Mike Workman's DNC Blog
About the Author
Mike W, Tulsa+
Mt. Rushmore Sings The Proclaimers
3:00
http://video.yahoo.com/watch/2658575/7790957
Best experienced with the volume up and on full-screen mode!
Mike W
Tulsa+
Who knows it's "off-topic" but wanted to share ;^)
3:00
http://video.yahoo.com/watch/2658575/7790957
Best experienced with the volume up and on full-screen mode!
Mike W
Tulsa+
Who knows it's "off-topic" but wanted to share ;^)
Mujeres por Hillary
by Zulma N. Rovira-Perez
5/12/2008
El grupo “mujeres por Hillary” celebro el pasado jueves 8 de mayo su primera reunión en el comité de campaña de la candidata en Puerto Rico, para activar a mujeres que laboren y aporten en la contienda primarista . Fue una reunión llena de emotividad, en la cual participaron un sinnúmero d mujeres de todas las edades. A este grupo de mujeres las ha unido el sentimiento en común de apoyar a una mujer que siempre se ha destacado en su trabajo para atacar y solucionar problemas e issues que tanto afectan a las mujeres en distintos ámbitos de su vida. Entre las mujeres que se encontraban dirigiendo la reunión estaban la senadora Lucy Arce, ex senadora Margarita Ostolaza, la Dr. Ileana Irvine, y la Dr. Sheymar Lausell. Read More »
by Zulma N. Rovira-Perez
5/12/2008
El grupo “mujeres por Hillary” celebro el pasado jueves 8 de mayo su primera reunión en el comité de campaña de la candidata en Puerto Rico, para activar a mujeres que laboren y aporten en la contienda primarista . Fue una reunión llena de emotividad, en la cual participaron un sinnúmero d mujeres de todas las edades. A este grupo de mujeres las ha unido el sentimiento en común de apoyar a una mujer que siempre se ha destacado en su trabajo para atacar y solucionar problemas e issues que tanto afectan a las mujeres en distintos ámbitos de su vida. Entre las mujeres que se encontraban dirigiendo la reunión estaban la senadora Lucy Arce, ex senadora Margarita Ostolaza, la Dr. Ileana Irvine, y la Dr. Sheymar Lausell. Read More »
The 2008 Democratic Convention is set to commence 100 Days from today, Saturday 17-May-08.
Mike W
Tulsa+
Who hopes to see others there
Mike W
Tulsa+
Who hopes to see others there
Counting Every Vote in Oregon, Montana, Florida and Michigan
by Congressman Kendrick B. Meek (D-FL)
5/13/2008
http://blog.hillaryclinton.com/blog/main/2008/05/13/185232
Over the last few days I’ve had the tremendous opportunity to tour Montana and Oregon with President Clinton. As I fly back to the East Coast I do have to say my first trip to the Pacific Northwest and Big Sky Country was absolutely incredible.
From Billings to Newport I met thousands of people from all walks of life who have been uplifted by Hillary’s message. In small towns like Pendleton and big cities like Portland, Hillary’s appeal is vast and strong. I saw it in Tillamook, Oregon where hundreds came to the Tillamook Cheese Factory to see the former President and in Newport where nearly 1,000 Oregonians crowded the marina on a chilly day " much colder than what I am used to in the Sunshine State. The looks on their faces said enough. Oregonians and Montanans are excited to have their say in this election and have their votes count.
Now I know one thing when it comes to votes counting as a Floridian. Our voices were silenced in 2000 and we are in danger of a repeat. This entire primary campaign has done wonders for expanding the Democratic Party. Registration is up. Voters are energized. Everyone is counting down the final days of George Bush’s time in the Oval Office.
But our voices in Florida -- and Michigan -- are being silenced again. Simply put, we won’t be able to win back the White House without either of these two states. Millions of people went to the polls in both states. The delegates in these two states deserve to be seated and the votes in all of the 56 contests need to be counted because at the end of the day, we must allow democracy to prevail and count every single vote.
-
Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President
by Congressman Kendrick B. Meek (D-FL)
5/13/2008
http://blog.hillaryclinton.com/blog/main/2008/05/13/185232
Over the last few days I’ve had the tremendous opportunity to tour Montana and Oregon with President Clinton. As I fly back to the East Coast I do have to say my first trip to the Pacific Northwest and Big Sky Country was absolutely incredible.
