Koroka writing his memoirs

A pioneer businessman and politician is writing his life story in a book titled ‘No Stone Left Unturned’. We give a peek preview of what should be a hot seller once it hits the shelves.


Mr Kagul Koroka is in the process of writing his memoirs. This no-holds-barred account of his life and times is being edited by two senior academics and will be published later this year.In his memoirs, to be entitled No Stone Left Unturned, Mr Koroka, a pioneer businessman and politician, reveals all in a frank and forthright style that pulls no punches. “A lot of things have happened in my life. I have had many joys and disappointments.

I have worn many hats and occupied many chairs in my life. Some things are the stuff of myth; others are nearer to the truth. It is time to set the record straight,” he said.Mr Koroka tells the story in a typical Western Highlands idiomatic and metaphorical style. His book is certainly one that is worth forgoing your favourite amber ale for and will provide much debate and discussion across the country. Indeed, it should afford a source of inspiration for many, a supply of pleasure to his many friends, and a cause of worry to only a few. “This book is intended to share my life with the nation. My hopes, dreams, and disappointments are all here.

My family life is covered too,” he said. Indeed the Koroka story provides valuable insights on how to manage a large family, tribal affairs, politics and business with balance and poise. His memoirs will be of direct interest to social and political historians of the highlands, anthropologists, business management scientists interested in good governance and business ethics, and not least all those who seek to understand a man who, in a very real sense, truly left no stone unturned. “I have always tried to ride the waves of enterprise in a largely uncharted sea — come fair weather or foul,” said Mr Koroka.

“I want to send a clear message for the next generation about business and politics in the Highlands. Sometimes the way ahead seems unclear but benevolence, trust, and good faith will always pay dividends in the long term.”Kagul Koroka was born into the Kopelka tribe of the upper Nebilyer Valley. He was educated at Togoba, Paglum and at Kabiufa in the Eastern Highlands. Among those who had the greatest influence in his early life were American missionaries, Dr Roy and Helen Yeattes. “I do not know why the Yeattes’ adopted me.

All I know is that it just happened and will be forever grateful that they did. I remember the first car ride to Mount Hagen in the Yeattes’ Land Rover. My father patted me on the back after I got car-sick and he said ‘don’t worry, one day you will have your own car and will drive it yourself’.’’ Kagul Koroka served his commercial apprenticeship in Mendi with a pyrethrum research company called Bush Boake Allen (Australia) Limited. He went into private business in 1971. He started a farming business at Tomba, initially growing English potatoes and strawberries and, later, broccoli, all of which were sold to expatriates in Mount Hagen.

The business later expanded to road-side coffee buying, selling store goods to nearby villages along the highway, and operating a fuel station at Tomba. In later years, the business diversified to coffee growing, construction, and haulage. “It was a struggle at the start and make no mistake about that. I worked every hour God sent and lived very, very simply. I travelled widely buying coffee because Tomba was not suitable for coffee-growing and learned the business and the provincial districts from the bottom up.” He entered politics as a provincial politician in 1984 and soon after became premier of WHP. Kagul Koroka’s political life can be described as a roller coaster.

There have been some great highs and some lows, but ultimately, it started and finished on firm ground. His political base has always been his upper Nebilyer constituency. He is revered by people from Togoba to Tomba to Tambul. He introduced business principles of transparency and accountability to the office of the premier at a time when the buzz-word “good governance” was unknown. In hindsight, his style of governance directly led to his downfall, but he insists that he would not do it any other way if he were to do it again. A former PEC member in the Koroka administration, Tamai Nukundi, had this to say about Mr Koroka’s management style: “We wanted to get money out of the provincial government, but Mr Koroka would wave the budget papers in our face and told us to stick to budget appropriations.

He was a hard man who did not win many friends.’’Provincial politicians were not ready for his good governance principles, and they are clearly still not ready, but imagine what the province would have been like had some leaders embraced his leadership style. To be sure, the political setbacks (unsuccessful attempts at national politics) may have been devastating blows for a successful businessman, but he simply shrugged them off and continued with the race. Staying in the game was important to him.

Along the way, Mr Koroka has mentored some great leaders, at all levels of politics, and is grooming the next generation of leaders for public office. One of them will surely take his place, or as Western Highlanders say, the old stump will be replaced with a fine young sapling. “My views are that only good people with proven leadership skills and successful commercial backgrounds should enter politics — no tucker shop-owners need to apply! Politics should be the occupation of mature people who have seen money and run businesses.”

Raising 34 children and managing 12 wives takes some doing. A lesser man would have stumbled and fallen. Not only has Kagul Koroka successfully managed the affairs of a large family, but he has also found the time and stamina to participate in community enterprises. His is the greatest success story in balancing family with business and politics. Kagul Koroka is affectionately called “father” by those who know him. In the final section of the book, he provides valuable advice on family, business, politics, and on life in general for the next generation of Western Highlands and PNG leaders as well as ordinary people.

“He talks about his successes and failures, his strengths and weaknesses, his dreams and aspirations, and about his plans for the remaining years of his life.“People need to diversify their business ideas — there are too many similar commercial enterprises. “I want to see new ideas and not simply one person copying another and therefore undoing each other. The same is with politics. We will all benefit then and our country will become something strong and great.”


