Posts Tagged ‘President Obama’
Two weeks ago my son’s and I had an opportunity to tour the East Wing of The White House along with my best friend and her family who were visiting from Rancho Cucamonga, CA. The mini men and I took the Amtrak Regional Rail from the Wilmington station at 7:04 am and arrived at Union Station in DC an hour and a half later.
It was another warm July morning so it was a pleasure, albeit a bit costly to catch a cab from Union Station to the White House instead of walking the 1.6 miles. I was thankful to my best friend’s son who had invited us to take the tour with them, however, we didn’t get the memo of the prohibited items so my sons and I ended up walking at least 5 miles trying to find a locker to store my purse and camera.
Unfortunately, I never found one and thought I would have to miss the tour, but fortunately, Noah’s office was close enough that he could store it there until we completed the tour.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to, the following:
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Video Recorders
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Handbags, book bags, backpacks or purses
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Food or beverages, tobacco products, personal grooming items (i.e. makeup, lotion, etc.)
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Strollers
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Any pointed objects
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Aerosol containers
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Guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, mace, martial arts weapons/devices, or knives of any size
Obviously, there were several security checkpoints to clear before we were actually inside The White House, but once inside we were able to take our time on this self-guided tour. Thanks to the change in the “no photo” policy we were also able to take a lot of pictures and if you follow me on Instagram you probably saw a few of these.
The tour began at the Visitor’s Entrance where you are welcomed by a recorded greeting from the President and First Lady Obama, and the self-guided tour gives you plenty of time to check out the various rooms and portraits. We were also fortunate in that we were treated to a musical performance by the Drama Kings and Queens, a Los Angeles Speech and Language Therapy Center, Inc.
Through the windows you can see carefully landscaped gardens and grounds and floral arrangements brighten some of the rooms. The carpets are rolled back and the rooms are roped off, however, you can get a good view of the Library, Vermeil Room (gilded silver), China Room, The Diplomatic Reception Room, The East Room, The Green Room, The Blue Room, The Red Room which was my favorite and The State Dining Room.
I was really fascinated by the Red Carpet, it’s the one that President Obama walks on during his major announcements. The President and First Lady were in Philadelphia for the DNC Convention so we didn’t get an opportunity to see them in person.
However, we did see a lot of pictures and the China Sets from each of the various administrations. We stayed on the main floor as the second and third floors are used exclusively by the Presidential family and guests.
It was a once in a lifetime event and I was glad to be able to share it with not only my best friend since 4th grade but also with my sons.
After the tour we had a quick lunch together and then said our goodbyes at the Metro Station. They headed to the airport and the mini men and I took the Metro to the National Air and Space Museum where we hung out to stay cool until it was time to head back to Union Station and catch the train back home.
Have you ever taken a tour of The White House? If not, and you want more information on how to request one, click on this link
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Question of the week: Can Political History be made again in America?
I can still remember the excitement of the day when my son and I entered the voting booth at Cedar Lane Elementary School in Middletown, Delaware. I held his hand as we pulled back the curtains and together pressed the button to vote for then Senator Barack Obama.
Political history was being made in America because an African American man was on the ballot; and political history was being made at home because my son had entered the voting booth for the very first time!
Our son, Tayair, who at the time was 16 years old was too young to actually cast a vote or truly understand the significance of being in that booth. However, for me the pride was immeasurable causing my heart to swell and my eyes to fill with tears.
The United States presidential election was held on Tuesday, November 4, 2008. Democratic Party nominee Senator Barack Obama and running mate Senator Joe Biden defeated Republican Party nominee Senator John McCain and running mate Governor Sarah Palin a wonderful day in American politics.
Did you know that President Obama’s total vote amount of 69.5 million votes was the highest amount ever won by a presidential candidate. The total of 131 million votes cast in the election represents over 43% of the total U.S. population, the highest share of any presidential election in U.S. history!
In 2012, when President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden, a Delaware native, ran for re-election my son was old enough to vote. It was truly a proud day for me to watch him walk into that booth and on his own press the button to cast a vote for President Barack Obama.
To Tayair and our youngest son Malik, having an African American President in the White House may not seem like a big deal, but in a few short months each of them will have an opportunity to cast a vote for either the first female President or the oldest President of the United States.
It only seems fitting that this summer the DNC convention is being held in Philadelphia, the “City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection” and it’s even more exciting knowing that just up the road on Interstate 95, history will once again be made in our country.
What our sons take for granted will one day be taught to their own children then perhaps they will understand the monumental significance of it all.
