Solid as Barack: Ashord & Simpson's Solid as Barack (lyrics video)

The "Solid as Barack" lyrics started out as a people's song, but after SNL did the "Solid as Barack" parody, composers Ashford and Simpson decided to rework the lyrics. After all, they didn't want their 1984 hit (Solid) to be revived in a comedic tone. As a result, "Solid" has been transformed into "Solid as Barack", a tribute to incoming US President Barack Obama and a single to be released in time for the inauguration.

While running through a medley of the duo's hits during a concert in Los Angeles five months ago, Ashford and Simpson were surprised when they turned the microphone to the audience. Instead of singing

"solid as a rock" for the song's chorus, the audience shouted "solid as Barack"! An audience in their New York show did the same thing several nights later, and this was picked up by the media, with some newspapers mentioning it is their articles and columns.

Apparently, SNL writers heard about the song too. About a month later, Saturday Night Live (SNL) did a parody of Barack Obama's live pre-election, thirty minute, prime time television commercial. Instead of talking politics, however, "Barack Obama" and "Michelle Obama" (played by comedians Fred Armisen and Maya Rudolph) hosted a variety show and sang "Solid (as Barack)". According to Ashford and Simpson, they saw what Saturday Night Live did and thought it was okay. However, they didn't want their song to be remembered in a comedic tone and decided to rework the lyrics. "We thought it was good," Simpson said. "Nick (Ashford) said 'We ought to put some new lyrics to it. We didn't want it to have a comedic tone to it."

They have since changed the lyrics of "Solid" (as a rock) and turned into "Solid as Barack", a song about love and the firming of a relationship to pay homage to the nation's first African-American president.

"Solid as Barack" opens with the following lyrics: "And for love's sake, he decided to make a promise to us all," the song starts. "And when he wrote 'The Audacity of Hope,' we could make a change. Here's for a higher plane. We'll build it up, and build it up, and build it up, and now we're solid . . . solid as Barack . . . . A new day dawning, the future looks, hot, hot, hot, hot!"

The complete "Solid as Barack" lyrics aren't available online yet but will be posted on this page as soon as possible. Please check back for it. For now, here is the "Solid as Barack" video tribute with the Ashford and Simpson song playing in the background. You can also listen to the MP3 version of "Solid as Barack" here.

Solid as Barack: "Solid as Barack" video tribute

For the curious in you (the younger ones who weren't even born yet when the song came out), here's how the original song sounded, composed and performed by Nicholas Ashford and Valerie Simpson, popularly known as Ashford and Simpson.

Ashford & Simpson's "Solid (as a Rock)" video

free Notorious online movie / watch Notorious BIG movie online?

Looking for the free Notorious movie online / Notorious BIG movie online? The web has been flooded with searches to watch Notorious online for free ever since the movie opened yesterday - a good sign of audience interest in the movie which may translate into box office success. However, I don't think a free Notorious movie online / free Notorious BIG online is possible, not when the movie has just been released. If it becomes available online, it won't be for free.

Notorious is the life story of Christopher George Latore Wallace, as American rapper popularly known as The Notorious B.I.G. but also known by his other aliases - Biggie Smalls (after a gangster in the 1975 film Let's Do It Again), and Big Poppa. He lead a colorful and turbulent life on and off the stage culminating in his shooting death in March 1997 in Los Angeles. The film details his life and career with "objective realism" that has captured the interest of audiences.

Notorious tells the story of the life of rapper Christopher Wallace a.k.a. The Notorious B.I.G. The film stars multiple award winner Angela Bassett as Christopher’s mother Voletta Wallace, Derek Luke as Sean Combs, Anthony Mackie as Tupac Shakur and introducing Jamal Woolard as The Notorious B.I.G. After the overwhelming response to a year long aggressive and active worldwide search, Jamal Woolard, a Brooklyn native, was selected to portray the infamous rapper. Notorious is directed by George Tillman Jr.

In just a few short years, The Notorious B.I.G. rose from the streets of Brooklyn to become one of the most influential hip hop artists of all time. B.I.G. was a gifted storyteller; his narratives about violent life on the streets were told with a gritty, objective realism that won him enormous respect and credibility. His stories were universal and gave a voice to his generation.

Notorious BIG movie online: watch Notorious BIG movie teaser

Preview: Watch Notorious B.I.G. movie

teachers now allowed to have S-E-X with students?

We have heard of so many reports about teachers having s-e-x-u-a-l relations with their students. Some have been expelled, others prosecuted to the full extent of the law. However, in Washington, a former teacher has won a case thrown at him for having consensual s-e-x with his student.

An appeals court in Washington has ruled that teachers can legally have consensual s-e-x with students - as long as the student is 18-years-old or older. The ruling dismissed a case against a former Hoquiam High School choir teacher, who was accused of having s-e-x with a graduating senior in 2006 and

charged with first-degree s-e-x-u-a-l misconduct with a minor. He challenged a judge's refusal to dismiss his case, noting that because the student was 18, she wasn't a minor.

A three-judge panel of the Washington Court of Appeals unanimously agreed that the state law banning s-e-x between teachers and students is "ambiguous," reversed the lower court's ruling and ordered it to dismiss the charges. Prosecutors say they have not decided whether they will appeal the ruling to the state Supreme Court. Connie Severson, whose son Stephan is a junior at the same school, said the ruling has "opened up the eyes of other parents" in the district.

"I'm shocked and surprised. They're going to be teaching our students and the last thing you want is s-e-x-u-a-l relations on their mind. This shouldn't be OK," she said. "They are teachers. Every one of them should know better. I'm hoping from a parent's perspective that when my daughter is 18 and dating that she's not having a relationship with her teacher," she said. "This is not college, it's not a university, this is high school."

However, despite the court's ruling, school principal Mark VandenHazel said it's still not acceptable for teachers to engage in s-e-x-u-a-l conduct with 18-year-old students.

"Regardless of whether it's a criminal act or not, you do this as a teacher and you're just not going to have a job," said VandenHazel. "We have zero tolerance. If you want to continue teaching, don't even think about it."

