Organizing for America | Gail Newtson's Blog

Road to Recovery was an excellent meeting

By freedom4u_n_me - Feb 7th, 2009 at 11:47 am EST

Also listed in: 9 groups

Last night I hosted an economic stimulus meeting in West Peoria, IL. I received this email from one of the attendees and with his permission, I'd like to share it with you!He did a much better job summarizing than I could..........and he didn't even take notes! I have made comments throughout this blog adding other opinions that were brought up. Not all of us agreed 100% with every detail. But, unlike the Senate, I'm sure we could have come to a compromise quite easily!! LOL Along with the following info that Harry has shared, as high priorities we discussed community service, education funding and continuing to stay involved, letting our voices be heard and holding our elected officials accountable by sending emails, calling them and watching how they vote!Then spreading the word!
Harry, the author of most of this blog, has great ideas, some of which we'll be sharing with you through events on Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL. I hope each of you will find something of interest that you would like to be a part of! "Hey All,     Your comments/criticisms/recommendations about the economic stimulus spending and tax cuts can be given at the toll free number 1-888-642-4264 or at whitehouse.gov under 'contact us'. (in my words: share your story, how has this affected you, your family and your community)
    14 people attended the house meeting at Gail and Rick Newton's home in West Peoria last night. Some of the recommendations discussed for changing the stimulus bill included:     Increase spending on solar panels and wind turbines to reduce dependency on the dwindling availability of foreign oil. The current plan to double spending on renewable energy is ridiculously small. The current total energy produced by wind and solar is about 3%, doubling it is about 6%. Raising renewables to 75-90% would make the U.S. energy independent, dramatically stimulate the economy with new jobs and the ability to export renewables. There would be proportionate cost savings, energy security, environmental benefits, reduction of greenhouse gases, climate stability, reduction of the likelihood of oil wars, and the improvement of life for future generations. (in my words: This is a great idea and Harry, the author of this blog, knows a lot about this!!)     Increase infrastructure spending and reduce tax cuts. Economist overwhelmingly agree. Currently 58% is allocated for infrastructure and 42% for tax cuts. It is estimated that for every $1 spent on tax cuts, $1.09 is circulated in the economy, for every $1 spent on infrastructure, $1.59 is circulated in the economy. Even a higher rate is circulated with funding for food stamps and extended unemployment benefits, which republicans want to cut. (in my words: This idea is not a unanimous idea. We would agree with more money for infrastructure but not reducing tax cuts because we feel that the tax cuts will help spur the economy from the bottom up!)     Reduce attempts to be bipartisan at the expense of making irrational, ineffective policy choices to appease entrenched republicans, who are still trying to promote 'trickle down economics' with more tax breaks for the corporations and the wealthy (in 2008 the wealthiest 5% became 7% wealthier while 75% of everyone else lost 7%)." (in my words: some of us disagree with the idea of being too bipartisan, mainly because we trust President Obama's judgement. The worry here, is that this will divide the team and cause needless delays.)
    Financial regulation, transparency, and accountability, which includes imprisonment and heavy fines for unethical misuse or fraudulent use of taxpayer bail out money for financial institutions or corporations." (in my words: most of us are not for imprisonment, but we would like to see more regulation and penalties in the way of reimbursing the government for the ghastly way that some of the corporations have spent their government assistance)     Retroactive financial accountability with fines, imprisonment, and repayment for those who have blatantly misused the first $350 billion in tax payer bail out money that was given to financial institutions and corporations before Obama took office. (in my words again:imprisonmnet is not something we take lightly, as a group, and we don't think that we need more laws and our constitution wouldn't allow this!) Harry" I look forward to being in touch with many of you in the next 4 years.We can make a difference
We can bring change to our communities, our government, our country Thank you all!
Gail/freedom4u_n_meObama in the Heart (please join if you haven't already) http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/ObamaintheHeartPeoriaIL

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (1) | Report Objectionable Content

Giving from the Heart continues

By freedom4u_n_me - Feb 3rd, 2009 at 8:55 pm EST

Also listed in: 9 groups

Hello fellow Peorians and friends from all of central Illinois.

I wanted to update you on an event that I started a little over 3 weeks ago; Giving from the Heart

This is an ongoing event, every Sunday morning at 8:30am, we head downtown Peoria and take sack lunches, beverages and anything else someone without a place to live might need, ie. blankets, warm socks, warm clothing, any non-perishable food item that doesn't need cooked or opened with a can opener and doesn't require an eating utensil, and backpacks or tote bags.

This is a heartbreaking, yet heartwarming opportunity to do one little thing for those who don't have what we have.

