Utah Moms Care

McCain vs. Obama - Immigration

2008-07-21T14:36:00.004-06:00

The statistics can be staggering. Over 8.7 million illegal immigrants are currently residing in the United States, with that number increasing by about 500,000 a year. Of those 55% come from Mexico and an additional 20% come from other Latin American countries. source Over the last few years we have been hearing a cry from Washington that something must be done about the 'immigration problem'. But there has been little to no significant action. Would things change under a new administration?

Sen. McCain
Hailing from a border state, Sen. McCain has vowed to secure the border if elected. He recognizes that this effort will be more successful if we can build strong alliances with Mexico and other South American countries. With the immigrants already in the US, McCain feels it important to assimilate that population which would include learning English, American history, and respecting democracy. He also would penalize employers hiring workers without the proper documentation to the fullest extent of the law. (www.johnmccain.com)

Sen. Obama
Sen. Obama believes immigration must be addressed on multiple levels. First, with an increase in securing our borders. He voted in favor of the bill creating a 700 mile fence along the US-Mexico border. Second, the incentive to cross the border illegally must be confronted through targeting businesses who hire those here illegally. Third, the US must work with Mexico to improve their economy. Fourth, he feels we must allow undocumented workers in the US that are in good standing to have a process to become legal through payment of a fine, learning English, and putting themselves in the back of the line to become citizens. Finally, the process in which legal immigrants enter the country must be streamlined. (www.barackobama.com)

Thoughts: So many illegal immigrants live in the shadows of our society. This whole population of millions, working and residing in our communities but not ever taking part. I feel blessed to have been born in this country legally, and to have the rights and privileges this nation affords. I do not begrudge those that have come here in search of a better life, but there must be a better way. A secure border is essential, as is helping the nations who's citizens are flocking here, to establish an economy able to provide work. The incentive to cross the border illegally is there, that must be rescinded through fining the companies that hire workers without proper documentation. Those millions who are already here illegally must be provided a way to change their status. I adamantly oppose any legislation that would criminalize first responders or nonprofit organizations that aid those who are in the country illegally. The debate here must be filled with compassion and recognition of the millions of families' lives that will be affected by any legislation.

McCain vs. Obama - Iraq

2008-07-07T12:22:00.005-06:00

On March 20, 2003 the U.S. led invasion of Iraq began. In these last 5 years the debate whether it should have occurred and what we as a nation should do now have become even more heated. The candidates take diametrically opposed views.

Sen. McCain
Sen. McCain has supported the war in Iraq and the 'surge' of U.S. troops. He believes that until the Iraqi government is capable of providing basic services to it's people and ensuring safety for all Iraqis that Americans must be present in the country. If stabilization of Iraq fails, McCain fears Iraq will become a haven for terrorists or crumble into civil war. Both Iran and Syria have aided to the unrest in Iraq, and McCain feels that the international community must apply pressure to these two nations for the security of Iraq. Included in this pressure, McCain feels that the U.S. must prove to Iran our determination to keep them out of Iraq through regional military presence. www.johnmccain.com

Sen. Obama
Sen. Obama would like to see the immediate removal of troops from Iraq, proposing one to two combat brigades returning home every month until all brigades are home in 16 months. The force remaining in Iraq would simply provide protection to the U.S. Embassy and diplomats. Sen. Obama would focus his efforts on diplomacy to insure stability, including both Iran and Syria in that compact. The goals of the compact being to keep other nations out of Iraq, to provide financial support to rebuild the country, and to isolate al Qaeda. www.barackobama.com

Thoughts: Having lived in military communities for these past 5 years, it is hard to watch your friends deal with their husbands gone for a year or more, multiple times to Iraq. It ripped some families apart. While we have an obligation to help create stability in Iraq we must also treat our service men and women and their families with some respect. Iraq continues to rock with violence and the core problems in the country are far from being solved. More diplomacy must be sought and more avenues of resolution need to be considered. We need our men and women home.

Election Results

2008-06-25T09:42:00.004-06:00

The results of yesterday's election may not be surprising, but the margins of victory are. Jason Chaffertz ousted 6-term Congressman Chris Cannon by 20% in Utah's 3rd district, Richard Ellis beat Rep. Mark Walker by 18%, and in Ogden Ryan Wilcox outdid Rep. Glenn Donnelson by 22%. In Bountiful, Becky Edwards will be the Republican candidate over Paul Neuenschwander. To check other races, including the Jordan School District Races go to the following link:
http://extras.sltrib.com/Elections/2008/primaries/

McCain vs. Obama - "Hot Button" Issues

2008-06-24T13:49:00.008-06:00

"Hot Button" issues may not be the correct title for this post. More like 'gut' issues. Those that no amount of arguing could ever change your mind about: same-sex marriage and abortion.