Naruto Shippuden 93: Naruto Shippuden 93/episode 93 English sub

Here we are with Naruto Shippuden 93 / Naruto Shippuden episode 93 and it's only been a day since the release of Naruto Shippuden 92! That's how much addicted we all are with this anime series. Entilted "Communicating Hearts" ("Kayoiau kokoro" 通い合う心), Naruto Shippuden episode 93 / Naruto Shippuden 93 continues to follow the adventures young ninja Naruto Uzumaki in his constant search for recognition and his aspiration to become a Hokage, the acknowledged the leader in his village, and the strongest of all. Naruto Shippuden episode 93 / Naruto Shippuden 93 will be aired next week and I am sure many of you just cannot wait that long. However, we have no choice as there is no way we can get an advance copy of the episode. Not even plot summaries were released for Naruto Shippuden 93 / Naruto Shippuden episode 93. However, something may still come up in the nest few days and I will readily post it here. be sure to check this page regularly.

The English subbed version of Naruto Shippuden 93 / naruto Shippuden episode 93 will be posted here a few days after its airing to allow some time for translation. Rest assured, however, that the Naruto Shippuden 93 raw version will be on this page until the Naruto Shippuden episode 93 English sub is available. For now, here is a preview clip I found on YouTube.

Preview: Naruto Shippuden 93 / Naruto Shippuden Episode 93

One Piece 385: One Piece episode 385/One Piece 385 English sub

One Piece episode 385 / One Piece 385 will be coming out in a few days and I know many of you are eagerly awaiting its release. The English subbed One Piece 385 (episode 385) will follow soon after and you can expect to find a copy of it on this page. Entitled "Arriving at Halfway Through the Grand Line! The Red Line" ("Gurand Rain Hanshū Tōtatsu! Reddo Rain" 偉大なる航路半周到達！赤い土の大陸), the English subbed version may take a few days to be translated but rest assured that the raw version of One Piece 385 / One Piece episode 385 will be posted here as soon as it becomes available online.

One Piece revolves around the adventures of 17-year old Monkey D. Luffy, a young boy given supernatural abilities when he ate a magical fruit. He is joined in his adventures by his gang of pirate friends forming a group called the Straw Hats. Luffy's greatest ambition is to obtain the world's ultimate treasure, One Piece (thus, the title), and thereby become the next Pirate King.

No advanced summary has been released for this episode but a preview clip is available online. I have posted it below to give us an idea on what One Piece 385 / One Piece episode 385 is all about.

Preview: One Piece 385 English sub / One Piece 385

Bleach Episode 203: watch Bleach episode 203/Bleach 203 online

Looking for anime episodes online, more particularly Bleach 203 / Bleach episode 203 English sub, the latest in the series? If you are, you have come to the right place as this page will host the full video stream the newest installment of Bleach, Bleach episode 203 / Bleach 203: "Karakura Town Gathers! Aizen Versus Shinigami" ("Karakura-chō ni shūketsu! Aizen tai shinigami" 空座町に集結！藍染対死神). Bleach follows the adventures of Ichigo Kurosaki after he accidentally obtains the power of a shinigami — a Japanese death personification similar to the Grim Reaper, and every episode is filled with action and excitement that has caught the adulation of millions of anime fans all over the world.

Bleach 203 (English sub) / Bleach episode 203 is no different from the other editions. However, there is no advance release of the episode's plot so I cannot offer you any idea on what the story is about. Suffice it to say that it will be another action-packed episode just like the previous Bleach installments. We haven't been disappointed yet, have we?

The full video stream of of Bleach 203 / Bleach episode 203 will be available on this page soon. The regular air date of Bleach 203 is on January 20, 2009 so expect the raw version to be posted on this site soon after that. As for the English-subbed copy, give it a few days for it to be available on the web. Rest assured that Bleach 203 / Bleach episode 203 English sub will be posted here at the soonest possible time. Please check back for it.

No preview is yet available for Bleach 203 / Bleach episode 203. Something may come up in a few days. For now, why not watch the full previous episode of Bleach, Bleach 202: "Fierce Fighting Conclusion! Who's the Strongest?"

Replay: watch Bleach 202 / Bleach Episode 202 online

.

Gundam 00 season 2 episode 15: Gundam 00 s2 ep 15 2.15 2 15

The airing of Gundam 00 season 2 episode 14 / Gundam 00 s2 ep 15 (s02e15): "Hankō no Gaika" (反抗の凱歌) is but a few days away and I know many of you are eagerly waiting for it. Gundam 00 has earned quite a following in recent months not only because of its crisp and fast-paced story but also because of the how the characters are have developed over the seasons - something anime crazy fans all over the world have easily identified with. Anime fans will surely love the next episode, Gundam 00 s02e15 / Gundam 00 2.15: Victory Song of the Resistance, because it has all the elements of a truly Gundam 00 story.

The full video stream of the English subbed Gundam 00 s2 ep15 / Gundam 00 season 2 episode 15 will be available online very soon. Shortly after its regular airing, the raw version will come out on the web and, as always, it will be posted here for those of you who cannot wait. it will be replaced with the Gundam 00 season 2 episode 15 / Gundam 00 2 15 English-subbed version a few days later. Please check back for both copies regularly. In the meantime, here is a short synopsis of Gundam 00 s2 ep15 (English sub), Victory Song of the Resistance.

After receiving Kataron's resupply, the Ptolemaios 2 continues with their self-repairs, while on the move in order to break the Federation’s seige, but they require the assistance of the 00 Gundam to do so. However, Setsuna has yet to return from his battle with Ali. While forced into a defensive position, The Ptolemaios 2 receives information that political turmoil has broken out within the Federation over the illegal actions caused by the ALAW's.

I'm afraid I cannot offer you any preview for Gundam 00 season 2 episode 15 / Gundam 00 s02e15 as there isn't any available online. Something may still come up in the coming days. Rest assured I will readily post it here. For the meantime, why not watch the full previous episode while waiting for Gundam 00 "Victory Song of the Resistance".

