Mary Ann Hart's Blog

Health Care Reform Meeting Notes

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 02:52:34 EDT

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Health Care Reform meeting yesterday in Bend. What a great response! For such a beautiful day with so many other fun things going on in Central Oregon, we were happy to see over 45 people in the Brooks Room.

We followed the general guidelines provided by OFA for the meeting. After overcoming a few technical difficulties, we watched President Obama's welcoming video with a message from the spokesperson for OFA. Rob Cohen walked us through a power point presentation that gave some historical background of the current U.S. health care ‘system.' We broke into groups and shared our own health care stories. When we came together again, several people shared stories from their groups. Finally, we held a brainstorming session to plan our community service event for June 27th.

Here are some of the ideas we talked about:

Create a white paper on health care and health care reform
Provide information on medicare and end of life issues including the importance of a living will
Counteract fears with truth
Rent a space at the Saturday Market and provide health care information
Make available the Frontline special “Sick Around the World”
Collect information on other countries’ health care systems
Create an inclusive event encouraging people from all perspectives to participate
Pay attention to the Oregon Legislature efforts to reform state healthcare services. Their final session is scheduled for June 26.
How do we change public attitudes and maintain dignity for all?
Provide statistics that are relevant to Central Oregonians
Promote child immunization, preventive care and care for chronic diseases
Have a health fair
Educate students toward wellness
Create public displays (similar to what was done during the voter registration drives and the recent presidential election) for the Art Walk, Drake Park, grocery stores, etc.
Create our own local “factcheck.org” to provide factual response to negative ads
Create a television commercial
Write letters to the editor

The majority in attendance committed to participate in our event on June 27th. A steering committee was formed to pursue these ideas and come up with an action plan. Volunteers are: Mike Schmidt, Marjorie Lickley, Jim Davis, Loye Dice, Ray Miao, Ed Lee, Rob Cohen, Mary Ann Hart, Gwenn Wysling, Patty Pachtman and Linda Mathison.

Earth Day Celebration in Bend

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:21:35 EDT

The 20th Annual Bend Earth Day Celebration

April 18, 2009

11am - 5pm

Troy Field in Bend, Oregon

20th Annual Earth Day Fair

Saturday April 18, 2009

Troy Field -- next to the Bend Environmental Center, corner of Bond and Louisiana

There will be an Earth Day Fair and Procession of the Species Parade which starts at 11am on Louisiana and runs along Bond and Wall back to Troy Field. The parade will end at Troy Field with the traditional drum circle in front of the stage.

There will also be plenty of interactive children’s activities, live music, and the green building expo.

Come join us for the 20th Anniversary of Bend’s Earth Day Celebration. This event plays a vital role in strengthening the bond in our community. The Earth Day Fair and Procession of the Species Parade engage all people in a celebration of that which we hold dear, our natural environment.

Action Items for Central Oregonians

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:46:49 EDT

ACTION ITEMS FOR CENTRAL OREGONIANS:

Congress voted last week to approve President Obama's budget along straight party lines. It was a big test not only for President Obama, but for our entire movement. Take just a few minutes to call our Senators and let them know how much we appreciate their crucial votes.

Let Congressman Walden know how disappointed you are that he did not support a budget that tackles the long-term challenges to our prosperity.

Rep. Gregg Walden (R-OR-02)

CALL: 202-225-6730

Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR)

CALL: 202-224-5244

Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR)

CALL: 202-224-3753

Deschutes County Town Hall Meeting

Residents of Deschutes County are invited to attend an open forum Town Hall Meeting with Senator Ron Wyden to ask questions and voice their concerns. Senator Wyden has been holding town halls in each Oregon county every year since 1996. The event in Bend is town hall number 509.

Date: Monday, April 6, 2009

Time: 12:30 p.m.