***It's fascinating to see Mr. Koroka finally trying to put something on paper regarding his accomplishments and failures. I remember vividly as a kid growing up, that his no-nonsense leadership has set a precedent for future leaders of Western Highlands Province and PNG. Though, he has a huge family; he can be able to balance his life with his family, business, and have time for leisure because he knows the 'principals of management' - one of the fundamental components of good governance which is lacking in our leaders. I admired Mr. Koroka's leadership style and come to know some of his wonderful children. He will surely leave a legacy in WHP and PNG. Can't wait to read the book when it comes out. Apa o, Good luck! ***


Source: Post Courier Focus

Koroka writing his memoirs

A pioneer businessman and politician is writing his life story in a book titled ‘No Stone Left Unturned’. We give a peek preview of what should be a hot seller once it hits the shelves.


Mr Kagul Koroka is in the process of writing his memoirs. This no-holds-barred account of his life and times is being edited by two senior academics and will be published later this year.In his memoirs, to be entitled No Stone Left Unturned, Mr Koroka, a pioneer businessman and politician, reveals all in a frank and forthright style that pulls no punches. “A lot of things have happened in my life. I have had many joys and disappointments.

I have worn many hats and occupied many chairs in my life. Some things are the stuff of myth; others are nearer to the truth. It is time to set the record straight,” he said.Mr Koroka tells the story in a typical Western Highlands idiomatic and metaphorical style. His book is certainly one that is worth forgoing your favourite amber ale for and will provide much debate and discussion across the country. Indeed, it should afford a source of inspiration for many, a supply of pleasure to his many friends, and a cause of worry to only a few. “This book is intended to share my life with the nation. My hopes, dreams, and disappointments are all here.

My family life is covered too,” he said. Indeed the Koroka story provides valuable insights on how to manage a large family, tribal affairs, politics and business with balance and poise. His memoirs will be of direct interest to social and political historians of the highlands, anthropologists, business management scientists interested in good governance and business ethics, and not least all those who seek to understand a man who, in a very real sense, truly left no stone unturned. “I have always tried to ride the waves of enterprise in a largely uncharted sea — come fair weather or foul,” said Mr Koroka.

“I want to send a clear message for the next generation about business and politics in the Highlands. Sometimes the way ahead seems unclear but benevolence, trust, and good faith will always pay dividends in the long term.”Kagul Koroka was born into the Kopelka tribe of the upper Nebilyer Valley. He was educated at Togoba, Paglum and at Kabiufa in the Eastern Highlands. Among those who had the greatest influence in his early life were American missionaries, Dr Roy and Helen Yeattes. “I do not know why the Yeattes’ adopted me.

All I know is that it just happened and will be forever grateful that they did. I remember the first car ride to Mount Hagen in the Yeattes’ Land Rover. My father patted me on the back after I got car-sick and he said ‘don’t worry, one day you will have your own car and will drive it yourself’.’’ Kagul Koroka served his commercial apprenticeship in Mendi with a pyrethrum research company called Bush Boake Allen (Australia) Limited. He went into private business in 1971. He started a farming business at Tomba, initially growing English potatoes and strawberries and, later, broccoli, all of which were sold to expatriates in Mount Hagen.

The business later expanded to road-side coffee buying, selling store goods to nearby villages along the highway, and operating a fuel station at Tomba. In later years, the business diversified to coffee growing, construction, and haulage. “It was a struggle at the start and make no mistake about that. I worked every hour God sent and lived very, very simply. I travelled widely buying coffee because Tomba was not suitable for coffee-growing and learned the business and the provincial districts from the bottom up.” He entered politics as a provincial politician in 1984 and soon after became premier of WHP. Kagul Koroka’s political life can be described as a roller coaster.

There have been some great highs and some lows, but ultimately, it started and finished on firm ground. His political base has always been his upper Nebilyer constituency. He is revered by people from Togoba to Tomba to Tambul. He introduced business principles of transparency and accountability to the office of the premier at a time when the buzz-word “good governance” was unknown. In hindsight, his style of governance directly led to his downfall, but he insists that he would not do it any other way if he were to do it again. A former PEC member in the Koroka administration, Tamai Nukundi, had this to say about Mr Koroka’s management style: “We wanted to get money out of the provincial government, but Mr Koroka would wave the budget papers in our face and told us to stick to budget appropriations.

He was a hard man who did not win many friends.’’Provincial politicians were not ready for his good governance principles, and they are clearly still not ready, but imagine what the province would have been like had some leaders embraced his leadership style. To be sure, the political setbacks (unsuccessful attempts at national politics) may have been devastating blows for a successful businessman, but he simply shrugged them off and continued with the race. Staying in the game was important to him.

Along the way, Mr Koroka has mentored some great leaders, at all levels of politics, and is grooming the next generation of leaders for public office. One of them will surely take his place, or as Western Highlanders say, the old stump will be replaced with a fine young sapling. “My views are that only good people with proven leadership skills and successful commercial backgrounds should enter politics — no tucker shop-owners need to apply! Politics should be the occupation of mature people who have seen money and run businesses.”

