jobs In Obama Administration

2008-11-28T15:11:00.000-08:00

The transition team has received 290,000 applications, and that's not including all the calls, e-mails and Facebook exchanges inundating its staffers.

Reporting from Washington -- One member of President-elect Barack Obama's transition team measures meetings by the number of resumes arriving on his BlackBerry. Another says job-seekers have offered him tickets to Redskins football games, which he has turned down. And yet another has given his mother in Chicago "talking points" to deal with people trying to get to him by going through her. [...]

Officials believe they could wind up with 1 million job-seekers by the time Obama is sworn into office on Jan. 20. By comparison, before President Bush took office in 2001, he received just 44,000 requests for political jobs. As former President Clinton assumed the White House in 1993, he had received 125,000 applications for jobs. Read more here>

The President-elect Thanksgiving address (Photo & Video)

2008-11-28T13:15:00.000-08:00

Barack and Michelle Obama said they want to teach their daughters "to learn the importance of how fortunate they are and make sure they are giving back" and volunteering at a food pantry near their home on the South Side of Chicago on Thursday 27 November O8 was one way of doing that. The President-elect Obama has volunteered at St. Columbanus Church before.

The Obamas also visited the church's school where they met with hundreds of students as shown on the pictures below.

Photos courtesy of AFP/GEtty/AP/Huffinton Post

Below, the video of the President-elect Thanksgiving address:

AP: "In a Thanksgiving address, President-elect Barack Obama recognizes the importance of family, gives thanks to our troops and talks about the strength needed to get through economic hardship. (Nov. 27) "

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 22-24

2008-11-28T13:02:00.000-08:00

For the President- and Vice President-Elect’s families to be protected by God moment by moment
But let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread Your protection over them, that those who love Your name may rejoice in You.
—Psalm 5:11

Holy Lord God, You alone are deserving of our complete faith and trust. You can do anything and Your plans cannot be undermined by even the wisest or cleverest of persons. As You showed Your faithfulness to the psalmist, You show Your faithfulness to us day by day.

Now, God, we ask that You will do the same for the families of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. In their positions they are vulnerable to attack from forces both literal and spiritual. Protect them, Lord, and keep them under Your mighty wings, that they may witness Your power and know that it is You, and You alone God, who is ministering to them. We pray this, O Lord, in the name of Your Son Jesus, amen.

By the Presidential Prayer Team

Obama Wows Them: The President-elect Economic Team Praised Across The political Spectrum

2008-11-25T12:28:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama's economic team received enthusiastic welcome from most observers and insiders. Below are the video announcement of the team together with a short introduction of one member of the economic team, Melody Barnes.

President-elect Obama Annouces Economic Team

Melody Barnes Introduces Herself

And Below, A Selection Of Impressive Critics

The Economist:
"Mr Geithner brings two crucial qualities. First, he represents continuity...he is now a familiar face to the most senior executives on Wall Street and to central bankers and finance ministers overseas. Second, he represents competence. He has spent more time on financial crises, from Mexico and Thailand to Brazil and Argentina, than probably any other policymaker in office today."

Brad Setser, fellow, Council on Foreign Relations; former Treasury official who worked briefly for Geithner both there and at the International Monetary Fund:
"I am thrilled that Mr. Geithner looks to be Obama's choice for Treasury Secretary. I am also pleased that President Obama also found a way to pull Dr. [Lawrence] Summers...into the administration. The current, severe crisis will provide plenty of work for both....I hope that the combination of Dr. Summers' intellectual creativity and Mr. Geithner's disciplined analysis and political acumen proves fruitful."

Paul Calello, CEO, Credit Suisse Investment Bank:
"I think Tim [Geithner] is a great choice for the job. He has the intellect, the experience and the ability to work across many constituencies that you need in that job. It's also important to note that Tim has both the domestic and international experience that is going to be very important going forward."

Thomas J. Donohue, President and CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce:
"President-elect Obama has chosen a strong, experienced economic team. Restoring the nation's economic health must be our top priority and the Chamber stands ready to work with the new administration to spur growth and job creation. This team brings a wealth of knowledge to Washington and an understanding that any sustainable economic recovery will involve the business sector. Tim Geithner has a deep understanding of our capital markets and the experience and credibility to tackle our nation's biggest challenge -- restoring our economy and rebuilding our financial markets. He has been directly engaged in all the steps taken so far to address this unprecedented crisis and is well qualified to lead the Treasury Department. Larry Summers' knowledge of economic issues and past experience as Treasury secretary will serve President Obama well. Likewise, Christina Romer and Melody Barnes will bring an understanding that any sustainable economic recovery will involve the business sector."

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 21

2008-11-25T12:09:00.000-08:00

Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
—Hebrews 4:16

O Gracious God, I praise and thank You for the grace You give so freely to all in Your kindness, mercy and love. Thank You for the rich provision of Your Son, Jesus Christ who tore the veil and opened the way for us to approach You with our petitions and concerns.

Bless, O Lord, our new President with a constant awareness that You are present with him and long for him to turn to You, to bring his needs and concerns to You, and to willingly receive Your kind provision and answers. Draw him to Your Word as revealed in the Scriptures and cause him to come to You with his every concern so he will find Your help with confidence and peace. In Your loving name, amen.

By The Presidential Prayer Team

Barack Obama Elementary School

2008-11-25T11:10:00.000-08:00

Few days ago, Political Punch' Jake Tapper reported that

A New York elementary school has been re-named in honor of President-elect Barack Obama. Ludlum Elementary School in Long Island's Hempstead Union Free School District was re-named at a board meeting Thursday, at the request of numerous school students.

"Just to watch these kids after the board voted on what they asked them to do, they were so elated," school district superintendent Dr. Joseph Laria told ABC News. "You want to talk about "Yes we can!"? That was a lesson in democracy."

Effective immediately, Ludlum will now be known as Barack Obama Elementary School, following a decision by the board to adopt the resolution drafted by students and staff.

While some are calling this move a "cult of personality", I believe this decision should be viewed as an event "honoring those who inspire us". Remember that the school name has been amended on students' request. Indeed, in the course of our lives we demonstrate - in various and creative ways - great kindness to individuals who helped shape our character. We are grateful to those mentors without whom we would not have been where we are now; Friends, parents, relatives and even strangers are showered with our praises whenever they make a positive contribution in our lives.
So why not rename a school after a politician who made us realize that honesty, transparency, courage, altruism, generosity and most importantly HOPE can cohabit with politics and power. A man who convincingly reminded us that hard work truly pays off whenever we remain persistent. Finally, in his acceptance speech in Denver last August Barack Obama repeated one of the most important rules that shaped his campaign: "you are not strong by putting other people down. You're strong by lifting other people up".

MoveOn: United For Change

2008-11-25T10:54:00.000-08:00

The Democrat grassroots organization MoveOn.org and its members feel strongly that those who voted to elect Obama president crucially need to keep the momentum going and continue organizing for change.

As Barack Obama himself has said repeatedly throughout the presidential campaign, change depends on everyone. MoveOn reminds its members today that there are "tens of thousands of lobbyists in Washington, funded by countless millions from corporations and industry groups. The oil and coal companies. The pharmaceutical industry. The HMOs. The telecoms. They're all gearing up right now to stop any bold health care bill or energy plan dead in its tracks.

They're going to fight Obama at every step. We have to be prepared to fight back harder."

In response the organization is launching a huge campaign in Washington with the voices of ordinary people who are longing for change. On TV, on billboards and buses, in district offices and the halls of Congress.

If you want to get involved click here: http://www.moveon.org/

Alternatively, you can donate here:

https://pol.moveon.org/donate/gobig.html?id=15166-10549100-pDN_FVx&t=3

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 20

2008-11-24T14:12:00.000-08:00

Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.
—1 Chronicles 16:24

Awesome God, there is no truth to be found anywhere in all creation apart from You. All Your words and ways are true and Your righteous laws last forever. Your glory is evident, and Your works are manifest in the world You have made.

Lord, we ask for Your glory to be revealed in the lives of the President-Elect Barack Obama and Vice President-Elect Joe Biden. We ask for them to be open and accepting of Your presence and direction. Let them foster openness toward Christian faith in their administration in which issues of faith and biblical truth are discussed candidly and without hesitation in the White House in ways we could not have anticipated. Let this be done, Lord, according to Your will, in the name of Jesus, amen.

By the Presidential Prayer Team

Photo Of The Week: Michelle O

2008-11-23T06:48:00.000-08:00

Michelle Obama, 44, is a Princeton- and Harvard-educated lawyer raised by blue-collar parents on the working-class South Side of Chicago.

She used to talk often on the campaign trail about being a working mother. Until recently, she juggled a job as a hospital executive with raising two young daughters, Malia 10 and Natasha (Sasha) 7, and lending support to her 47-year-old husband's political aspirations.

Michelle is a strong-minded woman who exudes confidence and is an accomplished public speaker.

She served a crucial role of giving emotional support to Barack amid the grueling slog of the campaign. It is reported that Barack Obama's mood brightened visibly when his wife joined him on the campaign trail.

Thanks to the photographer who took the shot

Avon: The Michelle Obama Style Guide

2008-11-23T05:47:00.000-08:00

According to Vogue, Michelle O. is getting her own fashion book. "Avon has signed former Made moiselle editor Mandi Norwood to pen a "Michelle Obama Style Guide," due out next spring. Avon vice president Carrie Feron said: "Not since Jackie O have we had a first lady become a fashion icon. Michelle Obama will be one of history's most vibrant first ladies; she has a distinctive style that every American woman can aspire to, whether the consumer is a Target shopper or some one more likely to be found on Miracle Mile."

