Shiver Me Timberlake!

Many moons ago, my sister [Whitney] attended a concert at the city's "premier" theme park. Myself, along with the majority of my peers, had not heard of "the band," but regardless she was ecstatic to personally receive each of the member's signatures on a free *NSYNC debut album. This was the first time I was introduced to Justin Timberlake and, at the time, thought it quite likely to be the last.

Over the years, our generation has watched Justin transform from Mousketeer to teen pop idol sensation to solo superstar to his present form, a triple threat (singer/dancer/comedian), among other noted accomplishments. Although, we admit to a continued skepticism outside of his regular musical skill set; at least until his natural talent became more apparent on his recent SNL debut, as demonstrated on the following "impromptu" Weekend Update appearance...

Note: Scroll down to the bottom of the page and pause [||] the playlist music.

Though we've tried (we've really tried), we cannot not like the man. Like most guys, I was quick to bash boy bands (jealousy maybe?), reserving a special disdain for the frontmen, most notably Justin Timberlake. However, deep down we knew we were just kidding ourselves. Justin shares a similar sense of humor, and despite his pop star success seems exceptionally likable (don't call it a man crush, though). Instead, he's what most would refer to as a man's man, never taking himself too seriously.

Timberlake's recent appearances on Saturday Night Live are the highlights of our viewing season. Aside from his brilliant collaborations (aka SNL Digital Shorts) with Andy Samberg, (although hilarious, not appropriate for a family blog) we've embedded our latest favorite, prompting repeated comical references between the two of us. So, if you missed last weekend's SNL and in need of some hump day humor to get you through the remainder of the week, then check it out... you will not be disappointed!

:: UPDATE ::

I apologize for the inconvenience, however, NBC has inconvenienced us all by requiring removal of the SNL "Plasticville" clip due to musical copyright infringements. Boo!!! Unfortunately if you missed it, then you missed Mr. Timberlake donning an implant costume labeled 34DD and "saline be pumpin' pumpin'!" Gotta love it ;)

Running Like the Wind

Or... a slow breeze. Millions of people do it every year, how hard could a marathon be? Each spring stories are told of octogenarians and formerly obese Americans who damn the odds, velcro their shoes, train and complete marathons. This year, I threw my hat in the ring, declaring early on, “it’s not a matter of ‘if’ I finish, but how fast I finish.”

Training began in the summer of 2008, with the intention of just competing in local 10k races, because “there is no way I can finish a marathon.” However, soon enough, the topic of marathons came up during a LOYAL meeting, where I discovered that 10 percent of my class had completed the big race. This was my “aha” moment, certainly not a reflection on my fellow LOYALers, but the conclusion that almost anybody who wants to do it, can. The only thing holding me back was my “can’t do” attitude. It was at that table, with 4 people who had completed a marathon and 1 more who had completed the Redman Ironman Distance Triathlon, I decided that enough was enough, stop setting the bar so low and knock this thing out.

As April 26 approached, my weekly long run progressed to 25 miles, as much mental torture as physical. Between long runs, my goal was to run 3 days per week at about 4 miles per workout just to keep the soreness at bay. There were several injuries throughout the 32 weeks of training, one of which kept me off the trails for almost 3 weeks and hampered my efforts severely. Most runners can attest that it will take at least 5 weeks to recover 3 weeks of lost fitness. Weather was another factor. The cold winter wind pushed me indoors for much of November and December, where the treadmill (a very poor substitute for the road) and swimming provided a decent workout for both lower and upper body.

On March 1, a new sense of urgency struck. I had told at least 10 people of my marathon goal, which means, there were now a host of people to call me out. In retrospect, methinks that this was a subconscious effort to develop some accountability. I do not train with a partner, no one was counting on me to finish, and it can be difficult to remain self-motivated for this type of drudgery. By talking a big game however, there was a team of people in my corner who expected me to back up the talk and complete the goal.

The alarm went off at 3am on race day. My body needs time to wake up and with the race beginning at 6:30am; this allowed plenty of time to "drop off" anything that will not be useful in my stomach during a 26.2 mile run. James, a friend from our Life group and an experienced marathon runner, and I met so we could carpool downtown. There is something inspiring about driving downtown at 5am on Sunday, knowing that the few other people on the road are converging to achieve the same goal.

Park. Check gear. "Drop off" again. Warm-up. Chat aimlessly while standing in the 10:30/mile pace group. Singing. The Mayor speaks.

