Old Obi-Wan Kenobi's last words just popped into my head. Not that the conversation was about Star Wars at all -- we were actually taking about charges of impeachment and war crimes on George Bush and Dick Cheney . . . but the "Obi-Wan Kenobi syndrome" is nevertheless applicable: "If you strike me down, I shall become powerful than you can possibly imagine."Blame the above-mentioned, pseudo-insightful analogy on my self-induced sleep-deprived 4-day road trip from Oregon to D.C. for tomorrow's historic Inauguration. But it seemed to strike a chord with Laura, so I figured: What the hell. I'll share it with you too.I suppose it's now somewhat of a moot point -- considering today is President Bush's FINAL day in office (!!!), but if our party is to engage in further charging the 43rd president with treasonous war crimes (of which, yes, I do believe there is a strong argument to make in regards to his abuse of executive power, privilege, and blatant lies to the American people), then we risk making an already pathetic GW even more pathetically appealing to a public that's proved time and time again how much we love to forgive. You see, by stoking the fire of impeachment/investigation, we actually risk elevating the party of a man whose political capital is so spent and whose name and reputation is so tarnished; we risk a potential comeback for the Republicans to rally around.It's a risk Democrats can't afford. Like American moviegoers did when we saw Olive Stone's bitingly clever "W" this last fall, empathy may kick-in and families -- entire communities of Joe six packs and Plumbers and whoever would feel sorry for G.W. and Poor President George would be the sad sentiment of forgiving short-term memory America. That attitude would dangerously pave the way for a Jeb or a Newt or a Jindal to lead the charge of rallying behind their washed-up past president. I'll say it again and in bold print: It's a risk we can't afford. After all, when one leaves the highest office in the land with the lowest approval rating (22%) since the Gallup Poll started taking ratings over 70 years ago, we should recognize that geez, all George and the G.O.P. can do is go back up.Barack Obama must be aware of this. Believe it or not, there are larger fish to fry than grilling Bush and seeking political payback (something many Dems have been longing to see for a long, long time). But we must be patient. And for the sake of our nation, we MUST move forward.There's a photo-shopped pic of Barack Obama (with a lightsabre in-hand) on our local county party's refrigerator. Though the President-elect Obama looks pretty cool among a sea of molten lava with the weapon of a Jedi in hand, Obama is no Jedi. He's no deity. He's no divine entity. We may like to think so, but no. He's just a man like you and I. But unlike you and I, tomorrow he will hold the most important and honored keys to the kingdom: executive powers, privilege and the Constitutional responsibilities of the President of the United States. However, thanks to the constitutional terrorists Dick Cheney and George W. Bush, a President Obama and future executives governing from the Oval Office can now wield a rather dangerous authority and a most unprecedented Patriot Act of power. When the Obama/Lincoln parallels are drawn, I'll admit, even as a true-blue, National Obama Delegate, I'm a bit alarmed when considering Abraham Lincoln's Civil War suspension of the Constitution. Realizing exactly how much authority team Bush-Cheney has granted the office of our president, I -- and every free thinking American -- should raise an eyebrow. Wire-tapping, suspension of habeas corpus, Orwellian monitoring of U.S. citizens under ANY administration is cause for serious concern. Unlike this past, most failed administration that has successfully waged war on our freedoms and declared Jihad on the Constitution, President Obama's team will undoubtedly be forced to rise above. At least, we hope so.I trust Obama to do what's right. More importantly, I trust in our ability as American to rightfully ensure that our president remains the Barack Obama we celebrate today and fought so hard in so many frigid and brutal primaries to nominate and elect as our 44th president of these United States. Yes, indeed, America, we did. And, as this National Day of Service illustrates, we most certainly will continue to do! Clearly, I'm quite glad to be in D.C. to see, firsthand, the ultimate highlight to this most storied journey. Weeping, like I was in the Helena office for the announcement of our victory the evening of Montana primary; weeping, like I was in Denver with our dynamic Oregon Delegation; and weeping like I was -- like you were too -- on the evening of November 4, 2008, tomorrow, I'm sure I'll shed a tear or two of joy and sorrow . . . of hope and change . . . of trust and recognition of this beautifully historical impact we've made for our future.Thank you, Mr. President -- Obama, that is! (And hell, I suppose we owe the last guy a thank you as well.)
Live from Washingtion, D.C. (at the Old Ebbit Grill - sitting next to Kim and Leslie from Dallas, Texas), Matt Keating, Delegate (OR-4)
Hyperbole aside, our voice — our VOTE mattered! I truly believe our collective efforts have helped save our city, save our community college, save our county, save our state, save our country and save our planet. For that, we thank you.
President-elect Barack Obama’s in-box will undoubtedly be monstrous. His team, already being assembled, will certainly have their hands full of an unfathomable economic, domestic and international mess. But locally - right here in Lane County - we can assist our 44th president by staying actively involved. We must remain as dedicated to the cause of change as we were leading up to that most memorable Tuesday, Novemeber 4. Yes, we did - but now we must buckle down and “be the change we want to see.”
Join fellow Dems/Eugene for Obama-Biden/Lane Student Democrats/Lane Students for Obama on Thursday, November 20 at the monthly Democratic Party of Lane County Central Committee meeting. Stay plugged-in to local, state and national politics and celebrate, with great revelry, our long path to victory. (DPLC Central Committee meetings are normally held on the 3rd Thursday of every month at EWEB. The Novemeber DPLC meeting/volunteer “thank you” pot-luck, however, is at the Woodworkers Union Hall at 1116 S. “A” Street in Springfield -- 6:30 p.m. -- RSVP at http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gsx2jw.)
With your help, we will not only implement president-elect Obama’s environmental awareness, education reform, health care and social improvement plans on a local level, but we must also hold ALL our elected officials accountable. Stay engaged. Be the Change.