From Billings to Newport I met thousands of people from all walks of life who have been uplifted by Hillary’s message. In small towns like Pendleton and big cities like Portland, Hillary’s appeal is vast and strong. I saw it in Tillamook, Oregon where hundreds came to the Tillamook Cheese Factory to see the former President and in Newport where nearly 1,000 Oregonians crowded the marina on a chilly day " much colder than what I am used to in the Sunshine State. The looks on their faces said enough. Oregonians and Montanans are excited to have their say in this election and have their votes count.
Now I know one thing when it comes to votes counting as a Floridian. Our voices were silenced in 2000 and we are in danger of a repeat. This entire primary campaign has done wonders for expanding the Democratic Party. Registration is up. Voters are energized. Everyone is counting down the final days of George Bush’s time in the Oval Office.
But our voices in Florida -- and Michigan -- are being silenced again. Simply put, we won’t be able to win back the White House without either of these two states. Millions of people went to the polls in both states. The delegates in these two states deserve to be seated and the votes in all of the 56 contests need to be counted because at the end of the day, we must allow democracy to prevail and count every single vote.
-
Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President
Young Democrats of Oklahoma to Hold State Convention June 7th
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
youngdemocratsoklahoma@gmail.com
Young Democrats of Oklahoma to Hold State Convention June 7th
Oklahoma City (May 13, 2008) - Young Democrats of Oklahoma announced they would hold their annual state convention June 7th at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Union Hall at 1700 Southeast 15th St. in Oklahoma City.
The annual convention will host an array of speakers, including Democratic leaders in the state. Elections for one-year termed officers will also be held. All Young Democrats across the state are welcome to attend.
Young Democrats of Oklahoma President Josh Smith stresses the importance of motivating young Democrats in this state.
“Our goal at the state convention is to organize our young people in the state,” said Smith. “We want to give our young Democrats the tools to go out in the field and conduct a grassroots campaign to turn Oklahoma blue.”
Smith emphasized the impact young people can have in the political process.
“This year is a vital election year and Young Democrats of Oklahoma has the opportunity to capitalize on the Democratic movement going on in this state in the nation,” said Smith. “Democrats gained ground in the 2006 elections and we hope to continue that same trend with the upcoming elections in November.”
Young Democrats of Oklahoma is an organization that mobilizes young people under the age of 36 to participate in the electoral process, be involved in the Oklahoma Democratic Party and strives to develop the skills of Oklahoma youth to serve as leaders at the local and national level.
The convention will begin at 8 am. Speakers, events and registration details of the Young Democrats of Oklahoma convention will be released as soon as they are confirmed. This information can be found on the Young Democrats of Oklahoma Facebook group. For more information on the convention, please contact youngdemocratsoklahoma@gmail.com
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
youngdemocratsoklahoma@gmail.com
Young Democrats of Oklahoma to Hold State Convention June 7th
Oklahoma City (May 13, 2008) - Young Democrats of Oklahoma announced they would hold their annual state convention June 7th at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Union Hall at 1700 Southeast 15th St. in Oklahoma City.
The annual convention will host an array of speakers, including Democratic leaders in the state. Elections for one-year termed officers will also be held. All Young Democrats across the state are welcome to attend.
Young Democrats of Oklahoma President Josh Smith stresses the importance of motivating young Democrats in this state.
“Our goal at the state convention is to organize our young people in the state,” said Smith. “We want to give our young Democrats the tools to go out in the field and conduct a grassroots campaign to turn Oklahoma blue.”
Smith emphasized the impact young people can have in the political process.
“This year is a vital election year and Young Democrats of Oklahoma has the opportunity to capitalize on the Democratic movement going on in this state in the nation,” said Smith. “Democrats gained ground in the 2006 elections and we hope to continue that same trend with the upcoming elections in November.”
Young Democrats of Oklahoma is an organization that mobilizes young people under the age of 36 to participate in the electoral process, be involved in the Oklahoma Democratic Party and strives to develop the skills of Oklahoma youth to serve as leaders at the local and national level.
The convention will begin at 8 am. Speakers, events and registration details of the Young Democrats of Oklahoma convention will be released as soon as they are confirmed. This information can be found on the Young Democrats of Oklahoma Facebook group. For more information on the convention, please contact youngdemocratsoklahoma@gmail.com
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Standing Up For Montana Families: Kalispell, MT, Mayor Pam Kennedy endorsed Hillary yesterday. At a rally with former President Bill Clinton, she explained why Hillary is her choice: “Hillary Clinton has been standing up for women and families throughout her long career in public service. She is the candidate who best understands the issues facing Montana families.”
