West Wing Week: June 17- 23, 2011

West Wing Week: 06/23/11 or "The Receding Tide"

This week, President Obama addressed the nation on his plan to withdraw American troops from Afghanistan, delivering on a promise he made to the American people in December of 2009. The President also traveled Fort Drum to meet with soldiers and their families, welcomed young elected officials to the White House, and talked to mayors from across the country about job creation and economic growth.

West Wing Week: June 10 -16, 2011

West Wing Week: 06/17/11 or "Where the Future Will Be Won"

This week, walk step-by-step with President Obama as he meets with his Jobs Council to discuss ideas that will improve America's competitiveness, tours a leading manufacturer of energy efficient lighting in North Carolina, travels to Puerto Rico, hosts a Father's Day event for military dad's and their kids, and more.

West Wing Week: May 27 - June 2, 2011

West Wing Week: 06/02/11 or "One Step at a Time"

This week, President Obama traveled to Joplin, Missouri to see the devastation first hand. He finished his week-long trip to Europe in Poland and on Memorial Day, he visited Arlington National Cemetery.

West Wing Week: May 20 - May 26, 2011

West Wing Week "OCONUS III: A Homecoming of Sorts"

This week, President Obama embarked on a six-day trip to Europe, visiting Ireland, the United Kingdom, France and Poland to engage our allies in the region on a host of issues. While overseas, the President pledged support for those back home affected by devastating tornadoes in Missouri and across the Midwest. Before leaving, the President met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and went to the CIA Headquarters in Langley, VA. That's May 20th to the 26th, or "OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) III: A Homecoming of Sorts.

The Obamas arrive at Buckingham Palace - Channel 4 News

Michelle Obama: 'mom-in-chief' wins over the UK (via Channel 4 News)
As the US First Couple sweeps into town for a state visit, Channel 4 News looks at why the President's wife, Michelle Obama, is such a hit wherever she goes.

President Obama: Standing with Japan

President Obama provides an update on the situation in Japan following earthquakes and a tsunami and says the United States is committed to providing support and helping Japan recover and rebuild. March 17, 2011.

Obama school speech

Barack Obama has been accused of attempting to indoctrinate America's children with "socialist ideology". His plan for a televised address to be shown in classrooms when children return to school next week provoked sparked complaints from parents and fuelled the growing conservative backlash against his leadership. Critics alleged that the address planned for Tuesday was another example of state interference and so-called "big government" by the Democrat president following his record financial stimulus spending and plans for health care reforms. Officials across the country fielded irate calls from parents after it was revealed that the federal education department had encouraged schools to make children watch the 15-minute address. Districts in states including Texas, Minnesota, Missouri, Virginia and Illinois have declined to show the speech, which the White House said would be about no more than the need to work hard and finish education. (link via telegraph.co.uk) It sounds like parents are afraid to let their children listen to a speech by the president. Why?? Am I missing something? What is wrong with listening to President Obama extoll the virtues of education? Why is this controversial?

100 ways Obama has changed America as he nears 100 days as President

This is an interesting article in The Independent listing the 100 ways Barack Obama has changed America: Obama: 100 days, 100 ways From closing down Guantanamo to planting vegetables on the South Lawn. David Usborne takes stock as President nears his 100th day It's fascinating to realize how many changes President Obama has already made in such a short time. I also didn't know about everything on the list. For instance, I didn't know these tidbits: It's a sort of weekly letter from the White House and few Americans pay attention. But at least now, anyone who's interested can watch as well as listen to the Saturday radio address* by the President. Since BO came in, it's been on YouTube, too. The Obama White House has been opened to regular visits by Washington-area schoolchildren to give them a first-hand view of government in action. Talk of building a fence along the US-Mexican border has fizzled – it was never practical anyway. Instead the US now has a border Tsar. He is Alan Bershin and his job will be to reduce violence near the border and stop smuggling – of bodies northwards and guns southwards. Not a salad dressing, Cinco de Mayo is the national holiday for Mexicans that is coming up fast. Never one to miss a chance to reach out to another community – a massive one in the US – this White House is planning a big 5 May bash in the garden. Hit the piñata, not the President. On the campaign trail he sometimes forgot where he was. As Prez, he did it again during his first foreign trip – to Canada. "It's a pleasure to be here in Iowa... er... Ottawa." Oops. *PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA'S WEEKLY VIDEO ADDRESS What are your thoughts about President Obama as he nears his 100th day in the White House?