The historical events in American politics may never seem as exciting to them as it did for us. And unfortunately, they will never feel the emotions tied to it, however, the excitement of the election in 2008 and then the re-election in 2012 will forever be ingrained in my mind.
It will be a sad day when President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama leave the White House, but I trust and believe (as well as pray) that their Democratic predecessors will continue to fight for all Americans.
Despite the obstruction and overt disrespect for the office and that of President Barack Hussein Obama, I know we will look back on these days as some of the greatest times in American history.
History in the making
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Hello friends and welcome to the first Fri-Yay of Autumn and the last Fri-Yay of the month…wow…where did September and the Summer go?
In honor of these two events today’s Friday Foodie Feature will not be one of my recipes, instead it’s an introduction to foods created by Chef David of 1st Tri Caterers.
1st Tri Caterers is a family owned and operated business in New Castle, DE that also sells the best carry out dinners every other Friday and their motto, “We get it Right on the 1st Tri” couldn’t be more accurate.
Chef David has been cooking for over 25 years, starting out first as a dishwasher and then moving onward and upward specializing in American and French Cuisine. Having prepared foods for President Obama and Vice President Biden, Chef David has also received rave reviews in the Taste of Wilmington for over 3 years and winning 1st Prize in the Taste of Wilmington Cook-off Contest.
Chef David a vegan himself is very health conscience, however, he knows how to satisfy his client’s palates with large portions of flavorful foods, including chicken, fish, shrimp, Moroccan Stew, Kale Salads, Pan Seared Norwegian Salmon with Crab and the best Ginger Lemonade I’ve ever tasted. Chef David is a seasonal cook who buys local so be sure to call for the latest menu offerings.
Having been in operation for only two years, thanks to word of mouth from customers and the support from his employer, The Sheraton Hotel, business is booming. Together with his wife Tammy, this blessed couple is creating a legacy for their family that I’m sure will continue to be successful.
If you wish to purchase a take out dinner, make sure to call or order online by Wednesday, and delivery to the local New Castle area is also available.
1st Tri Catering can prepare meals for 2 to 350 people, so if you want to have an intimate dinner for two on Valentine’s Day or your Anniversary, be sure to call Chef David at 1st Tri Caterers, he will make your day extra special.
1st Tri Caterers on Facebook
65 Chesterfield Drive, New Castle, DE 302-660-6310
Hours of operation: Friday – 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!
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On Saturday, the Delaware Financial Literacy Institute, held it’s annual From Purses to Portfolios Celebration at the Chase Center on the Riverfront.
This event was held to honor the 2013 Award Recipients, those who had achieved various levels (hours) by participating in Money School Classes, Money Clubs, Special Events and Volunteering. Women achieving various levels ranging from 1-15 hours and up to 250 hours were being recognized, the highest achievement being the Ambassador of Financial Education ~ 250 hours.
The recipient of this award was Elizabeth “Penny” Church for her “Penny’s 2 Dollars Money Club” and she also received the Sandra A. Varano Golden Purse Award.
The other categories of recognition were: Money School Advocate Awards; Executive Director’s Awards and Outstanding Volunteer Awards of which I was also a recipient due to the volunteer hours of instruction for the Blogging 101 and Blogging for Your Small Business classes.
The From Purses to Portfolios Celebration was held in a beautifully decorated ballroom, and on each table there was a vibrant Autumn Mum and a small Gift Bag on each seat. Inside the Gift Bags was a pink FAB pen, Note Cards, “friends don’t let friends drown in debt” magnet, a donation envelop, a card advertising “Money Letters” and a retractable measuring tape from Citi, who was the major sponsor.
Chasing the Dream Exhibitors were set up around the ballroom selling products and attendees walked about chatting and networking. In an adjoining room there was a breakfast buffet, warming trays filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and fried potatoes. As well as tables of yogurt, pastries, bagels, fruit, coffee, tea and juice.
Ronni Cohen, Executive Director opened the program with a warm welcome and explained the levels of achievement and how they are gained through the Money School of Delaware.
Alisha Adams, a Money School instructor gave a beautiful blessing and Quadia Muhmmad, Program Director introduced the Keynote Speaker, Jackie Cummings Koski.
Jackie Cummings Koski, is the Award Winning Author of Money, Letters 2 My Daughter. As one of 6 children raised by a single dad, where money was always short, finances were taboo to talk about and bad money decisions were made, she knew that she wanted her daughter to make better financial decisions in her life.