Vogue UK has put together a stylish Michelle O slydeshow: http://www.vogue.co.uk/celebrity-photos/gallery.aspx/id,299

Photo: Michelle was included as one of the "10 Best Dressed" in the September08 issue of People Magazine.

Meanwhile, Project Runway designers have been drawing Inaugural Ball gowns for Michelle. This is an unofficial project. Click on the picture to access the Daily Beast website.

Malia & Sasha Obama's New School

2008-11-23T05:21:00.000-08:00

Natasha (sasha) and Malia Obama will be attending the private Quaker school where Chelsea Clinton and President Nixon's daughters studied. Vice President-elect Joe Biden's granddaughters are also studying there. President-elect Obama and Michelle Obama also considered public schools, aides say, but ended up choosing Sidwell Friends School.

Jackie Norris: Michelle Obama's Chief Of Staff

2008-11-23T04:27:00.000-08:00

For two years Norris worked to elect Barack Obama president, first as a senior adviser during the Iowa Caucuses, then as his state director for the general election. Now she’s heading to Washington to serve as chief of staff to the country’s new First Lady, Michelle Obama. Click here to read an article about Jackie Norris by the Iowa Independent's Jason Hancock >

Photo: John and Jackie Norris at Invesco Field in Denver during the 2008 Democratic National Convention-- courtesy of the Iowa Independent.

The Obama Administration: David Axelrod, Barack Obama And Robert Gibbs (Photo)

2008-11-23T03:47:00.000-08:00

Mr. Obama poked fun at himself at the Gridiron Club in March 2006 with, left, his 2008 presidential campaign chief strategist, David Axelrod, and right, his communications director Robert Gibbs.

Back then (March 2006), the columnist Lynn Sweet wrote: "Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) and vice presidential spouse Lynne Cheney speak at the annual Gridiron Club dinner on Saturday night. It's Obama for the Democrats and Cheney for the GOP. President Bush closes the evening.
They will be under pressure to be very, very funny. It's a white tie night. That's tails for men and gowns for women."

Few days ago David Axelrod was appointed as Senior Adviser to the President in the Obama Administration and few hours ago, Robert Gibbs was officially named Press Secretary.

Photo courtesy of Robert A. Reeder/Washington Post

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 18-19

2008-11-23T02:55:00.000-08:00

For God Himself to be at work choosing those who will serve in the new administration
"Yet the LORD, the God of Israel, chose me from my whole family to be king over Israel forever. He chose Judah as leader, and from the house of Judah He chose my family, and from my father's sons He was pleased to make me king over all Israel.
—1 Chronicles 28:4

O Holy Lord God, You are Lord of all time and history, and You reign over it in perfect authority and sovereignty. We trust in Your wisdom and Your ways. You call out those You desire to serve You, and You remove those who are not part of Your plans. I praise You for this, and I trust You in it.

As our newly-elected President makes plans for his administration, I ask that You identify for him those leaders who You want to serve our country in the coming months and years. I ask for godly, wise persons who will have integrity in all things. I ask for those who will submit their wills to Yours in faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.

By the Presidential Prayer Team

A holiday Message From The Obamas

2008-11-21T15:11:00.000-08:00

OK, this message is from last year but it's so sweet...there you go!

Obama Inaugural Song Competition

2008-11-21T14:51:00.000-08:00

Obama supporters never cease to amaze me. It seems like there's a new "Obama something" launched online and off line every single day.

Anyway, someone has just directed me to "the Obama Music, Arts, and Entertainment" network where there's a competition underway for "the best Obama inaugural song". There are 69 submissions and visitors' mission is to help determine the semi-finalists. The site is open to anyone who wants to vote without having to become a member. Voting links can be found on the homepage and under the "song contest" tab. Voting is open for one week.

Interested? Click on the link> www.obamamae.com

Barack And Michelle Obama On 60 Minutes

2008-11-21T06:32:00.000-08:00

For those who have not view this yet or those who would like to watch it again, below is a video where President-elect Barack Obama speaks with Steve Kroft about his thoughts and goals as US next commander-in-chief. The video lasts about 18 minutes.

The CBS section below is about the next first family 'Personal Transition': The Obamas will soon be the youngest first family to move into the White House since the Kennedys nearly 50 years ago. Steve Kroft speaks with Barack and Michelle Obama about their personal transit... The video lasts 15 minutes.

The following CBS section is entitled : A Father's Promise-- the President-elect speaks about a special promise he made 2 years ago to his daughters. The duration of this video is 3:56 minutes.

Launching A campaign To Help Obama Win Real Change!

2008-11-21T05:50:00.000-08:00

MoveOn initiative is growing stronger. On Thursday November 20, 2008 Obama supporters in Edgewater gathered to kick off a huge new campaign to help Barack pass a bold, progressive agenda in issues such as health care and clean energy. Most Obama supporters always knew that a single man cannot bring about all the change. Our Leader needs a strong, skilled and well organized team working with him. This includes ordinary citizens. For further information, click here>

The 'Hope Wall' is also worth visiting. You can share your thoughts on the election or read others' http://pol.moveon.org/obama/hopeforum/

Related article:

Washington Post - What Next For Obama's Network? By E. J. Dionne Jr.

While the nation's capital obsesses over Barack Obama's next Cabinet pick, the president-elect's lieutenants are engaged with what may be a more important long-term issue: What will become of Obama's vast grass-roots network?

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 17

2008-11-21T05:37:00.000-08:00

For each decision made by President-Elect Barack Obama to be submitted to God in complete surrender to His will

All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD. Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
—Proverbs 16:3

Awesome and all-knowing God, You are amazing in all Your ways. You see our hearts, our thoughts and our motives, and You love us in spite of this! You are kind and loving, desiring our success as we place our trust in You, following Your ways. Thank You for showing us how You want us to make decisions.

Today, I pray for President-Elect Barack Obama and I ask You to speak to his heart in a personal and intimate way, urging him to submit all his decisions and choices to You in thoughtful and heartfelt prayer. May he examine his heart, submitting his motives to You so You may scrutinize them with Your goodness. As he does this, Lord, I ask that You will give him success in Your eyes. In Your loving and holy name, amen.

By the Presidential Prayer Team

Photo: Tuscany, Italy landscape/Magnus Rosendahl

Happy Birthday Vice President-elect Biden

2008-11-20T05:58:00.000-08:00

According to NBC's Savannah Guthrie, "Obama surprised Biden yesterday before his 66th birthday with cupcakes after their weekly lunch. He lit the candles on the 12 cupcakes and brought them over to Biden.

Obama joked, "You're 12 years old!"

Biden laughed, replying: "Maybe in dog years!"

Then Obama led the staff in singing Biden Happy Birthday. Obama also surprised him by giving him a Chicago White Sox hat, a Chicago Bears hat, and a bucket of Garrett's popcorn as gifts."

_________________

Update: 21 November 2008-- Photo courtesy of The Office of The President-elect

The Obama Energy & Environment Policy Transition Team: Behind The Scenes

2008-11-20T05:21:00.000-08:00

I think this idea of giving little glimpses of the Obama team at work is brilliant. You really get the feeling that something is being done and that good things are inevitably going to come out of these dynamic initiatives.

Below is a video of a meeting of the Energy & Environment Policy Transition Team and interview with team member Heather Zichal.

David Axelrod, Senior Advisor To President Obama

2008-11-20T05:03:00.000-08:00

Most people believe it was a done deal but now it's official: David Axelrod said 'Yes I Can' be Senior Advisor to the President. Below is David's resumé by change.gov

David Axelrod, Senior Advisor to the President David Axelrod served as President-elect Obama’s Chief Strategist during the presidential campaign, and led Obama’s 2004 Senate campaign. A native of New York City, Axelrod graduated from the University of Chicago and spent eight years as a reporter for the Chicago Tribune, where he covered national, state, and local politics and became the youngest political writer and columnist in the paper’s history. Leaving journalism in 1984, Axelrod managed Paul Simon’s upset victory over incumbent U.S. Senator Charles Percy of Illinois. In 1985, he founded Axelrod & Associates, a political consulting firm known today as AKP&D Message and Media. Axelrod has worked for leading Democrats across the country, including Senators Hillary Clinton, Chris Dodd, and Herb Kohl, as well as Governor Tom Vilsack of Iowa, Governor Deval Patrick of Massachusetts, Congressman Rahm Emanuel of Illinois, and Mayor Richard Daley of Chicago, along with mayors of big cities across the country. He is married to Susan Axelrod, president and founder of Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy (CURE). They have three grown children.

Interested? Read more about David Axelrod here>

Grow The Hope: A Message From David Plouffe

2008-11-20T04:50:00.000-08:00

A message from David Plouffe, the Obama Campaign Manager, encourages supporters to keep up the good fight and continue to work towards the future of the 'Hope' movement. Supporters are invited to share their campaign experience and views. David's message reads:

The inauguration is just 63 days away, and as President-elect Obama and Vice President-elect Biden prepare to take office, they'll need your support more than ever. You've built an organization in your community and across the country that will continue to work for change -- whether it's by building grassroots support for legislation, backing state and local candidates, or sharing organizing techniques to effect change in your neighborhood. Your hard work built this movement. Now it's up to you to decide how we move forward. Take this short survey and share your ideas. Thanks to you, this country has an historic opportunity. Electing Barack was the first big step, but there's a lot of challenging and important work ahead. Together, we can keep making history.

