On this very bright and sunny, cool but refreshing day in Cleveland, Ohio; our great city has the amazing opportunity and fantastic burden of hosting President George W. Bush today on the 3rd Anniversary of the Iraq War!

Now, I know you're all expecting to have a parade with streamers and firetrucks and kids with candy for this type of event, but George is actually just speaking to a crowd of probably-almost-completely supporters at the Cleveland City Club. Now, I want to point out that I enjoy attending City Club events as they offer an opportunity for average folks to purchase a ticket to eat a healthy, filling meal and then ask questions to the guest speaker following their remarks. However, I have a feeling that today's general audience won't be as aggressive with questions to the world leader at the "citadel of free speech."

For all of you that are interested in listening to El Presidente's remarks, I believe the City Club speeches and question/answer periods are broadcast live on Channel 5, but I may be mistaken by the channel number.... it's definitely one of the local stations. And then the cable access channel usually replays it constantly throughout the week.

Things to look out for in Bush's speech: 1) The number of time he mentions the words "freedom" and "democracy." 2) The number of ways that he can use metaphors to describe ways that we can all "stay the cause" in Iraq. 3) The ways that he demonstrates the personal sacrifice of local soldiers and Marines that were killed in Iraq; my favorite is when he points to a family in the crowd that is physically "staying the cause" as a personal ally in the war on terror with Bush. 4) The wildcard---making reference to someone that doubts his explanation for going to war or staying at war as a terrorist sympathizer or actual hater of freedom. This is worth the most amount of points, and will most likely be awarded to Sen. Russ Feingold this week by Dubbya.

Things to think about: Why is it that when we look at the thousands that died on September 11th, we are continually told that it was an unforgiveable tragedy.... but when we look at the thousands of American servicemen and women AND civilians that died in Iraq over the past 3 years, we are told that it's a sacrifice..... and why is that we never talk about the thousands of Iraqis that have died over the past 3 years during the "pursuit of freedom and democracy?" Should we define their deaths as tragedy or sacrifice? I'm awaiting a response today.... maybe it will come right? Probably not.

Remember folks...... this is an Iraqi process now.

This was on this morning's Daily Kos and I just had to publish it on my blog because I want it to stay alive and in the media as long as possible. If you have a blog or site, please consider putting this up. It's hilarious during the first read, and then a bit scary to consider that it was actually said, all the other times you read it. On another note, Happy St. Patrick's Day to everyone! Enjoy the campaign festivities that will most notably include parades, mass, and countless invitations to green eggs and ham breakfasts, corned beef and cabbage luncheons, and pints of the good stuff for all of the afternoon and evening meals!

WWJD
by kos

Thu Mar 16, 2006 at 11:08:30 PM PDT
From Newsweek's Periscope:

"Right now, I wouldn't vote Democratic if Jesus Christ was running." Judy Deats, a Texas Republican, who is standing by Rep. Tom DeLay in his re-election bid despite the fact that his association with lobbyist Jack Abramoff has made him vulnerable to political opposition for the first time in more than 20 years.

I'm glad she realizes that Jesus would be a Democrat.

A poem from fellow staffer, Elizabeth Scott.

This should brighten your day.... even with all of the spring rain. At least it's "spring rain."

On the horizon stands a servant, so humble and kind
facing the horizon, learning from the lessons of the day he has left behind.

The burdens of others on his shoulders gather, neigh a grumble ever spoke
“Help those who can’t help themselves” are words guiding his path
Never a bribe taken, no ego to stroke.

This servant lives by example, inspiring the young, empowering the weak
Constantly fighting for the rightful inheritance of the mild and meek

Like a shepherd, he is no stranger to the wolves
Wool may decorate their fur, mild their tempers may be
Baited breath and fangs, however he will always see

His flock not bound by color; diligent is his fight and steady is his course
acceptance and tolerance his grace, strength and integrity his driving force

A white flag he has not, your tribulations he carries in tote
In he your voice will be found, in he your voice will be heard…all he requires is your vote.

I really enjoyed it, Elizabeth. I've dubbed her our campaign poet laureate. And now, some fresh news for your pleasure.

Buckeye State Blog directs us to a Suffolk University poll which shows Ted up 11 points (45-34) on Republican Attorney General Jim Petro and 18 points (48-30) on Republican Secretary of State Ken Blackwell in the governor’s race.
Ohioans are responding to Ted’s substantive, positive vision for Ohio’s future, and it’s showing in head-to-head matchups with the participants in the Shootout at the GOP Corral. This state is ready for solutions rather than criticisms, and Ted is the only candidate for governor offering those solutions.
Speaking of which, the Associated Press discusses state-level struggles to marry ethanol supply to ethanol demand. The bold Strickland vision for energy innovation and production, Powering Ohio’s Economy, tackles this issue head-on by providing tax-free investment in ethanol and alternative fuel infrastructure, marrying public investment to private ingenuity to make Ohio a leader in cost-efficient energy.

Don't get lazy, activists and supporters.... now is the time to step up our pace!
Happy Monday, everyone!