Did President Obama bow to King Abdullah? And does it matter if he did?

Oh my. This is a hot blogging subject! I read a lot of blogs and I've noticed there is an ongoing discussion about whether President Obama bowed to King Abdullah at a formal reception for the G-20 Summit last week in London. I've watched the video many times and I have to say that it certainly looked like he did bow. And he didn't bow to Queen Elizabeth II. I wonder though. Does it matter if he bowed to King Abdullah? I know it's a breach of protocol but is it really worth everyone getting upset over? What do you think? Controversy Over Obama's Saudi Bow. Watch the video: Barack Obama meets the Queen (notice the slight head incline - not a bow):

Michelle Obama: The inspiring First Lady

As much as I enjoy listening to President Obama's speeches and feeling proud that he is our president, I also enjoy listening to his wife and think she is equally inspiring. I was so impressed as I watched Michelle Obama on the news when she visited a school in London today. This is the report from BBC News: First Lady moved by school visit The world needs strong young women to pave the way for the future, an emotional US First Lady Michelle Obama has told schoolgirls in London. Mrs Obama was close to tears as she addressed the excited crowd at the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington, north London. She told them: "We are counting on every single one of you to be the best that you can be." Video from NBC News: Michelle Obama's school visit in London Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Language College (Girls Secondary School)

Daniel Radcliffe offers a tour of Harry Potter set to Obama's daughters

Daniel Radcliffe has offered to take the Obama family on a tour of the Harry Potter set. "I'd like to take this opportunity to issue a public invitation to the Obamas that if their daughters would like a private tour of the Harry Potter set, I would be honoured to be their personal tour guide," he said. (link via digitalspy.co.uk) I bet Malia and Sasha will take up his offer! How fun for them. In related news, I remember reading that Barack Obama has read every Harry Potter book: Fifty things you might not know about Barack Obama (link via telegraph.co.uk) I've read all of the Harry Potter books too (as has most of the world it seems) but I still think it's cool that the president has read all of them too. I know, I know - it's silly in the whole scheme of things (they are just a series of seven fantasy novels after all) but it just seems to add another layer to the whole well-rounded individual that he is. And the novels do present a strong sense of good triumphing over evil.

Obama takes oath as 44th US president

The historic day is finally here! It was a beautiful moment to watch as President Obama took his oath even if he did flub* it a bit. It turns out that Chief Justice John Roberts made a mistake and misplaced the word "faithfully" in the oath*: ABOUT THAT OATH FLUB (link via msnbc.com) I thought President Obama's inaugural speech was superb. He's such a great orator and his speech was strong but also full of optimism. I love this: "If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy," he said, "tonight is your answer." That was such a stirring speech. Indeed, I found the whole ceremony to be incredibly moving although I admit I cringed with all the prayers and references to God (what happened to separation of church and state?) but I still think the ceremony was beautiful. It was a momentous moment in history and it brought tears to my eyes. I enjoyed watching all the news coverage after the inauguration too because the reporters mingled with the crowd outside the Capitol to get their reactions. It was great to see so many happy people (and not just Americans) and listen to their comments which were full of hope and optimism for the future. One man was actually an immigrant from Kenya and he spoke about what the first African American president meant to him and to his children who were born in America. President Obama (I love saying that!) has a great many challenges to face now but I have great hope for our future with him leading the country. What did you think of his speech? What did you think of the ceremony? Edited to add: This is cool: The White House has a blog and a Twitter account.

