April 28, 2004

'Spirit of America' T-Shirt/Mug Auction

Okay, we're in the final stretch for the Spirit of America blogosphere fundraising challenge. Earlier today we added items to our first two auction lots (scroll down and read the Updates). And just to keep things interesting, we're now introducing one final lot. The catch is a short bidding period, which ends today at 1:30pm CST.

This lot includes one "Branded Donkey" T-shirt (Size L) and one "Branded Donkey" Coffee Mug. What makes this lot somewhat special is that the Coffee Mug is a sold-out item, and we're not aware of any plans to produce them again.

Except for the earlier ending time, the same rules apply: The highest bidder in the comments section for this post -- by 1:30pm CST today -- will receive the T-shirt and Mug. After the auction ends, the winning bid amount must be donated to Spirit of America via Liberty Alliance. There's no minimum opening bid. Bidding is open to everyone.

Thoughts On 'Spirit of America'

At this very moment, Marines are battling insurgents in Fallujah. A Wall Street Journal editorial on the politics holding back the Marines noted: "There's no doubt Marines could retake the city by force, but the fear is that al-Jazeera and other anti-American media would portray the campaign in the worst possible light and perhaps prompt uprisings elsewhere in Iraq."

This is a problem that Spirit of America is specifically trying to address by helping fund an Iraq-based TV alternative to Al Jazeera.

US Marines seek to equip seven (7) television stations serving local communities within Al Anbar Province, Iraq. The Province includes the cities of Fallujah and Ramadi. These stations will offer information that is more accurate and balanced than existing alternatives. The goal is to improve understanding between Americans and Iraqis, build trust and reduce tensions.

Current TV news in Iraq often carries negative, highly-biased accounts of the U.S. presence. Unanswered, its effect is to stoke resentment and encourage conflict. The Marines seek to ensure the Iraqi people have access to better, more balanced information. By equipping local television stations and providing the ability to generate news and programming, the Marines will create a viable news alternative -- one owned and operated by local Iraqi citizens.

This is why John and I are supporting Spirit of America. We see helping the Marines to win as being in our best long-term interests. If you do, too, consider making a donation to Spirit of America via Liberty Alliance whether you bid on an item or not.

UPDATE: Speaking of Marines and Fallujah, be sure to read this article demonstrating the skill and dedication of some of our soldiers: In Iraq city, Marine snipers have become significant tactic. (Hat tip Quent Cordair via HBL)

BIDDING IS CLOSED FOR THIS ITEM.

Congratulations to Tomorrowist!

UPDATE II: Lt. Smash reports on the send off of TV equipment to Iraq by Spirit of America: Delivering The Goods. See pictures of the event here. (Via InstaPundit).

Posted by Forkum at April 28, 2004 09:49 AM
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Comments

I'll start the bidding at $50.

Posted by: Kris at April 28, 2004 11:04 AM

Once again, I shall bid $100 before it is too late.

Posted by: Tomorrowist at April 28, 2004 01:01 PM

BIDDING IS CLOSED FOR THIS ITEM.

Thank you, Tomorrowist ! Check your e-mail.

Posted by: Forkum at April 28, 2004 01:32 PM

I feel like I stole one. Thank you.

Posted by: Tomorrowist at April 28, 2004 02:04 PM