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 16

2008-11-20T04:41:00.000-08:00

For wisdom and cohesiveness to characterize the teamwork of the President- and Vice President-Elect
How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!
—Psalm 133:1

Lord God, You know all hearts and You discern our motives in ways we cannot know. You are wise and good and truthful in all things, and You bring together that which can easily be torn apart. You love unity and in Your true nature, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, You are a holy personification of what You desire for all human relationships.

Today we ask that You bring oneness to our President- and Vice President-Elect. Give them unity in all they do, from national policy to work with Congress, to respect for each other. Let them experience a pleasure they did not anticipate, and a joy they could not experience if they were divided and contentious. We give You glory for this, in the name of Christ our Lord, amen.

Malia & Sasha Obama In The White House

2008-11-19T02:24:00.000-08:00

WASHINGTON — Malia and Sasha Obama got a tour of their new White House 'mansion' from the President George W. Bush's twin daughters on Tuesday November 18, 2008 and checked out potential schools.

Jenna and Barbara Bush showed their rooms to Sasha, 7, and Malia, 10, as they toured the residential areas of the White House with their mother at the invitation of first lady Laura Bush. The Obamas spent about an hour at the White House, said Sally McDonough, a spokeswoman for Laura Bush-- Reporters were not allowed in or around the property (no pictures taken and no video report).

Mrs. Obama's mother, Marian Robinson, was also with the group.

"The first lady graciously invited Mrs. Obama, her mother and the girls to visit what will be their new home," said Michelle Obama's spokeswoman, Katie McCormick Lelyveld. "Of course, Mrs. Obama greatly appreciated this invitation to provide an opportunity for the girls to feel at home and become comfortable in this transition process."

"Mrs Obama says that she wants to avoid significant changes to their life-style. The girls will still make their own beds, do their chores and pour their own cereal and milk. “But I couldn’t but help envisioning the girls running into their rooms and running down the hall - with a dog,” Mrs Obama told 60 Minutes.

President-elect Obama : “New Chapter” On Climate Change

2008-11-19T01:32:00.000-08:00

Hundreds of 'climate change leaders' from across the US and around the world gathered in Los Angeles on Tuesday November 18th for the opening sessions of the Global Climate Summit, a 2-day event initiated by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to break gridlock on the issue ahead of next month's United Nations Climate Change Conference in Poznan, Poland.

President-elect Obama addressed the Summit's attendees in a short video transmitted by satellite.

Watch the video of Barack's remarks below:

Hello Neighbor: "Fired Up and Ready to Go"

2008-11-19T01:08:00.000-08:00

MoveOn.org is still on the move... Their website advises visitors that "Obama has made clear that in order to achieve real change in this country, November 4th was just the beginning. Change will require a clear showing that a majority of Americans are ready to stand for clean energy, affordable health care for all and an end to the war in Iraq."

As a result, the organization is promoting a celebration of this renewed commitment in setting up gatherings throughout the nation. The first 'massive' "Fired Up and Ready to Go" is on November 20th. The members are set to talk about how to bring about the change America needs.

Below is an invitation from a MoveOn member who lives near New York:

I'm organizing a "Fired Up and Ready to Go" gathering this Thursday for everyone in the area to keep up the momentum from Obama's victory. Will you join us?

There are over 1,300 of these events happening all around the country on Thursday. The plan is to kick off a big campaign to help Obama pass the bold, progressive changes he talked about during the campaign. There'll also be some time to celebrate the big win with other Obama supporters in the neighborhood. We're hoping it'll be really fun!

It does seem like there's a real chance for change on clean energy, the economy, the climate crisis, health care, and the war. But there's no way Obama can do this without millions of us by his side. And that starts right here in New York. So please come to my gathering and bring a friend—we're fired up and ready to go!

Here are the details:

"Fired Up and Ready to Go" Gathering Host: Sikolo B—fellow MoveOn member Where: Harlem/Washington Heights (in New York)
When: Thursday, Nov. 20, 2008, at 6:30 PM

Can you come? Click here to RSVP:

http://pol.moveon.org/event/events/event.html?event_id=86589&id=15128-10549100-yY_Ce3x&t=1

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 11, 13-15

2008-11-19T00:41:00.000-08:00

Below is a recapitulation of "77 Days of Prayer for the New President". Four days I have omitted to post: 11, 13, 14, 15

Day 15

For the complete safety and security of the President- and Vice President-Elect and their families
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—from violent men You save me.
—II Samuel 22:1-3

O God of peace and security, thank You for being strong and safe and secure. I praise You for being a solid and firm place to which we can go for protection and safety. Thank You for looking on all You have made with compassion and kindness; thank You for keeping Your loving eye on all You have made.

Today, as I pray for the new President and Vice President, I ask You to powerfully protect them. Send Your heavenly warriors to drive away anything or anyone who would do them harm. I ask You to protect their families in the same way, that no harm will be done to their spouses, children, grandchildren or parents. Cover them with Your complete protection moment by moment and day by day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Day 14

The Supremacy and Sovereignty of God
But it is God who judges: He brings one down, He exalts another.
—Psalm 75:7

O holy God, You reign in power and majesty over all things. You rule in sovereignty and perfect authority over all the affairs of our lives. You call out and lift up those who
You desire to rule over us, and You enable and empower them to serve at Your pleasure.

Today, we thank You for how You have worked in our country through yesterday’s elections. We put our trust in You to use the President-Elect—and every person chosen yesterday—to serve Your great and high purposes for our nation. Grant that we may surround him and every leader with our support and faithful prayers. Encourage our President- and Vice President-Elect today, through the power of Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Day 13

For justice and mercy to be in the forefront of concerns of the new administration
He has showed You, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with Your God.

—Micah 6:8

Living Lord God, how I praise and thank You today that You have shown Your people what You desire from us. In Your kindness and love You have pointed us toward You and Your righteousness. Thank You for Your Word which lovingly reveals Your standards for the way we must live. Thank You for being a holy and just God!

I bring the members of the new administration before You today, asking that they will burn with desire to please and honor You in all their ways. May they long to do what You say is good, O Lord—to act justly, to live mercifully and to walk with You daily in humility and gentleness. When they are tempted to bring You sacrifices, God, remind them that You show them what is truly good, and protect them from substitutes. In Your holy name, amen.

Day 11

For the President- and Vice President-Elect to humbly acknowledge their need to consult with God as they make their plans, cooperating with God to bring about His will.
He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.
—Psalm 91:15

O Lord God, You are high and lifted up, yet You invite us to speak with You, to call to You, even to cry to You. We praise You for being an approachable and inviting God who makes good on every promise in Your word. I exalt You for reaching to us in our frailty and weakness, giving us Your power and presence.

Lord God, as we look to the establishment of the new administration, I pray for the President- and Vice President-Elect, that they may honor and acknowledge You in every part of their new administration. May they turn to You on calm days and in times of trouble alike, seeking to consult with You in all their plans. Let them know beyond all doubt that You promise to hear and answer when they pray to You. Thank You, mighty God, amen.

GQ Magazine Named President-elect Barack Obama One Of Its "Men Of The Year."

2008-11-17T15:34:00.000-08:00

President-elect Barack Obama has been named one of 'GQ' magazine's men of the year 2008 (they are four in total, including Leonardo DiCaprio). Obama graces one of the covers of the magazine's December issue. Inside, Senator Edward M. Kennedy writes a piece explaining why Obama is the Change America needs.

Sen. Kennedy's statement reads: As I write this, Barack Obama and John McCain have just completed their final debate, and the country is a few short days away from a historic election. Of course, I’m doing all that I can for my candidate. But whether he wins or loses, Barack Obama has ushered in a new era of American politics with a limitless vision of a better future that will endure for many years to come. Through his candidacy, Obama has provided a glimpse of a stronger, better, fairer America, where change comes from the bottom up, where we all come together to meet the great challenges of our time. He has inspired millions of new voters of all ages, races, and incomes to lend their voices for real change. For in this man, Americans can see not just the audacity but the possibility of hope for the country that is yet to be.
Read the full statement here>

In the video below, CBS' Harry Smith speaks with GQ deputy editor Michael Hainey about Barack.

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President-elect Obama Thanks The People Of Illinois

2008-11-16T22:23:00.000-08:00

On Sunday November 16, 2008 President-elect Barack Obama resigned his Senate seat and he sent a thank-you letter to newspapers across Illinois. Below is a transcript of the letter which can also be read here>

By President-elect Barack Obama

Today, I am ending one journey to begin another. After serving the people of Illinois in the United States Senate -- one of the highest honors and privileges of my life -- I am stepping down as senator to prepare for the responsibilities I will assume as our nation's next president. But I will never forget, and will forever be grateful, to the men and women of this great state who made my life in public service possible.

More than two decades ago, I arrived in Illinois as a young man eager to do my part in building a better America. On the South Side of Chicago, I worked with families who had lost jobs and lost hope when the local steel plant closed. It wasn't easy, but we slowly rebuilt those neighborhoods one block at a time, and in the process I received the best education I ever had. It's an education that led me to organize a voter registration project in Chicago, stand up for the rights of Illinois families as an attorney and eventually run for the Illinois state Senate.