This past Sunday was very special. Some of the people that I've been seeing are starting to talk to me. I even got 2 hugs. This meant a lot to me.

I hope you'll join us one of these Sundays.

There is also a need for this on Mon., Wed. and Thurs. evenings at 6pm. On those days, people who work, yet don't have a place to live, can't check in early enough to receive a dinner. Please let me know if you would be available and interested in helping on those evenings. gail.newtson@gmail.com

thanks to all of our wonderful President's supporters, we are making a difference one little step at a time.

Gail/Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL/Illinois Chapter of Families for Obama and Phi Theta Kappa member 4 Obama.

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

event; Giving from the Heart, a heart warming experience

By freedom4u_n_me - Jan 19th, 2009 at 10:58 am EST

Also listed in: 9 groups

Yesterday, Sun. Jan. 18th, 5 Peorians, met downtown and searched for homeless and/or hungry people in our community. We handed out 35 sack lunches, 48 bottles of water and 3 bags of clothes to those in need. This was our service project for today's National Day of Service called for by our, soon to be, 1st Family.

We met 28 men, 5 women and 2 children in downtown Peoria. It was heartbreaking while it was heartwarming, as well. It was a small deed. But to see their smiles, and hear their words, is an experience that I will not forget, nor will my niece, age 19, and her boyfriend, age 23(who started this project over a year ago), my daughter, age 20 and my 'adopted' granddaughter, age 10. It was a family affair! I am thankful and proud of my family. I wonder where the families of those we met are.

We will continue to try to end hunger one little step at a time. Fellow Peorians, will you join us?

I know that many of you have or will be participating in a service project that is near and dear to your heart. Let me say to you, keep up the good work, don't slow down, continue to spread the word and the love to others. TOGETHER we can "be the change that we've been looking for."

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Let's stay in touch

By freedom4u_n_me - Jan 15th, 2009 at 3:47 pm EST

Also listed in: 10 groups

To all of my friends on this website:

You have worked so hard, met so many other people with the same goals, became active in your communities and united around a common goal................and you did it!

Please find me and add me as a friend on any or all of these websites:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/profile.php?id=651620712&ref=profile

http://www.change.org/profile/my_profile

Please add me as a friend so that we can stay in touch and continue being a part of this amazing change in America!

Gail

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Our time has come.............

By freedom4u_n_me - Jan 14th, 2009 at 12:44 pm EST

Also listed in: 10 groups

Welcome to the 21st century!

Our time has come!

I feel that we will, finally, be moving America into the 21st century when President-elect Obama is sworn in!

I will be watching the inauguration on CNN from my television. If you have a facebook account you can join others watching CNN here:

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/event.php?eid=56799103571

Congratulations to all of you who will be there in person! Enjoy, and please share your stories and photos with the group! We would all appreciate it!

As you may know, Mon. Jan. 19th is a national day of service, as well as Martin Luther King, Jr. day. Those of us who are busy on Mon. will be participating on Sat. and/or Sun.

In Peoria, on Sun., the 18th, at 8am., some of us will be going downtown, taking food, clothes, blankets, etc. for the homeless. You can sign up to join us here:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpt87m

Hope, Pride, Honor, Justice: just a few adjectives that describe America's new course, to me.

What adjective would you use?

Happy New Year

Happy New Day: January 20, 2009!

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (1) | Report Objectionable Content

just moved to FL from IL-looking for events

By freedom4u_n_me - Dec 5th, 2008 at 11:44 am EST

Also listed in: 8 groups

Hello, I'm Gail and I just moved here from Peoria,IL. I'm a middle aged woman with 2 children and 3 grandkids. I've been involved with Barack's campaign since the beginning.

I'm looking for fellow supporters to meet with, plan activities, and find volunteer opportunities.............I'm also looking for a job!!

I'd love to hear from you!

I'm admin of the following groups: Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL, Illinois chapter of Families for Obama and Phi Theta Kappa members 4Obama.

Let's start making that change!

I look forward to hearing from you!

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Florida 4 Obama

By freedom4u_n_me - Dec 5th, 2008 at 11:30 am EST

Also listed in: 10 groups

I just wanted to let all of you know that I'm in Florida for the winter!

I'll be involved here (looking for fellow supporters in the Daytona Beach area!) and I'll see you in the spring!

I know all of you will keep up the great work that you do and volunteer in your community this holiday season!

Gail/freedom4u_n_me

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Say "I Will"

By freedom4u_n_me - Nov 10th, 2008 at 2:24 pm EST

Also listed in: 9 groups

It is time to revel in the moment; to reflect on the history that has been made this Nov., to ponder 'our future' and to look forward to the change that President elect Obama will bring to 'us', our country and the world!