Sen. McCain

Abortion: McCain believes that Roe v Wade was a flawed decision that should be overturned. He voted for the Prohibit Partial Birth Abortion bill in 2003.

Same-sex marriage: Sen. McCain believes that marriage is a union between one man and one woman, but opposes a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. He believes that individual states should create the laws that dictate the issue. He supports giving legal rights to same-sex partners.

Sen. Obama

Abortion: Sen. Obama opposes any constitutional amendment overturning Roe v Wade. He disagreed with the Supreme Court's ruling to uphold the "Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act"

Same-sex marriage: Sen. Obama opposes same-sex marriage, and supports civil unions. He disagrees with a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, feeling it is an issue that should be left up to each state. He supports health benefits for same-sex partners.

Thoughts: It seems messy to let every state make their own laws. I would not like to move to another state and find that my marriage is no longer valid. In the end, you'll have to place your own value on these issues and decide accordingly.

McCain vs. Obama - Taxes

2008-06-16T20:14:00.002-06:00

Now the two candidates from the major parties have been identified, the plan is to write a series of posts on their positions on various issues. I hope you find this helpful and worthwhile. Here is the first on taxes:

Sen. McCain (R)
Sen. McCain supports a gas tax holiday - suspending the federal tax on gas this summer until Labor Day. He also hopes to permanently ban any Internet taxes and any new cell phone taxes. McCain has promised to propose an alternative new and simpler tax system. Under this reform, those that wish to stay under the current system could do so, but everyone who wanted to use the new system could. McCain would like to repeal the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT), which he argues was paid exclusively by middle class families. He also hopes to double the tax deduction for dependents. McCain has also proposed a law that would require 3/5 majority of Congress to raise taxes.
http://www.johnmccain.com/

Sen. Obama (D)

Sen. Obama pledges to simplify the tax structure, so most Americans can do their taxes in less than 5 minutes. He also has proposed a "Making Work Pay" tax credit of up to $1000 per family. To also help working families, Obama has proposed allowing up to 50% of child care expenses to be refundable for low income families. Obama would like to reevaluate the tax cuts by the Bush administration, reversing many of them for the wealthiest tax payers.

http://www.barackobama.com/

Thoughts: Wouldn't it be great to do your taxes in 5 minutes? But does this mean that more of our private information: bank accounts, investments, etc. is accessible to more people? If there are two tax programs to chose from, like in McCain's plan, doesn't that add more paperwork? We'll each be trying to figure out which way would be more beneficial for our families, and have to run it through both tax systems. Doubling the deduction for dependents from $3,500 to $7,000 would be a welcome change for our family. Overall though I must admit I find the whole tax system baffling, and cumbersome to understand. Of course I would like to see more money in my own pocket, but not at the cost of cutting essential services.

Utah Teens

2008-06-06T13:54:00.004-06:00

Risky behavior among Utah teens in the last year

12% had made a suicide plan
16% had considered attempting suicide
17% had carried a gun, knife or club
30% had been in a fight
14% rode with a driver who had been drinking
5% had driven after they had been drinking
14% of girls said they have been forced to have sex
13% of all teens had been hit, slapped or hurt on purpose by a boyfriend or girlfriend

These statistics are from the CDC's annual survey. They appeared yesterday in the SL Trib. The article also notes that for the first time in 15 years the teen birth rate has increased.

After reading this article I turned to page to read "More teens are trading nude cell-phone photos", and then "Prosecutors call for law on nude teen pics," followed by an letter to the editor on the Utah teacher who is being reprimanded for what she taught in Sex Ed to her students.

Yikes! What is happening here?

As a teenager we all made stupid decisions. I think of my years 16-19 and am grateful that I escaped any long term consequences from some of the reckless actions I took. But are things getting worse? Or are they just different?

"Experts" are blaming everything from the abstinence only education taught in schools to rising complacency about STDs. And with 1 in 4 teenage girls with an STD (a statistic that is still hard for me to believe), having one may not cause the social stigma it did before.