Raising 34 children and managing 12 wives takes some doing. A lesser man would have stumbled and fallen. Not only has Kagul Koroka successfully managed the affairs of a large family, but he has also found the time and stamina to participate in community enterprises. His is the greatest success story in balancing family with business and politics. Kagul Koroka is affectionately called “father” by those who know him. In the final section of the book, he provides valuable advice on family, business, politics, and on life in general for the next generation of Western Highlands and PNG leaders as well as ordinary people.

“He talks about his successes and failures, his strengths and weaknesses, his dreams and aspirations, and about his plans for the remaining years of his life.“People need to diversify their business ideas — there are too many similar commercial enterprises. “I want to see new ideas and not simply one person copying another and therefore undoing each other. The same is with politics. We will all benefit then and our country will become something strong and great.”


***It's fascinating to see Mr. Koroka finally trying to put something on paper regarding his accomplishments and failures. I remember vividly as a kid growing up, that his no-nonsense leadership has set a precedent for future leaders of Western Highlands Province and PNG. Though, he has a huge family; he can be able to balance his life with his family, business, and have time for leisure because he knows the 'principals of management' - one of the fundamental components of good governance which is lacking in our leaders. I admired Mr. Koroka's leadership style and come to know some of his wonderful children. He will surely leave a legacy in WHP and PNG. Can't wait to read the book when it comes out. Apa o, Good luck! ***


Source: Post Courier Focus

Koroka writing his memoirs

A pioneer businessman and politician is writing his life story in a book titled ‘No Stone Left Unturned’. We give a peek preview of what should be a hot seller once it hits the shelves.


Mr Kagul Koroka is in the process of writing his memoirs. This no-holds-barred account of his life and times is being edited by two senior academics and will be published later this year.In his memoirs, to be entitled No Stone Left Unturned, Mr Koroka, a pioneer businessman and politician, reveals all in a frank and forthright style that pulls no punches. “A lot of things have happened in my life. I have had many joys and disappointments.

I have worn many hats and occupied many chairs in my life. Some things are the stuff of myth; others are nearer to the truth. It is time to set the record straight,” he said.Mr Koroka tells the story in a typical Western Highlands idiomatic and metaphorical style. His book is certainly one that is worth forgoing your favourite amber ale for and will provide much debate and discussion across the country. Indeed, it should afford a source of inspiration for many, a supply of pleasure to his many friends, and a cause of worry to only a few. “This book is intended to share my life with the nation. My hopes, dreams, and disappointments are all here.

My family life is covered too,” he said. Indeed the Koroka story provides valuable insights on how to manage a large family, tribal affairs, politics and business with balance and poise. His memoirs will be of direct interest to social and political historians of the highlands, anthropologists, business management scientists interested in good governance and business ethics, and not least all those who seek to understand a man who, in a very real sense, truly left no stone unturned. “I have always tried to ride the waves of enterprise in a largely uncharted sea — come fair weather or foul,” said Mr Koroka.

“I want to send a clear message for the next generation about business and politics in the Highlands. Sometimes the way ahead seems unclear but benevolence, trust, and good faith will always pay dividends in the long term.”Kagul Koroka was born into the Kopelka tribe of the upper Nebilyer Valley. He was educated at Togoba, Paglum and at Kabiufa in the Eastern Highlands. Among those who had the greatest influence in his early life were American missionaries, Dr Roy and Helen Yeattes. “I do not know why the Yeattes’ adopted me.

All I know is that it just happened and will be forever grateful that they did. I remember the first car ride to Mount Hagen in the Yeattes’ Land Rover. My father patted me on the back after I got car-sick and he said ‘don’t worry, one day you will have your own car and will drive it yourself’.’’ Kagul Koroka served his commercial apprenticeship in Mendi with a pyrethrum research company called Bush Boake Allen (Australia) Limited. He went into private business in 1971. He started a farming business at Tomba, initially growing English potatoes and strawberries and, later, broccoli, all of which were sold to expatriates in Mount Hagen.

The business later expanded to road-side coffee buying, selling store goods to nearby villages along the highway, and operating a fuel station at Tomba. In later years, the business diversified to coffee growing, construction, and haulage. “It was a struggle at the start and make no mistake about that. I worked every hour God sent and lived very, very simply. I travelled widely buying coffee because Tomba was not suitable for coffee-growing and learned the business and the provincial districts from the bottom up.” He entered politics as a provincial politician in 1984 and soon after became premier of WHP. Kagul Koroka’s political life can be described as a roller coaster.

There have been some great highs and some lows, but ultimately, it started and finished on firm ground. His political base has always been his upper Nebilyer constituency. He is revered by people from Togoba to Tomba to Tambul. He introduced business principles of transparency and accountability to the office of the premier at a time when the buzz-word “good governance” was unknown. In hindsight, his style of governance directly led to his downfall, but he insists that he would not do it any other way if he were to do it again. A former PEC member in the Koroka administration, Tamai Nukundi, had this to say about Mr Koroka’s management style: “We wanted to get money out of the provincial government, but Mr Koroka would wave the budget papers in our face and told us to stick to budget appropriations.

