I live in Utah, which, as everybody knows, is the Mecca of conservative politics in America. As a Democrat, I'm grossly outnumbered, and I've come to terms with that. But something is happening here in Utah. No, we haven't elected a Democratic Governor or Senator, and we certainly haven't given the state Congress over to the Democratic Party. But here, even in the heart of the Republican body, REPUBLICANS are voting Democratic. And they're not just voting for any Democrat - they're voting for Barack Obama.
My mother-in-law is as red as they come. She has been and will continue to be one of the most conservative individuals I will ever know. She votes for her party, regardless of the candidates. But on February 5th, when Utah held its primaries, she voted for Barack Obama, making it the very first time in her 52 years that she has voted for a Democrat. Amazing, isn't it.
Now, the question is: why? The answer is simple. Former presidential candidate Mitt Romney had already sealed up Utah - he had it on the day he announced his candidacy. She was a Romney supporter, but knowing that for the Republican Party it was a winner-take-all contest, and knowing that Romney would win, she looked elsewhere.
She voted for Obama because she believes that he's the best man for the job (with Romney as the exception). She was so violently opposed to McCain or Clinton winning - especially Clinton.
My mother-in-law is like so many others, who see Barack Obama as someone who can unite a galvanized country and work on both sides of the political divide. Clinton, on the other hand, is one of the post polarizing political figures in recent history. I'm not a Clinton-hater, but I know that if she's nominated the GOP will have a better shot at the White House as a result of her polarity, and the nation will continue to be as divided as Bush is leaving it.
Clinton has more experience, as does McCain, but experience doesn't mean everything. Experience pales in comparison to the importance of judgment and character. Just ask Abraham Lincoln or John F. Kennedy.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
2310 - Press Release #3
For Immediate Release
2/12/08
FREE FINANCIAL EDUCATION COMES TO CACHE VALLEY
The Cache Valley Area Investors Association
Logan, Utah
A new financial organization has been established in Cache Valley; not a bank or investment firm, but a grassroots club designed to make financial education affordable and easy to understand.
The Organization, the Cache Valley Area Investment Association, was founded by Preston Parker of Logan in the August of 2007, and meets every other Thursday evening at the Cache Chamber of Commerce to discuss financial matters such as debt, investments, and real estate.
"We graduate from high school knowing what amoebas are, but we still can't balance a checkbook or make an smart investment," Parker said. "People need to know when a good financial opportunity comes along."
Financial problems can be a thing of the past, Parker said, because CVAIA provides solutions for the future. The topics discussed in their regular meetings vary, and are molded to the needs and concerns of the members of the club.
There are currently 40 members in the Cache Valley area. Members not only enjoy free membership and advising, but they network with other financial enthusiasts who, Parker said, may end up being a business parter one day.
Although Parker doesn't have a formal education in finances, economics or accounting, he "took risks and seized opportunities" that have provided him with knowledge and experience that have led him to several successful business ventures. Parker also acknowledged the role of popular financial books that inspired him to form the CVAIA, including "The Millionaire Next Door" by Thomas J. Stanley and "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki.
"Wealth is living on a passive income rather than an earned income," Parker said. "When you can do that, you free yourself to make your passions your career."
Media Contact:
Preston Parker
President/Founder
Cache Valley Area Investors Association
www.CVAIA.com
cachevaia@gmail.com
four three five - seven five seven - four five six zero
2/12/08
FREE FINANCIAL EDUCATION COMES TO CACHE VALLEY
The Cache Valley Area Investors Association
Logan, Utah
A new financial organization has been established in Cache Valley; not a bank or investment firm, but a grassroots club designed to make financial education affordable and easy to understand.
The Organization, the Cache Valley Area Investment Association, was founded by Preston Parker of Logan in the August of 2007, and meets every other Thursday evening at the Cache Chamber of Commerce to discuss financial matters such as debt, investments, and real estate.