It was in Springfield, in the heartland of America, where I saw all that is America converge -- farmers and teachers, businessmen and laborers, all of them with a story to tell, all of them seeking a seat at the table, all of them clamoring to be heard. It was there that I learned to disagree without being disagreeable; to seek compromise while holding fast to those principles that can never be compromised, and to always assume the best in people instead of the worst. Later, when I made the decision to run for the United States Senate, the core decency and generosity of the American people is exactly what I saw as I traveled across our great state -- from Chicago to Cairo; from Decatur to Quincy.

I still remember the young woman in East St. Louis who had the grades, the drive and the will but not the money to go to college. I remember the young men and women I met at VFW halls across the state who serve our nation bravely in Iraq and Afghanistan. And I will never forget the workers in Galesburg who faced the closing of a plant they had given their lives to, who wondered how they would provide health care to their sick children with no job and little savings.

Stories like these are why I came to Illinois all those years ago, and they will stay with me when I go to the White House in January. The challenges we face as a nation are now more numerous and difficult than when I first arrived in Chicago, but I have no doubt that we can meet them. For throughout my years in Illinois, I have heard hope as often as I have heard heartache. Where I have seen struggle, I have seen great strength. And in a state as broad and diverse in background and belief as any in our nation, I have found a spirit of unity and purpose that can steer us through the most troubled waters.

It was long ago that another son of Illinois left for Washington. A greater man who spoke to a nation far more divided, Abraham Lincoln, said of his home, "To this place, and the kindness of these people, I owe everything." Today, I feel the same, and like Lincoln, I ask for your support, your prayers, and for us to "confidently hope that all will yet be well." With your help, along with the service and sacrifice of Americans across the nation who are hungry for change and ready to bring it about, I have faith that all will in fact be well. And it is with that faith, and the high hopes I have for the enduring power of the American idea, that I offer the people of my beloved home a very affectionate thanks.

American Conservative: Right Wing Hate Machine

2008-11-16T08:31:00.000-08:00

Mark Potok: " The Very Idea Of A Black Man Being Elected To The White House Is Shocking To Some Subset Of The American White Population."

Not all white conservatives are prepared to work with the President-elect for the good of their own country. On the contrary, they have proclaimed a war against the Obama administration and tend to oppose his every move over the next four years. How selfish is that? You would have thought that they believe their own rhetorics "country first" but they obviously don't!

In so doing, G.O.P. ayatollahs are ignoring the voices of people who have spoken on election day and despising the majority's choices of hope over fear, progress over regression and bi-partisanship over radical partisanship. In the process, they are auto-destructing.

A journalist have written a revealing piece about the Right Wing racism disguised in "policy disagreement" lies. Tim Shipman's article "Conservative backlash begins against Barack Obama" reads:

In Madison County, Idaho, a firmly Republican state, the schools superintendent was obliged to remind teachers and bus drivers that pupils must show proper respect for elected officials, after parents complained that children on one school bus were chanting, "Assassinate Obama!"

[...] In North Carolina, a southern state Mr Obama won on election day, the Statesville Record newspaper had to apologise after running a leader column which asked: "What's more scary, a bleak economy or a black president?"

[...] Republican Congressman Paul Brown denounced Mr Obama as a Marxist, and compared his plans for a national service corps - to help out in natural disasters - to the formation of the Nazi brownshirts.

"That's exactly what Hitler did in Nazi Germany," he said. "We can't be lulled into complacency... Adolf Hitler was elected in a democratic Germany. I'm not comparing Barack Obama to Adolf Hitler, what I'm saying is there is the potential of going down that road."

[...] Sean Hannity, of Fox News radio, who led condemnations of Mr Obama's links with the 1960s terrorist Bill Ayers, has placed on his website a countdown clock, ticking down to the next election when he hopes to be rid of "the radical Barack Obama".

Rush Limbaugh, the doyen of conservative talk radio hosts, last week blamed Mr Obama for continuing stock market falls: "This is an Obama recession, might turn into a depression," he said. "He hasn't done anything yet, but his ideas are killing the economy." Read full article here>

UPDATE: While searching on this subject, I came across this post by 'Nuckingfutz' that stroke a chord with me. Here are some excerpts:

I truly don’t understand where all this hatred comes from. [...] I question what kind of individuals would not only openly announce that they hate someone/something, but would go to great lengths, expending time and energy just on their hatred. What kind of person would be so obsessed with whatever it is that gets under their skin, that they would spend hours upon hours going out of their way to concentrate on just that one subject.[...]

"Intolerance:  a veil worn to disguise fear and ignorance."          
Binda Fraser, Ontario Canada

[...] Some of the people whom this hatred has directly effected have had some very mature reactions to it. And I applaud them. I wish more people had the guts to be able to stand up to that kind of hatred and not stoop to the same level as the people that are directing that hatred at them.

Other related articles/websites
Racist Terrorism Follows Obama Victory
http://newsone.blackplanet.com/nation/racist-terrorism-follows-obama-victory/
Racial Incidents and Threats Against Obama Soar: Here Is a Chronicle
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/greg-mitchell/racial-incidents-and-thre_b_144061.html
Obama election spurs race crimes around country
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iEyLuiVkdd-f1RM5wnoR0kF4WbvgD94FQJKG0
Obama victory sparks race crime spree
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/world/north-america/obama-victory-sparks-race-crime-spree-14065310.html
Racist Incidents Give Some Obama Campaigners Pause
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/12/AR2008051203014_pf.html
Local Newspapers Cover Rising Number of Racist Anti-Obama Actions in Small Towns
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003890511
Baylor students hold silent racial awareness march
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/tx/6112948.html
Stalen Island teens arrested in anti-Obama attack
http://www.newsday.com/news/local/newyork/ny-nyhate165929536nov16,0,676200.story
Websites that encourage hate (of course there are thousands of 'hate-Obama' websites out there but here are two)
P.U.M.A
http://www.puma08.com/
Impeach Barack Obama
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=13200515790
Obama election spurs race crimes around country

Welcome Cards For Michelle O. (Photos of the Week)

2008-11-16T07:53:00.000-08:00

The welcome cards kept coming at a day-care center in Ardmore, Pa., where Michelle Obama made a visit in March 2008.

(Philadelphia Inquirer photo by Michael Bryant / March 13, 2008)

Another day, another class.

Weekly Address From The President-elect Obama

2008-11-16T07:46:00.000-08:00

President-elect Obama plans to to publish these weekly updates through the Transition period and then from the White House.

This week's address concerns the current economic crisis:

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 12

2008-11-16T07:26:00.000-08:00

For prayer to characterize everything that is done in the new administration
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
—Romans 12:12

Exalted and holy God, we thank You for the gift of prayer, because we may speak with You at any time and at all times! Since You are timeless, You hear all our prayers no matter when we offer them. This is an incredible truth, Lord, and we are grateful for the privilege You give us to come to You in intercession.

God, there is no way for us to see the triumphs and the tribulations this new administration will face in the coming months and years. But incredibly, God, You see these things, and You can prepare us in advance for their arrival—but only when we seek You in prayer. Encourage our new President, his cabinet and all who serve under him to develop and embrace a lifestyle of faithful, persistent, patient prayer to You. Draw them to You, O God, with a desire to seek You and hear Your voice, from the White House to Capitol Hill. We boldly ask this in the name of Jesus, amen.

By The Presidential Prayer Team

Barack and Michelle Obama: 60 Minutes Preview

2008-11-15T06:53:00.000-08:00

Here's a preview of Barack and Michelle Obama's first post-election interview on CBS' 60 Minutes this this Sunday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m. ET/P; CBS's Steve Kroft asks Michelle when did it sink in that her husband would become the nation's 44th president?

Peru Offers Bald Toothless Dog To Obama Family

2008-11-15T03:43:00.000-08:00

Hmmm... I wonder what Sasha and Malia are thinking of this unexpected present...

Here's the story:

"Sasha and Malia," Mr Obama said in his victory speech at Chicago's Grant Park, "I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that's coming with us to the White House."

Adding to the complication of choosing a first pet is the fact that Malia, 10, is allergic to most breeds, prompting the American Kennel Club to suggest various "hypo-allergenic" breeds including the Bichon Frise and the poodle.

But a group of Peruvians think they have found the perfect solution for the family, in the form of a bald and often toothless breed once popular with Incan kings. Read more here>

Photos courtesy of Trend Hunter Magazine

Obama Scrapbook (Photos)

2008-11-15T02:13:00.000-08:00

Are you a sentimental person? You're going to enjoy revisiting Barack's life story here: http://obamascrapbook.com/index.htm In the meantime, enjoy a sample of what you will find on the website below:

Obama Names Valerie Jarrett Senior White House Advisor

2008-11-15T02:01:00.000-08:00

President-elect Barack Obama has formally named his friend Valerie Jarrett to be a senior adviser in the White House. Her official title will be "senior advisor and assistant to the President for Inter-government relations and Public Liaison in the Obama White House, according to Los Angeles Times' Christi Parsons.