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Kalispell Mayor Endorses Hillary for President Read More »
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Kalispell Mayor Endorses Hillary for President Read More »
3 new Hillary TV spots out today
What's Right [Oregon]
From: hillaryclintondotcom
Added: May 16, 2008
Hillary Clinton will end loopholes for special interests and cut taxes for the working families to help pay for college, health care, and retirement.
00:30
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7w1_ZFMRMc
Right Track - Kentucky
From: hillaryclintondotcom
Added: May 16, 2008
Hillary Clinton will end loopholes for special interests and cut taxes for the working families to help pay for college, health care, and retirement.
00:30
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yBySKSz_n0
Partner - KY
From: hillaryclintondotcom
Added: May 16, 2008
It is time that the American worker had a partner in the White House. Hillary has what it takes.
00:30
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afacSGgWH8s
What's Right [Oregon]
From: hillaryclintondotcom
Added: May 16, 2008
Hillary Clinton will end loopholes for special interests and cut taxes for the working families to help pay for college, health care, and retirement.
00:30
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7w1_ZFMRMc
Right Track - Kentucky
From: hillaryclintondotcom
Added: May 16, 2008
Hillary Clinton will end loopholes for special interests and cut taxes for the working families to help pay for college, health care, and retirement.
00:30
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yBySKSz_n0
Partner - KY
From: hillaryclintondotcom
Added: May 16, 2008
It is time that the American worker had a partner in the White House. Hillary has what it takes.
00:30
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afacSGgWH8s
More than 100 Kentucky Leaders Endorse Hillary
by Jamie Radice, Kentucky Communications Director
5/15/2008
http://blog.hillaryclinton.com/blog/main/2008/05/15/165336
After a decisive victory in West Virginia, the Clinton Campaign today announced its Kentucky Steering Committee, made up of more than a hundred leaders across the state that are endorsing Hillary for President.
“We are honored to have the support of so many respected community leaders throughout Kentucky, all dedicated to making Hillary successful in Tuesday’s primary,” said State Director Jonathan Hurst.
Today’s announcement is the latest example of Hillary’s growing momentum across the Bluegrass State. The campaign has opened offices across Kentucky, and Hillary, former President Clinton, and Chelsea have actively campaigned throughout the state.
Hillary’s Kentucky Steering Committee follows below. Read More »
by Jamie Radice, Kentucky Communications Director
5/15/2008
http://blog.hillaryclinton.com/blog/main/2008/05/15/165336
After a decisive victory in West Virginia, the Clinton Campaign today announced its Kentucky Steering Committee, made up of more than a hundred leaders across the state that are endorsing Hillary for President.
“We are honored to have the support of so many respected community leaders throughout Kentucky, all dedicated to making Hillary successful in Tuesday’s primary,” said State Director Jonathan Hurst.
Today’s announcement is the latest example of Hillary’s growing momentum across the Bluegrass State. The campaign has opened offices across Kentucky, and Hillary, former President Clinton, and Chelsea have actively campaigned throughout the state.
Hillary’s Kentucky Steering Committee follows below. Read More »
From
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080515/ap_on_el_pr/unions_democrats
By JESSE J. HOLLAND, AP Labor Writer
Thu May 15
But there is still a major union plum to be had, the AFL-CIO, the nation's largest labor organization.
The AFL-CIO and its 56 unions expect to spend an estimated $200 million on the presidential and congressional elections. However, the labor federation is still nowhere close to making an endorsement, focusing its energies instead on presumptive Republican nominee John McCain.
To win its formal backing, a candidate must have support from two-thirds of the union's 10 million members.
Including the Steelworkers, Obama has been endorsed by nine AFL-CIO unions and four unions from Change to Win, a rival labor organization.
Clinton still has more union support, having been endorsed by 13 AFL-CIO unions and Change to Win's United Farm Workers.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080515/ap_on_el_pr/unions_democrats
By JESSE J. HOLLAND, AP Labor Writer
Thu May 15
But there is still a major union plum to be had, the AFL-CIO, the nation's largest labor organization.
The AFL-CIO and its 56 unions expect to spend an estimated $200 million on the presidential and congressional elections. However, the labor federation is still nowhere close to making an endorsement, focusing its energies instead on presumptive Republican nominee John McCain.
To win its formal backing, a candidate must have support from two-thirds of the union's 10 million members.
Including the Steelworkers, Obama has been endorsed by nine AFL-CIO unions and four unions from Change to Win, a rival labor organization.
Clinton still has more union support, having been endorsed by 13 AFL-CIO unions and Change to Win's United Farm Workers.