168 seconds of silence. I did not know anyone who died in the attack on the Murrah building. However, in those 168 seconds, I was transported back to ninth grade, remembering precisely where I was when the bomb exploded downtown: physical science class. There was a rumble, I looked back at the clock which read 9:02 and thought (in the windowless classroom) “I guess that was just thunder, although I don't recall seeing any storm clouds.” The school was evacuated a few hours later when the word of the atrocity was announced. So, needless to say, the time that was going to be used to collect my thoughts and focus on the task ahead instantly turned to the bombing, and I along with 90 percent of the others turned into a mentally emotional mess.

The gun went off, and it's time to run...right? Given the size of the race (though nothing compared to NYC, Boston, Chicago or San Francisco) it takes time just to get to the start line, where reality sets in, “this is going to happen...”

Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon Course Map

The first quarter of the race, for lack of a better term, was easy. We completed it in 59:57, well ahead of my goal of 5 hours. In hindsight, it is quite simple to see why we had to hold our pace back, it was downhill with wind gusts up to 30 miles per hour at our backs. This was in the back of my mind, but how bad could it be? As we approached mile 12, my partner needed a port-o-let break. I decided to keep moving for fear that once stopped, my legs would cease to start again. So, we bid adieu. I trudged on, hitting the halfway mark in an honorable 2:06:51, a 4:13:30 pace, an average of 6.2 miles per hour. This was 45 minutes ahead of my goal time, which was great news! Right? Right?

Trouble reared its ugly head just past the halfway point on Britton road, passing over I-44. The road is 20 feet above the ground and at a relatively steep incline. For the first time, runners felt the wind that had been pushing us to what we thought would be personal best times. I kept my legs moving, trying to jog in a straight line but instead blown all over the bridge by the terrible wind. From this point on, we were heading south right into the cool Oklahoma breeze.

I run the lake about 4 times a week so the next leg of the race was beyond familiar. At about this point, bodies start dropping. A man surrounded by emergency personnel looked to be the first casualty, including an IV bag and a fire truck. (I forgot to say, the humidity was over 60%.) Not 100 yards later, a couple of women overtaken by the wind. Mile 15 on the lake might have been the first time “what the heck am I doing” ran through my mind, but knowing that my cheerleading squad (Angela and Kinsey) would be at the 16.5-mile mark helped me through it. I said a brief hello, snuggled K, said thank you for supporting Daddy and moved on.

Back over the highway, 95% of the runners walked the bridge to Nichols Hills. Crossing May Avenue, there was my dad to throw me an extra bottle of water and wish me good luck. His parting words, “it’s all downhill from here.” I am guessing he did not mean that literally. From the halfway point to mile 20, my pace slowed to an even more modest 5.4 miles per hour.

The fact had never really occurred to me before, and I will not forget it now: Classen, mile 20-24, is all uphill. The wind I was mentally prepared for but not the quads burning an uphill struggle that is Classen. Those thoughts creeped into my head again, “why am I doing this, just quit now.” Which was countered by the angel on my other shoulder, “only six more miles, that is nothing. Besides, if you quit, how will you get back to your car?” Runners were dropping left and right at the aid stations. IV’s FOR EVERYBODY!

Nearing the end of Classen, 23.5 miles in, you can smell the finish line. I started to lose track of how far [actually] remained. I looked into the crowd where a little girl held a sign saying, “1 mile left. You can do it!” My immediate thought was that there has to be more than a mile left, maybe 2 miles is more accurate. A mile later, there is the same little girl, screaming her lungs out and holding the same sign... I fought the urge to set her straight.

Through Mesta Park and Heritage hills we jogged (I can not call what I was doing at this point “running”), powered only by the thought of finishing and the mountains of fattening food that would be waiting. Mile 24, the second wind hit. Residents were on their lawns spraying us with much needed water and cheering, some even offering shots of Jaegermeister. Seriously.

Mile 25-26 was a blur with a big smile on my face, I could see the end. It was just a matter of looking good for the finishing picture. I finished in 4:39:45 (mile 20 to finish fell to 4.9mph), well ahead of my goal. I collected a finisher’s shirt, medal, took off the timing chip and found the snack area. E.L. Fudge cookies never tasted so good, especially when chased by a couple of Carl’s Jr. cheeseburgers and four Powerades.

The damage? My feet were quite torn up with each toe displaying a varying degree of disgusting. The left pointer toenail is looking to come off any day now. My muscles were feeling good by the following Friday, and I actually took a run on Saturday. Mentally, completing a marathon is a huge point of pride and my full respect goes out to all those runners who make it look so easy.