Location: Bend Elks Club

63120 Boyd Acres Rd. (Off of Empire Blvd)

SAVE THE METOLIUS

A pivotal public hearing for saving the Metolius will be on April 7th at 3:00pm in our Capitol in Salem. (Hearing Room E)

This is our chance to show members of the Legislature that the Metolius is a special place worthy of strong protection. We need them to pass HB 3100 in order to protect against two proposed large scale developments that truly threaten the Metolius as we know it.

Any help you could provide to get lots of people to the hearing would make a tremendous difference. Some of the potentially swing legislators aren't personally familiar with the Metolius and don't necessarily realize that a lot of people from all over Oregon view it as a treasure. We have a great deal of support from many legislators, but as of now the final vote looks to be very close. It could well hinge on the strength of our collective voices.

THANK YOU for all of your work!!!!

-Jonathan Manton

541 729-2923

For information about the American Recovery and Revitalization Act and how it can be tapped to grow the green economy please note the following websites:

· The federal government's ARRA website is: http://recovery.oregon.gov/

· Oregon State's ARRA website is: www.recovery.gov

· The Oregon Department of Energy's direct ARRA website is: www.oregon.gov/energy/Stimulus2009.shtml

The Oregon Green Jobs Initiative, spearheaded by 3EStrategies, now has a bill number -- HB 3300. HB 3300 would require the Oregon Workforce Investment Board to prioritize its focus on green jobs and to develop a comprehensive green jobs development strategic plan to be presented to the Oregon Legislature in early 2010.

The Oregon Employment Department has identified a green job as one that provides a service or creates a product in any of the following categories:

-Increasing energy efficiency;

-Producing renewable energy;

-Preventing, reducing or mitigating environmental degradation;

-Cleaning up and restoring the natural environment; or

-Providing education, consulting, policy promotion, accreditation, trading and offsets, or similar services supporting any of the other categories.

Upcoming Event:

Green Building: The New Economy and the Future of the Building Industry with Jason McLennan, at COCC, 5:30pm, Sunday April 12

For links to more information on these events, visit:

3EStrategies Events Page

Celebrating Day 50

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 10:13:32 EDT

This was forwarded to me from Oregonians for Obama so I thought I'd share it....

Found this list of some of what Obama has done so far, Go Obama!

from here: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2009/3/10/105049/235

EXAMPLES OF CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN:
1/21/9 Directed military leaders to end war in Iraq and begin responsible withdrawal
1/21/9 Passed ethics guidelines banning hires based on politics
1/21/9 Banned lobbyist gifts to executive employees
1/22/9 Released Presidential records
1/22/9 Ordered the close of the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay
1/22/9 Banned torture
1/22/9 Ordered a systematic review of detention policies and procedures and a review of all individual cases.
1/23/9 Lifted a ban on federal funding for international groups that provide family planning that included information about abortion (The Global Gag Rule / Mexico City Policy)
1/26/9 Reversed Bush Administration obstruction and ordered the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider California's request to apply tighter air pollution standards on automobiles.
1/27/9 Granted his 1st formal Presidential interview in office to to an Arab channel, the Saudi-backed, Dubai-based al-Arabiya
1/29/9 Signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act
1/30/9 Ordered Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under Service Contracts
2/4/9 Expanded eligibility for State Children's Health Insurance Fund (SCHIP)
2/6/9 Established an Economic Recovery Advisory Board
2/10/9 Initiated a comprehensive cybersecurity review of critical U.S. systems
2/17/9 Extended and indexed the 2007 Alternative Minimum Tax patch
2/17/9 Sent two additional brigades to Afghanistan
2/17/9 Supported increased funding for the NEA
2/18/9 Created a plan to weatherize 1 million low income homes per year for the next 10 years
2/19/9 Extend unemployment insurance benefits and temporarily suspend taxes on these benefits
2/19/9 Created a foreclosure prevention fund for homeowners
2/19/9 Created a White House Offi ce on Urban Policy
2/20/9 Created a plan committed to investment in all types of alternative energy
2/27/9 Halted DEA medical marijuana raids in California
3/5/9 Convened a comprehensive health care summit to begin the task of overhauling health care in the U.S.
3/9/9 Reversed restrictions on stem cell research and ended the Bush Administration "War on Science."