As the parents the responsibility lies first with us. But other elements of society can provide us support. What can and should be done to keep our teens alive, safe & healthy?

Upcoming Primary

2008-06-04T14:23:00.002-06:00

To make sure you are registered to vote in the June 24th Primary, and check if there is anything to vote on in your district use this website: https://gva1.utah.gov/elections/polling.aspx

If you are not registered to vote you may do so at your county clerk's office until June 9th.

*Reminder* To vote in the Republican Primary you must be affiliated with the Republican Party.

There Oughta Be a Law

2008-06-03T11:33:00.003-06:00

The other day I was driving down a busy road when I heard a police siren. I scanned my mirrors, the oncoming traffic, the side streets....starting to panic that the siren is getting closer and I probably need to pull over. Just then it stopped, and I realized it was just the car commercial on the radio using a siren in their advertisement. Tell me, how is that safe?

What do you think should be illegal?

IB Program Under Scrutiny Again

2008-05-22T11:03:00.002-06:00

I wanted to point your attention over to the Senate Site blog where a lively discussion is occurring on the merits of the IB Program. The IB Program first came to my attention when a bill allocating funding was killed in committee after Sen. Dayton stated the program was un-American. Here's my original post: http://utahmomscare.blogspot.com/2008/02/ib-program-anti-american.html

Since that time the IB Program gained $100,000 in ongoing funding through the Education Omnibus Bill. Sen. Dayton has again raised her concerns over the program, and presented them in the Education Interim Committee yesterday. She also has been writing and encouraging discussion on the Senate Site. Her case in point seems to be this: the program is receiving state funding, therefore needs state scrutiny. She has also said:

"I have been accused of not wanting our students to be world citizens. That is correct. At least, it is correct in the following sense: I don't want to create 'world citizens' nearly as much as I want to help cultivate American citizens who function well in the world." (The Senate Site)

I have only a basic understanding of the program from the little research I have done. If you have students who have participated with the program or if you are more familiar with the curriculum that is involved you may want to comment here or over on the Senate Site.

The Education Interim Committee yesterday agreed only to look into the constitutionality of the program. The one thing that is clear is that this discussion is far from over.

What is happening in your neighborhood?

2008-05-21T14:37:00.002-06:00

Ever wonder what type of calls the police respond to in your neighborhood? Wonder if there are any sex offenders close by? The website: http://www.crimereports.com/ lists all the crimes the police have reported to in your city and also includes the sex offender registry. Though the web site has been around for about 6 months, I waited to post it here until they had more complete data. The city where I live now seems to be reporting regularly, and other local cities have joined in as well. Hope you find the site worthwhile.

$$$

2008-05-12T21:50:00.001-06:00

I don't know if I believe in the theory behind it, but I sure didn't mind seeing an extra $1800 pop up in my bank account this week. Thank you Uncle Sam.

Did you get yours yet? Where will you spend it?

What Teachers/Parents Want

2008-05-06T14:06:00.002-06:00

Months ago I read an op ed piece in the Salt Lake Tribune on what teachers really want. Here are the seven requests made by this specific teacher:

1. Manageable class sizes
2. Adequate resources (supplies, aides, tutors, etc.)
3. Supportive disciplinary policy
4. Fair pay
5. To be treated with respect by parents
6. Good moral in the school
7. Physical safety

All these 'demands' seen perfectly reasonable.

Because my children are young, I have limited experience with the schools. But as a parent, I think I would like to make a list of what I really want from the schools/teachers.

1. Physical safety for my child (I can't believe our elementary school does not have a fence!)
2. To not be treated like I don't know my own child by a teacher
3. Adequate updates on how my child is doing, and suggestions on how I can help him at home
4. Good communication
5. A teacher skilled in class room management

I am sure there are many more that could be added to the list, both lists in fact. As a teacher or parent what would you add to these two lists?

Car Seat Law Going Into Effect

2008-04-29T20:27:00.002-06:00

The new child restraint law goes into effect on May 5th. (I'm sorry I originally wrote July 1). Every child under the age of 8 needs to be some sort of car seat or booster seat. If your child is over 4'9" they are exempt from the law. (source) Good luck getting your 7 year olds who have been out of car seats for 2 years, back in them.

(Sorry I haven't posted for awhile, the weather is too nice to be in front of the computer, hope you are enjoying it too.)

Ouch!