If you had asked me on Sunday, “would you do it again?” The answer would have been absolutely not. By Monday morning, the guys in the office asked the same question as I lumbered through the door. My response, “I’ll break 4 hours at the Tulsa marathon in November.” Hold me to it people!

Cream or Sugar-coated?

I like Dave Ramsey. We enjoy his financial message and [currently] attend Financial Peace University, motivating us to “Live like nobody else, so we can live like nobody else.” His program has helped millions of people conquer debt and dig themselves out of those [often] suffocating financial holes. Dave’s Town Hall for Hope was an excellent idea that will propel many Americans toward financial independence. However, I would be an accessory to an untruth if I did not stand up and say he fired me up early…

To illustrate a lack of personal responsibility, Dave cited the story of Stella Liebeck, the woman who spilled McDonald’s coffee on her lap and thereby "awarded millions" of dollars in a lawsuit. Ramsey mocked Liebeck by saying, “Who knew coffee would be hot?” before continuing to beat down what is considered by many to be the standard for frivolous lawsuits. It has been broken down on lectlaw.com, the source from which I drew the information below and also available via many sources. Therefore, all Dave or anyone else needs to do is...wait for it...RESEARCH. Most Americans are quick to criticize the media and occasionally for good reason. In the same breath, however, they are also quick to regurgitate and believe this shock-and-awe, ratings driven sound bite. Those telling this story, in order to drive home the evils of frivolous lawsuits, count on the ignorance of the listener. If you still think Ms. Liebeck is the profile of irresponsibility and stupidity, once you receive the facts of this particular case, then I would personally like to serve you your next cup of coffee.

Stella Liebeck of Albuquerque, New Mexico, was in the passenger seat of her grandson's car when she was severely burned by McDonalds' coffee in February 1992. Liebeck, 79 at the time, ordered coffee that was served in a styrofoam cup at the drive-through window of a local McDonalds. After receiving their order, her grandson pulled his car forward and stopped momentarily so that Liebeck could add cream and sugar to her coffee. Critics often charge that Liebeck was driving the car or that the vehicle was in motion when she spilled the coffee; neither is true. Liebeck placed the cup between her knees and attempted to remove the plastic lid from the cup. As she removed the lid, the entire contents of the cup spilled into her lap. The sweatpants Liebeck was wearing absorbed the coffee, holding it next to her skin. A vascular surgeon determined that Liebeck suffered full thickness burns (or third-degree burns) over 6 percent of her body, including her inner thighs, perineum, buttocks, genital and groin areas. She was hospitalized for eight days, during which time she underwent skin grafting for the aforementioned areas. Liebeck, who also underwent debridement treatments, sought to settle her claim (having never sued anyone prior to this incident) for only $20,000 to cover medical bills accumulated as a result of the incident. McDonalds refused.

During discovery, McDonalds produced documents showing more than 700 claims by people burned by its coffee between 1982 and 1992. Some claims involved third-degree burns similar to Liebecks. This history documented McDonalds' knowledge about the extent and nature of this hazard. McDonalds also said during discovery that, based on a consultants advice, it held its coffee between 180 and 190 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain optimum taste, admitting that they had not evaluated the safety ramifications at this temperature. Other establishments sell coffee at substantially lower temperatures, and coffee served at home is generally 135 to 140 degrees. Further, McDonalds' quality assurance manager testified that the company actively enforces a requirement that coffee be held in the pot at 185 degrees, plus or minus five degrees. He also testified that a burn hazard exists with any food substance served at 140 degrees or above, and that McDonalds coffee, at the temperature at which it was poured into styrofoam cups, was not fit for consumption, because it would burn the mouth and throat. The quality assurance manager confirmed that burns would occur, but testified that McDonalds did not intend to reduce the "holding temperature" of its coffee.

The plaintiffs' expert, a scholar in thermodynamics applied to human skin burns, testified that liquids at 180 degrees will cause a full thickness burn to human skin within two to seven seconds. Another testimony revealed that as the temperature decreases toward 155 degrees, the extent of the burn relative to that temperature decreases exponentially. Thus, if Liebeck's spill had involved coffee at 155 degrees, the liquid would have cooled and given her time to avoid a serious burn.