Excitement for Hillary is Brewing Here in Puerto Rico!
by Kenneth Romero
5/14/2008 5:30:23 PM
http://blog.hillaryclinton.com/blog/main/2008/05/14/213023
As many Boricuas enjoyed their café con leche while doing last-minute Mother’s Day shopping at Paseo De Diego, in the heart of San Juan, I was overwhelmed listening to people who over and over again shouted out “Hillary, esa es mi candidata”.
A group of volunteers took to the busy streets of Río Piedras, handing out bumper stickers, yard signs and, most importantly, one-on-one information on Hillary’s comprehensive agenda for the jurisdiction with the largest Hispanic population under the American flag--- over 4 million.
With a voter turn-out of more than 80%, we here are very vocal about politics and, during our visit, people were certainly eager to shake hands with us and express their whole-hearted support for her candidacy. They know that Hillary is a champion for Boricuas but, most importantly, she is the one, true voice for all Latinos in the United States.
On Sunday, June 1st, all eyes will be on Puerto Rico as we celebrate the democratic primary and Hillary’s victory here in the Island.
El 1ero de junio, ¡sal a votar por Hillary!
Photos and comments at
http://blog.hillaryclinton.com/blog/main/2008/05/14/213023
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Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President
by Kenneth Romero
5/14/2008 5:30:23 PM
http://blog.hillaryclinton.com/blog/main/2008/05/14/213023
As many Boricuas enjoyed their café con leche while doing last-minute Mother’s Day shopping at Paseo De Diego, in the heart of San Juan, I was overwhelmed listening to people who over and over again shouted out “Hillary, esa es mi candidata”.
A group of volunteers took to the busy streets of Río Piedras, handing out bumper stickers, yard signs and, most importantly, one-on-one information on Hillary’s comprehensive agenda for the jurisdiction with the largest Hispanic population under the American flag--- over 4 million.
With a voter turn-out of more than 80%, we here are very vocal about politics and, during our visit, people were certainly eager to shake hands with us and express their whole-hearted support for her candidacy. They know that Hillary is a champion for Boricuas but, most importantly, she is the one, true voice for all Latinos in the United States.
On Sunday, June 1st, all eyes will be on Puerto Rico as we celebrate the democratic primary and Hillary’s victory here in the Island.
El 1ero de junio, ¡sal a votar por Hillary!
Photos and comments at
http://blog.hillaryclinton.com/blog/main/2008/05/14/213023
---
Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President
2008-02-09 Nebraska caucus
HRC 32.2%
BO 67.6%
2008-05-13 Nebraska non-binding primary
HRC 48.5%
BO 51.5%
This is:
Clinton +16.3%
Obama -16.1%
Mike W
Tulsa+
Who thinks this only shows that Obama caucus voters are not representative of all voters in that and other states
HRC 32.2%
BO 67.6%
2008-05-13 Nebraska non-binding primary
HRC 48.5%
BO 51.5%
This is:
Clinton +16.3%
Obama -16.1%
Mike W
Tulsa+
Who thinks this only shows that Obama caucus voters are not representative of all voters in that and other states
Are You a Veteran? Do You Know One?
Many working men and women have done their part for our country through their service in the military.
In fact, veterans of the U.S. military returning to the job market are more likely to become union members than other workers. Six million union members, or 38 percent of all union members, are veterans of military service.
But many soldiers and sailors returning home to look for jobs today face severe difficulty. Eighteen percent of veterans recently back from tours of duty are unemployed. Of those employed since leaving the military, 25 percent earn less than $21,840 a year, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
We need your help as we fight for the rights of veterans in our ranks and for those re-entering the workforce from active service.
With so many new challenges facing veterans, we ask for your participation in our Union Veterans 2008 program.
To join up, please click here to take our Union Veterans 2008 survey:
http://unionveterans2008.questionpro.com/
We’d like to hear about you and your service to our country.
Veterans need policies that promote access to good jobs, protection of their re-employment rights and better education and training benefits through an expanded G.I. Bill. They also need a fully funded Veterans Affairs health care program.
We are calling for working families to join our campaign and speak out to hold government and candidates accountable on the needs of our returning heroes--not only during the 2008 campaign, but beyond.
Please click here to take our Union Veterans 2008 survey today:
http://unionveterans2008.questionpro.com/
In solidarity,
Working Families e-Activist Network, AFL-CIO
P.S. Please pass this survey along to everyone you know who has served, or is currently serving, in our nation’s armed forces.