See you Thursday, Novemeber 20 at the Woodworkers' Union Hall in Springfield for our DPLC volunteer “thank you” potluck. Yes, Lane County, we did! And as Rep. Chris Edwards likes to say, "Now let’s get to work!"
Matt Keating, Candidate for Vice Chair of the Democratic Party of Lane County
Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy, Matt Keating and Mario Parker-Milligan at the Lane County Elections Watch Party, 11-4-08 (photo by JB BOTWINICK/The Torch).
And if you haven’t voted yet - DO IT! And do it “down-ticket” PLEASE!
Finally, see y’all after our final GOTV push at the Lane County Fairgrounds from 8PM-10PM. Following the Election Watch Party at the Fairgrounds, we’re slated to gather at Davis’ Restaurant in Eugene from 10:30PM-2AM. The good folks at Davis’ are kind enough to offer $3 beer specials and $3 well drinks for Obama backers!
Good luck to Obama, Merkley, Kitty, the LCC Bond Measure, our Lane County and State of Oregon down-ticket Dems!
Matt Keating - chowing on Pegasus Pizza Pie @ the Obama office before my final GOTV canvass of the 2008 season . . . !
This note comes on the heels of an inspiring visit to Eugene by DNC Chairman Howard Dean. As Governor Dean just exclaimed a few hours ago, "Live from Eugene -- it's Sunday night!" Before launching into our Eugene-Springfield plan for Tuesday's final Get Out The Vote push, I'd like to share with you some highlights of the last 24 hours . . . As great as it is to get a visit from the man responsible for our current campaign's savvy use of the internet and architect of the Democratic Party's 50 State Strategy, Saturday night's conference call with Barack Obama was the highlight of weekend highlights!"You are the lifeblood of this campaign," Senator Obama reminded yours truly and 20,000 volunteers, community organizers, and campaign workers across the country via conference call. "Keep up the good work but don't get complacent," Obama announced. "It'd be a shame to work so hard for so long and see history slip through our hands." Our future 44th president encouraged us to keep spirits up, stay positive, double our efforts, bring new friends into the fold, keep folks engaged and vested in the political process and turn out millions of new voters on Tuesday. Ultimately, Obama offered this: We can rest on Wednesday! (Yes, we will!)That's the last 24 hours: A Howard Dean visit to our campaign office and a kick-@%# Barack Obama conference call sandwiched by two canvass shifts (over 120 doors knocked), a Saturday Market booth staffed, over a dozen new volunteers recruited, around 100 calls made, and half-a-dozen ballots collected. Truly, the Eugene students and staff at the Lane County Obama office feel that our future president would be so pleased to see our team diligently "working as if we're twenty points down."Monday is our last full day to effectively educate voters about the importance of down-ticket Democratic voting, offical drop-box locations, etc. Let's not waist a moment of the final Merkley Monday of the 2008 campaign! And, of course, there's Tuesday. Our combined GOTV efforts during the FINAL 24 hours of this historic movement must be focussed on organization and mobilization before celebration.
Here's a breakdown of Election Day activity if you'd like to join us:
4AM-6AM -- Join us for a "silent knock" reminder to voters that today is the LAST day to drop your ballot at an official drop box location in Lane County. Please be at the Campaign for Change HQ (150 W. Broadway) by 4AM.7AM-9AM -- Sign waving/visibility @ Ferry St. Bridge. Please join us for Election Day sign-waving for Obama, Merkley, Kitty and down-ticket Dems at the Ferry St. Bridge. Signs will be provided. Homemade signs are welcome - stay positive, please!10AM-11AM -- Sign waving/visibility at 30th near Albertson's for "YES!" on Lane Community College's Bond Measure 20-142. 11:30AM-12:30PM -- Securing space for Lane Student Democrats/Lane Students for Obama at the Fairgrounds for Election Results Watch Party. 1PM-4PM -- Final day of ballot collection and tabling at LCC for Obama/Merkley/Piercy and LCC's Bond Measure 20-142.5PM-7:59PM -- Final GOTV action! Canvassing and quality ballot collection!8PM-10PM -- Election Results Watch Party @ the Lane County Fairgrounds! YES, WE CAN!10PM-2AM -- Election Results Post Party @ location to be determined. But please, fellow Obama enthusiast and dedicated Campaigner for Change, let's make this THE most historic moment of our life. Do more than you've ever done in a single day for any candidate ever! Knock on doors, make critical phone calls. Get out the word and GET OUT THE VOTE!Thank you for all you do, all you've done and all we'll accomplish in the next crucial 24 hours of this campaign.Fired up!. . . And ready to go!Matt Keating
youtube.com/mkeating2008
Jolene Loudon of Junction City writes, “Clipboards and voter registration forms in hand, the most diligent workers of the political season — unpaid canvassers — are the finest symbol of democracy in action.”
Awesome.
In support of Lane’s critical Bond Measure 20-142, Lane Student Dems/Lane Students for Obama encourage fellow students to canvass and/or phone-bank for your candidate of choice — especially if you’re a student in support of Lane’s Bond (even if it’s just for a few hours). Volunteer opportunities to help support LCC’s Bond Measure are available at www.yesforlcc.com.
Also, this Monday, October 27, is another Lane Students for Obama Merkley Monday! From the Forward Oregon office on 12th and High, Lane Student Dems will make phone calls in support of Jeff Merkley for U.S. Senate. Join us from 6PM-8:30PM (pizza provided!) Contact Justin at jcox@forwardoregon.org for more information.
And, of course, at our Lane Students for Obama table in the LCC cafeteria, we provide students with quite a bit of crucial voter information from the League of Women Voters (http://www.lwvor.org/votersguide.htm) and the Democratic Party of Lane County (DPLC.org). We also have plenty of Obama T-shirts, stickers, and Obama-Biden lawn signs from the Democratic Party of Oregon (DPO.org).
OK, here’s the calendar of activity for the Lane Student group through Election Day . . .