He was a hard man who did not win many friends.’’Provincial politicians were not ready for his good governance principles, and they are clearly still not ready, but imagine what the province would have been like had some leaders embraced his leadership style. To be sure, the political setbacks (unsuccessful attempts at national politics) may have been devastating blows for a successful businessman, but he simply shrugged them off and continued with the race. Staying in the game was important to him.

Along the way, Mr Koroka has mentored some great leaders, at all levels of politics, and is grooming the next generation of leaders for public office. One of them will surely take his place, or as Western Highlanders say, the old stump will be replaced with a fine young sapling. “My views are that only good people with proven leadership skills and successful commercial backgrounds should enter politics — no tucker shop-owners need to apply! Politics should be the occupation of mature people who have seen money and run businesses.”

Raising 34 children and managing 12 wives takes some doing. A lesser man would have stumbled and fallen. Not only has Kagul Koroka successfully managed the affairs of a large family, but he has also found the time and stamina to participate in community enterprises. His is the greatest success story in balancing family with business and politics. Kagul Koroka is affectionately called “father” by those who know him. In the final section of the book, he provides valuable advice on family, business, politics, and on life in general for the next generation of Western Highlands and PNG leaders as well as ordinary people.

“He talks about his successes and failures, his strengths and weaknesses, his dreams and aspirations, and about his plans for the remaining years of his life.“People need to diversify their business ideas — there are too many similar commercial enterprises. “I want to see new ideas and not simply one person copying another and therefore undoing each other. The same is with politics. We will all benefit then and our country will become something strong and great.”


***It's fascinating to see Mr. Koroka finally trying to put something on paper regarding his accomplishments and failures. I remember vividly as a kid growing up, that his no-nonsense leadership has set a precedent for future leaders of Western Highlands Province and PNG. Though, he has a huge family; he can be able to balance his life with his family, business, and have time for leisure because he knows the 'principals of management' - one of the fundamental components of good governance which is lacking in our leaders. I admired Mr. Koroka's leadership style and come to know some of his wonderful children. He will surely leave a legacy in WHP and PNG. Can't wait to read the book when it comes out. Apa o, Good luck! ***


Source: Post Courier Focus

Barack Obama's Inauguration Is a Landmark Transformative Event Globally‏

LWF General Secretary Congratulates 44th President of the USA

Congratulating President Barack Hussein Obama on his inauguration today as the 44th President of the United States of America, the General Secretary of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko (pictured left) describes this occasion as a landmark of the beginning of the 21st century, and a transformative event for the whole world.


In a statement released today, (embargoed until the inauguration) the general secretary compares Obama's induction into office to that of former South African President Nelson Mandela, who although mandated for presidency by his people, assumed a global role, becoming "everyone's president."

"Obama's inauguration is, for the USA and for the world, a similarly transformative event," says Noko. It sends the clearest possible message of the American people's willingness "to be challenged and to challenge the politics of racial and other forms of division. It calls for the creation of a true union of all US citizens. It also invites all of us around the world to examine our own contexts and to do the same," he adds.

He notes that Obama's election raised a tidal wave of hope around the world after a period in which the USA and much of the rest of the world became estranged from each other, and against the background of an economic and humanitarian crisis. "Today, with his inauguration, the weight of all those hopes and expectations falls heavily on his shoulders," says Noko.

He joins many other religious leaders in the USA and around the world in praying that the new president will be given the wisdom and strength to bear the burden of so much hope toward the goals of justice and dignity that he has so powerfully articulated at home and globally.


For more full text of Dr. Noko's statement; click here

Barack Obama's Inauguration Is a Landmark Transformative Event Globally‏

LWF General Secretary Congratulates 44th President of the USA

Congratulating President Barack Hussein Obama on his inauguration today as the 44th President of the United States of America, the General Secretary of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko (pictured left) describes this occasion as a landmark of the beginning of the 21st century, and a transformative event for the whole world.


In a statement released today, (embargoed until the inauguration) the general secretary compares Obama's induction into office to that of former South African President Nelson Mandela, who although mandated for presidency by his people, assumed a global role, becoming "everyone's president."

"Obama's inauguration is, for the USA and for the world, a similarly transformative event," says Noko. It sends the clearest possible message of the American people's willingness "to be challenged and to challenge the politics of racial and other forms of division. It calls for the creation of a true union of all US citizens. It also invites all of us around the world to examine our own contexts and to do the same," he adds.

He notes that Obama's election raised a tidal wave of hope around the world after a period in which the USA and much of the rest of the world became estranged from each other, and against the background of an economic and humanitarian crisis. "Today, with his inauguration, the weight of all those hopes and expectations falls heavily on his shoulders," says Noko.

He joins many other religious leaders in the USA and around the world in praying that the new president will be given the wisdom and strength to bear the burden of so much hope toward the goals of justice and dignity that he has so powerfully articulated at home and globally.


For more full text of Dr. Noko's statement; click here

Barack Obama's Inauguration Is a Landmark Transformative Event Globally‏

LWF General Secretary Congratulates 44th President of the USA

Congratulating President Barack Hussein Obama on his inauguration today as the 44th President of the United States of America, the General Secretary of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko (pictured left) describes this occasion as a landmark of the beginning of the 21st century, and a transformative event for the whole world.