Many working men and women have done their part for our country through their service in the military.
In fact, veterans of the U.S. military returning to the job market are more likely to become union members than other workers. Six million union members, or 38 percent of all union members, are veterans of military service.
But many soldiers and sailors returning home to look for jobs today face severe difficulty. Eighteen percent of veterans recently back from tours of duty are unemployed. Of those employed since leaving the military, 25 percent earn less than $21,840 a year, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
We need your help as we fight for the rights of veterans in our ranks and for those re-entering the workforce from active service.
With so many new challenges facing veterans, we ask for your participation in our Union Veterans 2008 program.
To join up, please click here to take our Union Veterans 2008 survey:
http://unionveterans2008.questionpro.com/
We’d like to hear about you and your service to our country.
Veterans need policies that promote access to good jobs, protection of their re-employment rights and better education and training benefits through an expanded G.I. Bill. They also need a fully funded Veterans Affairs health care program.
We are calling for working families to join our campaign and speak out to hold government and candidates accountable on the needs of our returning heroes--not only during the 2008 campaign, but beyond.
Please click here to take our Union Veterans 2008 survey today:
http://unionveterans2008.questionpro.com/
In solidarity,
Working Families e-Activist Network, AFL-CIO
P.S. Please pass this survey along to everyone you know who has served, or is currently serving, in our nation’s armed forces.
Voters Mail their Ballots in for Hillary During Final Days
by Julie Edwards, Oregon Communications Director
5/14/2008 11:47:20 PM
6 days until ballots are due. Tomorrow is the last day you can mail your ballot in to ensure it is received on time. You can also drop it in a drop box near you by 8:00 pm on May 20th.
Find a drop box location near you.
http://www.hillaryclinton.com/hq/oregon/voting101
by Julie Edwards, Oregon Communications Director
5/14/2008 11:47:20 PM
6 days until ballots are due. Tomorrow is the last day you can mail your ballot in to ensure it is received on time. You can also drop it in a drop box near you by 8:00 pm on May 20th.
Find a drop box location near you.
http://www.hillaryclinton.com/hq/oregon/voting101
Four Former Kentucky Governors Endorse Hillary
5/14/2008
http://www.hillaryclinton.com/news/release/view/?id=7701
After a landslide victory in West Virginia, the Clinton Campaign today announced that former Kentucky Governors Wendell Ford, Paul Patton, John Brown, and Julian Carroll are endorsing Hillary for President. The endorsements demonstrate the widespread support Hillary continues to receive throughout the Bluegrass State.
"The Presidency is the hardest job in the world and the American people deserve a leader who can rise to the challenge," said former Governor Wendell Ford. "In the thirty years I have known Hillary, she has consistently proven she can deliver results. Whether fighting to reform our nation’s health care system or offering a responsible solution to ending the War in Iraq, Hillary has proven time and again she has what it takes to get the job done."
"The people of Kentucky need a President who has the strength, experience, and leadership to lead on day one," said former Governor Julian Carroll. "My friendship with Hillary goes back more than 30 years and I know she'll make a fine President. Hillary is the leader that Kentucky needs and I look forward to helping deliver victory for her on Tuesday."
"I am proud to support Hillary today," said former Governor John Y. Brown. "I had the opportunity to serve with President Clinton and I got to know Hillary as a person. With the complex problems that have been created over the last eight years, I would feel most comfortable with Hillary because she has the skills and experience to handle them."
"I am honored to have the support of these distinguished Kentucky governors, and look forward to working with them to jumpstart the economy and rebuild the middle class," Clinton said.
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Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President
5/14/2008
http://www.hillaryclinton.com/news/release/view/?id=7701
After a landslide victory in West Virginia, the Clinton Campaign today announced that former Kentucky Governors Wendell Ford, Paul Patton, John Brown, and Julian Carroll are endorsing Hillary for President. The endorsements demonstrate the widespread support Hillary continues to receive throughout the Bluegrass State.
"The Presidency is the hardest job in the world and the American people deserve a leader who can rise to the challenge," said former Governor Wendell Ford. "In the thirty years I have known Hillary, she has consistently proven she can deliver results. Whether fighting to reform our nation’s health care system or offering a responsible solution to ending the War in Iraq, Hillary has proven time and again she has what it takes to get the job done."
"The people of Kentucky need a President who has the strength, experience, and leadership to lead on day one," said former Governor Julian Carroll. "My friendship with Hillary goes back more than 30 years and I know she'll make a fine President. Hillary is the leader that Kentucky needs and I look forward to helping deliver victory for her on Tuesday."