She was determined to teach her daughter Amber, financial literacy but in a fun and easy way, one that would appeal to her teenage mind. Jackie began to write letters and those letters turned into a best selling book, one that was sent to and acknowledged by the President and First Lady Obama. Money, Letters 2 My Daughter is available in book stores as well as a downloadable ebook.
Jackie ended her presentation with a Group Activity in which she asked us to answer 1 of 4 questions on a “My Money Letter” form. Those willing to reveal their answer on stage were each given a $2 bill which has been significant in Jackie’s life long savings plan.
Ronni returned to the podium to present the 2013 Awards and Door Prizes which included Gift Cards, a WaWa Gift Basket and Books. One of the winners was a man, but in keeping with the FAB motto of “FOR Women ~ ABOUT Women ~ BY Women AND the men in their lives” is was okay!
A game of “What’s in your Purse” was then hosted by Quadia with the winner of having the most items on her list in their purse receiving the table’s Mum.
The event concluded with a book signing by Jackie and more sales by the Chasing the Dream Exhibitors. It was a great day and another wonderful FREE event sponsored by The Delaware Financial Literacy Institute – The Money School of DE.
The 10th Annual From Purses to Portfolios Event will be held next year on October 25th 2014 – so mark your calendars.
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Have it your way..NOT today…at least not at Burger King on Concord Pike in Wilmington. Fast Food employees at this location joined in with dozens of other workers in U.S. cities to protest their low pay and benefits.
Most workers agreed that the profits these corporations earn should be used to pay higher salaries and benefits which would be better for the economy. The minimum wage of $7.25 an hour or $15,000 a year for full time employees is not enough to support a family. Jobs which were once held by High School students are now being filled by men and women with families who are living paycheck to paycheck.
Burger King Worldwide stated that they do not make pay decisions for their independent franchises, but feels as though an increase in salaries would mean higher priced menu items.
Federal Labor Law gives all workers the right to engage in “protected concerted activities” to complain about wages, working conditions or other terms of employment. Therefore, those involved in today’s protests are protected and can return to work without repercussions. The local Police was also on hand to ensure walk-in and drive-thru customers were not affected.
What is your opinion on today’s Fast Food Protest. Should the minimum wage be raised to $9.00 an hour as proposed by The President or higher as requested by the workers?
39.745833-75.546667
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Hello Friends and Happy Fri-Yay!
Last week while watching television a new commercial for Cheerios came on and it immediately caught my attention. The cute little girl was obviously “mixed” or biracial, cute as a button with corkscrew curls, talking to her mother, who is Caucasian. She’s just checking to see if what her dad said was true, that Cheerios were good for the heart. Once mom verifies that Cheerios are Heart Healthy she quickly runs out of the kitchen.
The next scene is that of her African American father napping on the sofa, waking up with a chest full of Cheerios. This heart-healthy, family commercial is cute…right?
To some people “no” it’s not, I guess to them having 1 biracial person featured on television is enough – sorry little Cheerios girl the President filled the quota.
Watch the video and tell me what you think.
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Hello Friends and Happy Fri-Yay!
Last week while watching television a new commercial for Cheerios came on and it immediately caught my attention. The cute little girl was obviously “mixed” or biracial, cute as a button with corkscrew curls, talking to her mother, who is Caucasian. She’s just checking to see if what her dad said was true, that Cheerios were good for the heart. Once mom verifies that Cheerios are Heart Healthy she quickly runs out of the kitchen.
The next scene is that of her African American father napping on the sofa, waking up with a chest full of Cheerios. This heart-healthy, family commercial is cute…right?
To some people “no” it’s not, I guess to them having 1 biracial person featured on television is enough – sorry little Cheerios girl the President filled the quota.
Watch the video and tell me what you think.
20 Comments
Would you consider yourself a Flea Market Fanatic or Swap Meet Maniac if in every state you visited you had to seek out one?
I wouldn’t but I love finding them in my state as well as others that I visit. The first discovery was in 1976, the year we moved from New Rochelle, NY to Dover, DE and it was Spence’s Bazaar. As a family we bought and then sold every Tuesday and Friday during the summer. Buying fresh vegetables, clothing, jewelry, books, and games at a Flea Market was awesome and cheap! Making money selling at a Flea Market was also awesome, however, my first experience wasn’t so positive. I sold several cases of 1950’s and ’60’s Barbie Dolls with clothing and accessories to a women for $5.00 – I didn’t know, but she knew that she had ripped me off!