McDonalds asserted that customers buy coffee on their way to work or home, intending to consume it there. However, the company’s own research showed that customers intend to consume the coffee immediately while driving. McDonalds also argued that consumers know coffee is hot and that its customers want it that way. The company admitted its customers were unaware that they could suffer third degree burns from the coffee and that a statement on the side of the cup was not a warning, but a "reminder," since the location of the writing would not conveniently warn customers of the potential hazard.

The jury awarded Liebeck $200,000 in compensatory damages. This amount was reduced to $160,000 because the jury found Liebeck 20 percent at fault in the spill. The jury also awarded Liebeck $2.7 million in punitive damages, which equals about two days of McDonalds' coffee sales. Post-verdict investigation found that the temperature of coffee at the local Albuquerque McDonalds had dropped to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. The trial court subsequently reduced the punitive award to $480,000 -- or 3 times compensatory damages -- even though the judge called McDonalds' conduct reckless, callous and willful.

The parties eventually entered into a secret settlement (for presumably less money) that has never been revealed to the public, despite the fact that this was a public case, litigated in public and subjected to extensive media reporting. So, let this be a lesson to you silly, old women: learn some responsibility. Or, those looking to rant about responsibility and the frivolity of the legal system, should not speak until they know what they are talking about. Case closed.

FINALE :: You ARE What You LISTEN To

GQ Magazine

A worthy supplement for those who read the magazine. As the description airs, a behind-the-scenes look at written subjects explored in the print copy. The hosts can err on the side goofy but do occasionally toss out some fashion or pop culture gold. While certainly no fashionisto (masculine fashionista?), I can vouch that the men provide [relatively] low priced ways for the every-man to become a sartorialist. Key phrase: every-man. They are well aware of the astronomically priced items featured within the pages of GQ. Therefore, it is acknowledged, oftentimes with solutions to achieve the same look on a non NBA salary.

In the last few episodes, the editors having covered 50 years of LA rock, include interviews with Tom Waits and Anvil, an LA based heavy metal band (featuring guitar riffs that will melt your face). Baseball fans, you absolutely MUST listen to "Episode 118: Two Months in Hell with Lenny Dykstra." Kevin Coughlin elaborates on his story in the April issue of GQ... craziness ensues.

If you are looking for a light, sometimes educational podcast that is akin to discussions you might have with your best friends, then this is it. Enjoy.

A weekly infusion of men’s style and culture, the GQ Podcast gives you the story behind the story. Listen in on conversations between editors and writers about the best in movies, fashion, music, and other areas of pop culture. iTunes

:: Programming Note ::

Originally, the You ARE What You LISTEN To series was set to cover ten(10) individual podcasts. However, due to low reader commentary and the realization that there are only seven(7) core podcasts in my repertoire, this post will close the series. Be on the look out for a new series to begin in the weeks ahead.

Week 6 :: You ARE What You LISTEN To

The Age Grouper

I stumbled across this podcast as my interest in fitness and running took off... literally. Despite the fact that I am a whole 7 months away from 30, these guys are just like me. Successfully trying to manage work, family obligations and living an all-around healthy lifestyle, including the occasional trial by race. Jeff is a bit more typical for our age, by that, I mean not as fast and not quite as neurotic about keeping a strict training manual. If Jeff is Oscar Madison, then Eric is the Felix Unger. Eric has chronicled every workout for over 5 years and by [almost] any amateur's measuring stick, is blazing fast. Over time, the two hosts have expanded the course of the show, from following the trials and tribulations of their [own] athletic endeavors to interviewing Olympic athletes and featuring gear reviews. I've found myself in the past listening to professional athletes discuss what works best for them, with myself thinking "that's easy when your only responsibility is to train." Jeff and Eric are just like you and me, continuing to dish out tips focused on improving one's physical and mental performance.

This is The Age Grouper Triathlon and Multisport Podcast. Join Jeff and Eric, two regular 30-34 year old triathletes from the heart of the Midwest, in the kind of conversation that only age-groupers can appreciate. We explore the everyday issues that we face as swimmers, cyclists and runners. If you are part of any age group, you have found the right podcast. iTunes

Week 5 :: You ARE What You LISTEN To

Real Time with Bill Maher

One needs an open mind when listening to Mr. Bill Maher. As humorous as he is controversial, Maher covers the day's hottest political topics; featuring guests from all over the spectrum. Do not allow yourself to be too jaded by his previous political commentary; with the last eight(8) years yielding effortless child's play through reason and logic, because Bill is an equal opportunity mocker. The new season began two weeks ago accompanied with a renewed sense of passion in his voice. Of course, [like us] he strongly supports President Obama, and unlike Mr. Limbaugh, Maher prefers to see the President and our country prosper... I'm dumb-founded by the idea of anyone benefiting from the leader of the free world failing??? However, Maher has been quick to criticize a few of the administration's earlier decisions, referring to Obama as another Clintonesque, big business Democrat. Bill is the liberal's liberal, and unlike many (though not all) of his counterparts, he enjoys magnifying the issues through a lens of logic and fact opposed to anger and fear.