2008-04-24T13:32:00.003-06:00

The other day both our little car and our midsized SUV had to be filled up at the pump. We easily spent over $100!

Remember a few months ago when everyone was talking about oil hitting $100/barrel, as of yesterday it was $118. This march upward is making me scope out every gas station for the cheapest price, combine trips and consider taking the car instead of the more comfortable SUV on an upcoming road trip.

Gas prices now combined with the rising cost of food is sure to be hitting your budgets. What are you doing to compensate for these added expenses? There has to be more we all can do, give us your ideas - even the most simple - and I'm sure they will be financially appreciated.

My Beautiful Mommy

2008-04-21T13:41:00.002-06:00

My Beautiful Mommy is a new book out by Dr. Michael Salzhauer discussing Mommy's plastic surgery. It's a helpful way to explain to Junior your new nose and bigger chest. Is anyone else concerned with this trend?

Salt Lake City was voted one of America's Vainest Cities by Forbes magazine this past year, for the sheer number of plastic surgeons living in the area. Are you surprised? You would think those honors would go to Los Angeles, New York or Miami. But no, it's us. Source

The most disturbing part of the growing number of plastic surgeries to me is that it sets the standard of 'beautiful' at a place that is unattainable without surgical augmentation. I love looking at women in their 70's, with their white hair, their glowing faces, even with their wrinkles. They are beautiful to me. If they have a happy glow about them, I always find myself hoping I will look joyful and classy like them when I reach that age.

I realize here in Utah we have a lot of babies. Babies have done things to my body that I would be mortified to show anyone. But to me there is a difference between some laser skin resurfacing to get rid of stretch marks or chloasma and getting a new nose or bigger chest (haven't we had the big chests enough between pregnancy and nursing!).

Maybe I'm out of line here, one of my friends has had her husband promise her she gets the cosmetic procedure of her choice after her last baby. That seems fair too. So Beautiful Mommies, what are your thoughts?

Feeling Torn by the FLDS Raid

2008-04-17T14:07:00.002-06:00

There has been an ample amount of coverage and opining on the raid on the FLDS compound in Texas. I hesitated to post thoughts here, but it seems the debate is heating up rather than simmering down, and wanted to allow your thoughts to be posted here.

As a Mother I ache for both the children and their parents. I cannot imagine someone entering my home, taking my children, separating them from me, and disallowing contact. As Mother's we live for our children. To protect them, to cuddle them, to teach them. It seems all these children will have long term emotional issues from this separation.

But what of the long term emotional issues from being raised in an isolated community that has a pattern of abuse? Children, girls, under the age of 18 do not belong in marriages or sexual relationships, especially with men more than double their age. The idea of 14, 15, 16 year olds in this type of situation makes your skin crawl. It also makes you want to protect them - removing them from the situation - which is what Texas did.

As the court fiasco continues today, the logistical nightmare of custody and the emotional nightmare for the children will continue. What's best? I don't know. But it would be nice for the focus of the coverage on the crime (child abuse) and not the side show (polygamy).

The High Costs of Families Falling Apart

2008-04-16T14:37:00.002-06:00

It is estimated that 'family fragmentation' is costing us, not just emotionally, but fiscally roughly to the amount of $112 billion every year. These costs come from the court systems, Medicaid, housing assistance, WIC, Head Start, school breakfast & lunch programs, and many other resources available to those in poverty.

The report concluded that even if a mere 1% decrease in family fragmentation occurred, it would save taxpayers $1.1 billion annually. Hence the study argues any efforts placed in marriage education programs or marriage-strengthening initiatives would have a high fiscal return.

It is a lengthy study, to read the highlights check here.

We have all seen the emotional trauma that can come with a family falling apart. It is interesting to consider the financial impact on society this has as well.

Obama on Parenting?

2008-04-14T13:45:00.000-06:00

The other day I was listening to a talk radio show as I was driving around. They played this quote by Barack Obama then had reader's call with comments. I was surprised at the diversity of replies, and decided to open it up for discussion here. First, here's the quote:

"Parents if you don't parent, we can't improve our schools. You've got to parent. You've got to turn off the television set in your house once in a while, you've got to put the video game away once in a while."
"You should have a curfew in your house so your children aren't out in the streets all night. You should meet with the teacher and find out what the homework is and help that child with the homework. And if you don't know how to do the homework, don't be embarrassed, find someone to help you."
"Fathers, be fathers. Be a part of your child's life. Be a part of your child's life and try to make them proud. "
"And the last thing is, if your child is misbehaving at school don't curse out the teacher. You know who you are. It's not the teacher's fault that your child is misbehaving. That's some home training."
When the crowd reacted to this last comment, Obama laughed and said, "You know what I say is true, though. Don't blame the teachers, and the government and the schools if you're not doing your job."