Monday-Friday (9AM-3PM) - Providing ballot pick-up at LCC and tabling at Lane Community College for Obama-Biden, Jeff Merkley, Kate Brown, Kitty Piercy, down-ticket Dems and “YES!” on Lane’s Bond Measure 20-142.
Monday, October 27 (6PM-8:30PM) - Merkley Monday - Phonebanking from Forward Oregon office at 12th and High for Jeff Merkley for U.S. Senate.
Tuesday, October 28 (6:00PM-8:30PM) - Phonebanking from SEIU for Kitty Piercy for Mayor. Details: visit http://www.kittypiercy.com/volunteer.htm, e-mail jessica@kittypiercy.com or call 334-6727 to sign-up!
Wednesday, October 29 (6PM-6:30PM) - Obama on TV watch party @ World Flavors. Barack Obama has purchased a half-hour of TV-time on the anniversary of the 1929 stock market crash to address the issues of job creation and our current economic situation.
Wednesday, October 29 (7pm-8:30pm) - Phonebanking from SEIU for Kitty Piercy for Mayor. Details: visit http://www.kittypiercy.com/volunteer.htm, e-mail jessica@kittypiercy.com or call 334-6727 to sign-up!
Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy welcomes Barack Obama to the University of Oregon (Spring, 2008)
Thursday, October 30 (4:30PM-8:30Pm) - GOTV canvassing/phonebanking from Obama’s Lane County Campaign for Change HQ at 150 W. Broadway in Eugene.
Friday, October 31 (4PM-6PM) - Phonbanking for Obama-Biden and Jeff Merkley from 150 W. Broadway.
Friday, October 31 (6PM-8:30PM) - Canvass in Costume!!! (Please, NO political costumes. Thanks!) Meet at the 150 W. Broadway office to Barack the Vote on Halloween!
Friday, October 31 (11PM-2AM) - Barack-O-Lantern “Bring Your Ballot Halloween Party” @ Eugene’s historic McDonald Theater. Show starts at 11pm, tickets: $10 - advance; $12 - door. All ages.
Friday, October 31 - Last day to mail your Oregon ballot!!!
Saturday, November 1 (10AM-3PM) - Saturday Market voter information booth. Volunteer opportunities available. Contact Matt at mkeating@studentsforbarackobama.com.
Sunday, November 2 (10AM-2PM, 2PM-6PM) - GOTV canvass shifts for Obama-Biden and down-ticket Dems from 150 W. Broadway. E-mail DAguilar@Oregon4Change.com to volunteer!
Also, appearing at the Obama office on Sunday, November 2 (7:30PM) - DNC Chair Howard Dean! Admission to see Governor Dean is a completed walk-packet canvassed earlier that afternoon.
Monday, November 3 (10AM-2PM) - Ballot collection/tabling at Lane Community College
Monday, November 3 (2PM-6PM, 6PM-9PM) - GOTV canvassing for Obama-Biden and down-ticket Dems!
Tuesday, November 4 (10AM-2Pm) - Ballot collection/tabling at Lane Community College
Tuesday, November 4 (2PM-5Pm, 5PM-8PM) - ELECTION DAY!!! Final day of GOTV canvassing!
Tuesday, November 4 (8pm-1opm) - Election Results watch party @ Lane County Fairgrounds
Tuesday, November 4 (10PM-2AM) - Post Election Party @ McDonald Theater. 21+ please.
Remember, VOTE by 8PM on November 4. To find your nearest official ballot drop box, visit www.voteforchange.com.
Thanks!
Matt Keating
First things first: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JEFF MERKLEY!
Lane Students for Obama/Lane Student Dems president Mario Parker with U.S. Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley at the University of Oregon.
CALENDAR:
Tonight: Meeting/phonebank with Eugene for Obama-Biden memebers and Lane Students for Obama. “FREE PIZZA FRIDAY” from Pegasus Pizza @ 150 W. Broadway (Eugene - 7PM).
Saturday: Canvassing for Lane’s Bond Measure 20-142 from the parking lot of South Eugene High School (400 E 19th) on Patterson across from the YMCA. Coffee will be provided (10AM).
Saturday: GOTV Obama-Biden/Merkley canvassing from Guido Batista’s house @ 140 Hardy Ave. in Eugene 97404. Start time: noon. Please RSVP by calling Noah Dorson at 503-449-1440.
Sunday: “LCC Sunday” phonebanking from O.E.A. (2815 Coburg Road) - just north of Costco from 1PM-3:30PM; 3:30PM-6PM; 6PM-6:30PM. Details and RSVP on http://my. barackobama. com/page/event/detail/gprqgm.
Monday: “Merkley Monday” phonebank from Forward Oregon office on 12th and High (Eugene - 6PM). Please RSVP: http://my. barackobama. com/page/event/detail/gprqqb.
Oregon Delegate/Lane Students for Obama Chapter Coordinator Matt Keating interviews U.S. Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley for www.youtube.com/mkeating2008
Fellow Obama-Biden and Jeff Merkley for U.S. Senate enthusiasts,
We need a Secretary of State who will fight for all Oregonians and who will fight for fair elections. Kate Brown has a proven track record, 17 years of progressive legislative experience and a clear vision of where she would lead Oregon as Secretary of State.
This Friday, right here in Eugene, please come cheer Kate on as she debates Republican Rick Dancer at the Downtown Athletic Club. Let’s show Oregon voters that Eugene supports a progressive champion like Kate Brown for Secretary of State!
For more information on Kate Brown, please visit http://www.katebrownfororegon.com/. Thanks!
-Lane Student Democrats/Lane Students for Obama
PS - For video of Kate Brown speaking directly to Lane Community College students and staff about the importance of voting, down-tcket participation and supporting higher education, please visit www.youtube.com/mkeating2008.