Update from Central Oregon

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 21:47:10 EST

CENTRAL OREGON FOR CHANGE ONLINE CALENDAR LAUNCHES

In an effort to find an easy way to let folks know about events, important actions, meetings and opportunities for making real change a reality, we are putting together an online calendar. If you would like to list something in the calendar, please send a short description of your event (50 words or less is best), the time, location and any other important information, such as links to more detailed info, to kymberli4change@gmail.com.

Check the calendar often -- as some actions need to happen very quickly, such as making immediate phone calls to legislators to express views and concerns on pending legislation. Now, you can stay on top of how you can be an ongoing part of making change happen!

You can view the ‘centraloregon4change’ calendar from any web browser using this link: http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=centraloregon4change%40gmail.com&ct.

Fired Up and Ready To Go - Kymberli Colburne Kymberli4change@gmail.com

OPPORTUNITIES TO MAKE CHANGE HAPPEN IN CENTRAL OREGON:

Become involved in your community, volunteer for a city or county committee. Committee openings are advertised in the newspaper or call the city or county and ask about what openings are coming up. Put your best foot forward, learn about what the committee does before you interview or apply. You will learn, meet new people and perhaps have fun.

Judy Clinton

541-317-8472

METOLIUS RIVER UPDATE

LCDC will make a final recommendation to the legislature some time in March. The legislature can accept, amend, or reject LCDC’s plan. Meanwhile legislation is forthcoming which will accept the LCDC’s recommendation to create an Area of Critical State Concern and ensure that no development in or near the Basin will adversely affect the Metolius, its tributaries, fish and wildlife. Jonathan, Central Oregon LandWatch, and a host of other conservation-oriented organizations are likely to urge strong support for this legislation. Once it is finalized and announced publicly, there will be lots of opportunities to contact key legislators to express your opinions.

Stay tuned! And contact Jonathan (541) 729-2923 (jmanton2008@gmail.com) any time with questions, concerns, or comments.

Deschutes County Voters Ballot Deadline Tue March 10th

As March 10 nears and the voters of Deschutes County decide whether or not to retain the Local Rule that seeks to reduce additional nitrate inputs into the groundwater and local rivers, we encourage voters to review the information provided by the U.S. Geological Service and Deschutes County prior to making their decision. Two good sources are: http://www.deschutes.org/cdd/gpp/ and http://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2007/3103/. A ‘Yes’ vote on March 10 would retain the Local Rule and help protect the Little Deschutes and Deschutes Rivers from nitrate pollution. A ‘No’ vote would repeal the Local Rule.

Notice of Organizational Meeting of the Deschutes County Democratic Central Committee

The MARCH Organizational meeting of the Deschutes County Democratic Central Committee will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. at Bend's Community Center, 1036 NE 5th Street, Bend, Oregon. Social time will begin at 6:30 p.m. The meeting is expected to run from 7 to 9 p.m. Please feel free to contact Craig Wilhelm, Vice-Chair, Executive Steering Committee, at craig.wilhelm@gmail.com or 541.633.7878 if you have any questions regarding attendance. We look forward to seeing everyone there!

PTAC (Public Transit Advisory Committee) public hearing on proposed elimination of all weekend BAT (Bend Area Transit) and DAR (Dial-a-Ride) service, fare hikes and route changes will be held at City Hall, 3:30 to 5:30 pm, Tuesday, March 17, 2009. More info at www.bendareatransit.com and 317-3039. This is a good opportunity for people to express their concerns about BAT service cuts.

Central Oregon OFA Local Update

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:01:30 EST

CENTRAL OREGON FOR CHANGE ONLINE CALENDAR LAUNCHES

In an effort to find an easy way to let folks know about events, important actions, meetings and opportunities for making real change a reality, we are putting together an online calendar.