Jarrett is a co-chair of Obama's transition team and was a top advisor to him during the presidential campaign. She is 51, a Hyde Park resident and a veteran of Chicago's City Hall who went on to become the CEO of The Habitat Company, a major Chicago real estate firm as well as serving on a variety of civic and corporate boards. Read more here>

Photo courtesy of the University of Chicago News Office

Obama Faces More Threats Than Any Other President-elect In American History

2008-11-15T01:45:00.000-08:00

Associated Press-- By EILEEN SULLIVAN , 11.14.08, 09:13 PM EST

Threats against a new president historically spike right after an election, but from Maine to Idaho law enforcement officials are seeing more against Barack Obama than ever before. The Secret Service would not comment or provide the number of cases they are investigating. But since the Nov. 4 election, law enforcement officials have seen more potentially threatening writings, Internet postings and other activity directed at Obama than has been seen with any past president-elect, said officials aware of the situation who spoke on condition of anonymity because the issue of a president's security is so sensitive.

Earlier this week, the Secret Service looked into the case of a sign posted on a tree in Vay, Idaho, with Obama's name and the offer of a "free public hanging." In North Carolina, civil rights officials complained of threatening racist graffiti targeting Obama found in a tunnel near the North Carolina State University campus. Read more here>

UPDATE:

A friend has rightly pointed out that Obama also gets MORE LOVE than any other President-elect in American history (not just from Americans but from the rest of the world). Thus, everything about him is 'larger', 'bigger' and 'exceptional'.

Barack Obama gives campaign staffers extra cash, BlackBerrys, laptops

2008-11-14T15:56:00.000-08:00

Washington - Barack Obama ended his campaign so flush with cash he's telling staffers to keep the change - and then some.

Long-suffering political footsoldiers who toiled tirelessly, at least since September, to put Obama in the White House recently learned they will be getting extra paychecks worth a month's salary, the Daily News has learned.

And boy, are they grateful.

"I think it's a very nice gesture for people who slaved away and sacrificed for the past year," said one pleased ex-staffer. Read more here>

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 10

2008-11-14T15:46:00.000-08:00

For God’s grace to fully rest on the President- and Vice President-Elect enabling them to act beyond their innate abilities
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
—2 Corinthians 9:8

Mighty Lord, You know all things, and nothing is hidden from You—even the deepest intentions of hearts. Your knowledge and authority rule over all the affairs of humankind, and Your ways govern over all our ways.

God, thank You for being a God who can provide more than we are able; give more than we ever need. There is no limit to Your provision or to Your ability, so let Your grace blanket our President- and Vice President-Elect and let them seek You, and You alone, for the ability to govern. Generously give them more than they expect, and allow them to abound with Your wisdom and direction so they make wise choices as they serve. We praise You for doing this, O Lord, in the name of Christ Jesus, amen.

By The Presidential Prayer Team

President-elect Obama to meet with Senator McCain Monday

2008-11-14T15:36:00.000-08:00

Obama-Biden transition spokesperson Stephanie Cutter released the following statement on a planned meeting between President-elect Obama and Senator McCain Monday:

"On Monday, President-elect Barack Obama and Senator John McCain will meet in Chicago at transition headquarters. It's well known that they share an important belief that Americans want and deserve a more effective and efficient government, and will discuss ways to work together to make that a reality. They will be joined in the meeting by Senator Lindsey Graham and Congressman Rahm Emanuel."

UPDATE: Thursday November, 20-- Below is a video of the encounter

Obama's Transparent Presidency

2008-11-14T15:20:00.000-08:00

President-elect Obama's office announced Friday that it will be posting weekly addresses on YouTube. The first address will appear on Change.gov this Saturday. An Obama spokesperson says that this innovation is just the beginning of the digital, transparent presidency.

In the meantime, transition co-chair Valerie Jarrett has recorded a video that provides an update on recent personnel decisions and the latest steps taken on ethics reform.

Watch Velerie Jarrett discussing those decisions in the video below:

Obama Resigning Senate Seat On Sunday

2008-11-14T01:49:00.000-08:00

CHICAGO (AP) — President-elect Barack Obama said Thursday that he will resign from the Senate effective Sunday. In a statement, the junior Illinois senator called his four-year term "one of the highest honors and privileges" of his life and said the people of Illinois will stay with him as he leaves the Senate to begin "the hard task of fulfilling the simple hopes and common dreams of all Americans as our nation's next president." Read full article here>

Interview: President-Elect Obama On 60 Minutes

2008-11-13T20:16:00.000-08:00

CBS) President-elect Barack Obama has agreed to give his first post-election interview to 60 Minutes correspondent Steve Kroft. The interview includes future first lady Michelle Obama and is to take place on Friday, Nov. 14, in Chicago. The interview is scheduled to be broadcast on Sunday at 7 p.m. ET/PT. Read more>

Americans Hopeful Obama Can Tackle The Issues

2008-11-13T19:55:00.000-08:00

The American people and the citizens of the world expect a lot from Obama. Yesterday, a Congolese friend expressed his hope about an Obama administration intervention in the Democratic Republic of Congo where civilians are being massacred by their own soldiers and other countries militias who seek to control some of the world's richest resources of minerals. The killing has been going on for at least 11 years but the violence has escalated again lately. This is just one of the numerous "world issues" the Obama administration faces, not to mention the "domestic issues".

Indeed, a Gallup poll asking people whether they thought Obama could resolve various problems shows that the public has faith in his success in 13 out of 15 items:

Item	Yes	No
Improve conditions for minorities and the poor	80%	19%
Increase respect for the U.S. abroad	76%	22%
Improve education	71%	27%
Improve the quality of the environment	70%	28%
Reduce unemployment	67%	32%
Bring U.S. troops home from Iraq	66%	33%
Improve the health care system	64%	34%
Create a strong economic recovery	64%	34%
Keep the U.S. safe from terrorism	62%	36%
Bring U.S. troops home from Afghanistan	58%	40%
Reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil	57%	41%
Heal political divisions in this country	54%	44%
Control federal spending	52%	46%
Substantially reduce the federal budget deficit	42%	56%
Avoid raising your taxes	36%	61%
Control illegal immigration	35%	62%

Illustration: Design For Obama

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 9

2008-11-13T05:05:00.002-08:00

For the President-Elect to be fearless, trusting God in times of difficulty and trial
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.
—Psalm 46:1-2

O Lord God, You are mighty and strong, unshakable and powerful in all Your ways. I praise You for calling us to hide in You, to take refuge in You during times when we are tempted to fear. When things in our lives appear to be falling apart, I thank You that You are immovable and strong.

Today I pray for the President-Elect, that You will help and empower him to place his full trust in You. Make him fearless, Lord. May he replace any fear he feels with confidence and trust in You at every turn. Hold him firmly in Your hand as he trusts in You, O mighty God. In Your wonderful name, amen.

By The Presidential Prayer Team

Honoring Veterans: President-elect Barack Obama And Iraq War Veteran Tammy Duckworth

2008-11-13T05:05:00.001-08:00

President-elect Barack Obama visited the Bronze Soldiers Memorial at Soldier Field on Tuesday November 11, 2008 with Tammy Duckworth at his side.

Duckworth, director of the Department of Veterans Affairs for Illinois, lost both of her legs and partial use of one arm in the Iraq War.

Obama issued the following statement:

"As we mark Veterans Day, all Americans are united in honoring the extraordinary service and selfless sacrifice of our nation's veterans. Our veterans are part of an unbroken line of heroes who have defended the American people and stood up for American values - from the beaches of Normandy to the battles in East Asia; from the deserts of Kuwait to the skies above Kosovo; from the cities of Iraq to the mountains of Afghanistan. Since 9/11, a new generation of American heroes has borne a heavy load in facing down the threats of the 21st century, and their families have been asked to bear the painful absence of a loved one. These Americans are the best and bravest among us, and they are all in our thoughts and prayers...

On this Veterans Day, let us rededicate ourselves to keep a sacred trust with all who have worn the uniform of the United States of America: that America will serve you as well as you have served your country. As your next Commander-in-Chief, I promise to work every single day to keep that sacred trust with all who have served. May God bless our veterans, and may God bless the United States of America."

Photos courtesy of Change.gov - Office of the President-elect

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 8

2008-11-12T01:55:00.000-08:00

For the President- and Vice President-Elect to be wise and thoughtful as they exercise their authority, firmly resisting the temptation to abuse it
When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.
—Proverbs 29:2

All-knowing God, before You all things are laid bare and every detail, whether large or small is known. All praise and glory goes to You, O mighty God, for Your omniscience and omnipotence before the greatest and least of the rulers of our world.

Lord, we ask You today to help the new President and Vice President of our nation to be persons of impeccable integrity. O God, make this team one that does not use its authority for frivolous means or mis-guided intent, but instead recognizes and reveres the responsibility that has been given to them. May they see it as a divine trust given by You. Cause them to be wise and proper stewards of their positions, and keep them from the evil that could so easily ensnare them in dishonesty. By the power of Jesus we pray, amen.

By The Presidential Prayer Team

Grow The Hope With MoveOn

2008-11-12T01:37:00.000-08:00

MoveOn.org members worked tirelessly to get Barack Obama elected. Now that the mission is accomplished, those wonderful volunteers believe that it's just the beginning of the journey and more needs to be done to make a LASTING impact. It's clear that MoveOn members are fired up and ready to go! So MoveOn has decided to hold "Fired up and ready to go" gatherings in every community next Thursday, November 20th. Members will get together to celebrate our big win, brainstorm next steps for our organizing, and kick off our efforts to help Obama make bold, progressive changes.

MoveOn needs someone in your neighborhood to host a gathering so that everyone who helped make this victory possible can come together to keep the momentum going. Can you host a gathering?

http://pol.moveon.org/event/events/create.html?action_id=153&id=15102-10549100-F0trpEx&t=5

There are already 6 events in your region.
If you feel like that covers your area, click the event to sign up.
If not, please continue with the form below to host your own!