PPS - If you're a voter in Lane County, please VOTE "YES" on LCC's Bond Measure 20-142 to help aid the efforts to repair the aging infrastructure at Lane Community College. Measure 20-142 keeps an already existing bond on the books that does NOT significantly increase taxes and directly benefits the students, the community, and the state! Thank you! More info on Lane's bond measure 20-142 can be found at www.yesforlcc.com and/or www.lanecc.edu/bond.
I just posted a :60sec Students for Merkley video from Jeff’s visit to the University of Oregon with Senator Russ Feingold and Rep. Peter DeFazio on Tuesday, October 14: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEGUQtpV9W4.
Speaker Merkley is neck-n-neck with Gordon Smith, the Republican incumbent. Please, IF YOU BACK BARACK, JOIN JEFF! Volunteers are needed - especially tonight when Lane Student Dems participate in another “Merkley Monday phonebank” at the Forward Oregon office on 12th & High in Eugene. E-mail jcox@forwardoregon.org for more information.
Oh! This Friday, Vice President Al Gore and Jeff Merkley will be in Portland (Oregon Convention Center, 777 NE Martin Luther King Blvd.) for a reception for change at 5:30pm. General admission is $50 and preferred seating is $250. More details are at www.jeffmerkley.com.
For those of us staying in Eugene on Friday, please visit the Lane County Campaign for Change HQ at 7pm for another FREE PIZZA FRIDAY PHONEBANK FOR OBAMA! Courtesy of Pegasus Pizza, free eats will be provided to Eugene for Obama-Biden and Lane Student Democrat volunteers participating in our weekly get-together/phonebank session at the Eugene Obama office!
Thanks,
Barack Obama’s brother-in-law, OSU basketball coach Craig Robinson and fellow Eugene/Springfield Obama enthusiasts shared a brief rendezvous this afternoon at the Lane County Campaign for Change HQ (150 W. Broadway, Eugene). “Coach” (as I call Michelle Obama’s older brother) and his wife Kelly helped the Eugene field office kick-off our 1st day of Get-Out-the-Vote canvassing for the 2008 election.
“The game’s not over till it’s over,” Coach Robinson announced. “I know we’re up in the polls, but that’s like being up (by) eight with about four minutes to go . . . so we’ve got to continue to work through the fourth!” And the crowded Campaign for Change office erupted into applause.
Privately, Coach Robinson echoed his all-too-important 4th quarter analogy by addressing my laptop and the collegiate YouTube community about the importance of casting every vote, “While it seems like we’re up now — we’re not up by much and every vote’s gonna count . . . It would be really exciting,” Coach Robinson continued, “to have a turnout like we’ve never had here in Oregon and you guys can be a part of it!”
For video of Coach Craig Robinson’s visit to Eugene’s Campaign for Change HQ, please visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baHZVCupjjs.
Oh! I should add that the Beaver basketball coach’s pep-talk worked: Our team immediately hit the streets of Eugene/Springfield and engaged the community in quality Get-Out-the-Vote canvassing!
. . . It’s just past 6pm and I’m at Allen Bros. (on Hilyard) taking a quick coffee break from my South University area canvassing for Obama-Biden and Jeff Merkley for U.S. Senate. The bad news: my shoes (after canvassing in Oregon, Montana and Colorado) are finally starting to wear. The good news: We already collected one ballot! Yeahhh!!! As Coach Robinson remided us, EVERY VOTE COUNTS!!!
For those that don’t know, our G.O.T.V. goals are simple: educate voters on the importance of early voting, down-ticket Democratic support and using $0.59 worth of postage if they choose to mail their ballots. We’re also providing a toll-free hot-line for the few folks whom have yet to receive their ballot or have specific voting questions/concerns. The number: 888-969-7622 (888-MY-OR-OBAMA).
Thanks for the read, the support, and the enthusiasm surrounding the MOST historic election and transformational movement in the history of American politics.
. . . Now go out there and do a G.O.T.V. canvass shift! Barack needs EVERYONE’s involvement — and that means YOU!
Thank you,
Matt Keating, 4th Congressional District Delegate (OR)
Sunday, Oct. 12 - 11:30am - Mayoral Debate at KLCC (Selco Building). Call KLCC at (541) 463-6000 to be in the audience for the Noon broadcast of the live debate between Kitty Piercy and Jim Torrey - LIVE on KLCC at noon!
Sunday, Oct. 12 - 2pm - GOTV Summit Training (includes Vote by Mail training, Get-Out-The-Vote Canvassing instructions, and Election Day plans. Join us at Lane County’s Campaign for Change HQ at 150 W. Broadway in Eugene for student volunteer training, priorities and programs geared toward our critical GOTV effort).
Sunday, Oct. 12 - 3:30pm - North Eugene/Bethel canvass for Obama-Biden and Jeff Merkley for U.S. Senate. Meet at 150 W. Broadway in Eugene.
Monday, Oct. 13 - Tabling for Obama, Merkley and down-ticket Democrats with the Lane Students for Obama/Lane Student Democrats at Lane Community College cafeteria (10am-3pm).
Monday, Oct. 13 - “Merkley Monday” Phonebanking from Jeff Merkley’s Forward Oregon office at 12th & High St. in Eugene (6p-8:30p).
Tuesday, Oct. 14 - LAST DAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE!!! Join Lane Students for Obama for our final day of voter registration tabling at LCC (10am-1pm).
Tuesday, Oct. 14 - Rally for Jeff Merkley with U.S. Senator Russ Feingold, Congressman Peter DeFazio, and Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy at the ERB Memorial Union (1pm - 2:30pm).
Tuesday, Oct. 14 - “Kitty Tuesday” - Phonebanking for Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy from SEIU on 11th and Franklin (6pm-8:30pm). To volunteer, e-mail volunteer@kittypiercy.com or call the campaign at 541-334-6727.
Wednesday, Oct. 15 - 3rd and final Presidential Debate Watch Party @ World Flavors Pizza in Eugene. World Flavors is located at 1044 Willamette - just three doors down from the McDonald Theater (5:45pm-7:30pm).