In a few weeks, Maher will be making several stops in which he will debate my favorite poltergeist, Ann Coulter. Whether this will make it into the podcast or not, I do not know, but I highly advise finding a way to tune in. Between Ann Coulter's 140 decibel concern regarding the coming apocalypse, brought on by that "awful man" (FWD to 2:33 in the clip) and Bill's slightly stoned, yet rational fact based retorts, it should be great...

2009 promises to be a year of change, hope, renewal and at long last, a new president. Bill Maher and his peerless panelists are back to take on the contender, and pretenders, all year long. iTunes

Week 4 :: You ARE What You LISTEN To

This American Life

Stories of ordinary and extraordinary people and circumstances. For some time, this has been one of the most widely subscribed podcasts in the country, and for good reason. As your guide, Ira Glass does a remarkable job integrating multiple stories into a single themed show. Much like The Moth, This American Life gives you a little taste of everything, laughter, tears (I will admit to a few while listening during my long runs), and more often than not, amazing illustrations of "The Butterfly Effect."

Official FREE, weekly podcast of the award-winning radio show “This American Life.” First-person stories and short fiction pieces that are touching, funny, and surprising. Hosted by Ira Glass, from WBEZ Chicago Public Radio. In mp3 and updated Mondays. iTunes

Week 3 :: You ARE What You LISTEN To

The Moth

Though occasionally touching, more often than not, “The Moth” has me laughing aloud. Stories are told by a cross section of society, and the deliveries are always fantastic. A frequent performer on Comedy Central, Mike Birbiglia tells of his worst stand-up performance...ever. On the other end of the spectrum, a retired New York City firefighter reflects on the memories [of work] that haunt him and strain his family life. In a recent episode, an apartment tenant tells of a "crazy" super who turns out to not be so crazy. If you aren't laughing, then your jaw will be on the floor. Visit the The Moth and it will turn into one of the brightest 15 minutes of your week.

The Moth features people telling true, engaging, funny, touching and eye-opening stories from their lives. Hailed as “New York’s hottest and hippest literary ticket” by the Wall Street Journal, The Moth has been producing sold-out storytelling shows for over ten years. Stories are told without notes to a live audience by a wide range of people. The best have been captured here. iTunes

Week 2 :: You ARE what You LISTEN To

Stuff You Missed in History Class

If “Hardcore History” is the 10,000 calorie last supper, this show is a mere appetizer with tidbits to whet your interest. The individual stories provide just enough material to comment on anything from the African diamond trade or Thomas Jefferson's revisions (he was a deist) to the Bible. How did Rasputin really die? Take 13 minutes and listen to the 9/13/08 Stuff You Missed in History Class. The show will pique your interest and force you to run to the library... or at least spend a few minutes on the Google.

From the Christmas Truce to the Boston Tea Party, history is filled with amazing stories. Tune in and learn more Stuff You Missed in History Class in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com iTunes

Again, if any of these sound interesting, do yourself a huge favor and subscribe to the podcast.

You ARE what You LISTEN To

Like many Americans, I [too] am hopelessly in love with my iPod. We go everywhere together, though she does most of the talking. Our relationship started simply enough: iTunes, the occasional mixed CD, utilizing the timer function for workouts. However, I knew she was "the one" upon discovering podcasts. Business, fitness and storytelling, each category has found a regular spot on my playlist. Though my [listening] tastes could easily be described as eclectic, one can begin to understand my personal interests just by tuning in to these particular programs.

Each week, I will highlight the top ten(10) shows I enjoy while giving a brief description as to why they have earned a much coveted spot on the iPod, including a brief write-up provided by iTunes as well. If a show sounds interesting, then feel free to support it by subscribing to it and utilizing this FREE form of [educational] entertainment.

Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History

Nothing I could say would do this show justice. Dan Carlin makes one hunger to learn more about the Assyrian empire, consider the Great Man Theory, and actually entertained me to listen to a 4-hour analysis of the Punic Wars. Want to learn why Hannibal and his Carthaginians were warfare innovators? How did Scipio Africanus ultimately counter Hannibal’s elephants and battlefield greatness? Carlin works through incredible “what ifs” and explores what might have happened if the smallest things had been different. His theme “Imagine if…” 

In “Hardcore History,” the very unconventional Dan Carlin takes “Martian,” outside-the-box thinking and applies it to the past. Was Alexander the Great as bad a person as Adolf Hitler? What would Apaches with modern weapons be like? Will our modern civilization ever fall like civilizations from past eras? This difficult-to-classify show has a rather sharp edge. It is not for everyone. iTunes

Great Expectations

There can be no doubt that Tuesday’s inauguration, with an expected attendance of 3 million viewers (ten times more than the previous one), of President-Elect Barack Obama is a landmark moment for the United States. His inaugural address is perhaps one of the most highly anticipated political speeches in modern American history. So, be sure to tune in tomorrow America. According to history, the most awe-inspiring inaugural speeches have been known to materialize during times of economic distress, and it's believed Barack will deliver just that. The sweeping election marks a significant step for race relations, removing what was an opaque glass ceiling. “The [white, privileged] President doesn’t know what I have been through” is no longer a reason for political apathy. President Obama will be the new model for all Americans as well as living proof that it does not matter how much money you have, what color your parents are, whether you have one parent at home or two, or where you grew up. A better life or change is possible, there are no limits to what is achievable.

"To all of us as adults, he will be the first black president, but for his kids and kids like mine from all different races and backgrounds, he will just be the President. They will not know a country that has never elected a black president, and so you won't grow up wondering whether or not this country is going to accept everyone at every position; you'll already know it."

Adrian M. Fenty, Mayor Washington, D.C.

I am not blind to the lofty expectations to which we have burdened Obama. He is expected to solve a war on two fronts, fix alienating foreign policy, a flailing economy, and a government that has spat on freedom for the sake of a bit of perceived security.

“He who trades liberty for security deserves neither and will lose both.”

President Thomas Jefferson

Heck, why not throw in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for good measure; ignoring the historical fact that it has been going on for years, let's go ahead and put that on his back as well. Despite the unrealistic prospect of completely solving such issues, Barack Obama is a smart, calculating and measured person who will [at least] provide forward momentum towards a solution. Again, he will not be able to do it overnight or even in the first term, policy has always proven to be two steps forward and one back. However, any advancement, as slight as it might be, is progress at this point. Additionally, Obama (among others) has been very clear that a change of this magnitude will take commitment from the entire country in order to turn things around.

"Ask NOT what your country can do for you,

ask what YOU can do for your country."

President John F. Kennedy

Those who lived in World War I and II remember sacrificing for their country, and you can expect come Tuesday that we will be asked to do the same. The change this country needs and deserves will require more than just putting a magnetic ribbon on your car.

That being said, we expect a certain amount of failure. It is impossible to deliver everything promised during a campaign. Obama is a pragmatist, who will certainly not be able to fully satisfy his far left supporters but may pleasantly surprise those on the far right (though FOX will never admit it). While skimming through his campaign promises, I've compiled a list (far from all-inclusive) of bare minimum expectations over the next four years:

Require new hires to deny cronyism

"Obama will issue an executive order asking all new hires at the agencies to sign a form affirming that no political appointee offered them the job solely on the basis of political affiliation or contribution."—Obama's Blueprint for Change

Try to toughen rules on animal feeding operations

"Barack Obama will work for tougher regulations on concentrated animal feeding operations to prevent air and water pollution."—Obama's Blueprint for Change

Implement payment limitation to help family farmers

"Obama will implement a $250,000 [farm comm] payment limitation so that we help family farmers, not large corporate agribusiness. Obama will close the loopholes that allow mega farms to get around the limits by subdividing their operations into multiple paper corporations."—Obama's Blueprint for Change

Clean up the Justice Department

"I will rid the department of ideologues and political cronies…the Civil Rights Division will actually be staffed with civil rights lawyers who prosecute civil rights violations, and employment discrimination, and hate crimes."—09/28/07, Washington D.C.

Advocate equal treatment of same sex couples

"As your president, I will use the bully pulpit to urge states to treat same-sex couples with full equality in their family and adoption laws."—02/28/08, Obama letter to LGBT Americans

Work to overturn Supreme Court's ruling in Ledbetter v. Goodyear

"Obama will work to overturn the Supreme Court's recent ruling that curtails racial minorities' and women's ability to challenge pay discrimination."—Obama's Blueprint for Change

Forgive school loans of public defenders

"We'll recruit more public defenders to the profession by forgiving college and law school loans."—9/28/07, Washington D.C.