"We graduate from high school knowing what amoebas are, but we still can't balance a checkbook or make an smart investment," Parker said. "People need to know when a good financial opportunity comes along."
Financial problems can be a thing of the past, Parker said, because CVAIA provides solutions for the future. The topics discussed in their regular meetings vary, and are molded to the needs and concerns of the members of the club.
There are currently 40 members in the Cache Valley area. Members not only enjoy free membership and advising, but they network with other financial enthusiasts who, Parker said, may end up being a business parter one day.
Although Parker doesn't have a formal education in finances, economics or accounting, he "took risks and seized opportunities" that have provided him with knowledge and experience that have led him to several successful business ventures. Parker also acknowledged the role of popular financial books that inspired him to form the CVAIA, including "The Millionaire Next Door" by Thomas J. Stanley and "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki.
"Wealth is living on a passive income rather than an earned income," Parker said. "When you can do that, you free yourself to make your passions your career."
Media Contact:
Preston Parker
President/Founder
Cache Valley Area Investors Association
www.CVAIA.com
cachevaia@gmail.com
four three five - seven five seven - four five six zero
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Positioning Framework
It is my objective to attend Harvard Law School in the fall of 2009. Harvard boasts one of the finest educational institutions in the country, and its law school is certainly no exception. I have a resolute desire to study and practice law, and perhaps pursue it into academia. The Harvard Law School will help me as I make that leap from academic to professional life, but it will also benefit from having me as a student and alumnus by my hard work, my commitment to excellence, and my determination to succeed.
According to every current ranking available, including the one sponsored by U.S. News, the Harvard Law School unanimously holds a top-tier title, battling Yale University and Stanford University for the No. 1 spot. Harvard is unfaltering in its tradition of accepting the finest college graduates from around the world and molding them into the top crop of legal professionals. The admission standards are high, and place emphasis on academics, LSAT scores and personal character. The average GPA of accepted students is 3.84, while the average LSAT score is 172, both of which are extremely impressive. But the admissions board is also very interested in the quality and caliber of character of each individual that applies. They look for extra-curricular activities, student involvement, leadership experience, and other features that would continue to emphasize the high-caliber standard that has been set by multiple generations of outstanding students.
OUTPUT:
-I will continue to improve my GPA as I finish my last 3 semesters of my undergraduate degree.
-I will run for student office in an effort to gain more experience in the political process, as well as harvest leadership qualities and traits.
-If I am not elected, I will volunteer my time and efforts to aiding the school and its student body through other mediums.
-I will intern in a political or governmental atmosphere during the summer before my senior year to further expose myself to the political and legal worlds.
-I will study for and take the LSAT as many times as necessary until I receive a score of 165 or higher.
IMPACT:
-As a result of the aforementioned efforts, I expect to be accepted to at least one of my top three school choices.
-I expect to receive at least one scholarship offer from a school that I apply to.
-I expect to be employed with a private law firm of my choice upon completion of the Bar Exam based upon my successful academic career and performance.
Academics:
-I am an active, participatory student. I’m involved in class discussions, and help to harbor an atmosphere of learning and understanding.
-I currently hold a 3.7 GPA.
-I am on the Dean’s List for the College of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences.
-I rank in the top 15% of my class academically.
Passion & Dedication:
-I am the kind of person that hates a task left undone. I am committed to finish what I start, including projects, courses, and events.
-Since a very young age, I’ve been passionate about law and politics. I became involved in both early in my life. I started working at my father’s law firm when I was 14 years old, and was exposed to the inner workings of a professional law firm. Besides having great interest in politics, I ran for and participated in student government for six out of seven years in junior high and high school.
-I am anxious to help others, especially those who don’t have a leg to stand on. I’m compassionate, but equally determined to act. My overall professional goal in life is to make a difference in the lives of others and to be a positive influence to those with whom I interact.
Involvement:
-I have had the opportunity on several occasions to visit the state and national Capitols. There I have not only been able to learn about executive and legislative responsibilities, but have been able to raise my voice and lobby for various causes.