Thursday, 20 Nov 2008, 6:30 PM Manhttan is Fired Up and Ready to Go - 2 miles away 100 Riverside Drive #12A (Map) New York, NY

Thursday, 20 Nov 2008, 7:00 PM
Fired Up and Ready to Go meeting - 5 miles away
6 Washington Mews (Map) New York, NY

Thursday, 20 Nov 2008, 6:30 PM
GO OBAMANIACS!! - 6 miles away
Soho loft (Map) NYC, NY

Thursday, 20 Nov 2008, 6:30 PM
Jersey City is fired up and ready to go - 7 miles away
316 Montgomery Street (Map) Jersey City, NJ

Thursday, 20 Nov 2008, 7:30 PM
Fired Up and Ready to Go - 10 miles away
280 17th Street (Map) Brooklyn, NY

Thursday, 20 Nov 2008, 7:00 PM
FIRED UP AND READY TO GO FOR OBAMA - 13 miles away
165 N 18TH STREET (Map) EAST ORANGE, NJ

Kids For Change-- Priceless! (Photos)

2008-11-12T01:11:00.001-08:00

A friend sent me these pictures via email. This is a cute change in action, right there!

Below are some comments posted on MoveOn.org "Hope Wall". I agree with those thoughts and I hope voters realize that the new President is human. He needs our support, goodwill and our faith in action to make the changes the world so badly needs:

"Keep pushing forward, don't look back, start our promising future today."—Fred C., Redwood City, CA

"We need to continue the same level of involvement and commitment to whatever this Presidency needs of us to accomplish all that we believe can be done. Yes we can, Yes we did, and Yes we will!"—Judith C., Salem, MA

"Let's make sure we stay on track! If we can keep this energy up and care about what's going on instead of just saying 'it's all just politics,' we can truly enjoy the benefits of living in a democracy!" —Courtney H. Boulder, CO

"We have to be prepared to go through with whatever we need to—even if that means some sacrifice. Obama will lead the way!"—Sarah A., Greer. SC

"Keep the dream alive. People need to realize that change MUST begin with us, the people!!!"—Tamra W., Woodward, OK

"Mobilize to volunteer for our communities- we can continue to forward our agenda and demonstrate our strength in our numbers and in our commitment to what is needed and what is right."—Emilee A. Portland, OR

"Let Barack know that we stand ready to go to work. Take advantage of our energy and enthusiasm for the common good, put us to work."—Jeff R., Boulder, CO

"Stay connected and continue to volunteer where needed in your community to bring about the progress we desperately need; remembering that love is the most powerful force of all!"—Wendy, Aventura. FL

"Be willing to work with him and make personal sacrifice for the good of our country and our children's future."—Stephanie L., Laguna Niguel, CA

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 7

2008-11-11T00:36:00.000-08:00

First Lady Laura Bush & New First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House
on Monday November 10, 2008 - Photo courtesy of the White House

President Bush & President-elect Obama at the White House
on Monday November 10, 2008- Photo courtesy of the White House

For righteousness and godliness to characterize the life and actions of the new President, Vice President and every newly-elected leader

Who is wise? He will realize these things. Who is discerning? He will understand them. The ways of the LORD are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them.
—Hosea 14:9

O mighty God, You are our perfect and righteous God. There is no goodness or righteousness apart from You and Your ways. Today I praise and thank You for Your perfection and Your holiness. Even though they are unattainable, they put in my heart a thirst for You and Your goodness. Thank You, Lord that Your holiness compels us to be holy.

I pray today for the new President, asking that You will put in his heart a desire for You, for Your goodness and holiness. I pray that You will give him a thirst for wisdom, discernment and understanding from You. Protect him from leaning only on his own wisdom, and cause him to look to You. Cause him and the Vice President and all our elected leaders to desire Your righteousness, so that their steps may be sure. This I ask in Jesus’ name, amen.

By The Presidential Prayer Team

40,367 Currently Signed up!

The World Says Thank You To American People For Electing Obama

2008-11-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that most countries did not wish for a John McCain presidency. All nations and people worldwide hoped, prayed, wished (begged) for an Obama victory. Time and time again polls showed that Barack Obama was the favourite and if the world could cast a ballot, Barack would have clinched the victory with an even bigger margin! Citizens of the world prayed, volunteered, marched, set up blogs, designed, petitioned and got involved in many ways for Obama. Now, the world is thanking the American people for their choice! Below are a sample of pictures that reflect that gratitude/joy:

Nov. 5: Supporters of United States Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama, celebrate as they watch a TV broadcast predicting his victory in the state of Ohio, during an election party in the U.S. embassy in central London.

Koichi Morii, an Obama citizen, holds Obama fish burgers, which are sold in the city, to celebrate Barack Obama's victory in the U.S. presidential election in Obama, western Japan, Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2008. Obama had been elected the 44th president of the United States and the citizens of Obama were ecstatic. (AP Photo/Itsuo Inouye)

Nov. 5: Neapolitan nativity scene artisan Genni Di Virgilio, in background, puts a crown on his terracotta statuette of American president-elect Barack Obama, next to his wife Michelle (holding a 'Long Live Obama' sign), in his shop in Naples, southern Italy.(Fox News)

Kenyans celebrate the victory of president-elect Barack Obama in the US presidential election, in Nairobi, Wednesday Nov. 5, 2008. Barack Obama's Kenyan relatives and Africans across the continent celebrated his victory Wednesday, staying up all night or waking before dawn to cheer in America's first black president.(AP Photo/Khalil Senosi/Fox News)

An unidentified Iranian man decorates on his shirt with a badge of US President elect Barack Obama, in Tehran, Iran on Wedensday Nov. 5, 2008. Iranians Wednesday welcomed the landslide victory of Democrat Barack Obama as America's first black president. (AP Photo/Hasan Sarbakhshian)

Nov. 5: Members of the al-Basra band play music as they celebrate Barack Obama's U.S. electoral victory, in central Basra, Iraq.(Fox News)

Nov. 5: Indonesian school children react to the announcement that Barack Obama won the election for the U.S. Presidency at Obama's former school in Jakarta, Indonesia.(Fox News)

Indonesians passes a giant poster of U.S. Presidential candidate Barack Obama Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2008 at Obama's former school in Jakarta, Indonesia. (AP Photo/Irwin Fedriansyiah)

Students pose for photographs with a cut-out of President-elect Barack Obama at a function to celebrate the election of the new U.S. President in New Delhi, India, Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2008. (AP Photo/ Mustafa Quraishi)

Nov. 5: A young Chinese girl cheers as she watches a live feed on television of President-elect Barack Obama at a U.S. Presidential election party organized by the U.S. Embassy in Beijing.(Fox News)

People write messages of congratulations for US president-elect Barack Obama at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, on November 7, 2008. Sunken-cheeked, Abraham Lincoln casts a piercing gaze over Washington. A century and a half after his fight against slavery, Americans crowding the marble monument now see his legacy alive in the first black US president elect.(AFP/File/Nicholas Kamm)

South Korean Christians celebrate U.S. President-elect Barack Obama's victory in Busan, about 420 km (262 miles) southeast of Seoul, November 6, 2008. REUTERS/Jo Jung-ho/Yonhap (SOUTH KOREA).(AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

A customer looks at beef on sale at Dahanoo beef shop in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, Nov. 7, 2008. The local shop had decided to give South Korean beef (450 grams) for free to customers who were born in 1961 or has O family names like U.S. President-elect Barack Obama, among those who buy more than US$50. The Korean read: 'Congratulations, President-elect Barack Obama, Free Beef for customers who were born in 1961 or has O family name.' (AP Photo/ Lee Sang-hak, Yonhap)

Messages of congratulations for US President-elect Barack Obama are written on a giant card in front of the Washington Monument in Washington, DC. Obama holds his first post-election meeting with President George W. Bush Monday, promising a civil handover of power even as aides said he seeks to reverse current White House policy on oil drilling and stem cell research. (AFP/File/Nicholas Kamm)

77 Days of Prayer for the New President: Day 6

2008-11-10T13:37:00.000-08:00

For the President-Elect to be genuinely humbled before God as he faces the daunting task of leading our nation for the next four years
The fear of the Lord teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor.
—Proverbs 15:33

Holy God, You give us the gift of communication with You through prayer. You promise to guide us as we humble ourselves before You, and You declare Your truth and insight to us as we listen to You respond to our supplications.

Today, Heavenly Father, we ask that You would empower our new President to revere You, putting aside all pride and self-centeredness as he acknowledges who You are and what You wish to accomplish through him. Show him that for him to be honored, he must humble himself before You and be taught by Your voice and by Your Word. As he does this, Lord, give him confidence that, as he trusts in You, You will equip him to meet the challenges of his high calling as President of the United States. In the name of Jesus we pray, amen.

By the Presidential Prayer Team

40,367 Currently Signed up!

Barack & Michelle Obama meet George & Laura Bush at the White House

2008-11-10T12:47:00.000-08:00

UPDATE - November 21, 2008: Another video of the Obamas visit at the White House from Fox 'News'

Watch President-elect Barack Obama and Michelle Obama at the white house:

FLASHBACK VIDEOS-- Celebration For Obama Outside The White House On Election Nigth:

The President-elect Drops Malia And Sasha Off At School (Video)

2008-11-10T12:30:00.000-08:00

Video of B. Obama dropping the kids off at school:

First They Came

2008-11-09T23:03:00.000-08:00

By R. Bisson

Remember, it was on November 9,1938 know as "The Night of Broken Glass". Chancellor Angela Merkel (pictured on the left) has stressed that it is not enough to remember the events of November 9, 1938 through memorials and ceremonies but "we must always think how it was that it could come to this singular event, the Holocaust."