In a statement released today, (embargoed until the inauguration) the general secretary compares Obama's induction into office to that of former South African President Nelson Mandela, who although mandated for presidency by his people, assumed a global role, becoming "everyone's president."

"Obama's inauguration is, for the USA and for the world, a similarly transformative event," says Noko. It sends the clearest possible message of the American people's willingness "to be challenged and to challenge the politics of racial and other forms of division. It calls for the creation of a true union of all US citizens. It also invites all of us around the world to examine our own contexts and to do the same," he adds.

He notes that Obama's election raised a tidal wave of hope around the world after a period in which the USA and much of the rest of the world became estranged from each other, and against the background of an economic and humanitarian crisis. "Today, with his inauguration, the weight of all those hopes and expectations falls heavily on his shoulders," says Noko.

He joins many other religious leaders in the USA and around the world in praying that the new president will be given the wisdom and strength to bear the burden of so much hope toward the goals of justice and dignity that he has so powerfully articulated at home and globally.


For more full text of Dr. Noko's statement; click here

Choose 'Hope' over Fear - Barack H. Obama

Stepping into history, Barack Hussein Obama grasped the reins of power as America's first black president on Tuesday, declaring the nation must choose "hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord" to overcome the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression.
In frigid temperatures, an exuberant crowd of more than a million packed the National Mall and parade route to celebrate Obama's inauguration in a high-noon ceremony. Waving and cheering in jubilation, they stretched from the inaugural platform at the U.S. Capitol toward the Lincoln Memorial in the distance.
With 11 million Americans out of work and trillions of dollars lost in the stock market's tumble, Obama emphasized that his biggest challenge is to repair the tattered economy left behind by outgoing President George W. Bush.
"Our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed," Obama said. "Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and begin the work of remaking America."

Obama wove a thread of personal responsibility and accountability through the address. He spoke of a "new era of responsibility" and alluded to the inability — or unwillingness — of Americans to adjust to the passing of an industrial-based economy. "Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age," he said.
Two years after beginning his improbable quest as a little-known, first-term Illinois senator with a foreign-sounding name, Obama moved into the Oval Office as the nation's fourth-youngest president, at 47, and the first African-American, a barrier-breaking achievement believed impossible by generations of minorities.
He said it was a moment to recall "that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness." In another racial reference, he paid tribute to workers in the past who "endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth."
Obama's election was cheered around the world as a sign that America will be more embracing, more open to change. "To the Muslim world," Obama said, "we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect."
Still, he bluntly warned, "To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy."

"To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist," Obama said in his address, which ran 18 1/2 minutes.
A mighty chorus of cheers erupted as he stepped to the inaugural platform, a midday sun warming the crowd that had waited for hours in the cold. There were some boos when Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney came onto the platform.
The dawn of the new Democratic era — with Obama allies in charge of both houses of Congress — ends eight years of Republican control of the White House by Bush, who leaves Washington as one of the nation's most unpopular and divisive presidents, the architect of two unfinished wars and the man in charge at a time of economic calamity that swept away many Americans' jobs, savings and homes.

Obama called for a political truce in Washington to end "the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics."
He said that all Americans have roles in rebuilding the nation by renewing the traditions of hard work, honesty and fair play, tolerance, loyalty and patriotism.
With the economy in a long and deepening recession, Obama said it was time for swift and bold action to create new jobs and lay a foundation for growth. Congressional Democrats have readied an $825 billion stimulus plan of tax cuts and spending for roads, bridges, schools, electric grids and other projects.
Contradicting the objections of Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton to big government, Obama said, "The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works."
After the ceremony, Obama and his wife escorted Bush and his wife to a helicopter on the East Front of the Capitol for the trip to nearby Andrews Air Force Base and a flight back home to Texas.

In his remarks, Obama took stock of the nation's sobering problems.
"That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood," he said.
"Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened. ... Homes have been lost, jobs shed, businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly, our schools fail too many, and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet."
Outlining goals abroad and putting foes on notice, he declared:
"We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken. You cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you."
It was the first change of administrations since the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
Bush — following tradition — left a note for Obama in the top drawer of his desk in the Oval Office.

White House press secretary Dana Perino said the theme of the message — which Bush wrote on Monday — was similar to what he has said since election night: that Obama is about to begin a "fabulous new chapter" in the United States, and that he wishes him well.
The unfinished business of the Bush administration thrusts an enormous burden onto the new administration, though polls show Americans are confident Obama is on track to succeed. He has cautioned that improvements will take time and that things will get worse before they get better.
Culminating four days of celebration, the nation's 56th inauguration day began for Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden with a traditional morning worship service at St. John's Episcopal Church, across Lafayette Park from the White House. Bells pealed from the historic church's tower as Obama and his wife, Michelle, arrived five minutes behind schedule.
The festivities weren't ending until well after midnight, with dancing and partying at 10 inaugural balls.