It's not over, though. This is the beginning!

I welcome you to the 21st century (we've finally gotten there!)!

Be ready, stay involved. 'Our journey through all the months of this campaign has challenged all of us. It has made us think about what 'we' can do when we work together. Our voices being heard in America and around the world has brought us to this new America!

President elect Obama has made me so proud of him, of 'us' and of our country again! Yet, he can't do it alone! Who will be there to help in our communities, our states, our country when he asks?

WE WILL! YES WE CAN! YES WE WILL bring change to America!

I look forward to working with all of you again soon!

WILL YOU SAY: I WILL?

Gail/Obama in the Heart

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Kids for Obama

By freedom4u_n_me - Oct 31st, 2008 at 12:53 am EDT

Also listed in: 10 groups

This campaign has been so exciting! I am so proud of everyone and all the work they have done! I'm especially proud of the young people and kids who are paying such close attention to this historic election and doing whatever they can to make Senator Obama our next President! I'd like to share a few short stories about some of the kids in my life that are making a difference!

My grandson turned 2 yrs old today! He doesn't talk much yet, but he says Hi, Momma, Dadda and Bama! He's been saying Bama longer than Hi! My daughter, his Mom, has an Obama calendar hanging on the wall, so, when he sees Barack on TV, he gets so excited saying "Bama" and pointing to the TV and then the calendar!

My granddaughters watch everything they can about the Senator! Then they call me, "Grandma, did you see Obama on TV?" Then they tell me what they liked about his speech or interview and ask me if I liked it. They talk to their friends, too, and if they don't support Barack, they talk to them about it and then call and tell me all about what they said to convince them that Barack is the best candidate!

My 10 yr old cousin is very convincing with her friends and their families. If they don't support Barack she says, "Do your parents make more than $250,000 a year?" Not too many say yes, but if they do she still tries to convince them to vote for Barack or tell their parents to!

My daughters attend rallies, talk to everyone they know about Barack and have done some canvassing and voter registrations!

I'd love to hear stories about your Obama Kids!

Gail/Obama in the Heart

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

McCain and Palin putting country 1st

By freedom4u_n_me - Oct 21st, 2008 at 3:20 am EDT

Also listed in: 10 groups

It both saddens me and disgusts me that these 2 are using so much anger, fear, hate and lies to divide us at a time when understanding, honesty, unity and courage are what we need. That is what would be best for our country! So, I'm asking them to follow their own 'slogan' and put our country 1st for a change!!

Not to mention the RNC and their robocalls! Unethical and unacceptable!

What would you ask them to do to show us that they are putting 'country 1st'?

looking forward to hearing from you!

Gail/Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Obama in the Heart members are the Best!

By freedom4u_n_me - Oct 9th, 2008 at 1:52 pm EDT

Also listed in: Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL

I want to thank each and every one of the members of this great Illinois group! We are the 2nd largest group in Illinois with 280 men and women, young and old, all working together to make history and bring change to our country! Our member activity is always high and the blogs and events are creative, diverse and much appreciated!

We started this adventure on Feb, 18 2007, not long after Barack announced his candidacy on that freezing morning in Springfield, IL! Most of us had never been involved in politics of any kind! At that time the website was a lot different than it is now and the only way we had of getting things going was to talk to each other, brainstorm for ideas, and reach out to others locally and nationally!

One of the very 1st people I met was a republican who liked Obama! She is one of the co-admins of this group and the admin of Moms for Obama, a very successful national group! Thank you Mid-America Mom!

We don't have too much time left before election day. Yet, we won't be saying good bye because I'm sure PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA will have plenty for us to do to help him change our country back to what it should be and put the government back into 'our' hands! I am very proud of each and every one of you, thank you, again, and I look forward to many years of working together!

Gail

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (3) | Report Objectionable Content

August Blog for Peace

By freedom4u_n_me - Aug 1st, 2008 at 1:13 am EDT

Also listed in: 10 groups

Why did we invade Iraq? for their oil? a personal vendetta? for the rich to get richer?

or all of the above

What really happened on 9/11? did our government investigate this properly? did they tell us the truth? we know, that for some reason, it led our President to Iraq. Why?

William Rodriguez, the last man out (alive), of the towers says: "Seconds after the first massive explosion below in the basement still rattled the floor, I hear another explosion from way above," said Rodriguez.

BELOW IN ThE BASEMENT? are the questions how and why coming to your mind?

What do others say about William Rodriguez?