-I am a member of the Utah State University Mock Trial Club
-I am also a member of the Utah State University College Democrats.
According to every current ranking available, including the one sponsored by U.S. News, the Harvard Law School unanimously holds a top-tier title, battling Yale University and Stanford University for the No. 1 spot. Harvard is unfaltering in its tradition of accepting the finest college graduates from around the world and molding them into the top crop of legal professionals. The admission standards are high, and place emphasis on academics, LSAT scores and personal character. The average GPA of accepted students is 3.84, while the average LSAT score is 172, both of which are extremely impressive. But the admissions board is also very interested in the quality and caliber of character of each individual that applies. They look for extra-curricular activities, student involvement, leadership experience, and other features that would continue to emphasize the high-caliber standard that has been set by multiple generations of outstanding students.
OBJECTIVES
OUTPUT:
-I will continue to improve my GPA as I finish my last 3 semesters of my undergraduate degree.
-I will run for student office in an effort to gain more experience in the political process, as well as harvest leadership qualities and traits.
-If I am not elected, I will volunteer my time and efforts to aiding the school and its student body through other mediums.
-I will intern in a political or governmental atmosphere during the summer before my senior year to further expose myself to the political and legal worlds.
-I will study for and take the LSAT as many times as necessary until I receive a score of 165 or higher.
IMPACT:
-As a result of the aforementioned efforts, I expect to be accepted to at least one of my top three school choices.
-I expect to receive at least one scholarship offer from a school that I apply to.
-I expect to be employed with a private law firm of my choice upon completion of the Bar Exam based upon my successful academic career and performance.
TALKING POINTS
Academics:
-I am an active, participatory student. I’m involved in class discussions, and help to harbor an atmosphere of learning and understanding.
-I currently hold a 3.7 GPA.
-I am on the Dean’s List for the College of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences.
-I rank in the top 15% of my class academically.
Passion & Dedication:
-I am the kind of person that hates a task left undone. I am committed to finish what I start, including projects, courses, and events.
-Since a very young age, I’ve been passionate about law and politics. I became involved in both early in my life. I started working at my father’s law firm when I was 14 years old, and was exposed to the inner workings of a professional law firm. Besides having great interest in politics, I ran for and participated in student government for six out of seven years in junior high and high school.
-I am anxious to help others, especially those who don’t have a leg to stand on. I’m compassionate, but equally determined to act. My overall professional goal in life is to make a difference in the lives of others and to be a positive influence to those with whom I interact.
Involvement:
-I have had the opportunity on several occasions to visit the state and national Capitols. There I have not only been able to learn about executive and legislative responsibilities, but have been able to raise my voice and lobby for various causes.
-I am a member of the Utah State University Mock Trial Club
-I am also a member of the Utah State University College Democrats.
Obama's Super Tuesday
After nearly being brought to tears by the new "Yes We Can" video produced by will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas and Director Jesse Dylan, my hopes for Barack Obama heading into Super Tuesday had never been higher. And, just like in my mind-authored fairytale, Obama came out on top...barely.
Of course, in my mind-authored fairytale, Obama swept the nation in votes and delegates, made mind-blowing victory speeches every half hour, and saved an old woman by carrying her out of the flames of her burning home in the meantime. Although it didn't happen the way I wanted it to, it still happened. Barack Obama has not only erased the lead that Sen. Hillary Clinton once held on him, he's assumed it. According to MSNBC, Fox News and several other new mediums, Obama holds a narrow but symbolic lead over Clinton in delegates, 838-834.
Narrow is explained easily enough. It's a dead heat to say the least. But symbolic? Why symbolic? Because, just as Obama has stated with power and clarity in his numerous victory speeches (that, I might add, give me goosebumps every single time):
"We have been told we cannot do this by a chorus of cynics who will only grow louder and more dissonant. We've been asked to pause for a reality check. We've been warned against offering the people of this nation false hope. But in the unlikely story that is America, there has never been anything false about hope."