By custom, Obama and his wife, and Biden and his wife, Jill, went directly from church to the White House for coffee with Bush and his wife, Laura. Michelle Obama brought a gift for the outgoing first lady in a white box decorated with a red ribbon.
Shortly before 11 a.m., Obama and Bush climbed into a heavily armored Cadillac limousine to share a ride to the Capitol for the transfer of power, an event flashed around the world in television and radio broadcasts, podcasts and Internet streaming.
Just after noon, Obama stepped forward on the West Front of the Capitol to lay his left hand on the same Bible that President Abraham Lincoln used at his first inauguration in 1861. The 35-word oath of office, administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, has been uttered by every president since George Washington. Obama was one of 22 Democratic senators to vote against Roberts' confirmation to the Supreme Court in 2005.
The son of a white, Kansas-born mother and a black, Kenya-born father, Obama decided to use his full name in the swearing-in ceremony.

To the dismay of liberals, Obama invited conservative evangelical pastor Rick Warren — an opponent of gay rights — to give the inaugural invocation.
About a dozen members of Obama's Cabinet and top appointees were ready for Senate confirmation Tuesday, provided no objections were raised. But Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas indicated he would block a move to immediately confirm Secretary of State-designate Hillary Rodham Clinton. Still, she is expected to be approved in a roll call vote Wednesday.
More than 10,000 people from all 50 states — including bands and military units — were assembled to follow Obama and Biden from the Capitol on the 1.5-mile inaugural parade route on Pennsylvania Avenue, concluding at a bulletproof reviewing stand in front of the White House. Security was unprecedented. Most bridges into Washington and about 3.5 square miles of downtown were closed.
Among the VIPs at the Capitol was pilot Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, the hero of last week's US Airways crash into the Hudson River.

In an appeal for bipartisanship, Obama honored defeated Republican presidential rival John McCain at a dinner Monday night. "There are few Americans who understand this need for common purpose and common effort better than John McCain," Obama said.
Young and untested, Obama is a man of enormous confidence and electrifying oratorical skills. Hopes for Obama are extremely high, suggesting that Americans are willing to give him a long honeymoon to strengthen the economy and lift the financial gloom.
On Wednesday, his first working day in office, Obama is expected to redeem his campaign promise to begin the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq under a 16-month timetable. Aides said he would summon the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the Oval Office and order that the pullout commence.

Listen to President Barack Obama's full speech here.

Associated Press Writers Alan Fram, Donna Cassata, Gillian Gaynair, Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar, Kevin Freking, Ed Tobias, Ben Evans, Seth Borenstein and H. Josef Hebert contributed to this report.


Wow!! That was history unfolding right infront of my eyes

Choose 'Hope' over Fear - Barack H. Obama

Stepping into history, Barack Hussein Obama grasped the reins of power as America's first black president on Tuesday, declaring the nation must choose "hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord" to overcome the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression.
In frigid temperatures, an exuberant crowd of more than a million packed the National Mall and parade route to celebrate Obama's inauguration in a high-noon ceremony. Waving and cheering in jubilation, they stretched from the inaugural platform at the U.S. Capitol toward the Lincoln Memorial in the distance.
With 11 million Americans out of work and trillions of dollars lost in the stock market's tumble, Obama emphasized that his biggest challenge is to repair the tattered economy left behind by outgoing President George W. Bush.
"Our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed," Obama said. "Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and begin the work of remaking America."

Obama wove a thread of personal responsibility and accountability through the address. He spoke of a "new era of responsibility" and alluded to the inability — or unwillingness — of Americans to adjust to the passing of an industrial-based economy. "Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age," he said.
Two years after beginning his improbable quest as a little-known, first-term Illinois senator with a foreign-sounding name, Obama moved into the Oval Office as the nation's fourth-youngest president, at 47, and the first African-American, a barrier-breaking achievement believed impossible by generations of minorities.
He said it was a moment to recall "that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness." In another racial reference, he paid tribute to workers in the past who "endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth."
Obama's election was cheered around the world as a sign that America will be more embracing, more open to change. "To the Muslim world," Obama said, "we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect."
Still, he bluntly warned, "To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy."

"To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist," Obama said in his address, which ran 18 1/2 minutes.
A mighty chorus of cheers erupted as he stepped to the inaugural platform, a midday sun warming the crowd that had waited for hours in the cold. There were some boos when Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney came onto the platform.
The dawn of the new Democratic era — with Obama allies in charge of both houses of Congress — ends eight years of Republican control of the White House by Bush, who leaves Washington as one of the nation's most unpopular and divisive presidents, the architect of two unfinished wars and the man in charge at a time of economic calamity that swept away many Americans' jobs, savings and homes.

Obama called for a political truce in Washington to end "the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics."
He said that all Americans have roles in rebuilding the nation by renewing the traditions of hard work, honesty and fair play, tolerance, loyalty and patriotism.
With the economy in a long and deepening recession, Obama said it was time for swift and bold action to create new jobs and lay a foundation for growth. Congressional Democrats have readied an $825 billion stimulus plan of tax cuts and spending for roads, bridges, schools, electric grids and other projects.
Contradicting the objections of Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton to big government, Obama said, "The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works."
After the ceremony, Obama and his wife escorted Bush and his wife to a helicopter on the East Front of the Capitol for the trip to nearby Andrews Air Force Base and a flight back home to Texas.