End disparity in crack versus powdered cocaine sentencing

"That will end when I am president."—9/28/07, Washington D.C.

Combat methamphetamine use

"As president, he will continue the fight to rid our communities of meth and offer support to help addicts heal."—Obama's Blueprint for Change

Safeguard all nuclear material within four years

"I will lead a global effort to secure all nuclear weapons and material at vulnerable sites within four years."—4/23/07, Chicago

Ban torture

"When I am president, America will reject torture, without exception."—8/1/07, Washington D.C.

Combat terrorism

"Obama will fight terrorism and protect America with a comprehensive strategy that finishes the fight in Afghanistan, cracks down on the al Qaeda safe haven in Pakistan, develops new capabilities and international partnerships, engages the world to dry up support for extremism and reaffirms American values."—Obama's Blueprint for Change

Provide tuition assistance to students who perform community service

"And we will keep our promise to every young American -- if you commit to serving your community or your country, we will make sure you can afford a college education."—8/28/08, Denver

Reduce oil consumption

"Obama will reduce oil consumption overall by at least 35 percent, or 10 million barrels of oil, by 2030."—Obama's Blueprint for Change

Withdraw U.S. combat troops from Iraq

"I will begin to remove our troops from Iraq immediately. I will remove one or two brigades a month and get all of our combat troops out of Iraq within 16 months. The only troops I will keep in Iraq will perform the limited missions of protecting our diplomats and carrying out targeted strikes on al-Qaida."—10/02/07, Chicago

Expand U.S. forces in Afghanistan

"As president, I would deploy at least two additional brigades to Afghanistan to reinforce our counterterrorism operations and support NATO's efforts against the Taliban."—8/1/07, Washington

Why I Am Voting for "That One"

At one point, I was a default Republican. Growing up in Oklahoma during the 1990's, it was a place relatively devoid of ethnic or political diversity. Elections consisted of a choice between a Republican and the "godless liberal." There were two kinds of political conversations, pro-Republican or anti-Democrat.

Through various organizations, I had the opportunity to come in contact with those less fortunate than myself: the downtrodden, mentally ill, elderly and the forgotten members of our society. People, who without help, faced a lonely, wretched existence. There were the single mothers who worked multiple jobs trying to make ends meet and could not come close. There were kids supporting their siblings, missing school to work full-time jobs because Mom and/or Dad were too strung out to buy groceries. Disabled veterans, scarred by the destruction and death they had seen, incapable of making it through the day and tossed aside by the country they served. Elderly Americans living in homes with no family, who would cry when we arrived and were almost hysterical when we had to leave. The radio talking heads told me that these individuals were lazy, did not want to work and born with the exact same opportunities as every other American. Overweight, caucasian, blue-blooded politicians told me that they just needed to pull themselves up by their bootstraps, noting that if they could do it (with their family money and Ivy League educations) anyone could. Something did not compute. I knew some people chose to abuse the system, but to eliminate hand-ups and assistance to those in need because of the sins of others was just not American.

I was transformed. I am no longer a cynic. I believe in the inherent goodness of people. I believe within most, there is a longing for something better and a desire to achieve. As Americans, we root for the underdog and can never forget that this country was once an underdog. I believe that no American should have to choose between life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And Barack Obama subscribes to this worldview. He believes in rewarding success and talent while remaining human enough to remember the back on which corporate empires are built. I believe in the American success story that is Obama. The product of a 19-year-old mother, whose husband left when Barack was only two. A mixed race boy born into a less than perfect situation. They did not have much money but provided love, education and hope. Obama attended Harvard Law School and was elected the first black president of the Harvard Law Review before returning to Chicago to practice civil rights law and teach the Constitution at the University of Chicago. Now, this man of humble beginnings is favored to be the first black President of the United States of America. Obama knows about life for the average American, and he can relate to the struggles and hardships of the middle class.

McCain Gets Mavericky on Socialism

In a last ditch effort; the McCain campaign and the neoconservative machine have taken to calling Barack Obama a SOCIALIST (all caps because you should be startled by this term, I tell you). It hits your brain like a runaway Straight Talk Express, bringing to mind the Bolsheviks and for those like us in the under 30 set, Hugo Chavez. The problems with this line of attack are many. Let's look at socialism, the facts surrounding the uproar, and find out what John McCain really thinks about Obama's tax plan.