With the election of Barack Obama, we have come a step closer to insure that something like the Holocaust will not happen again, BUT only if we remember that once it did happen.

Friedrich Gustav Emil Martin Niemöller (14 January 1892 - 6 March 1984) explains the idea beautifully in his poem "First They Came":

When the Nazis came for the communists,
I remained silent;
I was not a communist.

When they locked up the social democrats,
I remained silent;
I was not a social democrat.

When they came for the trade unionists,
I did not speak out;
I was not a trade unionist.

When they came for the Jews,
I remained silent;
I was not a Jew.

When they came for me,
there was no one left to speak out.

Photo Of The Week

2008-11-09T19:04:00.001-08:00

Palin Linked To Death Threats Against Obama

2008-11-09T18:44:00.000-08:00

A U.S. Secret Service Counter Assault Team member has his assault weapon at the ready while sitting in the rear of a motorcade SUV as they escort President-elect Barack Obama, not pictured, to a private meeting at the FBI building in Chicago, Thursday, Nov. 6, 2008. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak/Yahoo)

WASHINGTON: The defeated Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin has been blamed by the Secret Service for provoking a spike in death threats against US President-elect Barack Obama.

During the bitter election campaign, the Alaskan governor had questioned Obama's patriotism and accused him of "palling around with terrorists", citing his links with the sixties radical William Ayers.

Palin's demagogic tone may have unintentionally encouraged white supremacists to plan attacks on the future president of the US.

The Secret Service warned the Obama family last month that they had seen a dramatic surge in threats against the Democratic leader, coinciding with Palin's attacks, the Daily Telegraph newspaper has reported. Read more>

77 Days of Prayer for our New President: Day Five

2008-11-09T18:22:00.000-08:00

For Appropriate Submission to Authority
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
—Romans 13:1

Loving Lord God, in Your grace and goodness, You have given us the gift of free will and have mingled it with Your sovereign will and authority. We thank You today for this powerful gift. We open our hearts to trust completely in You—to look to You in every part of our national life, accepting Your will as wise and good. As we pray for our newly elected President, we ask for grace to see Your hand at work. May we willingly acknowledge that You are the one who establishes all authority, and that those who are lifted up to serve do so at Your good pleasure. We ask You to unite us in that understanding, Lord, that our nation may move forward in Your will. In Your holy name, amen.

By The Presidential Prayer Team

President-elect Obama Calls for Swift Action on the Economy in Weekly Democratic Radio Address

2008-11-09T17:53:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama delivered this week's Democratic Radio Address Saturday morning, his first as President-elect.

In the address, President-elect Obama spoke about the need to put partisanship aside to solve the greatest economic challenge of our lifetime. To listen to the full address, click here>

Meanwhile, transition team Co-Chair Valerie Jarett explained that Obama's top priorities are the economy and foreign policy.

Watch Valeri Jarett on "Meet the Press" below.

My.BarackObama: Good News For Supporters

2008-11-09T00:12:00.000-08:00

The Obama For America website is staying online! Chris Hughes from the Obama-Biden campaign explains:

Over the past 21 months, millions of individuals have used My.BarackObama to organize their local communities on behalf of Barack Obama. The scale and size of this community and its work is unprecedented. Individuals in all 50 states have created more than 35,000 local organizing groups, hosted over 200,000 events, and made millions upon millions of calls to neighbors about this campaign. There can be no question that these local, grassroots organizations played a critical role in Tuesday's victory.

What has made My.BarackObama unique hasn't been the technology itself, but the people who used the online tools to coordinate offline action. My.BarackObama has always been focused on using online tools to make real-world connections between people who are hungry to change our politics in this country.

And the site isn't going anywhere. The online tools in My.BarackObama will live on. Barack Obama supporters will continue to use the tools to collaborate and interact. Our victory on Tuesday night has opened the door to change, but it's up to all of us to seize this opportunity to bring it about.

In the coming days and weeks, there will be a great deal more information about where this community will head. For the moment, let's celebrate this victory and know that the community we've built together is just the beginning.

Barack and Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden: Hilarious

2008-11-08T21:25:00.000-08:00

Enjoy!!! -

Source: All Things Obama - humor

Prayer For Leaders After God’s Own Heart

2008-11-08T17:36:00.000-08:00

Almighty God,

Your Word tells us, "The eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His." You see past our appearance, our education, our occupation, our experience, and You see into our hearts. And those whose hearts are completely Yours find uncommon strength from You.

Lord, we ask that You would give us--at every level--leaders who are men and women after Your own heart.

Give us leaders who will lead with integrity and truth. May they be men and women of conviction who are more concerned about doing what is right than about securing a high approval rating.

Guide us to candidates who are honest in the midst of what is often a jaded political process. Although no one is perfect, show us which candidates have been tainted the least and who desire what is best for their country.

Please lead us to vote for people who not only have deep seated morals but are grounded in a relationship with You. May these people seek direction from Your Word and from godly advisors. May they be men and women of prayer who don't usurp Your authority but understand that they are answerable to You. And may they be courageous enough to walk in obedience to what You have required of them.

Equip our leaders with the skills to craft and pass laws with knowledge and understanding. Give them the wisdom to know how to achieve concesus.

Lord God, You are the one who sets up leaders and deposes them. You are the one who gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. Open the eyes of the voters so we will see past the appearances and into the heart. Through our leaders, may You turn our hearts toward you.

Adapted From: We Will Pray for Election Day by Tom Freiling and Mike Klassen. Allegiance Press.

Obama's Inauguration Tickets In High Demand

2008-11-08T17:17:00.000-08:00

In the three days since the election of Barack Obama, the demand for tickets to Inauguration Day events has been unprecedented, local congressional officials said. "It's crazy," said Sharon Jenkins, spokeswoman for Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.). "We're in a unique moment in U.S. history. Every day under Obama's administration is a first, and people want to be a part of it." Read more>

Photo: The New First Family - Malia, Michelle, Barack and Sasha Obama. Photo credit: People Magazine, August 2008.

US Presidential Election 2008: Obama-McCain Skin Switched

2008-11-08T16:59:00.000-08:00

Let The Issues Be The Issue: Thanks To Voters For Listening!

(November 4, 2008)

The Grey New York advertising agency released this poster on Monday November 3, 2008 depicting Barack Obama and John McCain with their skin color and hair switched. The agency said it created the image to remind voters to "let the issues be the issue."

Photo courtesy of The Chicago Tribune

First Press Conference: Obama Pledges To Tackle US Economy

2008-11-08T01:00:00.000-08:00

"We know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime: two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century."- Barack Obama (victory speech)

Barack Obama has vowed to confront the global economic crisis "head on", in his first news conference since his victory in the country's election.

Obama, who had earlier held talks with his 17-member economic advisory team in Chicago, said the US faced the "greatest economic challenge of our lifetime" and that "we must act swiftly to resolve [it]".

"My priority is, how do we grow the economy and how do we grow more jobs?" Obama said, alongside members of his advisory board and Joe Biden, the vice-president elect. Read more>

UPDATE - Nov 8, 2008: Watch the full video of President-Elect Obama's remarks at the press conference below.

Change: Grow The Hope

2008-11-08T00:20:00.000-08:00

Now that Barack Obama has won the election there's much to do and we must remain involved in the political process and the government. There are several websites for all of us to take the time to visit and join. Please check http://www.change.gov from time to time. Look for ways to become involved during the transition. Doing so will benefit you as much as it will benefit the US and an Obama administration.

Another website is http://www.change.org. This website allows you to be involved in a cause of your choice. You can change lives for the better by becoming involved in a cause to fight against poverty, to provide affordable health care or become involved in a social cause that concerns you. Please take the time to become and remain involved.

The third website is http://www.kiva.org which allows you to make small short-term loans to entrepreneurs in third world countries to provide them with opportunities that will change their lives for the better. Please carefully read all instructions before making any financial investment since there is some risk.

The fourth website is http://www.growthehope.org/Default.aspx. This website aims to build on the inspiration Barack Obama's campaign has brought in so many lives the world over.

There is a lot of work to be done and many ways to become and remain involved. Please take the time to visit each of these sites and pass them on to everyone you know and not just the Democrats or Americans. It's time for us to make a real difference on many levels of participation.

_____________

"Strong men can always afford to be gentle." ~ Elbert Hubbard
"Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent." ~ Isaac Asimov

Election Night--Behind The Scenes With The President-Elect (Photos)

2008-11-07T18:17:00.000-08:00

The First Family

2008-11-06T23:12:00.000-08:00

UPDATE:
Send a personal message to president-elect Obama and join over 130.000 people worldwide who have already done that. Just click on the link below:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/million_messages_to_obama/

All Eyes On The New First Family: The Obamas

2008-11-06T17:21:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: Barack O's Tuna Salad Recepy

Obama's Historic Victory: News Front Page

2008-11-05T18:36:00.001-08:00

UPDATE: To view more Front pages from around the world, visit: http://obama2008.s3.amazonaws.com/headlines.html

Message From President-Elect Barack Obama: "How this happened"

2008-11-05T18:24:00.000-08:00

Before his Election Night speech last night, Barack sent out this message to suppporters:

I'm about to head to Grant Park to talk to everyone gathered there, but I wanted to write to you first.
We just made history.
And I don't want you to forget how we did it.
You made history every single day during this campaign -- every day you knocked on doors, made a donation, or talked to your family, friends, and neighbors about why you believe it's time for change.
I want to thank all of you who gave your time, talent, and passion to this campaign. We have a lot of work to do to get our country back on track, and I'll be in touch soon about what comes next.
But I want to be very clear about one thing...
All of this happened because of you.
Thank you,
Barack

Obama Campaign: Thank You!