Thursday, Oct. 16 - Post Debate Day of Action canvassing! Meet at 150 W. Broadway in Eugene at 5pm. Contact Diana Aguilar at daguilar@oregon4change for more information or to schedule yourself for a volunteer shift!
Friday, Oct. 17 - 7pm - FREE PIZZA FRIDAY courtesy of Eugene’s Pegasus Pizza! Meet with grassroots group Eugene for Obama and the Lane Student Democrats/Lane Students for Obama for some free pie at the Lane County Campaign for Change HQ - 150 W. Broadway in Eugene (7pm). Immediately following our meeting, we’ll make a final round of Friday phone calls to voters the day ballots are mailed out to Oregonians.
Saturday, Oct. 17 - 10am - FIRST DAY OF GET-OUT-THE-VOTE!!!
Sunday, Oct. 19 - “LCC Sunday” - Phonebanking in support of Local Ballot Measure 20-142 (LCC’s Bond Measure) from 1p-3:30p, 3:30p-6:00p, and 6:00p-8:30p. E-mail Trevor at trevor@yesforlcc.com. For more Measure 20-142 information, please visit www.yesforlcc.com.
Matt Keating here. (And, yes, I’m at the Lane Student Democrats/Lane Students for Barack Obama table at LCC!)
As anyone regularly registering voters and/or working on a political campaign this election cycle knows: THIS WEEK HAS BEEN NUTS! First off, it’s the final Friday to register to vote. And tonight, Lane’s SFBO group meets for a FREE PIZZA Friday @ 4pm with Senator Wyden at Pegasus Pizza (near UO campus on 14th). At 7pm this evening, Eugene for Obama and Lane Students for Obama get together for an evening of action at 150 W. Broadway (between Charnelton and Olive).
Also, along with Sen. Ron Wyden, we’re preparing to launch a huge Merkley for Senate canvassing effort from the Forward Oregon office on 12th & High St. (10am) on Saturday morning. On Sunday there’s a Bethel canvass scheduled at 2pm from the Lane County Obama HQ @ 150 W. Broadway and that evening we’ll be phonebanking for Local LCC Measure 20-142 from OEA (off Coburg past Costco) from 3:30-6:00p and 6:00-8:30p.
OK . . . Last night’s Merkley-Smith debate. Did ya see it? If not, you really missed out!
After a solid day of voter reg, I spent my ever-so-cold October evening at Davis Restaurant in Eugene with fellow Lane County Democrats (including U.S. Congressman Peter DeFazio) in support of Jeff Merkley for U.S. Senate. As Jon Issaacs, Jeff Merkley for Oregon Campaign Manager said, Speaker Merkley “laid out a clear vision for Oregon’s future and how he will team up with Ron Wyden and Barack Obama to bring our nation the change it deserves.”
My thoughts: Let’s do this! This Saturday morning, 10am, at 12th & High, Lane Student Democrats/Lane Students for Barack Obama are invited to kick-off a Forward Oregon/Campaign for Change Canvass for Obama-Biden ‘08 and Jeff Merkley for Senate with U.S. Senator Ron Wyden. Please sign-up at our table in the LCC cafeteria or call Speaker Merkley’s Eugene office at 541-686-3504.
Oh! One more thing. For Lane’s please visit www.lanecc.edu/bond . Volunteer opportunities are open for our LCC Day of Action on Sunday, October 19. Phonebank shifts are slated for 1-3:30pm, 3:30-6:00pm, and 6-8:30pm. Please e-mail Trevor at trevor@yesforlcc.com.
THIS WEEK (OCT. 6 - OCT. 10) . . .
Join the Lane Students for Obama as we "table" daily on the campus of Lane Community College. Shifts are open from 10am-2pm. E-mail mkeating@studentsforbarackobama to volunteer!
OK - This week in Eugene:
Monday - "Merkley Monday" Phonebanking from the Forward Oregon Campaign HQ at 1178 High St., Eugene (6pm-8:30pm).
Tuesday - "Obama Crawl" Sign-waving prior to the 2nd Presidential Debate at the Hult Center. Meet fellow Obama enthusiasts in front of markee on Willamette and 6th in Eugene. Bring your Obama gear and we'll march through downtown Eugene stopping at Joggers for the Women for Obama Debate Watch Party, Cosmic Pizza for the Campaign for Change Watch Party and ending up at World Flavors Pizza for the Students for Obama Debate Watch Party (4pm-5pm).
Tuesday - Debate Watch Party @ World Flavors Pizza at 1044 Willamette St., Eugene (5:45pm-7:30pm).
Wednesday - "Kitty Wednesdays" Phonebanking to help re-elect Kitty Piercy for Mayor (6pm-8:30pm). Please call 541-334-6727 for more information.
Thursday - "John Lennon for Obama" at Kesey Square on Broadway and Willamette in Eugene (6pm). Come celebrate John Lennon's birthday, register voters, and recruit volunteers!
Friday - Eugene for Obama and Lane Students for Obama meet at the Lane County Campaign for Change HQ at 150 W. Broadway, Eugene (7pm).
Saturday - Canvassing with Sen. Ron Wyden to help elect Jeff Merkley to U.S. Senate. Come by the Froward Oregon Campaign Headquarters at 1178 High St., Eugene to promote progressive candidates and important ballot measures such as 20-142 that supports Lane Community College (10am-2pm).
TONIGHT! TONIGHT! TONIGHT!
Every Friday evening Lane’s Students for Obama group and E4OB meet at the EMU Fishbowl on the campus of the University of Oregon (13th and University). And you’re invited!
What is E4OB? Eugene for Obama-Biden. Working as a community support group Lane Students for Obama, E4OB is the grassroots organizational effort in Eugene that strongly supports progressive candidates and values.