Episode Replay: Gundam 00 season 2 episode 14 / Gundam 00 s2 ep14

Desperate Housewives season 5 episode 13 (5.13 / s05e13 / 5 13)

Desperate Housewives season 5 episode 13 / Desperate Housewives 5.13 comes to our screens in the next few days in an episode entitled "The Best Thing That Ever Could Have Happened". In this episode, the death of Eli Scruggs (played by Beau Bridges) brings back fond memories to the women of Wisteria Lane. Eli was more than a handyman. He was a friend, a shoulder to cry on, a "special" partner (to Edie, of course) and reliable neighbor. Susan recalls how Eli was always there for her as a shoulder to cry on, Gaby recalls how Eli helped

her make new friends when she she was new in the neighborhood, Bree thinks fondly of how a small gesture he once made helped get her to where she is today, Lynette remembers how he came to her aide when she was overwhelmed and neglected Penny, and Edie looks back on their "special" friendship. See how the girls cope with Eli's death when Desperate Housewives s05e13 / Desperate Housewives 5 13 when it airs on Sunday.

The full episode video of Desperate Housewives season 5 episode 13 / Desperate Housewives 5 13 will be available on this page very soon. Please check back for it. in the meantime, here is the short summary of Desperate Housewives 5.13 / Desperate Housewives s05e13 and its two preview clips released this week.

When neighborhood handyman, Eli Scruggs (Beau Bridges), passes away, the residents of Wisteria Lane come to realize just how much he affected their lives.

Preview: Desperate Housewives season 5 episode 13/Desperate Housewives 5.13
Desperate Housewives s05e13

Ghost Whisperer season 4 episode 12: Ghost Whisperer s04e12

Another creepy installment comes our way with Ghost Whisperer season 4 episode 12 / Ghost Whisperer 4.12: This Joint's Haunted. What will Melinda encounter this time? Will it be a friendly ghost or a hostile one? In this episode, Melinda goes on a road trip with Sam into his past but they end up in trouble. They get involved in bar fights and face disruptive ghosts, and Melinda comes face to face with her biggest fears, and a threat to her romance. Find out what happens to our heroine this week in Ghost Whisperer s04e12 / Ghost Whisperer season 4 episode 12 as another adventure unfolds.

Don't forget to tune in tomorrow night.

For those of you Ghost Whisperer fans who prefer to watch episodes online, or for those who will miss Ghost Whisperer 4.12 / Ghost Whisperer 4 12 during its regular air time, worry no more because a video stream will be posted on this page. Please check back for it regularly. In the meantime, here is a short summary of Ghost Whisperer season 4 episode 12 / Ghost Whisperer 4.12 followed by its preview clip.

Melinda will face her greatest fear as she embarks on a road trip with Sam. Along the way, they encounter some troubling incidents.

Preview: Ghost Whisperer season 4 episode 12, This Joint's Haunted
Ghost Whisperer 4.12 / Ghost Whisperer s04e12

watch 24 season 7: 24 season 7 episode 5 / 24 7.05 (24 s07e05)

After a 4 episode season 7 premiere last week, Jack Bauer returns with 24 season 7 episode 5 / 24 7.05 as he continues with his task of protecting America (and the world) and preserving freedom. Taking place between 12:00 P.M. to 1:00 P.M. of the Day 7, the episode sees Jack Bauer taking matters into his own hands. Meanwhile, Renee Walker copes with a volatile investigation and Larry Moss is forced to keep a close eye on his team. No other details have been given out about 24 s07e05 / 24 7 05 except the two preview clips which can be found at the bottom half of this entry.

The full episode video stream of 24 season 7 episode 5 / 24 s07e05 will be available on this site very soon. A copy will be posted on this page as soon as it becomes available online, as always. Please check back for it regularly as well as for other promo clips that may be released before the episode's air date. For now, here are the two previews of 24 7.05 / 24 season 7 episode 5 that have been previously released.

Promo Video: 24 season 7 episode 5 / 24 7.05
"Day 7, 12 PM - 1 PM": 24 s07e05 / 24 7 05

Sully Sullenberger / Chesley Sullenberger: Flight 1549 pilot, HERO

Chesley B. Sullenberger III, also known as Sully Sullenberger, is pilot of the US Airways flight 1549 that crashed into the Hudson River yesterday. A former Air Force pilot, he is now being hailed as a hero for safely landing the jet into the river without any major injuries and fatalities - it appeared to be the first time in 45 years that a major aircraft crash-landed in the water - and every passenger on board made it out alive. Praises have been pouring in since the accident for it is truly a miracle that no one was seriously injured or died in the accident earlier reported to have been caused when a flock of birds (geese) blocked the path of the aircraft and clogged its engines.

New York City mayor Mike Bloomberg was one of the first to hail Captian Sully Sullenberger hailing his actions as "masterful". The Wall Street Journal, on the other hand, was even more generous with its praises, and even quoted fellow pilots who praised Chesley "Sully" Sullendberger's resolve under intense pressure:

For the first time in 50 years of commercial jet flight, the pilots of US Airways Flight 1549 successfully executed one of the most technically challenging maneuvers, landing a jetliner on water without fatalities.

Rick Kurner, another US Airways pilot, says he has flown with Capt. Sullenberger for 23 years. "He's always been an unbelievable professional," says Mr. Kurner, a first officer.

Mr. Kurner says when he heard it was Capt. Sullenberger who was flying the plane that landed safely in the Hudson, he wasn't at all surprised. "He held his cool. 'Where am I going to go? City? City? River.'"

Since news of the accident and its miraculous outcome spread through the media and the internet yesterday, people have been searching for more information about our new hero. For starters, Sully Sullenberger is a veteran pilot who flew F-4s for the U.S. Air Force from 1973 to 1980. He is likewise a flight Leader and Training Officer with experience in Europe, Pacific and at Nellis AFB, serving as Blue Force Mission Commander in Red Flag Exercises. A brief summary of his career and achievements can also be found on website of Safety, Reliability Methods, Inc. of which he is President and CEO:

Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger, III is a captain for a major U.S. airline with over 40 years of flying experience. A former U.S. Air Force (USAF) fighter pilot, he has served as an instructor and Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) safety chairman, accident investigator and national technical committee member. He has participated in several USAF and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident investigations. His ALPA safety work led to the development of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Advisory Circular. Working with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) scientists, he coauthored a paper on error inducing contexts in aviation. He was instrumental in the development and implementation of the Crew Resource Management (CRM) course used at his airline and has taught the course to hundreds of his colleagues. Sully is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy (B.S.), Purdue University (M.S.) and the University of Northern Colorado (M.A.). He was a speaker on two panels at the High Reliability Organizations (HRO) 2007 International Conference in Deauville, France May 29-31, 2007. He has just been named a Visiting Scholar at the University of California, Berkeley.