If you would like to list something in the calendar, please send a short description of your event (50 words or less is best), the time, location and any other important information, such as links to more detailed info, to kymberli4change@gmail.com. Check the calendar often -- as some actions need to happen very quickly, such as making immediate phone calls to legislators to express views and concerns on pending legislation. Now, you can stay on top of how you can be an ongoing part of making change happen!

You can view the ‘centraloregon4change’ calendar from any web browser using this link: http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=centraloregon4change%40gmail.com&ct.

Fired Up and Ready To Go -

Kymberli Colburne

Kymberli4change@gmail.com

OPPORTUNITIES TO MAKE CHANGE HAPPEN IN CENTRAL OREGON:

Judy Clinton

317-8472

METOLIUS RIVER UPDATE

Leaders from across of the state are working diligently on proposals to protect and preserve the Metolius River. The Land Conservation and Development Commission (“LCDC”) recently issued a second draft proposal to designate the Basin and a buffer zone as an Area of Critical State Concern. Under this proposal, an agency management plan would prevent large scale developments, including both destination resorts that have been proposed. LCDC will make a final recommendation to the legislature some time in March. The legislature can accept, amend, or reject LCDC’s plan. Meanwhile legislation is forthcoming which will accept the LCDC’s recommendation to create an Area of Critical State Concern and ensure that no development in or near the Basin will adversely affect the Metolius, its tributaries, fish and wildlife. Jonathan, Central Oregon LandWatch, and a host of other conservation-oriented organizations are likely to urge strong support for this legislation. Once it is finalized and announced publicly, there will be lots of opportunities to contact key legislators to express your opinions.

Stay tuned! And contact Jonathan (541) 729-2923 (jmanton2008@gmail.com) any time with questions, concerns, or comments.

Deschutes County Voters Ballot Deadline Tue March 10th

Notice of Organizational Meeting

of the Deschutes County Democratic Central Committee

Social time will begin at 6:30 p.m. The meeting is expected to run from 7 to 9 p.m.

Please feel free to contact Craig Wilhelm, Vice-Chair, Executive Steering Committee, at craig.wilhelm@gmail.com or 541.633.7878

if you have any questions regarding attendance.

We look forward to seeing everyone there!

PTAC (Public Transit Advisory Committee) public hearing on proposed elimination of all weekend BAT (Bend Area Transit) and DAR (Dial-a-Ride) service, fare hikes and route changes will be held at City Hall, 3:30 to 5:30 pm, Tuesday, March 17, 2009. More info at www.bendareatransit.com and 317-3039. This is a good opportunity for people to express their concerns about BAT service cuts.

RECOMMENDED READING

DEBATE WATCHING CANCELLED

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 23:52:22 EDT

We will not be viewing the Vice-Presidential candidates debate at the Bend Campaign for Change Office.

Instead we will use the space to phone voters. Join us Thursday, Oct 2 between 5 and 9 pm at 117 NW Oregon Ave in downtown Bend. If you've never done this, training will be provided. You'll talk to some fascinating people and have fun, too. Be a part of the Campaign for Change!

Action Week in Central Oregon

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 22:21:31 EDT

On Thursday August 28th, Senator Barack Obama will accept the Democratic Party’s nomination for President of the United States of America. 75,000 people are expected to fill Invesco Field in Denver, Colorado as Senator Obama delivers one of the most anticipated acceptance speeches in American political history. Millions more will be watching the live telecast. In Central Oregon, we will be gathering at Obama’s Campaign for Change office in downtown Bend to share this historic moment and watch the speech on big screen TV.

Please join us from 5-9 pm at 117 NW Oregon Ave.

RSVP to Jonathan at jmanton@oregon4change.com or 541-729-2923

We have less than 80 days to ensure that Senator Obama is elected, to turn the page on the last eight years, and to help bring about a better future for our nation.

Central Oregon, it is time again to get fired up!