In addition to voting for Barack Obama and Joe Biden on November 4th, E4OB and Lane’s SFBO group suggests fellow Obama backing Oregonians support Jeff Merkley for U.S. Senate, Kate Brown for Secretary of State, Rob Handy for County Commissioner, Kitty Piercy for Mayor of Eugene, and State Ballot Measures 54, 55, 56 and 57 (the 1st four - then NO MORE).
Further, there are incredibly important Local Measures to pass such as 20-142 that updates facilities/improves technologies for Lane Community College and Local Measure 20-137 that provides an external review and Police Complaint Board. 20-137 also gives the City Council the ability to hire an Auditor and appoint a review board. A “YES” vote on both measures 20-137 and 20-142 are STRONGLY recommended!
For more Democratic recommendations (wisely based on the Democratic Party of Lane County’s Platform), please visit www.DPLC.org and/or join us this — and every Friday at UO’s “Fishbowl” @ the EMU on 13th and University.
See ya tonight - and every Friday evening at 7pm!
-Matt Keating
What: Lane Students for Obama with Eugene for Obama-Biden @ UO’s Fishbowl (EMU)
Date: Friday, October 3, 2008 Time: 7:00pm - 8:15pm Where: University of Oregon’s EMU “Fishbowl” Street: 13th and University
VP Debate Watch Party "blog" notes are also available at Lane Students for Obama's student moderated blog: www.lanecc.edu ~ "Life@Lane"
Oct 2, 2008 …
Join the Lane Students for Obama and Women for Obama movement this Thursday (5:45pm) at Joggers Bar and Grill for the Vice Presidential Debate Watch Party. Joggers Bar and Grill is located at 710 Willamette St., Eugene, 97401. All are welcome!
Thanks! -Lane Students for Barack Obama
First things first, if you haven’t yet, please log onto http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/LaneStudentsforObama to officially become a member of Lane’s Students for Obama team dedicated to electing Barack Obama 44th president of the United States!
Lane Community College students were personally thanked by Senator Obama when he visited Oregon last spring and I promised him we’d deliver even more registered voters this fall . . . .
But electing Senator Obama our next president is just the tip of the electoral iceberg. In order to really enact the change we desire to see, our future Obama administration will need to work in tandem with a progressive congress. Crucial Senate races in Virginia, Minnesota, Colorado, Alaska, and right here in our own Oregonian backyard are vital to the efforts to elect a Democratic majority in the Senate. Why? So we can see key reform in regards to the economy, health care, education, the environment and the Iraq war.
The above-mentioned reasons (and then some) are why our student group is committed to “Merkley Mondays” - making phone calls from Jeff Merkley’s Forward Oregon office in Eugene at 1178 High Street every Monday at 6pm. If you too would like to volunteer, please contact the campaign at (541) 686-3504 or visit www.jeffmerkley.com. See ya this Monday night for Merkley Mondays in Eugene!
The following is from 4th Congressional District’s/Lane Community College’s Matt Keating, Oregon Delegate to the 2008 DNC. This entry is from Denver, CO (Friday, September 5, 2008) . . . . From the “Taste of Colorado” celebration at Civic Center Park to the steps of Red Rocks after the Nine Inch Nails show to a Friday night Rockies game at Coors, the week following the 2008 DNC, I remained in Denver to help resister, register, and register voters. Following my experience at the Convention, I’ve been energized to actively register new Colorado voters in an effort to campaign for Mark Udall for U.S Senate and Barack Obama for 44th President. (Plus, it’s VERY cool that the State of Colorado is adopting a progressive Vote by Mail system similar to Oregon’s.)
However, I must admit, last week’s Denver feels quite a bit different than the Convention week’s Denver.
The Mile High nightlife is an entirely different animal than was witnessed during the DNC. The 16th street mall, for instance, is a complete 180 from the what the delegates and Convention-goers realized during August 25-28. The homeless population has returned from their movie-theater/zoo trips and a town that just lat week sparkled Orwellian clean is back to the much grittier Denver that I remember from the mid-nineties.
It’s been over ten years since, as a wee 19-year old radio pup, I first resided in Denver, Colorado. And, I must say, this homecoming of sorts has been most interesting. As a delegate, I’ve actually been detained* and applauded, followed and welcomed, questioned and complimented. Perhaps I’ve over-stayed my visit in the police state of Colorado. (To be honest, I can’t wait to return to Lane County and the green confines of Eugene, Oregon.)
Just hours away from my 52-hour train trip home . . .
. . . And less than sixty days stand between now and our defining moment to change the world. Only half of those days (till October 14) can be spent engaging in THE most important activity we can participate in: voter registration. At last count, an estimated 500,000 unregistered voters live in the Beaver State!
Want to help?
Please visit www.OR.BarackObama.com. Visit www.JeffMerkley.com. Visit www.KittyPiercy.com. Visit DPO.org. Vist DPLC.org. Visit your friends, neighbors, and family members and inspire ALL to get more involved TODAY!
Volunteer. Register voters! Volunteer. Make phone calls! Volunteer. Change Washington! Volunteer. Change the world!
We can. We will.
-Matt
*More to come on the highly anticipated report of a certain delegate’s brief detention!
Aslo available via Lane Community College's "Life@Lane" at www.lanecc.edu
It’s been 48 hours since Senator Barack Obama rocked Denver, America, and the world with his historic acceptance speech as our Democratic Candidate for Office of 44th President of the United States.
Reflecting fondly on this past week of DNC activity, I’m writing this message from the hub of our Delegation’s daily morning meetings: the Hyatt Regency, DTC.
I may be the only Oregon delegate still in Denver, but undoubtedly, I’m not the only delegate still riding the high of our Party’s 2008 National Convention. The highlights? The Democratic Party camaraderie, the non-stop political hoopla, the after parties (especially Georgia’s), the breakfasts, the historic speeches, the service, the revelry, and, most importantly, the unity. Awe-inspiring is an understatemnet. A multitude of DNC moments have so deeply touched our souls. Please forgive me for gushing . . . .