"......He witnessed the explosions in the basements. He witnessed a vast number of other explosions in the buildings. He saved dozens of people. He was the last person out of the Towers........." American Scholars Symposium, June 25, 2006

Check out this video:

http://www.jonhs.net/911/william_rodriguez.htm

"You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world "

John Lennon

Let us re-open the investigation into 9/11; let the guilty be punished

Peace, impeach and charge: http://www.911forthetruth.com/

Gail/freedom4u_n_me

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Postcards 4 Obama from Obama in the heart

By freedom4u_n_me - Jul 27th, 2008 at 4:07 am EDT

Also listed in: Liberals For Obama | Moms for Obama | MoveOn.org MEMBERS FOR OBAMA

If you didn't see this event and would like to attend, we'd be happy to see you there!

Thurs., July 31st, 6pm, West Peoria, IL 61604

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/44c78

This is fun and easy! Great opportunity to meet fellow supporters in our area.

Last but not least: this activity makes a big impact ............so join us as we reach out and touch voters around the country urging them to support our Senator!

Coffee and snacks provided. (see event listing for more details)

Gail/Obama in the heart, Peoria, IL

While you're at it, please join our group!

http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/ObamaintheHeartPeoriaIL

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Attn 18th congressional dist-IL: I'm "Getting by with a little help from my friends"........I need you now!

By freedom4u_n_me - Jul 27th, 2008 at 3:47 am EDT

Also listed in: Moms for Obama | Women for Obama

I'm happy to announce that I was just made the 'Organizer for the 18th congressional district of IL'!

Our main objective is to GET OUT ThE VOTE! We want to begin weekly meetings for planning, phone banking, trips to IA, and voter registration activities.

GOAL: The weekend of Nov. 1st- Nov. 4th: WE WANT AT LEAST 175 PEOPLE (from our district alone) IN IA TO GOTV!

I'm in Peoria County. Can you help me?

I need your help in:

Adams

Brown

Bureau

Cass

Knox

Lincoln

Macon

Marshall

Mason

Menard

Morgan

Pike

Putnam

Sangamon

Schuyler

Scott

Stark

Tazewell

Woodford

So far I need to find a handicap accessible, FREE, center where we can have meetings and do phone banking.We will be receiving a lot of help from the campaign. If you're afraid money will be an issue, don't worry!

Please contact me:

Gail/Obama in the heart, Peoria,IL http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/ObamaintheHeartPeoriaIL

gail.newtson@gmail.com

Thanks..............everybody!

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (1) | Report Objectionable Content

Attn 18th congressional dist-IL: I'm "Getting by with a little help from my friends"........I need you now!

By freedom4u_n_me - Jul 25th, 2008 at 6:58 pm EDT

Also listed in: 9 groups

I'm happy to announce that I was just made the 'Organizer for the 18th congressional district of IL'!

Our main objective is to GET OUT ThE VOTE! We want to begin weekly meetings for planning, phone banking, trips to IA, and voter registration activities.

GOAL: The weekend of Nov. 1st- Nov. 4th: WE WANT AT LEAST 175 PEOPLE (from our district alone) IN IA TO GOTV!

I'm in Peoria County. Can you help me?

I need your help in:

Adams

Brown

Bureau

Cass

Knox

Lincoln

Macon

Marshall

Mason

Menard

Morgan

Pike

Putnam

Sangamon

Schuyler

Scott

Stark

Tazewell

Woodford

So far I need to find a handicap accessible, FREE, center where we can have meetings and do phone banking.We will be receiving a lot of help from the campaign. If you're afraid money will be an issue, don't worry!

Please contact me:

Gail/Obama in the heart, Peoria,IL http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/ObamaintheHeartPeoriaIL

gail.newtson@gmail.com

Thanks..............everybody!

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Obama in the heart platform meeting... huge success

By freedom4u_n_me - Jul 21st, 2008 at 4:32 pm EDT

Also listed in: 10 groups

Yesterday, on the 2nd day of this amazing process, 15 people met in West Peoria, IL. We were from Springfield, Congerville, East Peoria, Mapleton, Glasford, Peoria and Africa. Most of us have never, ever been involved in a camapaign before!

As the host, I would like to thank each and every one for the yummy food (we had a potluck), for the help and mostly for being citizens who care about our country, who are willing to take the time and energy needed to insure that Barack Obama is our next President and that his call for change is set into motion from the bottum up!

Was it inspiring? You betcha! We debated, discussed and voted for our top 3 concerns and our ideas for their solutions. Everyone showed respect for one another, a true concern for our fellow citiens and our shared struggles, as well as compassion for people around the world.

Our hopes for our country; Peace, diplomacy, regaining respect for America, going green and healthcare for everyone!

