Lilac Tree Election Coverage 08'

At work I've recently been talking with a co-worker about the Presidential Campaign. She like so many in our area believe what she hears on TV or believes what trusted neighbors of friends tell them about a particular candidate (regardless of whether or not it's based on fact) And frankly she knew nothing about EITHER candidate. I've been really excited finding out that she is going to find information on her own. Paying a little more attention when she reads the paper, she's seeking out the information to make an educated choice.

While doing a little work for the Lords of Karma website I stumbled upon by far one of the most amazing sites out there. Want an REAL unbiased look at the candidates? visit Project Vote Smart. There are no slanted articles (in EITHER direction), no rhetoric, no spin, just stone cold facts. Attendance and Voting Records for State level and US level representatives. Bill & Policy information. The list goes on and on. Best part about it. In just a few clicks you can find out 1st) WHO are your representatives. 2nd) WHAT & HOW do they vote. And 3rd) WHERE can you contact them. It's a glorious and refreshing website. Finally a place for those who just want the facts not opinions.

For a look at Obama's record Click Here . For McCain's Record click Here. And while the Lords of Karma won't officially back a particular candidate we all know who Frances is Rooting for!

Now onto a report I recently found I would really like to share. I think most US citizens think after selecting their elected officials,(chosen to represent and defend our best interests by the way!)that they can go about their day assuming that said elected official will I don't know actually show up to VOTE on issues that matter to them and shape the course of our country. You'd be surprised just how many don't bother... There is a wonderful list compiled at washingtonpost.com. On Congressional attendance records and oh my just look who's at the top...Missing WELL OVER half his votes. I say that's just what we want in a president right???? Who can blame the guy after being there as long as he has... It's just so much work ya know, to actually REPRESENT your constituents. Oh OH OHHH! And Let's not forget that the 36.2% of the time he's actually bothered to show up he's voted over 90% of the time in favor of W's bills and policies. Oh yeah that's some 5 Star Commander In Chief behavior.

Ok I'm off to down a few drinks to finally find the courage to stomach those spectacular RNC convention speeches. (I've heard Gulianni and Palin just knocked them out of the park.)

The Lords Of Karma

When I was in radio there was a list of things you NEVER talked about. Religion and Politics were at the top. I've always respected that not everyone is going to feel the same way as I do about religion. How can I expect someone not to force their ideas down my throat if I'm doing it myself? To use my mic as a medium to talk about my Religious beliefs was hypocritical.

But politics, sociology, culture those are things I've been very passionate about since my youth. I found ways around it. Ways to keep it in the Gray. For example when an election was coming up I would spend the week leading up to election day reporting on how one vote made a difference in American history. Voting is one of the most important things we can do as Americans and as human beings in my book. The adage that "my vote doesn't count so why bother" couldn't be more dangerous. That's what those that wish to control us as a society want you to believe.

One of my biggest frustrations has always been how the Mainstream Media seems to only be capable of reporting about the darkness in our communities & the world. Leaving us in a constant state of fear, a constant disbelief in the goodness of mankind. I had a daily report called "the bright side" where I talked about everyday people going above and beyond the call of duty to help their communities. Because that is the kind of news that reminds people there is good in all of us and if it's one or a thousand we can make a difference. Because those are the kinds of people that deserve countless hours of coverage on CNN not Paris Hilton and her ilk.

With that said I'm also no stranger to the injustices in the world. I strive also to make sure that those are brought to light as well. Injustices that we can do something about. Although the road may seem long, I need only to look at my daughter and husband to know it's worth everything I have to keep fighting.

One of the many things that binds Ned & I is our deep sense that we are each others keeper. The belief that if there is something wrong you do what you can to fix it. Ned's struggle with Cancer, Our struggle with Social Security, Our lack of access to affordable or better yet UNIVERSAL health care, Our frustrations with public education, our frustrations with the complete dismissal of the importance of guiding our youth, our government ... we have much to say and well since the first fruit of our real collaboration turned out quite nicely we thought why not try again. Bloggy Style.


I give to you... The Lords of Karma Taken from the Hunter S. Thompson quote "I consider myself a road man for the lords of karma" We will talk a lot about Ned's struggle with cancer, our battle to convince the social security administration that he is in fact disabled(10 out of the 11 doctors reporting on his case agree with us). Our struggles living as a family who cannot afford health insurance. We'll also talk about a lot of the issues that need to be brought to light. To somehow help those on a similar path or those less fortunate. And we welcome any and all contributions. If there is something going on in your community, something that you feel is important to talk about please send us an e-mail. And we'll do our best to post your story. It's important to know that each of our voices means something. And just as I remind Ned in those moments he feels that he's all alone in his fight. There is always someone who can find inspiration from you. Always someone who can benefit from the experience and perspective you have to offer. So please when you can stop by and let us know what you think.