Comments on the show ranged from praise for his call to parent, to boredom with his unoriginality, to irritation over being told how to be a parent from a presidential candidate. Well Moms, what are your thoughts?

Unplug 'n Play

2008-04-10T12:50:00.002-06:00

Did you realize that by the time most students graduate from high school, they have spent more of their time in front of the television than in the classroom? That is crazy to think about. Especially when you factor in what is on television.

April 21-27 is Unplug 'n Play week. A good time to turn off the computer, the television and the video games and head outside. If the weather turns crummy, as it can quickly do in spring, read a book, play a game, do an art project, take a trip to the library, whatever your kids will enjoy.

I know that as a mom I sometimes rely on screen time to get things done. But I plan on taking this week to reevaluate what and how much television/movies my kids are watching. Maybe you'll read this challenge and go full force. Unplugging every media device and keeping them that way for the week. Or maybe you'll just be more aware of how much screen time your kids are getting and make an effort to decrease that time. Either way it will benefit your family.

For more information, or to have your family sign a pledge of participation visit: http://www.checkyourhealth.org/pa/upp08/unplg_home.htm.

You can do that?

2008-04-07T11:08:00.004-06:00

The last two days in the Salt Lake Tribune I have read articles that made me think, What? You can do that? How is that right?

The first article dealt with the campaign of Jason Chaffetz against Rep. Chris Cannon. Chaffertz lives 2 miles north of district 3, the district he is running for office in. Consequently he will be unable to vote for himself. I had no idea that you could run for Congress without actually living in the district you are campaigning for! The only requirement is that you live in the state where you are seeking office. If he ran in the district in which he lived he would be challenging a formidable Rep. Matheson. All this adds to the uphill struggle Chaffertz is already facing. It's always difficult to challenge an incumbent, and David Leavitt, the other Republican trying to unseat Chaffertz so far has been well received. Article

The second article appeared today in the Tribune. With so many politicians retiring this year, what happens to their campaign funds still stocked away in bank accounts? Well, turns out it is up to them. It can go for anything: a vacation, a new car, a condo in St. George. The remainder of the account can be used at their discretion. This year's retiring legislators have amounts ranging from $1,000-14,000 left at their leisure. Some have vowed to support future candidates with the money or other non profit causes. It seems this should be the norm, not the exception. Article

2008-04-02T10:39:00.002-06:00

It's every mother's worst nightmare, every father's too. Your child is missing. Then hours or days later they are found, having had to experience untold trauma, and you never being able to offer comfort. As I read the paper this morning I cried for Hser Nay Moo, for her parents, her brothers, for all those that loved her. I cried to think of so many volunteers who did not even know the family that took time from their own lives to search for one that was missing. My thoughts and prayers are with their family. May we all show them compassion as they continue to endure through the coming months and years of sadness.

Curbside Recycling

2008-03-31T13:31:00.003-06:00

Would you pay $5/month for curbside recycling? Or do you already feel nickel & dimed by the government?

I ask these questions as I contemplate my city, which is without curbside recycling. I have been following Woods Cross' new curbside recycling program. From my understanding it costs residents less that $5/month. But I have yet to look into how limited the program is. I don't know if it includes just newspaper and glass, or also 1-5 plastics. Bountiful has been contemplating a program, but there has already been an outcry from citizens about being nickel and dimed.

For me, $5/month would be a steal. Everywhere else we have lived we have been required to have curbside recycling and it has cost closer to $10/month. It would save me from loading all my recycling into my car and driving down to the recycling center to then dump it all in the right bins.

Would you take advantage of a curbside program? What is the maximum you would be willing to pay? If you have curbside recycling, how much does it cost, how often do they pick up, and what items do they accept? Any other thoughts?

Thoughts on the Caucus

2008-03-26T13:00:00.004-06:00

Last night I attended my first neighborhood caucus. I decided on attending the Democratic Caucus in my neighborhood, since I prefer my voter registration to remain unaffiliated. I was pleasantly surprised when I entered the music room at Syracuse Jr. High and found roughly 50 people there. Those from my generation (20s-30s) were grossly outnumbered by those our grandparent's age. I was disappointed by that.