Another description of the man is provided by TMZ, together with a detailed resume of his past and present activities, achievement and credentials.

Bottom-line driven manager supported by progressively responsible experience across 40+ years in the aviation industry. Possess in-depth understanding of aviation operations acquired through real world flight experience, professional training and leadership roles with one of world’s leading airlines. History of achievement in safety, innovation, crew training, operational improvement, cost savings, productivity improvement and customer service; proven ability to maximize crew performance and flight safety. Combine strong industry knowledge and business leadership skills to consistently manage complex scheduling, lead high-performance, motivated teams and implement efficient processes that ensure smooth operations and quality customer service. Strong communicator, effective negotiator and motivational team builder; able to effectively communicate needs and merge disparate teams in the support of market objectives. Respected for wide range of industry knowledge, solid sense of integrity and demonstrated passion for industry as a whole as evidenced by lifelong career of flying.

For the complete resume of Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, check it out HERE.

Report: US Airways crash / Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger

Cafe 36 Kitchen Nightmares / Kitchen Nightmares Cafe 36 episode

On this week's episode, Kitchen Nightmares Cafe 36 / Kitchen Nightmares Cafe 26 La Grange, Gordon Ramsay visits a struggling cafe in La Grange, Illinois in the hopes of helping its owner and preventing it from closing down. The irascible Chef Gordon Ramsay, known for his unforgiving and manic style when dealing with restaurants in need of help, was asked to help Cafe 36 owners Terry and Carol Gilmer put the restaurant on a successful path.

Terry and Carol bought the upscale restaurant/bistro two years ago. Though they had no restaurant management experience, Terry and Carol still tried

to run the French/American cafe the best they could. However, they have been losing money ever since it opened. Café 36 faces the challenge of a lack of clientele and maintaining quality control. Find out how Gordon Ramsay helps the couple in managing the restaurant.

The episode video of Kitchen Nightmares Cafe 36 will be posted on this site as soon as it becomes available online. Please check back for it. In the meantime, here is a short synopsis of Kitchen Nightmares Cafe 36 / Kitchen Nightmares cafe 36 La Grange.

In the second-season finale, Chef Ramsay visits Cafe 36, a French-American eatery in La Grange, Ill. The couple who own the place have little restaurant experience, so they need help with their shortage of customers and their head chef, who doesn't practice quality control.

Bush farewell address video transcript / Bush farewell speech video

Outgoing President George W. Bush delivered his farewell address tonight after eight years of tumultuous rule. Leaving office as the president with the highest disapproval rating since Richard Nixon was forced out of office in the Watergate scandal in the early seventies, George W. Bush was unapologetic. He defended his policies no matter how unpopular they were and how unpopular it made him, the war in Iraq being the most controversial. Despite what many observers' claims of poor leadership and even poorer judgment, he still boasted of successes at home and abroad. Whatever these success were (if any), he will forever be remembered as the president who divided a

country by waging war on Iraq on claims of destroying its stockpile of weapons of mass destruction - a claim debunked by later findings which concluded that there was no such cache.

"You may not agree with some tough decisions I have made, but I hope you can agree that I was willing to make the tough decisions." Unfortunately, we will feel the repercussions of those decisions for many years to come. Goodbye George W!

George W. Bush Farewell Address / Farewell Speech Transcript

Fellow citizens: For eight years, it has been my honor to serve as your President. The first decade of this new century has been a period of consequence - a time set apart. Tonight, with a thankful heart, I have asked for a final opportunity to share some thoughts on the journey we have traveled together and the future of our Nation.

Five days from now, the world will witness the vitality of American democracy. In a tradition dating back to our founding, the presidency will pass to a successor chosen by you, the American people. Standing on the steps of the Capitol will be a man whose story reflects the enduring promise of our land. This is a moment of hope and pride for our whole Nation. And I join all Americans in offering best wishes to President-elect Obama, his wife Michelle, and their two beautiful girls.

Tonight I am filled with gratitude - to Vice President Cheney and members of the Administration; to Laura, who brought joy to this house and love to my life; to our wonderful daughters, Barbara and Jenna; to my parents, whose examples have provided strength for a lifetime. And above all, I thank the American people for the trust you have given me. I thank you for the prayers that have lifted my spirits. And I thank you for the countless acts of courage, generosity, and grace that I have witnessed these past eight years.

This evening, my thoughts return to the first night I addressed you from this house - September 11, 2001. That morning, terrorists took nearly 3,000 lives in the worst attack on America since Pearl Harbor. I remember standing in the rubble of the World Trade Center three days later, surrounded by rescuers who had been working around the clock. I remember talking to brave souls who charged through smoke-filled corridors at the Pentagon and to husbands and wives whose loved ones became heroes aboard Flight 93. I remember Arlene Howard, who gave me her fallen son's police shield as a reminder of all that was lost. And I still carry his badge.

As the years passed, most Americans were able to return to life much as it had been before Nine-Eleven. But I never did. Every morning, I received a briefing on the threats to our Nation. And I vowed to do everything in my power to keep us safe.

Over the past seven years, a new Department of Homeland Security has been created. The military, the intelligence community, and the FBI have been transformed. Our Nation is equipped with new tools to monitor the terrorists' movements, freeze their finances, and break up their plots. And with strong allies at our side, we have taken the fight to the terrorists and those who support them. Afghanistan has gone from a nation where the Taliban harbored al Qaeda and stoned women in the streets to a young democracy that is fighting terror and encouraging girls to go to school. Iraq has gone from a brutal dictatorship and a sworn enemy of America to an Arab democracy at the heart of the Middle East and a friend of the United States.

There is legitimate debate about many of these decisions. But there can be little debate about the results. America has gone more than seven years without another terrorist attack on our soil. This is a tribute to those who toil day and night to keep us safe - law enforcement officers, intelligence analysts, homeland security and diplomatic personnel, and the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.