Since launching her exploratory committee early last year, and for several speculative months beforehand, Sen. Clinton has been the inevitable frontrunner. Her name alone stood as a beacon of the Democratic party, and has shaken contender after contender from the race. But in recent months, Sen. Obama not only remains unshaken, he's elevated his campaign to a new tier of political activation and inspiration. The Clinton empire is losing its grip on the Democratic party and on America as a whole.
The page has turned on traditional Washington politics. A new sense of duty and civic responsibility is in the air. A grassroots revolution of hope, change and activism has begun, and Barack Obama is its spokesman.
Of course, in my mind-authored fairytale, Obama swept the nation in votes and delegates, made mind-blowing victory speeches every half hour, and saved an old woman by carrying her out of the flames of her burning home in the meantime. Although it didn't happen the way I wanted it to, it still happened. Barack Obama has not only erased the lead that Sen. Hillary Clinton once held on him, he's assumed it. According to MSNBC, Fox News and several other new mediums, Obama holds a narrow but symbolic lead over Clinton in delegates, 838-834.
Narrow is explained easily enough. It's a dead heat to say the least. But symbolic? Why symbolic? Because, just as Obama has stated with power and clarity in his numerous victory speeches (that, I might add, give me goosebumps every single time):
"We have been told we cannot do this by a chorus of cynics who will only grow louder and more dissonant. We've been asked to pause for a reality check. We've been warned against offering the people of this nation false hope. But in the unlikely story that is America, there has never been anything false about hope."
Since launching her exploratory committee early last year, and for several speculative months beforehand, Sen. Clinton has been the inevitable frontrunner. Her name alone stood as a beacon of the Democratic party, and has shaken contender after contender from the race. But in recent months, Sen. Obama not only remains unshaken, he's elevated his campaign to a new tier of political activation and inspiration. The Clinton empire is losing its grip on the Democratic party and on America as a whole.
The page has turned on traditional Washington politics. A new sense of duty and civic responsibility is in the air. A grassroots revolution of hope, change and activism has begun, and Barack Obama is its spokesman.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
2310 - Press Release #2
For Immediate Release
2/5/08
BURGER PLANET INTRODUCES HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES
Burger Planet
Los Angeles, California
In an effort to drain the grease from their image, Burger Planet has introduced new menu items that offer consumers a healthy alternative to the status quo in the fast food industry, said Hans Ketchup, the company's Vice President of Communications.
The marketing move comes at a crucial time, as obesity rates in the country continue to climb and Burger Planet's competition face costly lawsuits because of the poor health quality of food. The menu's makeover is being endorsed by celebrity fitness trainer Jayne Peterson.
"Burger Planet has been a leader in the Quick Service Restaurant industry in offering healthy menu choices," Peterson said. "The company believes in encouraging customers to live healthier, active lifestyles."
The new and improved menu features fruits and salads that can stand alone in a meal, or be a companion to a more traditional Burger Planet entree. The change will help consumers make healthier choices, but Peterson urged that regardless of the new options, fast food is meant to be consumed in moderation.
James E. Muellenbach III, president and CEO of Burger Planet, is excited about his company's new direction and optimistic about the public's response.
"Burger Planet cares about its customers," Muellenbach said. "For more than seven decades, the company has succeeded because it put customers first."
Media Contact:
Jackson Olsen
Public Relations Account Executive
jacko@burgerplanet.com
(435) 555-1129
2/5/08
BURGER PLANET INTRODUCES HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES
Burger Planet
Los Angeles, California
In an effort to drain the grease from their image, Burger Planet has introduced new menu items that offer consumers a healthy alternative to the status quo in the fast food industry, said Hans Ketchup, the company's Vice President of Communications.
The marketing move comes at a crucial time, as obesity rates in the country continue to climb and Burger Planet's competition face costly lawsuits because of the poor health quality of food. The menu's makeover is being endorsed by celebrity fitness trainer Jayne Peterson.