2008-11-05T07:33:00.000-08:00

Thank you.

You did it. You showed America -- and the world -- that change can happen.

Thank you for the miles you walked, the doors you knocked, the phones you rang, the hard-earned dollars you gave, the spirit you committed to this campaign. Thank you for never wavering, even when the days were dark, the clouds grayed the skies, and the rain poured. Thank you for tuning out the static of the cynics and believing in your power to change this country.

Thank you for all the late nights and all the far too early mornings, for trudging through the bitter cold of winter and wading through the oppressive heat of summer to canvass in your communities. Thank you for the rain-soaked jeans, the mud-caked sneakers, the sweat-drenched t-shirts, and the snow-covered scarves and hats. Thank you for your patience; thank you for your perseverance. Read more>

Obama's Grant Park Party In Chicago (Photos)

2008-11-04T23:48:00.000-08:00

Unforgettable...Well done everyone!!!

Congrats Mr President :-))))

Obama Victory Speech!

2008-11-04T23:46:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama Wins US Presidency In landslide Victory

2008-11-04T22:46:00.000-08:00

UPDATE 20 Nov:
John McCain won Missouri. It was close. His margin of victory was only 3632 votes out of 2.9 million cast. This means the final electoral vote tally is 365 to 173, more than 2 to 1 for Obama. For Missourians, the downside of going for McCain is the state loses its much-heralded bellwether status--it has voted with the winner every time since 1956--except 2008. (report by Electoral-vote.com)

UPDATE 8 Nov:
Unlike other states, Nebraska and Maine use a tiered system for awarding electoral votes, in which a single elector is awarded based on votes within each Congressional district and two electors are awarded to the winner of the statewide popular vote. Yesterday, the Omaha World-Herald announced:

For the first time ever, a blue circle will appear in Nebraska on national electoral maps.
Democrat Barack Obama won the Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District on Friday, scooping up one of the state's five electoral votes.
... "We always knew we could do it, but it would be an uphill climb. It's great to see a little corner of Nebraska turn blue," said John Berge, state director for the Obama campaign.
Berge said the victory was a tribute to all the work done by staffers and the hundreds of Obama volunteers who manned telephones and walked neighborhoods in the Omaha metropolitan area.

Tuesday's election is the first time since 1964 that Nebraska has awarded an electoral vote to a Democrat.

The Nebraska results give Obama 365 electoral votes to John McCain's 162. Only Missouri and its 11 electoral votes remain undecided.

UPDATE 6 Nov: We all know by now that Barack is the President-elect :-)
However, some ballots are still being counted in North Carolina and Missouri. Today, The Associated Press declared Obama the winner in North Carolina after canvassing counties to determine the number of outstanding provisional ballots. This win adds 15 electoral votes to his already wide victory. Obama's win was the first for a Democratic presidential candidate since Jimmy Carter won the state in 1976.

North Carolina's 15 electoral votes brings Obama's total to 364 nearly 100 more than necessary to win the White House. Missouri is the only state that remains too close to call.

Electoral College votes Winning post 270

BARACK OBAMA

Democratic Party candidate

53% ECV: 365

JOHN MCCAIN
Republican Party candidate

46% ECV: 173

Electoral precincts reporting: 96%

UPDATE:

CELEBRATION FOR OBAMA'S VICTORY (Chicago)

Obama Celebration in Berkeley (California)

New York City, East Village, St. Marks

University of Illinois

___________________
Source: Al Jazeera http://english.aljazeera.net/focus/uselections2008/2008/10/20081078262489582.html
BBC http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/in_depth/americas/2008/vote_usa_2008/default.stm

THAT ONE IS PRESIDENT ELECT BARACK OBAMA!

2008-11-04T22:32:00.001-08:00

PRESIDENT ELECTED BARACK OBAMA-- YES WE DID!

2008-11-04T21:54:00.000-08:00

BARACK OBAMA IS OFFICIALLY THE 44th PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!

VOTE FOR CHANGE!

2008-11-03T20:53:00.000-08:00

Hope Of The Nations - Brian Doerksen [lyrics]

2008-11-03T20:39:00.000-08:00

Obama's Grandmother Dies of Cancer in Hawaii

2008-11-03T18:15:00.000-08:00

Sen. Barack Obama's grandmother died Sunday night, just hours before the presidential election.

"It is with great sadness that we announce that our grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, has died peacefully after a battle with cancer," Sen. Obama and his half-sister Maya Soetoro-Ng said in a joint statement Monday.

In Charlotte, N.C., Sen. Obama, looking upset, paid tribute during a campaign rally. "Some of you heard that my grandmother who helped raise me passed away early this morning," he said. "I'm not going to talk about it too long because it's hard for me to talk about."

He went on saying "No matter what happens tomorrow, I'm going to feel good about how it has turned out because all of you have created this remarkable campaign. She is gone home. And she died peacefully in her sleep, with my sister at her side. And so, there is great joy as well as tears. I'm not going to talk about it too long because it is hard, a little, to talk about.

I want everybody to know though a little bit about her. Her name was Madelyn Dunham. And she was born in Kansas in a small town in 1922. Which means she lived through the Great Depression, she lived through two world wars, she watched her husband go off to war, while she looked after her baby and worked on a bomber assembly line. When her husband came back they benefited from the GI bill, they moved west and eventually ended up in Hawaii.

She was somebody who was a very humble person, a very plainspoken person. She is one of those quiet heroes we have all across America, who are not famous, their names are not in the newspapers, but each and every day they work hard. They look after their families. They sacrifice for their children, and their grandchildren. They aren't seeking the limelight. All they try to do is do the right thing. And in this crowd, there are a lot of quiet heroes like that, people like that, mothers and fathers and grandparents who have worked hard and sacrificed all their lives and the satisfaction that they get is in seeing their children or maybe their grandchildren or their great-grandchildren live a better life than they did. That is what America is about. That is what we are fighting for."

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Barack, Michelle, Malia, Sacha Obama and Madelyn Dunham.

_____________________

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122575547493495003.html?mod=googlenews_wsj http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/11/03/obama-on-grandmother-and_n_140698.html

PRAYER FOR THE ELECTION

2008-11-03T18:04:00.000-08:00

I trust the Wisdom that guides the Universe is the same Intelligence that moves through all voters to guide this election to its perfect outcome. The inherent Spiritual nature of Infinite Harmony prevails throughout the inner individual search for the right choice that is beyond any conflicting limiting perceptions of separation. I let go of any misillusions about false outcomes because God always affirms the truth. In this election, I witness the emergence of a new phase of Divine Transformation encompassing all dimensions of political and national expression.

This election reveals a new global security resting in God's hands as informed citizens and discerning people who vote for a fresh political vision. I stand at the tipping point which releases the most peaceful time in human history. Through a new level of diplomacy, war as it is known, is obsolete. I participate in this historic moment for peace, understanding and reconciliation.

The rhetoric of pundits gives way to a new lexicon of compassion and unity. Fear turns into trust, deceit becomes transparent, distain alchemizes to respect. With this new Delphic manner of speech, the abundant tide returns. The debilitating, capricious chaotic concerns of scarcity, loss, and abandonment becomes the prime candidates for the vicissitudes of change our country needs
while poverty dissolves into the nothingness from where it came.

Seeing how cynicism grew into uncontrolled economic excess, borrowing and spending. I know Spirit does not affirm corruption, lack, or pain; for God only knows Infinite Good. I choose to see as God sees our nation in a trusting light of abundant love. Any lingering pockets of discontent are just places that know not yet their heavenly beauty of abundant freedom and love. Sharing and circulation of wealth return as Spirit's guidance move us from times of peril to promise of our great destiny.

In shifting responsiveness to the collective heart, a new day is born. This change brings about a unified nation and a comprehensive global respect. The turnout of voters for this election ia at an all time high as there is a return to the honoring of each individual's voice, talent and purpose. Every contribution is welcomed and appreciated as the elected leadership wisely navigates the profound challenges of the new political age.

This incoming benevolent leadership converges and cooperates, while embracing the interplay between nations and people of our common Earth. This new field of understanding catapults all beyond the fragmentations of the past to a creative way toward globalization of freedom and equanimity for the human family.

I gratefully believe this noble task has elected the right leadership at the right time to guide the U.S. and humanity to the fulfillment of God's vision of heaven on earth. I let go to this deep knowingness of Divine right action fulfilling itself for the highest and best good of all concerned. And so it is!

Dr. Christian Sorenson

McCain Congratulates Obama

2008-11-03T17:11:00.000-08:00

Well, not for the general election...McCain congratulates Obama for his Democratic nomination...Let's hope that on Wednesday, he will be congratulating Obama for yet another historic and sweet victory!

OBAMA

2008-11-03T16:35:00.000-08:00

One America