Our Nation is blessed to have citizens who volunteer to defend us in this time of danger. I have cherished meeting these selfless patriots and their families. America owes you a debt of gratitude. And to all our men and women in uniform listening tonight: There has been no higher honor than serving as your Commander in Chief.

The battles waged by our troops are part of a broader struggle between two dramatically different systems. Under one, a small band of fanatics demands total obedience to an oppressive ideology, condemns women to subservience, and marks unbelievers for murder. The other system is based on the conviction that freedom is the universal gift of Almighty God and that liberty and justice light the path to peace.

This is the belief that gave birth to our Nation. And in the long run, advancing this belief is the only practical way to protect our citizens. When people live in freedom, they do not willingly choose leaders who pursue campaigns of terror. When people have hope in the future, they will not cede their lives to violence and extremism. So around the world, America is promoting human liberty, human rights, and human dignity. We are standing with dissidents and young democracies, providing AIDS medicine to bring dying patients back to life, and sparing mothers and babies from malaria. And this great republic born alone in liberty is leading the world toward a new age when freedom belongs to all nations.

For eight years, we have also strived to expand opportunity and hope here at home. Across our country, students are rising to meet higher standards in public schools. A new Medicare prescription drug benefit is bringing peace of mind to seniors and the disabled. Every taxpayer pays lower income taxes. The addicted and suffering are finding new hope through faith-based programs. Vulnerable human life is better protected. Funding for our veterans has nearly doubled. America's air, water, and lands are measurably cleaner. And the Federal bench includes wise new members like Justice Sam Alito and Chief Justice John Roberts.

When challenges to our prosperity emerged, we rose to meet them. Facing the prospect of a financial collapse, we took decisive measures to safeguard our economy. These are very tough times for hardworking families, but the toll would be far worse if we had not acted. All Americans are in this together. And together, with determination and hard work, we will restore our economy to the path of growth. We will show the world once again the resilience of America's free enterprise system.

Like all who have held this office before me, I have experienced setbacks. There are things I would do differently if given the chance. Yet I have always acted with the best interests of our country in mind. I have followed my conscience and done what I thought was right. You may not agree with some tough decisions I have made. But I hope you can agree that I was willing to make the tough decisions.

The decades ahead will bring more hard choices for our country, and there are some guiding principles that should shape our course.

While our Nation is safer than it was seven years ago, the gravest threat to our people remains another terrorist attack. Our enemies are patient and determined to strike again. America did nothing to seek or deserve this conflict. But we have been given solemn responsibilities, and we must meet them. We must resist complacency. We must keep our resolve. And we must never let down our guard.

At the same time, we must continue to engage the world with confidence and clear purpose. In the face of threats from abroad, it can be tempting to seek comfort by turning inward. But we must reject isolationism and its companion, protectionism. Retreating behind our borders would only invite danger. In the 21st century, security and prosperity at home depend on the expansion of liberty abroad. If America does not lead the cause of freedom, that cause will not be led.

As we address these challenges - and others we cannot foresee tonight - America must maintain our moral clarity. I have often spoken to you about good and evil. This has made some uncomfortable. But good and evil are present in this world, and between the two there can be no compromise. Murdering the innocent to advance an ideology is wrong every time, everywhere. Freeing people from oppression and despair is eternally right. This Nation must continue to speak out for justice and truth. We must always be willing to act in their defense and to advance the cause of peace.


President Thomas Jefferson once wrote, "I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past." As I leave the house he occupied two centuries ago, I share that optimism. America is a young country, full of vitality, constantly growing and renewing itself. And even in the toughest times, we lift our eyes to the broad horizon ahead.

I have confidence in the promise of America because I know the character of our people. This is a Nation that inspires immigrants to risk everything for the dream of freedom. This is a Nation where citizens show calm in times of danger and compassion in the face of suffering. We see examples of America's character all around us. And Laura and I have invited some of them to join us in the White House this evening.

We see America's character in Dr. Tony Recasner, a principal who opened a new charter school from the ruins of Hurricane Katrina. We see it in Julio Medina, a former inmate who leads a faith-based program to help prisoners returning to society. We see it in Staff Sergeant Aubrey McDade, who charged into an ambush in Iraq and rescued three of his fellow Marines.

We see America's character in Bill Krissoff, a surgeon from California. His son Nathan, a Marine, gave his life in Iraq. When I met Dr. Krissoff and his family, he delivered some surprising news: He told me he wanted to join the Navy Medical Corps in honor of his son. This good man was 60 years old - 18 years above the age limit. But his petition for a waiver was granted, and for the past year he has trained in battlefield medicine. Lieutenant Commander Krissoff could not be here tonight, because he will soon deploy to Iraq, where he will help save America's wounded warriors and uphold the legacy of his fallen son.

In citizens like these, we see the best of our country - resilient and hopeful, caring and strong. These virtues give me an unshakable faith in America. We have faced danger and trial, and there is more ahead. But with the courage of our people and confidence in our ideals, this great Nation will never tire ... never falter ... and never fail.

It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as your President. There have been good days and tough days. But every day I have been inspired by the greatness of our country and uplifted by the goodness of our people. I have been blessed to represent this Nation we love. And I will always be honored to carry a title that means more to me than any other: citizen of the United States of America.
And so, my fellow Americans, for the final time: Good night. May God bless this house and our next President. And may God bless you and our wonderful country.

Bush Farewell Address (video) / Bush Farewell Speech

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Grey's Anatomy season 5 episode 12: Grey's Anatomy 5.12

The doctors and interns of Seattle Grace return in Grey's Anatomy season 5 episode 12 / Grey's Anatomy 5.12 "Sympathy for the Devil" tomorrow as more drama and intrigue unfold. In this week's episode, the continued presence of the death row inmate in the hospital still drives a wedge in the relationship of Derek, Meredith and Cristina. Meanwhile, the inmate decides to donate his organs to a patients of Dr. Bailey. On the lighter side, Derek's mom, played by Tyne Daly of Cagney and Lacey fame, makes a surprise visit and meets Meredith for the first time. What will be each other's reaction? Will Derek be caught in the middle? Find out when Grey's Anatomy s05e12 / Grey's Anatomy 5 12

Sympathy for the Devil airs tomorrow.