"Burger Planet has been a leader in the Quick Service Restaurant industry in offering healthy menu choices," Peterson said. "The company believes in encouraging customers to live healthier, active lifestyles."
The new and improved menu features fruits and salads that can stand alone in a meal, or be a companion to a more traditional Burger Planet entree. The change will help consumers make healthier choices, but Peterson urged that regardless of the new options, fast food is meant to be consumed in moderation.
James E. Muellenbach III, president and CEO of Burger Planet, is excited about his company's new direction and optimistic about the public's response.
"Burger Planet cares about its customers," Muellenbach said. "For more than seven decades, the company has succeeded because it put customers first."
Media Contact:
Jackson Olsen
Public Relations Account Executive
jacko@burgerplanet.com
(435) 555-1129
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
State of the Onion
He's done it again. Luckily, I'll never have to say that again.
George W. Bush's State of the Union address brought bittersweet feelings into the hearts and homes of millions Americans, myself included. Bitter because of the mess this man has made of the economy, the homefront, and quite frankly, the Middle East. Sweet because unless some unholy amendment is illegally chained to the Constitution, he can't run for a third term. But to hear him speak last night (or on any occassion, for that matter) you would think that not only are things going great at home and abroad, but that he's the one that made it that way.
The economy, health care, AIDS, and energy aside, I want to focus in on one thing that has been particularly disturbing to me for several months now. Once again, as he has done many times before, President Bush boasted the improved status of Iraq as a result of the controversial troop surge. Republicans and loyal Bushists won't stop citing its success. On the other side of the aisle, Democrats won't stop denying it. Let me bridge this gap and bring one and all into the warming light of reality.
According to its original designs and main objective, the troop surge HAS NOT worked. Now don't get all crazy on me. Allow me to explain such a bold assertion. Bush, Patreaus and the whole Executive gang clearly stated that the primary goal of the surge was to create a diplomatic environment for the strengthening of the Iraqi government, and ultimately political progress.
So far, this we have not seen. This is not to say that progress has been absent from the entire operation. Only mindless, radical leftists would be so ignorant to say so. No, there has been much progress as a result of the surge, but it has been primarily militarily- and casualty-based.
Now I don't want to come off sounding like a heartless jerk here, so do not confuse my words to think that this kind of progress is not important. It is SO important. The decline of butchery and bloodshed in the world would no doubt be my greatest wish. But the truth is (or at least I hope it is), American troops cannot stay in Iraq forever. We cannot keep the peace forever. What concerns me is what will happen after we leave. Can anyone say with confidence that this fragile peace will remain intact without our force and influence a stone's throw away? Of course not. That is why diplomacy and political solutions are essential to a "successful Iraq". Anythings else will only temporarily pacify the chaos.
I'm sure Mr. Bush has heard this argument before, and although I would hope that his sense of reason and logic would lead him to unequivocally agree, I fear that his trademark arrogance will keep him in the comfort of his ignorance and naivety. I just hope we, whether Republican or Democrat, will see the truth and face it, rather than justify our odds against it.
George W. Bush's State of the Union address brought bittersweet feelings into the hearts and homes of millions Americans, myself included. Bitter because of the mess this man has made of the economy, the homefront, and quite frankly, the Middle East. Sweet because unless some unholy amendment is illegally chained to the Constitution, he can't run for a third term. But to hear him speak last night (or on any occassion, for that matter) you would think that not only are things going great at home and abroad, but that he's the one that made it that way.
The economy, health care, AIDS, and energy aside, I want to focus in on one thing that has been particularly disturbing to me for several months now. Once again, as he has done many times before, President Bush boasted the improved status of Iraq as a result of the controversial troop surge. Republicans and loyal Bushists won't stop citing its success. On the other side of the aisle, Democrats won't stop denying it. Let me bridge this gap and bring one and all into the warming light of reality.