In his remarks, Obama took stock of the nation's sobering problems.
"That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood," he said.
"Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened. ... Homes have been lost, jobs shed, businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly, our schools fail too many, and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet."
Outlining goals abroad and putting foes on notice, he declared:
"We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken. You cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you."
It was the first change of administrations since the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
Bush — following tradition — left a note for Obama in the top drawer of his desk in the Oval Office.

White House press secretary Dana Perino said the theme of the message — which Bush wrote on Monday — was similar to what he has said since election night: that Obama is about to begin a "fabulous new chapter" in the United States, and that he wishes him well.
The unfinished business of the Bush administration thrusts an enormous burden onto the new administration, though polls show Americans are confident Obama is on track to succeed. He has cautioned that improvements will take time and that things will get worse before they get better.
Culminating four days of celebration, the nation's 56th inauguration day began for Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden with a traditional morning worship service at St. John's Episcopal Church, across Lafayette Park from the White House. Bells pealed from the historic church's tower as Obama and his wife, Michelle, arrived five minutes behind schedule.
The festivities weren't ending until well after midnight, with dancing and partying at 10 inaugural balls.

By custom, Obama and his wife, and Biden and his wife, Jill, went directly from church to the White House for coffee with Bush and his wife, Laura. Michelle Obama brought a gift for the outgoing first lady in a white box decorated with a red ribbon.
Shortly before 11 a.m., Obama and Bush climbed into a heavily armored Cadillac limousine to share a ride to the Capitol for the transfer of power, an event flashed around the world in television and radio broadcasts, podcasts and Internet streaming.
Just after noon, Obama stepped forward on the West Front of the Capitol to lay his left hand on the same Bible that President Abraham Lincoln used at his first inauguration in 1861. The 35-word oath of office, administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, has been uttered by every president since George Washington. Obama was one of 22 Democratic senators to vote against Roberts' confirmation to the Supreme Court in 2005.
The son of a white, Kansas-born mother and a black, Kenya-born father, Obama decided to use his full name in the swearing-in ceremony.

To the dismay of liberals, Obama invited conservative evangelical pastor Rick Warren — an opponent of gay rights — to give the inaugural invocation.
About a dozen members of Obama's Cabinet and top appointees were ready for Senate confirmation Tuesday, provided no objections were raised. But Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas indicated he would block a move to immediately confirm Secretary of State-designate Hillary Rodham Clinton. Still, she is expected to be approved in a roll call vote Wednesday.
More than 10,000 people from all 50 states — including bands and military units — were assembled to follow Obama and Biden from the Capitol on the 1.5-mile inaugural parade route on Pennsylvania Avenue, concluding at a bulletproof reviewing stand in front of the White House. Security was unprecedented. Most bridges into Washington and about 3.5 square miles of downtown were closed.
Among the VIPs at the Capitol was pilot Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, the hero of last week's US Airways crash into the Hudson River.

In an appeal for bipartisanship, Obama honored defeated Republican presidential rival John McCain at a dinner Monday night. "There are few Americans who understand this need for common purpose and common effort better than John McCain," Obama said.
Young and untested, Obama is a man of enormous confidence and electrifying oratorical skills. Hopes for Obama are extremely high, suggesting that Americans are willing to give him a long honeymoon to strengthen the economy and lift the financial gloom.
On Wednesday, his first working day in office, Obama is expected to redeem his campaign promise to begin the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq under a 16-month timetable. Aides said he would summon the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the Oval Office and order that the pullout commence.

Listen to President Barack Obama's full speech here.

Associated Press Writers Alan Fram, Donna Cassata, Gillian Gaynair, Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar, Kevin Freking, Ed Tobias, Ben Evans, Seth Borenstein and H. Josef Hebert contributed to this report.


Wow!! That was history unfolding right infront of my eyes

Choose 'Hope' over Fear - Barack H. Obama

Stepping into history, Barack Hussein Obama grasped the reins of power as America's first black president on Tuesday, declaring the nation must choose "hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord" to overcome the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression.
In frigid temperatures, an exuberant crowd of more than a million packed the National Mall and parade route to celebrate Obama's inauguration in a high-noon ceremony. Waving and cheering in jubilation, they stretched from the inaugural platform at the U.S. Capitol toward the Lincoln Memorial in the distance.
With 11 million Americans out of work and trillions of dollars lost in the stock market's tumble, Obama emphasized that his biggest challenge is to repair the tattered economy left behind by outgoing President George W. Bush.
"Our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed," Obama said. "Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and begin the work of remaking America."

Obama wove a thread of personal responsibility and accountability through the address. He spoke of a "new era of responsibility" and alluded to the inability — or unwillingness — of Americans to adjust to the passing of an industrial-based economy. "Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age," he said.
Two years after beginning his improbable quest as a little-known, first-term Illinois senator with a foreign-sounding name, Obama moved into the Oval Office as the nation's fourth-youngest president, at 47, and the first African-American, a barrier-breaking achievement believed impossible by generations of minorities.
He said it was a moment to recall "that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness." In another racial reference, he paid tribute to workers in the past who "endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth."
Obama's election was cheered around the world as a sign that America will be more embracing, more open to change. "To the Muslim world," Obama said, "we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect."
Still, he bluntly warned, "To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy."