For those of who will miss this episode on television, worry no more because the full video stream of Grey's Anatomy 5.12 / Grey's Anatomy s05e12 will be available on this page very soon. Please check back for it. In the meantime, here is the promo clip of Grey's Anatomy season 5 episode 12 / Grey's Anatomy Sympathy for the Devil followed by a short plot summary.

Promo Clip: Sympathy for the Devil: Grey's Anatomy s05e12
Grey's Anatomy Season 5 Episode 12 / Grey's Anatomy 5.12

Derek's mother, Carolyn, makes a surprise visit to Seattle and meets Meredith for the first time, as Mark tries to conceal his relationship with Lexie from her as well; meanwhile, death row inmate William wishes to donate his organs to Bailey and Arizona's patient, as Owen and Cristina try to go on their first date.

UFC 93 live online: watch UFC 93 live stream / UFC 93 online result

Watch the UFC 93 live online / UFC 93: Franklin vs Henderson live online streaming when the mixed martial arts event is held by the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) in Dublin, Ireland on Saturday, January 17, 2009. The main even will feature light heavyweight Rich Franklin, a former UFC middleweight champion, and Dan Henderson, welterweight champion. Aside from this bout, another anticipated match up is the co- main event of UFC 93 that will feature a light heavyweight rematch between, Mauricio Rua, the PRIDE 2005 Middleweight Grand Prix winner, and Mark Coleman, the PRIDE 2000 Open Weight Grand Prix winner, UFC Hall of Famer and former heavyweight champion.

The following is the complete roster of events for UFC 93 including the matches already mentioned above and the other main event bouts together with the preliminary match ups. Who's your bet? Will Rich Franklin subdue Dan Henderson, or will he suffer the same fate as his previous matches against Anderson Silva? There's only one way to find out and that's to watch the matches on January 17. The UFC 93 will probably be available live online through several outlets including justin TV. That is where the exclusive fights can be found online. However, there is no word yet if UFC 93 will be hosted at the site again. I will check other details and update this information as the fight nears.

Main Card

Light Heavyweight match: Rich Franklin vs. Dan Henderson
Light Heavyweight match: Mark Coleman vs. Mauricio Rua
Middleweight match: Alan Belcher vs. Denis Kang
Welterweight match: Marcus Davis vs. Chris Lytle
Middleweight match: Jeremy Horn vs. Rousimar Palhares

Preliminary Card

Welterweight match: Martin Kampmann vs. Alexandre Barros
Light Heavyweight match: Eric Schafer vs. Antonio Mendes
Light Heavyweight match: Tomasz Drwal vs. Italy Ivan Serati
Welterweight match: Thomas Egan vs John Hathaway
Lightweight match: Nate Mohr vs. Dennis Siver


Meanwhile, if you are undecided on who to pick for the UFC 93 / UFC 93 Franlin vs Henderson, here is a rundown of picks from a professional. Steve Cofield of Yahoo Sports, with the help of Dave Farra of Raw Vegas, has the following predictions for UFC 93. (This is just a partial list. You can see the other at Steve Cofield's column here)

Rich Franklin vs Dan Henderson

This is a rough fight to call. Chances are that it goes the distance unless one of fighters lands a huge bomb. The fight is decided by who gets to fight to their strength. If Hendo gets it to the ground, he'll nullify Franklin's striking. Henderson is asking for a decision loss if he allows Franklin to box for the majority of the fight. I see Henderson getting it to the ground often enough to eek out a win. PICK: HENDERSON

Mark Coleman vs Mauricio Rua

This could be a rough night for Coleman. Rua and his camp are still irate about the way Coleman and the rest of Hammer House behaved in the ring and the lockerroom after the last fight in Pride where Rua suffered a fluke broken arm. A focused, angry, in-shape Rua is one of the best fighters in the world. I see this as the beginning of run that gets Rua back in the pound-for-pound discussion. Coleman's only shot to win is ground and pound but he's already said that he respects Rua's jiu-jitsu too much to risk it. "The Hammer" wants to throw with Rua. That's bad news for the 44-year-old. Hopefully, his face doesn't resemble his look after the loss to Fedor Emelianenko back in 2006. PICK: RUA

Alan Belcher vs Denis Kang

Kang is an import from Japan where he fought solid competition. He ripped off a 23-fight unbeaten streak from 2003 to 2006. Recently, he lost 2-of-4 fights and his most impressive wins in Pride came against smallish middleweights in Akihiro Gono and Ninja Rua. A focused Belcher is dangerous if he keeps the fight on the feet. Kang has been known to slug it out. Belcher really tore up Sean Salmon, Kalib Starnes and Jorge Santiago, who is now the Sengoku middleweight champ. Kang should win but I like the value on Belcher. PICK: BELCHER

Jeremy Horn vs Rousimar Palhares

Horn is a gamer but is he on a world class submission level? He came up short last time out against a great jiu-jitsu fighter in Dean Lister. Palhares appears to be on another level even from Lister. The Brazilian does need to improve his takedown skills. He had all sorts of trouble getting Dan Henderson to the floor. It shouldn't be as difficult with "Gumby." Keep an eye Palhares' kicks, they're an underrated part of his game. He'll catch Horn at some point. PICK: PALHARES

Kellogg peanut butter cracker recall: Austin, Keebler recall crackers

Kellogg has recalled its peanut butter cracker products! The cereal giant has ordered a recall of Keebler and Austin peanut butter crackers as a precautionary measure in light of reported deaths due to salmonella in peanut butter. Kellogg has urged stores to stop selling its popular Keebler and Austin peanut butter crackers as health officials reported two more deaths in the nationwide salmonella outbreak that is linked to peanut butter. Though no findings or complaints have been received by the company, it has decided to recall its peanut butter crackers just the same.

"We are taking these voluntary actions out of an abundance of caution," Kellogg CEO David Mackay said in a released official statement.

The company is "removing product from retail store shelves and encouraging customers and consumers to hold and not eat these products until regulatory officials complete their investigation of PCA," a news release on the Kellogg Co. Web site said late Wednesday.

"We are taking these voluntary actions out of an abundance of caution," CEO David Mackay said in the news release.

The crackers are Toasted Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers, Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Crackers, Cheese and Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers, and Peanut Butter-Chocolate Sandwich Crackers.