On August 30th & September 1st, we’ll join with thousands of Obama supporters throughout Oregon for a Weekend of Action. On Saturday and Sunday, we’re blanketing every corner of the state with door-to-door canvasses because we know that face-to-face contact with undecided voters is THE BEST way to ensure Obama’s victory.

Meet at the office for either a morning training at 10 am or an afternoon training at 2 pm. Following the training, you’ll join with another supporter and spend three hours passing out information to targeted voters.

We’ll also reach hundreds of Central Oregonians by making phone calls. Our office now has five phone lines and we have lists of people we need to contact. Join us any time from 9am-7pm on Saturday or 9am-9pm on Sunday.

August Meeting Notes

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 11:42:07 EDT

The new Bend Office for Change was the site of our August meeting. Jonathan, the volunteer coordinator from Obama for America introduced himself and then turned the meeting over to Rob. Rob explained how the office is set up. It's a large open area with several volunteer stations. There are opportunities to volunteer doing voter registration, canvassing, data entry, phone banking and as office greeter. Phil Philiben then spoke about his personal experience and why he supports Senator Obama. During the five minutes allowed for outside groups, a representative from Infrastructure First discussed their ballot initiative and gathered signatures. We shared birthday cake in celebration of Barack's 47th birthday.

To volunteer, stop by the office at 117 NW Oregon Ave (downtown between Wall & Bond). Parking is available at the parking structure 1 block east on Oregon Ave.

July Meeting Notes

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:05:54 EDT

We met in the Bend Public Library this evening. About 60 people showed up including some new faces. Jonathan Manton is now our official organizer working through Oregon4Obama. He told us his story -- how he was affected by an experience volunteering in Florida in a very depressed area. The disparity of opportunities available for black and white, rich and poor made a lasting impression on him. He supports Senator Obama because Jonathan believes Obama is the only candidate who will make the kind of changes that will allow equality of opportunity for all.

Our group focus will continue to be registering new voters. We will be targeting local stores, outdoor events and the Deschutes County Fair. Everyone in the room had an opportunity to sign up to participate. Jonathan will take the sign up sheets to the Deschutes Democrats meeting tomorrow night to engage more volunteers in this effort.

Jonathan brought up the topic of today's FISA vote. He read a statement from Senator Obama. Many of us expressed our disappointment in Senator Obama's vote for the bill. Emotions ran high. No one in the room expressed support for Obama's position. The unanswered question is why did he change his position on warrantless wiretapping and retroactive immunity. No one seemed to be satisfied by Obama's statement. By a show of hands everyone in the room agreed that they are very concerned about what happened today. Jonathan vowed to bring the issue to his immediate supervisor with a request that our feelings be made known to Chicago headquarters.

We will meet again at the Bend Public Library on Monday, August 4th at 6 pm.

FISA Bill

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 03:20:03 EDT

I am very concerned that Senator Obama is supporting the new FISA bill. It will give immunity to the telecoms who broke the law by allowing the Bush administration warrantless wire taps. The way I see it, the executive branch does not have the authority to bypass the legislative branch and trample on our rights. The telecoms should not have complied with Bush's request without a warrant from the FISA court. This is what Qwest did. Why shouldn't the other companies be held accountable for their actions? This bill will effectively end the lawsuits against the telecoms.

If someone can explain to me a legitimate reason why Senator Obama would support this bill, I would really appreciate it. I have supported him 100% since his speech at the Democratic convention. I have read both of his books and listened to many of his speeches. Up until now, I was in agreement with him on every issue. His position on this bill is a major disappointment to me.

I would love to hear from someone who can explain what I'm not understanding about this. Thank you.

Immediate Housing Request!

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 01:40:43 EDT

Can you provide a bed, roof and bath for six weeks?

The Campaign will be sending about 10 Fellowship Volunteers to Bend and we need housing for this group from June 17th through August 1.