Speech-wise, we’ll never forget Senator Ted Kennedy’s tear-jerking call to serve our community — his wisdom, generation-spanning inspiration, and classic Kennedy-family compassion will be with us forever.
Michelle Obama’s grace and open invitation into the Obama household of her heart helped America see our future First Lady as a most capable, competent and classy companion for our presidential candidate who calls her his “rock.” Her husband’s visit via live-feed from Kansas City was a delightful surprise to our Delegation and a tremendous cherry to top off Monday evening’s happenings at the Pepsi Center.
The air on Tuesday, of course, was electric as we filed into the Convention Hall awaiting Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton’s historic address. While our respective delegations celebrated unity, it was unfortunate to hear that the rest our nation was forced to endure inaccurate media accounts of division and dissent. Clearly, the conversation at the Convention was quite the opposite. Clinton Delegates and Obama Delegates, alike, are Democratic Americans first. We realize we may be diverse — but this week we celebrated our diversity with great revelry (most evident at the moving and motivational LGBT Caucus Meeting). We welcomed our need to come together for the common cause of defeating the antiquated and failed policy of the Bush/McCain crowd this fall. Together, we commemorated, not commiserated, about the fact that, unified, we are One. And one party, under the leadership and vision of a self-proclaimed “un-likey candidate” named Barack Obama will rise to the occasion and will reclaim the White House this fall.
Wednesday, August 27, we witnessed an historic state-to-state roll-call in which Senator Clinton won the hearts and respect of, at least, 18 million more Americans by respectfully nominating Barack Obama as our Party’s Candidate for Office of President by acclimation. (Though our Oregon Delegation was anxiously awaiting Senator Ron Wyden’s “We the People of the great State of Oregon” speech — to no avail — there was not a dry eye among our delegation when Senator Clinton captured our everlasting respect.)
President Clinton’s sincerely specific articulation, Senator Biden’s close-to-home single-parent back story, Governor Schweitzer’s contagious enthusiasm, Governor Richardson’s motivation, and, of course, Senator Obama’s powerful acceptance speech from Invesco @ Mile High have soared into the annals of shaping American history. And we were there!
The most memorable moments of the 2008 Democratic National Convention, I hope, will never blur. As I continue to process and realize the impact we’ve had -- and will continue to have -- in changing the landscape of American politics by participating in this historic process, I realize we have the BEST PARTY . . . the BEST COUNTRY . . . and the BEST CANDIDATE on the planet.
The culmination of our collective energy — from Alaska to Florida, from Oregon to Ohio, from Colorado to Virginia, from our delegation on the floor to the “Mile High” top rows of Inveso, from your living room to those on road — our collective energy will echo through time. We’ve taken part — all of us — in this defining moment in history. It makes one pause and well-up with hope that, indeed, we could, if we so desired, even make those Rocky Mountains move. The tears, the hugs (thank you, Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr.), the applause, the amount of positive energy and genuine American optimism launched into the Universe from Denver this past week is palpable and very, very real. We will, I promise, change the world.
Yes. We. Can.
Matt Keating, Oregon Delegate (4th) 2008 Democratic National Convention
Tonight is the night!
Sporting my best suit — my only suit — in honor of this astonishing evening, I CAN NOT WAIT to be there, on the floor with our Oregon delegation for Barack Obama’s historic acceptance speech! I’m rested, energized, “fired up and ready to go” see our future president rock the mile high city and the world!
I’m traveling with a couple books (actually four — Audacity of Hope and The Watchmen, however, will remain in my hotel room for the evening). The nation-building pieces of our past with me are Common Sense by Thomas Paine and my pocket-sized copy of the Declaration of Independence/Constitution of the United States. Both books will be with me and on-my-person for this evening’s Nomination Acceptance speech. Jefferson and Paine, I imagine, would be quite proud of what their 232 year-old experiment in Democracy has produced in Denver this last week.
Additionally, the culmination of generations of Americans whom have struggled for Civil Rights will be fully realized this evening. Activists of old and new, and anyone who’s ever bravely stood up in the face of discrimination, tonight’s dream, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. put it exactly 45 years ago to the date, is for us.
Onward to Day IV, the final chapter of this 2008 Democratic National Convention, onward to victory in November and onward to Barack Obama’s inauguration on January 19th as 44th President of these United States . . . .
Also available via Lane Community College's "Life@Lane" at www.lanecc.edu
First of all, let me just say this: The Georgia Delegation seriously knows how to throw a party!
I suppose I’m stating the obvious . . . and, yes, last night, little sleep was had.
Notes from this morning: Senator Rob Wyden introduced an equally tall Jeff Merkley (our State Speaker of the House) who’s running, of course, for a critical seat in the U.S. Senate. Sen. Wyden drew a remarkable parallel between beloved Oregon Senator Wayne Morse and the Hon. Jeff Merkley that our fellow Oregon voters should not ignore.
Champions of the ant-war movement, both men (Merkely and Morse) also share(d) the skill of effectively passing progressive legislation that promotes equality, fairness, higher education and our environment. (If that doesn’t sound like a ringing endorsement of Jeff Merkley for U.S. Senate, I don’t know what is!)
Speaking of ringing endorsements, it was great to hear from the always energetic Steve Novick, Mr. Merkley’s opponent in our recent Democratic Primary. Mr. Novick referenced the most memorable moment on the DNC from the floor of the Pepsi Center Delegation Hall when New York's Senator Hillary Clinton’s historically moved to nominate Barack Obama by acclimation as our Democratic Candidate for 44th U.S. President.
Siting the importance of staying true to our ideals, Novick — like Clinton — expressed that “bigger picture” realization that political contests are less about the person running, and more about the shared common values with whom they may be able to represent. That’s a classy, grounding, and most respectful point-of-view; if ever I have an opportunity to serve in public office, I will always remember and honor the above-mentioned sense of respect.