The national salmonella outbreak has been blamed for the hospitalization of more than 430 people in 43 states. Health officials in states of Minnesota and Idaho reported earlier in the week that one death in each state had been linked to the outbreak. Another death in Minnesota and two in Virginia were confirmed on Tuesday. Though the causes of their death are yet to be determined, all five were adults who had salmonella when they died and may have contributed to their death.

The Kellogg peanut butter cracker recall was prompted by a similar move made earlier by one of its peanut paste suppliers, Peanut Corp. of America. The recall follows findings that bacteria in an open container of King Nut creamy peanut butter in Minnesota was a genetic match to the strain of salmonella that has struck across the country in recent days. According to the Associated Press, Peanut Corp. issued a recall Tuesday of 21 lots of peanut butter for possible salmonella contamination. The product was made at a plant in Blakely, Georgia, on or after July 1, 2008, and sold under the brand name Parnell's Pride and by the King Nut Company as King Nut.

Obama inauguration schedule / 2009 Obama inauguration events

The clock is ticking. The inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States is but a few days away and the excitement is building up as American prepare for probably the biggest American presidential inauguration in history. News reports and internet entries point to the number of people planning to go to Washington , DC to witness this historic inauguration live, overbooking hotels as early as November. Indeed, the excitement over the Barack Obama presidency is unparalleled.

According to Wikipedia, the 2009 Presidential inauguration events will start with a train ride on January

. 17, 2009. The train ride will begin in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and end in the nation's capital, Washington, DC with stops in the following: Wilmington, Delaware and Baltimore, Maryland. No other official inauguration event is scheduled on the 17th. The next phase will commence on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial the next day.

Obama Inauguration Schedule / 2009 Presidential Inauguration Schedule

According to various internet sources, the 2009 Presidential inauguration schedule / Obama inauguration schedule will kick off in Washington with its first event on January 18 with an official welcome to visitors on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. This is similar to the event hosted by then incoming President George W. Bush in 2001 which featured popular musicians such as Ricky Martin. This year, Barack Obama's welcome will be star-studded and broadcast free over HBO for those who cannot make it to Washington. Here are some details:

President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration events kick off on Sunday, January 18th with a celebration at the Lincoln Memorial. Performers include Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Bono, Garth Brooks, Sheryl Crow, Josh Groban, Herbie Hancock, Shakira, Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor, will.i.am, and Stevie Wonder. Jamie Foxx, Martin Luther King III, Queen Latifah and Denzel Washington are reading historical passages. Reverend Gene Robinson, an openly gay bishop, will deliver the invocation prayer.

The day after, January 19, is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, and citizens across the country will engage in community service projects to commemorate Dr. King's legacy. For their part, the President-elect and Vice President-elect and their families, joined by Americans in communities all across the country, will participate in activities dedicated to serving others in communities across the Washington, D.C. area. No further details have yet been released about the specific activities Obama and Biden, together with their families, will participate in.

On the eve of the inauguration, there will be a youth concert at the Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C. The concert will be free, but tickets are required.

President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden, together with their families will participate in the traditional presidential inauguration ceremonies and events on January 20, 2009. Festivities will begin at 10 AM on the west front of the U.S. Capitol and will have the following details according to Wikipedia:

The program by the Congressional leaders includes music by vocalist Aretha Franklin, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, violinist Itzhak Perlman, pianist Gabriela Montero and clarinetist Anthony McGill. Some of the musical selections are by composer John Williams. Poet Elizabeth Alexander will speak. Other inauguration participants include the "The President's Own" (the United States Marine Band) and the United States Navy Band.

Vice President-elect Biden will take his oath first from Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States John Paul Stevens, then Obama will take his oath of office from Chief Justice Roberts. Obama is to be sworn on the Bible used by Abraham Lincoln at his first inauguration in 1861, and will use the phrase "so help me God" at the end of the oath. The swearing in will be followed by the very first 21-gun salute to the new President from the members of the armed forces, as well as the first playing of four ruffles and flourishes and "Hail to the Chief". Obama will deliver his inaugural speech afterward.

Evangelical pastor Rick Warren will deliver the invocation. His selection has been widely debated, as Warren opposes abortion and same-sex marriage. But Obama's choice of liberal civil rights activist Joseph Lowery of the United Methodist Church to deliver the benediction has received scant attention. The selection of the two Christian clergy members provides balance of a social conservative and a liberal civil rights activist.

After Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th President of the United States at 12 noon and gives his inaugural speech, he will then escort outgoing president, George W. Bush, to a departure ceremony. A luncheon follows in the Capitol’s Statuary Hall. The inaugural parade will follow after lunch at around 2:00 PM. It proceeds through the 15 blocks of Pennsylvania Avenue between the Capitol building and the White House. It typically lasts two to three hours. Here are further details:

The inaugural parade will travel down Pennsylvania Avenue, in front of the White House. Because of the threat that the President-elect may face on January 20, it is more than likely that Obama will be traveling down Pennsylvania Avenue by motorcade; it was tradition for the President-elect to walk instead of being driven. It is scheduled to extend for over two hours in the afternoon following the inauguration. It will include 15,000 people, 240 horses, dozens of marching bands, two drum and bugle corps, and one mariachi band from Espanola, New Mexico. He has invited the 9-time Drum Corps International (DCI) World Champion The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, the eight-time finalist Colts Drum and Bugle Corps from Dubuque, Iowa, as well as the high school marching band from Punahou School, his high school in Hawaii to perform in the inaugural parade.

More details will be added to this as they are revealed in the next few days so keep checking back. We will also try top get some information about the inaugural balls (there are a number of them). For more details about the 2009 Presidential inauguration, you can check out Wikipedia. The Washington Post also has an inauguration blog that keeps track of the latest inauguration news, including updates on events..