"To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist," Obama said in his address, which ran 18 1/2 minutes.
A mighty chorus of cheers erupted as he stepped to the inaugural platform, a midday sun warming the crowd that had waited for hours in the cold. There were some boos when Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney came onto the platform.
The dawn of the new Democratic era — with Obama allies in charge of both houses of Congress — ends eight years of Republican control of the White House by Bush, who leaves Washington as one of the nation's most unpopular and divisive presidents, the architect of two unfinished wars and the man in charge at a time of economic calamity that swept away many Americans' jobs, savings and homes.

Obama called for a political truce in Washington to end "the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics."
He said that all Americans have roles in rebuilding the nation by renewing the traditions of hard work, honesty and fair play, tolerance, loyalty and patriotism.
With the economy in a long and deepening recession, Obama said it was time for swift and bold action to create new jobs and lay a foundation for growth. Congressional Democrats have readied an $825 billion stimulus plan of tax cuts and spending for roads, bridges, schools, electric grids and other projects.
Contradicting the objections of Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton to big government, Obama said, "The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works."
After the ceremony, Obama and his wife escorted Bush and his wife to a helicopter on the East Front of the Capitol for the trip to nearby Andrews Air Force Base and a flight back home to Texas.

In his remarks, Obama took stock of the nation's sobering problems.
"That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood," he said.
"Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened. ... Homes have been lost, jobs shed, businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly, our schools fail too many, and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet."
Outlining goals abroad and putting foes on notice, he declared:
"We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken. You cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you."
It was the first change of administrations since the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
Bush — following tradition — left a note for Obama in the top drawer of his desk in the Oval Office.

White House press secretary Dana Perino said the theme of the message — which Bush wrote on Monday — was similar to what he has said since election night: that Obama is about to begin a "fabulous new chapter" in the United States, and that he wishes him well.
The unfinished business of the Bush administration thrusts an enormous burden onto the new administration, though polls show Americans are confident Obama is on track to succeed. He has cautioned that improvements will take time and that things will get worse before they get better.
Culminating four days of celebration, the nation's 56th inauguration day began for Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden with a traditional morning worship service at St. John's Episcopal Church, across Lafayette Park from the White House. Bells pealed from the historic church's tower as Obama and his wife, Michelle, arrived five minutes behind schedule.
The festivities weren't ending until well after midnight, with dancing and partying at 10 inaugural balls.

By custom, Obama and his wife, and Biden and his wife, Jill, went directly from church to the White House for coffee with Bush and his wife, Laura. Michelle Obama brought a gift for the outgoing first lady in a white box decorated with a red ribbon.
Shortly before 11 a.m., Obama and Bush climbed into a heavily armored Cadillac limousine to share a ride to the Capitol for the transfer of power, an event flashed around the world in television and radio broadcasts, podcasts and Internet streaming.
Just after noon, Obama stepped forward on the West Front of the Capitol to lay his left hand on the same Bible that President Abraham Lincoln used at his first inauguration in 1861. The 35-word oath of office, administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, has been uttered by every president since George Washington. Obama was one of 22 Democratic senators to vote against Roberts' confirmation to the Supreme Court in 2005.
The son of a white, Kansas-born mother and a black, Kenya-born father, Obama decided to use his full name in the swearing-in ceremony.

To the dismay of liberals, Obama invited conservative evangelical pastor Rick Warren — an opponent of gay rights — to give the inaugural invocation.
About a dozen members of Obama's Cabinet and top appointees were ready for Senate confirmation Tuesday, provided no objections were raised. But Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas indicated he would block a move to immediately confirm Secretary of State-designate Hillary Rodham Clinton. Still, she is expected to be approved in a roll call vote Wednesday.
More than 10,000 people from all 50 states — including bands and military units — were assembled to follow Obama and Biden from the Capitol on the 1.5-mile inaugural parade route on Pennsylvania Avenue, concluding at a bulletproof reviewing stand in front of the White House. Security was unprecedented. Most bridges into Washington and about 3.5 square miles of downtown were closed.
Among the VIPs at the Capitol was pilot Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, the hero of last week's US Airways crash into the Hudson River.

In an appeal for bipartisanship, Obama honored defeated Republican presidential rival John McCain at a dinner Monday night. "There are few Americans who understand this need for common purpose and common effort better than John McCain," Obama said.
Young and untested, Obama is a man of enormous confidence and electrifying oratorical skills. Hopes for Obama are extremely high, suggesting that Americans are willing to give him a long honeymoon to strengthen the economy and lift the financial gloom.
On Wednesday, his first working day in office, Obama is expected to redeem his campaign promise to begin the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq under a 16-month timetable. Aides said he would summon the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the Oval Office and order that the pullout commence.

Listen to President Barack Obama's full speech here.

Associated Press Writers Alan Fram, Donna Cassata, Gillian Gaynair, Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar, Kevin Freking, Ed Tobias, Ben Evans, Seth Borenstein and H. Josef Hebert contributed to this report.


Wow!! That was history unfolding right infront of my eyes