Gail/Obama in the heart Peoria, IL

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

And so we begin....Change in America

By freedom4u_n_me - Jul 20th, 2008 at 2:59 am EDT

Also listed in: 10 groups

A new chapter in our American saga..........

Yesterday, July 19th 2008, was the 1st day that the campaign asked us to begin writing 'our own platform', 'our own destiny' and the destiny of 'our country'.

For the next two weeks, men and women, young and old, rich and poor of all races and religions will be gathering in cities across the country to bring their heartfelt ideals for democracy to the table.

I want to take this time to congratulate all of you who will be participating in this great opportunity.

We are one America! We have more in common than we knew. Let us begin, anew, our journey together with respect and understanding for all! Let us make this country greater than it has ever been!

YES WE CAN!

Thank you Barack!

Gail

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (1) | Report Objectionable Content

Hello Senator Clinton Supporters in IL (and every where else!)

By freedom4u_n_me - Jun 8th, 2008 at 2:10 am EDT

Also listed in: 10 groups

Welcome to our journey!

I'm an Illinois woman, 5o yrs. 'young' who's never been involved in a political campaign before! Yet, I have been so inspired by Senator Obama from his run for the IL senate to his speech in Springfield last year, when he announced his run for the Presidency, that I am involved, now.

I have 2 IL groups that I would like to invite you to join: Illinois Chapter of Families for Obama and Obama in the Heart, Peoria, IL. Please feel free to post blogs, share ideas and post your own events! I look forward to hearing your ideas and experiences in your journey with Senator Clinton. She and 'you' have run an excellent campaign. Thank you for joining with us, now!

We all share common hopes for our country! So, let us join together and stand proud for 'our' America and the day that 'our' voices will be heard again!

Gail/freedom4u_n_me

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (1) | Report Objectionable Content

GOTV 4 Obama in KY!

By freedom4u_n_me - May 20th, 2008 at 1:32 pm EDT

Also listed in: 9 groups

Today is another primary,! I am anxiously awaiting this evening, watching the results with my family and celebrating a win in Oregan and praying for Obama supporters in KY to VOTE thus narrowing the gap between him and Senator Clinton!

I am saddened by states who buy into the Clinton rhetoric; ie. saying that she is winning?????????????? So, go KY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Join me in donating $1 for each needed delegate from today until Senator Obama wins the nomination! Search for 'Countdown to Nomination' in your event menu.

Let's add up those super delegates................only 109 more! ($10.90 today)

Gail/freeedom4u_n_me

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Racism, fear or ignorance?

By freedom4u_n_me - May 3rd, 2008 at 4:17 am EDT

Also listed in: 7 groups

Yes, I know that I'm biased, however, I can not understand why ANYONE would still be supporting HRC!

Coming from a blue collar working family that entirely supports Barack, I can only speculate that it is one of these 3 things:

Racism-is it because our Senator is black? If so, this saddens and dissappoints me in a way that I can not even put into words! I have stood firm in the belief that our country needs to unite; all colors, all religions to embrace the 'fabric' of our country which makes us so unique and makes me proud. This is the only way that we can bring about change and take our country back! Now we have that chance!

Fear-are people afraid of change because of the fear-mongering tactics that the Clintons and Rev. Wright have fed us through the corporate owned media? If so, what is to become of this country? We are at the lowest point that I've seen in my 50 yrs. of life. Speaking of the media, I did hear one reporter on CNN say that HRC did, in fact, invite Rev. Wright to the press conference. Also, why aren't we hearing anything about the lawsuit by Peter Paul against Sen. Clinton? Aw, yes, we know why, don't we? Just like what Chris Dodd said, " there are certain things that we can't mention, like Monica Lewinsky, Whitewater, etc..........." So, out of fear we will elect another lying, cheating, sneaking politician? NO, not again!

Ignorance- or perhaps just not thinking for ourselves? This is the only thing that scares me! That people will only listen to little sound bites from our corporate owned media, go for a name they recognize, vote for HRC because they liked Bill and not take some time to find the truth in all of this? How can any blue collar worker support Hilary when she sits on the board of WALMART!? Walmart has been under attack for how it treats it's workers...........they're underpaid and their healthcare certainly leaves a lot to be desired! Check things out for yourselves, people, please!

One last question: Why aren't we reminded about the blatant lying that Hilary does? Why aren't we seeing the Bosnia clip over and over instead of listening to Rev. Wright daily?

WE must wake up from the stupor that we have been in for the last decade (or more)!

Spread the word, get out the vote, STAND UP AND SPEAK OUT!

YES WE CAN

Gail

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (1) | Report Objectionable Content