Supernatural season 4 episode 11 / Supernatural Family Remains

Family Remains, Supernatural season 4 episode 11 / Supernatural 4.11 returns this week after a long break over the holidays. Another creepy episode unfolds as Sam and Dean investigate a house that appears to be haunted by a woman - from inside the walls! A family moves in to the country house after the oldest son, Andy, dies in a car accident. The brothers fail to get the family to leave, but when the youngest son, Danny, is kidnapped though the walls, they look to Sam and Dean to rescue the boy. What is the cause of the haunting from within the walls? It is unsure whether or not Danny survives because the ghost seems to enjoy playing with Danny. Watch how this creepy story unfolds as

Supernatural Family Remains / Supernatural s04e11 airs later this week.The full video stream of this week's episode, Supernatural 4.11 / Supernatural season 4 episode 11 will be available online very soon. As always, a copy of it will be posted on this page immediately. Please check back for it regularly. In the meantime, here is a synopsis of Supernatural so4e11 / Supernatural 4 11 and three preview clips released over the holidays.

Sam and Dean investigate the appearance of a young female ghost in an abandoned house, but things become more complicated when a family moves in. The brothers fail to get the family to leave, but when the son is kidnapped though the walls, they look to Sam and Dean to rescue the boy

Preview 1: Supernatural Family Remains / Supernatural 4.11

Smallville season 8 episode 11/watch Smallville Legion 8.11 s08e11

After an extended holiday break, Smallville season 8 episode 11 / Smallville 8.11 unfolds tomorrow night to reveal more exciting action in the life of young Clark, played by Tom Welling. In Legion, Smallville s08e11 / Smallville season 8 episode 11, a legion of super heroes from the future arrives to help Clark in his battle with Braniac and The Persuader. After the attack of Doomsday on Chloe and Jimmy’s wedding, Clark is in shock. However, before he can search for the kidnapped Chloe, The Persuader attacks him. The Legion - Rokk, Imra and Garth - step The full video stream of this exciting episode, 'Legion', Smallville season 8 episode 11 / Smallville 8 11, will be available on this site very soon for those of you Superman fans who prefer to watch it online. A copy will be posted here at the soonest possible time. Please check back for it regularly. In the meantime, here us a short summary of Smallville 8.11 / Smallville season 8 episode 11 followed by some preview clips including a director's cut.

Three superheroes from the future travel to the past and join Clark in hopes that together they can defeat Brainiac, who has taken over Chloe's body.

Preview: watch Smallville 'Legion' / Smallville season 8 episode 11
Smallville 8.11 / Smallville s08e11

Preview 2: Smallville 8.11 / Smallville s08e11

The Office season 5 episode 11: Duel, The Office s05e11 (5.11)

Did you miss Michael and his band of misfits? It's back after a long break. The Office season 5 episode 11 / The Office s05e11 is finally back to bring us more of the craziness it has been dishing out for the past five seasons. The misfits and their clueless boss arrive tomorrow night with "Duel", The Office 5.11 / The Office season 5 episode 11, wherein Dwight and Andy finally square off after the secret Dwight-Angela affair is revealed - by Michael of course! See what happens as the two guys engage in a Duel and how the rest of the office reacts. Meanwhile, Michael has been called to to corporate HQ for a meeting with David which sends the former into a nervous frenzy, as always.

What will the meeting be about? Good news or bad news? Find out as The Office season 5 episode 11 / The Office 5.11 unfolds.For those of you who prefer to watch TV episodes online, the full video stream of The Office s05e11 / The Office 5 11 will be available on this page soon. A copy will be posted here as soon as the stream is mad available to the public. Please check back for it. In the meantime, here is the preview clip of The Office "Duel" / The Office season 5 episode 11 followed by its short synopsis.

Preview: The Office season 5 episode 11 / The Office Duel
The Office s05e11 / The Office 5.11

Obama letter to daughters: Barack Obama's letter to Malia, Sasha

Parade Magazine has posted a letter written by Barack Obama to his daughters Malia and Sasha. For its upcoming issue, the magazine, in preparation for the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States next week, asked the President-elect what his thoughts are about his family, his daughters in particular, with this historic event upcoming. In the letter to his daughters, he shares not only his thoughts and feelings but lessons he has learned while growing up as well. Barack Obama also wites, in some detail, events and issues that his daughters may not have understood earlier and shares what he wants for them, for all children in America. This is a letter not only written by the future President of the United

States of America to his daughters but details the thoughts and aspirations of an American father for his children and his country as a whole. Here are some excerpts from that letter:

Dear Malia and Sasha,

I know that you've both had a lot of fun these last two years on the campaign trail, going to picnics and parades and state fairs, eating all sorts of junk food your mother and I probably shouldn't have let you have. But I also know that it hasn't always been easy for you and Mom, and that as excited as you both are about that new puppy, it doesn't make up for all the time we've been apart. I know how much I've missed these past two years, and today I want to tell you a little more about why I decided to take our family on this journey.

When I was a young man, I thought life was all about me—about how I'd make my way in the world, become successful, and get the things I want. But then the two of you came into my world with all your curiosity and mischief and those smiles that never fail to fill my heart and light up my day. And suddenly, all my big plans for myself didn't seem so important anymore. I soon found that the greatest joy in my life was the joy I saw in yours. And I realized that my own life wouldn't count for much unless I was able to ensure that you had every opportunity for happiness and fulfillment in yours. In the end, girls, that's why I ran for President: because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation.

In one portion of the letter, the future President of America explains why young men and women have to sent off to war. It is, according to him, a responsibility that comes with the privilege of being an American:

Sometimes we have to send our young men and women into war and other dangerous situations to protect our country—but when we do, I want to make sure that it is only for a very good reason, that we try our best to settle our differences with others peacefully, and that we do everything possible to keep our servicemen and women safe. And I want every child to understand that the blessings these brave Americans fight for are not free—that with the great privilege of being a citizen of this nation comes great responsibility.

He also writes about his grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, and what she has taught him about life, America and being and American:

That was the lesson your grandmother tried to teach me when I was your age, reading me the opening lines of the Declaration of Independence and telling me about the men and women who marched for equality because they believed those words put to paper two centuries ago should mean something.

She helped me understand that America is great not because it is perfect but because it can always be made better—and that the unfinished work of perfecting our union falls to each of us. It's a charge we pass on to our children, coming closer with each new generation to what we know America should be.

It is both an eloquent and poignant piece written by a father to his daughters on the eve of a historic event that will forever change their lives - a change that, with this letter, Barack Obama hopes his daughters will not only treasure and cherish, but fully understand as well.

You can read the full text of Brack Obama's letter to his daughters Malia and Sasha at parade.com.