According to its original designs and main objective, the troop surge HAS NOT worked. Now don't get all crazy on me. Allow me to explain such a bold assertion. Bush, Patreaus and the whole Executive gang clearly stated that the primary goal of the surge was to create a diplomatic environment for the strengthening of the Iraqi government, and ultimately political progress.
So far, this we have not seen. This is not to say that progress has been absent from the entire operation. Only mindless, radical leftists would be so ignorant to say so. No, there has been much progress as a result of the surge, but it has been primarily militarily- and casualty-based.
Now I don't want to come off sounding like a heartless jerk here, so do not confuse my words to think that this kind of progress is not important. It is SO important. The decline of butchery and bloodshed in the world would no doubt be my greatest wish. But the truth is (or at least I hope it is), American troops cannot stay in Iraq forever. We cannot keep the peace forever. What concerns me is what will happen after we leave. Can anyone say with confidence that this fragile peace will remain intact without our force and influence a stone's throw away? Of course not. That is why diplomacy and political solutions are essential to a "successful Iraq". Anythings else will only temporarily pacify the chaos.
I'm sure Mr. Bush has heard this argument before, and although I would hope that his sense of reason and logic would lead him to unequivocally agree, I fear that his trademark arrogance will keep him in the comfort of his ignorance and naivety. I just hope we, whether Republican or Democrat, will see the truth and face it, rather than justify our odds against it.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
JCOM 2310 - press release #1
For Immediate Release
1/22/08
LOCAL MAN FINDS "PART OF THE SOLUTION" TO HOUSING MARKET CRISIS
ABC Real Estate, LLC
Logan, Utah
Brett Cob, president and CEO of ABC Real Estate, LLC, has helped to develop a new real estate strategy that may very well put an end to the housing market crisis.
Cob, who was trained in California in the revolutionary approach to home ownership, says that he's "ready for Utah."
The unique strategy is based on multiple beneficiary parties: the resident, who has a low monthly payment that is like a mortgage rather than rent; the creditor, who provides their good credit history in behalf of the resident; the investor, who comes away with benefits based on the monthly payments; and lastly, the settler, who is the author of the arrangement and handles the administrative dealings.
Cob said that he has no intention to work with banks on the deal, despite the fact that he used to work for one. He said that this is part of the beauty of his plan, not owing to any formal partnerships with big banks. He did say the process will likely involve mortgage brokers.
"This is a major part of the solution to the housing market crisis the country is now facing," Cob said.
Cob also noted that although the revolution is still in its infant stages, it has already turned the heads of Wall Street traders, who are anxiously awaiting the outcome of this real estate experiment.
For more information, simply contact ABC's media relations department.
Media contact:
Jackson Olsen
jackson.olsen@abcrealestate.com
(435) 555-1129
1/22/08
LOCAL MAN FINDS "PART OF THE SOLUTION" TO HOUSING MARKET CRISIS
ABC Real Estate, LLC
Logan, Utah
Brett Cob, president and CEO of ABC Real Estate, LLC, has helped to develop a new real estate strategy that may very well put an end to the housing market crisis.
Cob, who was trained in California in the revolutionary approach to home ownership, says that he's "ready for Utah."
The unique strategy is based on multiple beneficiary parties: the resident, who has a low monthly payment that is like a mortgage rather than rent; the creditor, who provides their good credit history in behalf of the resident; the investor, who comes away with benefits based on the monthly payments; and lastly, the settler, who is the author of the arrangement and handles the administrative dealings.
Cob said that he has no intention to work with banks on the deal, despite the fact that he used to work for one. He said that this is part of the beauty of his plan, not owing to any formal partnerships with big banks. He did say the process will likely involve mortgage brokers.
"This is a major part of the solution to the housing market crisis the country is now facing," Cob said.
Cob also noted that although the revolution is still in its infant stages, it has already turned the heads of Wall Street traders, who are anxiously awaiting the outcome of this real estate experiment.
For more information, simply contact ABC's media relations department.
Media contact:
Jackson Olsen
jackson.olsen@abcrealestate.com
(435) 555-1129
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