This past weekend, I discussed the upcoming election with a fervent McCain supporter. When asked why he supported McCain, his response was "electing a socialist president would destroy this country." Probing further, I asked how would he define socialist. He replied "you have a dictionary, you are voting for the guy, look up socialism and take a look at his policies, then YOU tell me why he is a socialist." This person was asking me to explain to him why he would make such a preposterous argument, but I digress. The conversation illustrates the first problem: most people do not have a basic understanding of socialism.

so.cial.ism [soh-shuh-liz-uhm] n. a theory or system of social organization that advocates the vesting of the ownership and control of the means of production and distribution, of capital, land, etc., in the community as a whole.

The definition is so vague and does not sound like the Obama policies I know. Let's hear the truth straight from the socialist horse. Is this what Obama believes in?

F.N. Brill, National Secretary of the World Socialist Party (US): "Obama is as much a socialist as the Pope is an atheist. Income redistribution isn't a socialist act. It might aid in ameliorating income disparities within a capitalist economy for a limited time. But the logic of capitalism demands the rich grow richer (more capitalization is needed) and the poor grow poorer (their work creates the needed capital used by the rich)."

Rea Hederman, assistant director at the Heritage Foundation, "whose mission is to formulate and promote conservative public policies," said the following in regard to Obama's tax policy.

"I wouldn't call the plan socialist. I have concerns anytime that the tax code is made more complex or used as a tool for social policy. Ideally, the tax code should be made as efficient as possible to maximize economic growth and minimize the distortions that arise from taxation."

Rea, you crazy liberal...who just happens to work for a conservative think tank.

An actual socialist does not think the Obama tax plan (that you can evaluate here) is socialist. The Heritage Foundation does not think it is socialist. What about Warren Buffett, one of the richest men in the world, a man who would presumably have the most to lose should taxes increase on high earners. What say you, Warren?

May 5, 2008 Interview with Buffett on CNBC:

The interviewer, Becky Quick, asked Buffett to pretend for a moment that she was John McCain. She then asked, "Is there anything I can do, any economic issue I can get behind, that would actually make you think twice about potentially supporting me?"

Buffett: "I would say that if you felt the tax burden should be shifted in a significant way to the super-rich and away from the middle class, I would say that would make me re-evaluate you."

Quick/"McCain": "So I could eventually gain your support come November?"

Buffett: "Well, in the end, I vote on issues NOW. I think it's pretty clear in many major areas what all three candidates would do."

Then he said, chuckling, that it was "unlikely" he would back McCain "unless he has a serious change, a lobotomy or something like that."

Okay, okay. I get it. Nobody likes to pay higher taxes. Under the Obama plan, families earning more than $250,000 will pay the same amount as during the Clinton era, and we all remember how horrific the economy was back then! The chart below tracks the level of the highest tax bracket since 1913.

From a historical perspective, high-income earners under the age of 40 have never paid high taxes. If your parents were making big bucks during the Carter administration, they paid 70% in taxes of all money made above the high earner cutoff. That was the LOWEST rate since 1931! If you want to know how your taxes will change, then visit the Obama-Biden Tax Calculator and enter your information.

I will wrap this up with Mr McCain's own words, though I could go on for days. Obama's tax cuts for those making less than $250,000, and an increase to Clinton levels for those making more. What he has argued for is a laddered tax rate, the same tax structure that the US has had since the beginning of time. It is not socialism, but you can make up your own mind. So what about John McCain? We know that this mavericky maverick thinks that raising taxes on the rich and cutting taxes for the middle class is a recipe for disaster. Go ahead John, tell that socialist Obama where to put his tax plan!

Whaaaat? Say it ain't so John, you sound just like Barack Obama. Surely, someone so mavericky would have the political spine to stand behind your true beliefs. We will give you one more shot John, tell me something true.

Where did the John McCain of 2000 go? America was a better place when you stood up for what you believed and were an independent voice far away from the Republican machine. Your legacy was going to be one of a war hero, far above Washington politics, who cared more about the success of this nation than pandering to a political party. Values were thrown to the wind and you were told to win at all cost, even stooping to hire Steve Schmidt as your campaign director, the same man who shamelessly smeared you in 2000. Now, barring a surprising result on Tuesday, you will be relegated to the scrap heap, a relic who sold out his core beliefs, took part in the politics you despised only four years earlier, and utterly irrelevant.