Not understanding exactly how chairs, vice chairs, and delegates were to be elected, I assumed that this mass of people would chose one of each of the mentioned positions. I was surprised when that group of 50 had to divide up into 20+ smaller precinct groups.

My precinct was represented by myself and one other woman in her 80s. We filled out all the necessary paperwork, but both declined positions.

The process was quick, I left just a little after 8. I did feel the excitement Democrats are feeling in Utah this year. It really could be a good year to shake up a few districts, as well as get a Democrat as a Davis County Commissioner. I met the gentleman from my district challenging Rep. Ray, Ben Wofford. He has an uphill race ahead of him.

I was glad that I attended, and look forward to other ways to be involved in the future.

7pm Tonight

2008-03-25T14:13:00.002-06:00

Tonight both the Republicans & Democrats hold their district caucuses at 7pm. There has been encouragement from the newspapers, the LDS church, and today even at Zion's bank all the employees were wearing stickers reminding patrons to attend the caucuses.

What to expect: At these local meetings, you will meet people who are campaigning to represent your district at the state level. They may give short speeches, or speak to you before the meeting begins. Then you'll vote for who you think will best represent your neighborhood.

Caucuses are done by legislative district, for example I live in Rep. Ray's district, district 13. So I will go either to the Republican Caucus at Sunset Jr. High or the Democratic Caucus at Syracuse Jr. High. If you are not registered as a Republican, you will need to change your registration at the caucus. If you go to the Democratic Caucus you can be either a Democrat or unaffiliated. I hope you will take the time to attend, and that you will find it worth your while. For where to go, see below:

Republicans: http://home.utgop.org/page.php
Democrats: http://www.utdemocrats.org/ht/d/sp/i/1139834/pid/1139834

Head of the State

2008-03-20T13:26:00.005-06:00

Who do you want running the state? Here is a brief overview of your choices.

Gov. Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. (R) www.huntsman08.com
Elected in 2004, Huntsman has enjoyed a 64% approval rating (source). As with most incumbents, 4 more years of Gov. Huntsman will likely hold no surprises. I must say I appreciate a governor who has stayed scandal-free, especially with all the news of late.

Charles "Chuck" Smith (R) www.chucksmithforgovernor.com
Chuck Smith's website is still under construction, but does have some information. His vision is to multiply all working Utahn's income by 4 times in 4 years, reducing the cost of living & taxes, and solve problems in health care, crime & moral issues, money for schools & teachers, economy, and transportation. It looks like he plans to upload some video onto the site, maybe it will give some explanation of how he plans to implement this vision.

Bob Springmeyer (D)
Bob Springmeyer is the candidate with the Democratic Party's endorsement. I loved that he said in the Trib, "Probably the only thing crazier than sliding headfirst down a bobsled track at 70 miles per hour is running against Jon Huntsman" (source). It sounds like he realizes what he is up against, but I appreciate that he is willing to put himself out there to give us all another viable choice. Springmeyer is running for governor because he knows as a state we can do better. He specifically mentioned the high school drop out rates in Salt Lake & Ogden school districts, the number of uninsured Utahns, middle-class families being squeezed financially and wage levels. (source)

Matt Frandsen (D) www.utahtax.org
Matt Frandsen's name may be familiar to some. He ran for a seat in the Utah House of Representatives in 2006. From the above website, it seems Matt Frandsen's platform is centered on the new income tax laws going into effect this coming year. It argues that the new tax system will impose higher income tax rates on lower income tax payers. His website is actually a PowerPoint Presentation on the tax issue.

Monty "Millionaire" Nafoosi (D) www.montynafoosi.com
If you read my previous post on Monty Nafoosi, I don't know if there is much more to add.

"SUPERDELL" Dell Schanze (L) www.totallyawesome.com
Yes, it is Dell from Totally Awesome Computers. While running as a Libertarian, we have to suppose that it will be his own take on their platform. He has started a blog, where he wrote:

Yes I have an unusual personality and create an emotional response with pretty much everyone that experiences my flavor but in the end people know I’m me and that I just want to do everything I can to help them. Love me or hate me, you know for sure that I am really me.

Well, if we know the real Dell from his commercials and other antics, it will be easy to make the decision if we should vote for him (or not).

***Make sure you are registered to vote***