Obama Inauguration Theme: "A New Birth Of Freedom"

Barack Obama will take the oath of office as the 44th President of the United States on January 20, 2009 at 12:00 Noon EST. The theme of Mr Obama's inauguration week, "A New Birth of Freedom", was inspired by Abraham Lincoln (the 16th President of the United States) and the menu for the lunch following his swearing-in is based on foods enjoyed by Lincoln. From TimeOut London: Where to celebrate Barack Obama's inauguration in London It's worth noting that one restaurant - TGI Fridays - isn't limiting their celebrations to London on January 20th: They might not be your diner of choice but they are making a noteworthy effort on the big day. Ambitiously labeled ‘world’s largest inauguration party’, their goal is to host a huge simultaneous party in all their branches both in the UK and the USA. Their flagship Haymarket branch will lead the celebrations with a screening from Washington and authentic American cocktails. At 9pm a UK-wide toast will be made with a brand new inauguration cocktail. Are you planning to go out and celebrate Obama's inauguration? Or are you planning to host a party? Will you be in Washington D.C. on Inauguration Day? Barack Obama on the Inauguration Read more about the historical event: Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies

Madame Tussauds:Free for Americans in London on Jan 20th

Madame Tussauds, the London waxwork museum, is offering FREE entry to all American citizens on January 20th to mark the inauguration of Barack Obama as US president. (Madame Tussauds is also marking the debut of the new waxwork figure of Obama) Americans go free at Madame Tussauds All U.S citizens bring along valid documentation on 20th January and you will be given FREE entry to the attraction! I've never been to the museum myself (it simply doesn't appeal to me) but for Americans in London that day, particularly tourists, they might want to check it out since it's free of charge - and it will be a chance to share the historic occasion with other Americans.

Dawning of a new age with president-elect Obama

Oh happy day! Barack Obama will be the next president of the United States. I am so pleased and proud of this historical event. As an American living abroad, I have heard my share of anti-American comments and now feel a great sense of relief as the world opinion of the USA is already beginning to change. I felt a lump in my throat while listening to Senator Obama's stirring acceptance speech and I was particularly struck by his choice of words addressing those overseas about his views regarding peace and security around the world: "And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces, to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of the world, our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down - we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security - we support you. And to all those who have wondered if Americas beacon still burns as bright: tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope.” Hallelujah! I have a great sense of hope and optimism for my country, and indeed for the world.

Day of reckoning: Election Day in the USA

It's Tuesday, November 4th, 2008, Election Day in America! And what a historic presidential election it is - we could either have the first black American president or the first female vice president. I'm very excited but also very nervous. Even though the predictions are that Barack Obama will win in a landslide, I don't think anyone can be confident about the outcome. I'm planning to stay up very late tonight to hear some of the early results. I sincerely hope the news will point towards Obama winning otherwise I will go to bed with a heavy heart. I'm almost afraid to hear the result tomorrow. By the way, the coverage of this presidential election has been immense in the UK. We have probably had nearly as much election news reported here as has been reported in the USA. I don't think Americans realize how much American news we get anyway but especially news about the election. The outcome is important to the Brits (and most of the rest of the world) because America is still the greatest single power in the world. I'll be watching the election coverage on TV plus I'm going to leave my computer on with the web browser open to different sites (BBC, CNN, MSNBC) and stay up until about 2am. Mind you, I'm so jazzed about all this that I'm not sure if I will be able to sleep so I might be up all night! What are your thoughts about the election? Are you excited? Or are you sick and tired of all the election news and glad it's almost ending?

Ron Howard, Andy Griffiths & Henry Winkler: endorse Obama

This endorsement for Barack Obama from actors, Ron Howard, Andy Griffifth and Henry Winkler is a lot of fun to watch particularly if you ever saw the old (classic) American tv show called, "The Andy Griffith Show" which starred Andy Griffith and a very young Ron Howard as a character called "Opie" (I'm a huge fan of the show and indeed I'm old enough to remember watching it when it was originally broadcast). Henry Winkler starred as "The Fonz" or simply known as "Fonzie" with Ron Howard in another classic American sitcom called Happy Days. Watch Opie, Andy, and Fonzie Endorse Barack Obama via this YouTube clip: And for those of you who have never seen "The Andy Griffith Show, here's a clip: