Wow

I've got to give it up for US Rep Jo Ann Emerson (R-Mo.) She is not a liar. She fully disclosed a trip that has to violate House ethics rules. From Raw Story:

Holier than a golf junket, Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (R-Mo.) and her husband took an all-expenses paid trip to Santa Barbara, Calif., in January for the official business purpose of "spiritual self-reflection."

The Michigan-based Fetzer Institute, the stated mission of which is to "foster awareness of the power of love and forgiveness through research and education programs," paid $1,108.70 to send Emerson and her husband, Ronald Gladney, on the two-night excursion the weekend of Jan. 20.

Emerson wrote in a recently filed travel disclosure form that the official purpose of the trip was: "A time for spiritual self-reflection and an open and honest dialogue."

What the fuck is that? How does that relate to public policy? What the hell exactly is the Fetzer Institute?

The answer to the last question is probably the most enigmatic. After scrolling through the net for information on the Fetzer Institute, I still can't figure out what exactly they do. It all sounds very cultish, but appears to span across more than a single religion. I couldn't find anything that speaks in more than general tones about love, and spirituality, and leadership.

The leadership is the creepy part of it. Lot's of writing about how to coach (convert?) others. Does anyone know who these guys are? Drop me a line.