Tayair and I were there in September (here)
In college during the 80’s I discovered Cowtown Flea Market across the Delaware Memorial Bridge in Pilesgrove, New Jersey. It was the place to go for sneakers, knock off designer bags, tight Sergio Valente and Jordache jeans as well as items you needed for your dorm room before heading back to campus. As a matter of fact hubby and I had our second date there, shopping then eating sausage sandwiches at the counter was where I fell in love with him, a man after my thrify heart! I’ve also gone to some fantastic Swap Meets in California, New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia.
The Infamous Cowboy Statue
Even while vacationing in Florida we always dedicate one day to visiting Flea Markets and Swap Meets. Malik looks for watches and has a pretty nice collection, when he was younger it was model cars of which he has a large collection. Hubby would seek out new ties for work, me shoes and purses, and Tayair T-shirts. During President Obama’s run in 2008 we must have purchased a dozen different styles of campaign T-Shirts.
In the ’90’s, and during our early years of marriage we would rent space at New Castle Farmers Market. Selling surplus household items as well as those tight jeans and barely-there club dresses with hubby practically giving those away – lol! Now as a couple we go for fresh veggies, vitamins and herbal teas, boy how times have changed!
Now it’s Dutch Country Farmers Market in Middletown, where for $15 you can rent 3 parking spaces on the 1st Saturday of the month beginning in April to September. Last weekend I made almost $200 – “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”!
Are you a Flea Market Fanatic or Swap Meet Maniac?
If so, where do you go and what was your best find?
Share your thoughts
Would you consider yourself a Flea Market Fanatic or Swap Meet Maniac if in every state you visited you had to seek out one?
I wouldn’t but I love finding them in my state as well as others that I visit. The first discovery was in 1976, the year we moved from New Rochelle, NY to Dover, DE and it was Spence’s Bazaar. As a family we bought and then sold every Tuesday and Friday during the summer. Buying fresh vegetables, clothing, jewelry, books, and games at a Flea Market was awesome and cheap! Making money selling at a Flea Market was also awesome, however, my first experience wasn’t so positive. I sold several cases of 1950’s and ’60’s Barbie Dolls with clothing and accessories to a women for $5.00 – I didn’t know, but she knew that she had ripped me off!
Tayair and I were there in September (here)
In college during the 80’s I discovered Cowtown Flea Market across the Delaware Memorial Bridge in Pilesgrove, New Jersey. It was the place to go for sneakers, knock off designer bags, tight Sergio Valente and Jordache jeans as well as items you needed for your dorm room before heading back to campus. As a matter of fact hubby and I had our second date there, shopping then eating sausage sandwiches at the counter was where I fell in love with him, a man after my thrify heart! I’ve also gone to some fantastic Swap Meets in California, New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia.
The Infamous Cowboy Statue
Even while vacationing in Florida we always dedicate one day to visiting Flea Markets and Swap Meets. Malik looks for watches and has a pretty nice collection, when he was younger it was model cars of which he has a large collection. Hubby would seek out new ties for work, me shoes and purses, and Tayair T-shirts. During President Obama’s run in 2008 we must have purchased a dozen different styles of campaign T-Shirts.
In the ’90’s, and during our early years of marriage we would rent space at New Castle Farmers Market. Selling surplus household items as well as those tight jeans and barely-there club dresses with hubby practically giving those away – lol! Now as a couple we go for fresh veggies, vitamins and herbal teas, boy how times have changed!
Now it’s Dutch Country Farmers Market in Middletown, where for $15 you can rent 3 parking spaces on the 1st Saturday of the month beginning in April to September. Last weekend I made almost $200 – “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”!
Are you a Flea Market Fanatic or Swap Meet Maniac?
If so, where do you go and what was your best find?
2 Comments
Hello Friends and Happy President’s Day 2013
Lucky lucky you if you are home today on holiday because “it’s as cold as a witches’ tit”! I remember that as being one of my mother’s favorite sayings during those cold New York winters. Do you remember any crude statements that your parents or grandparents liked to say way before it would be considered politically incorrect? (careful)
In honor of President’s Day I was going to wear Red with Blue and White Polka Dots but it’s just too cold. Instead I chose the warm and cozy flannel shirt that my son put in the “to be donated” box but never made it, a thrifted khaki skirt and knee high boots – it’s all about keeping warm! I like these boots because they can be worn full length showing the brass studs or folded over to reveal the leopard print – two styles in one for less than $20!
Flannel Shirt – son’s giveaway // Skirt – GW Boutique (Goodwill) // Boots – Rugged Wearhouse // Watch – Avon // Rings, Earrings and Bracely – Jewelry Box // Belt –
I’ve added more pictures to my “As Seen Through My Car Window” page – check them out when you get a chance.
Have a fantabulous afternoon – Smooches!
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