"I am proud to support Hillary today," said former Governor John Y. Brown. "I had the opportunity to serve with President Clinton and I got to know Hillary as a person. With the complex problems that have been created over the last eight years, I would feel most comfortable with Hillary because she has the skills and experience to handle them."
"I am honored to have the support of these distinguished Kentucky governors, and look forward to working with them to jumpstart the economy and rebuild the middle class," Clinton said.
---
Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President
According to ABC News, Hillary’s West Virginia victory put her over the top in the popular vote.
She now leads Sen. Obama 16,691,283 to 16,647,926 when Florida and Michigan are included in the count.
Read more at
http://abcnews.go.com/politics
Updated May 14, 2008 - 4:11 PM EST
She now leads Sen. Obama 16,691,283 to 16,647,926 when Florida and Michigan are included in the count.
Read more at
http://abcnews.go.com/politics
Updated May 14, 2008 - 4:11 PM EST
Excerpt below on Bush Library, SCJ business item, Dallas, July 15-19, 2008
Jurisdictional conferences will elect, assign bishops
A UMNS Report
By J. Richard Peck
May 14, 2008
http://tinyurl.com/4bqa5g
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South Central: Bush library
The conferences also handle jurisdictional business.
The South Central Jurisdiction is expected to address a 2007 decision by its Mission Council to lease property on the campus of Southern Methodist University to build the George W. Bush presidential library, museum and policy institute.
The 21-member Mission Council serves as the executive committee of the conference to oversee ministry during the four years between jurisdictional meetings. The extent of the council's power became a central issue when SMU, which is owned by the jurisdiction, asked to give the Bush Foundation a 99-year lease for the project and make the lease renewable up to 249 years. United Methodists opposing the plan, citing the Iraq war and many Bush policies, questioned the appropriateness of linking the Bush presidency with SMU and argued that the school would have no control over the complex.
The opponents said only the jurisdictional conference can give final approval for the lease. However, university officials and 10 bishops in the South Central Jurisdiction disagreed (one abstained). They said jurisdictional rules permit the Mission Council to make decisions between sessions every four years.
Kansas Area Bishop Scott Jones, president of the South Central College of Bishops, said the bishops considered convening a special session of the jurisdictional conference. "The proposal was rejected because that is not the normal way we make decisions," Jones said.
The outcome is uncertain. David Severe, jurisdictional secretary, told UMNS that it is not clear whether the decision needs to be ratified or just reported. "It’s a matter of interpretation," he said, "and I’m only the secretary."
A resolution to General Conference called for the denomination to prevent the "leasing, selling or otherwise participating in or supporting the presidential library for George W. Bush at Southern Methodist University." The assembly referred the resolution to the jurisdictional conference.
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Jurisdictional conferences will elect, assign bishops
A UMNS Report
By J. Richard Peck
May 14, 2008
http://tinyurl.com/4bqa5g
---
South Central: Bush library
The conferences also handle jurisdictional business.
The South Central Jurisdiction is expected to address a 2007 decision by its Mission Council to lease property on the campus of Southern Methodist University to build the George W. Bush presidential library, museum and policy institute.
The 21-member Mission Council serves as the executive committee of the conference to oversee ministry during the four years between jurisdictional meetings. The extent of the council's power became a central issue when SMU, which is owned by the jurisdiction, asked to give the Bush Foundation a 99-year lease for the project and make the lease renewable up to 249 years. United Methodists opposing the plan, citing the Iraq war and many Bush policies, questioned the appropriateness of linking the Bush presidency with SMU and argued that the school would have no control over the complex.
The opponents said only the jurisdictional conference can give final approval for the lease. However, university officials and 10 bishops in the South Central Jurisdiction disagreed (one abstained). They said jurisdictional rules permit the Mission Council to make decisions between sessions every four years.
Kansas Area Bishop Scott Jones, president of the South Central College of Bishops, said the bishops considered convening a special session of the jurisdictional conference. "The proposal was rejected because that is not the normal way we make decisions," Jones said.
The outcome is uncertain. David Severe, jurisdictional secretary, told UMNS that it is not clear whether the decision needs to be ratified or just reported. "It’s a matter of interpretation," he said, "and I’m only the secretary."
A resolution to General Conference called for the denomination to prevent the "leasing, selling or otherwise participating in or supporting the presidential library for George W. Bush at Southern Methodist University." The assembly referred the resolution to the jurisdictional conference.
---