As our breakfast was geared to wrap up, our future Oregon Governor, Secretary of State Bill Bradbury (my favorite Super Delegate of our 65-member Oregon Delegation team) poignantly reminded us of the historical impact of Barck Obama’s acceptance speech on this 45th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech — in which a young Bill Bradbury attended. “It’s come full circle,” Bill cheered!
Indeed it has come full circle — for Bill, for America, and for the human race. And tonight, all 80,000 of us in attendance will be quite aware: History will be made and there won’t be a dry eye in the house.
***
I think it may be wise to get some rest before witnessing the greatest historical moment of my time . . .
Before taking that much needed nap, however, I’ll spend the next half-hour in “video-edit mode” from the confines of my hotel room. I’ve captured some rather memorable moments via I-movie that I can’t wait to share with you.
Various Convention video work can be seen at YouTube.com/mkeating2008 and YouTube.com/lanetuberscafe (all shot/edited on this handy little MacBook). And, of course, I’ve also been using this fantastic electronic tool to “blog” for Lane Students for Barack Obama's MyBo page and at www.lanecc.edu ("Life@Lane").
I just hope these entries accurately reflect the tremendously positive impact this fantastic Convention has had on us all. It’s been a pleasure and an honor documenting our Delegation’s DNC activity through the lens of my laptop and, to all back home, I thank you for allowing me to participate in this life-changing experience.
Just this morning it dawned on me that I haven’t really shared many snapshots from the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Assuming I can master I-photo, you should be able to take a sneak peak of yours truly alongside Oregon Democratic Candidate for U.S. Senate, Jeff Merkley (www.jeffmerkley.com).
(Aslo availbale via Lane Community College's"Life@Lane" at www.lanecc.edu)
Wednesday, 8/27 — 11-something p.m. (mountain time)
Sitting front-and-center at the Pepsi Center amidst a sea of empty seats and thousands of campaign signs scattered about, I'm awed by the hostorical significance of this Convention. Others are enroute or already at the Washington/Oregon Delegation party. Inside, I’m celebrating the fact that it’s official: Barack Obama is our nominee and here we are, making history.
Just two hours ago, Wednesday’s session of the DNC (the official nomination portion of the Convention) came to an awe-inspiring close. Snapping their last snippets of the Convention Hall, a few photo-journalists from across the globe are still here. I’m still here. The volunteer army responsible for organizing this magnanimous event are still in the house as well . . . .
Thursday, we reconvene at Invesco Fields for Senator Obama’s highly anticipated acceptance speech. Meanwhile, stragglers are scouring the floor for more “Obama for the Change We Need” and “New Leadership for a Changing World” and “Securing America’s Future” and “McCain More of the Same”, of course, the coveted “Obama-Biden” signs.
Fret not, Lane County, I have scored scores of signs!
There’s still that palpable energy in the air. Though National Convention veterans knew it was coming, and even my pal Dave back in Eugene somehow was in the know, us newbies didn’t expect Barack Obama to personally appear beside Joe Biden at the close of our future vice president’s speech. But there he was: Our Barack alongside our Biden! Our candidates! Hell YES WE CAN!
Here in Denver — not just tonight, but these past three days — we have been taken by storm. Outside, the weather’s been warm and welcoming. Inside, our Party has witnessed an intense emotional rain. But like our “Great State of Oregon” (even though Senator Wyden didn’t get a chance to say it!), we welcome the rain. And tonight: it rained again — and again we roared with thunderous applause, approval and respect for Hillary Clinton’s grace and class. We teared up. We were choked up. We stood up — and we united as one
President Bill Clinton was in rare form — a flashback to why we romanticize about the 90’s. He was specific. He was witty. He was Bill. And, as you know, Bill is beloved. Though I never voted for him (and have oft been critical of NAFTA, the de-regulaltion of the media and the backwards Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy), witnessing firsthand the Clinton family’s class, charisma, and genuine care our country: it’s easy to see why they’re so loved.
In the last two hours I haven’t moved. At one point, caught on camera just staring into the future, I was photographed by a journalist from Dallas. (She has this “Life@Lane” web-address and I’m sure the two of us took great inspiration from each other –somehow — someway.)
I’ve been here a while. Reflecting. Looking forward. Thinking about this unlikely journey that now belongs to us all.
I was, am, and certainly will continue to reflect fondly on the historical impact of this moment.
As if sent on assignment from the future by whatever god he may (or may not) have believed in, Hunter S. Thompson once wrote, “No mix of music or words or memories can touch that sense of knowing that you were there and alive at that corner of time . . . there was a fantastic universal sense that whatever we were doing was right — and that we were winning. And that, I think, was the handle: that sense of inevitable victory over the forces of old and evil. Not in any mean or military sense — we didn’t need that.” Thompson knew, “Our energy would simply prevail . . . .”
I wish he was here. Undoubtedly, HST would scoff at the at the police state of Colorado and probably wind up in jail, but the 20,000 plus Pepsi Center attendees have ben acutely aware that the protection has been most necessary. (Upon entry tonight, I actually thanked a cop for being here.) Clearly, this isn’t Thompson’s kind of Convention, but I bet Barack Obama would be his kind of candidate. After all, Barack gives hope to the hopeless and, we’re all quite sure, will put an end the era of war mongering madness.
On the topic of war, President Clinton's wise comment will, we hope, define our foreign policy of the 21st Century: “People of the world are more impressed by the power of example as opposed to an example of power.” He couldn’t be more accurate.
I trust the example we’ve set as Democrats has proved to the nation that we may be diverse, but we Democrats celebrate our differences and embrace our shared progressive ideology. The common cause, as Hillary Clinton recognizes, is quite clear — and anything less than an Obama-Biden ‘08 victory is unacceptable.
We have “All the momentum,” Thompson noted back in '72. His words ring loudest though today, “We’re riding the crest of a high and beautiful wave.”