Fellows will be trained on the basics of organizing & campaign fundamentals and then placed in a community to carry out grassroots activities. Fellows will be asked to commit to a minimum of 30 hours per week and will:

    * participate in training on field organizing, messaging, and other activities
    * organize in a community, working in with grassroots leaders & campaign staff
    * continue to build the movement

Each Fellowship applicant has been screened by the campaign and many are students, teachers and other professionals who have committed their time to the campaign.

If you would like to house an Obama Fellowship volunteer please email me the following information. I will coordinate with the Oregon lead and they will be contacting you directly.

1. How many volunteers can you house?
2. Do you prefer male or female or no preference?
3. Smoking or non smoking?
4. Pets in the house?
5. Is your home near public transportation?
6. Other information that would be helpful to know.

This is a very important part of the campaign and will help us get off to a great start to our General Election efforts.
Since the group will be heading to Oregon this week, I would appreciate if you could get back to me by Tuesday, June 10th.

As always, thanks for your support.

Rob Cohen

354-5659

rob0405@bendbroadband.com

Countdown to the Nomination

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 13:26:05 EDT

Tonight is the final primary night in the longest primary season I've ever experienced. Even though it has seemed at times to be never-ending, I believe that participation by every state and every citizen in the nation can only be a good thing. If it hadn't been this way, Oregonians wouldn't have been able to play the important role we played. We've achieved what no one expected: record voter registration, enthusiasm and participation!

As we wait for tonight's results, here are two links to sites tracking the delegates and superdelegates.

The first site tracks the numbers: http://demconwatch.blogspot.com/2008/01/superdelegate-list.html

The second site is an actual countdown: http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/6/3/74632/28923/895/527963

Volunteer Announcement from Rob Cohen

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Sat, 31 May 2008 01:03:24 EDT

Hi Obama Volunteers,

First of all I want to add my thanks to each and every one of you who pitched in during the primary. Your efforts truly demonstrate what a “grassroots” campaign is all about.

As we were closing down the office, many of you stopped by to offer your help and to find out what’s next?

Well it is time for us to start our march to November. As Jonathan mentioned we are waiting for the Campaign to formalize their General Election plans, so we are moving forward with plans to fill in this gap. Remember Central Oregon For Barack Obama was in full operation mode before the campaign got here, so we know what needs to be done over the next few months.

Here are our objectives for the next 60 days!

Voter Registration

During the primary campaign we registered over 1000 new voters, and this was a major contributing factor to our victory. There still remain 1000’s of unregistered voters in our community and we need to aggressively get them registered for November.

Dina Horsch is heading up our voter registration campaign. She will be coordinating volunteers to staff locations similar to our efforts in the primary as well as staffing what we are calling “walk around events” such as concerts, farmers’ markets and other summer time events. No experience is necessary, you’ll just need to walk around and ask folks if they are registered to vote at their current address. Have them fill out a short voter registration form and that’s it!

To sign up for voter registration please email Dina at dphorsch@yahoo.com

Event Tabling

We will be attending events throughout the summer, such as First Friday Art Walk and July 4th at Drake Park and other events. We will need volunteers to staff our table for two-hour shifts. Your job will be passing out information, registering voters and selling Obama gear. Our first event will be First Friday on June 6th in downtown Bend.

If you are interested in Tabling Events please email Mary Ann Hart at itsmemaryann@gmail.com or Pete Horsch at petehorsch@gmail.com

House Party Events

During the primary we held a number of House Parties to invite friends and neighbors to learn more about Senator Obama. We plan to hold more of these events towards the end of the summer.

Anyone interested in hosting a House Party or helping by inviting potential Obama supporters, please email Gwen or Charlie Wysling at brazilcharlie@hotmail.com

Obama Works

Obama Works is a grassroots organization dedicated to promoting a new kind of politics. Inspired by Barack Obama's experience as a community organizer and his message that ordinary citizens can create real change, Obama Works seeks to unite politics and service by mobilizing Obama supporters to improve their neighborhoods through public service.

Please contact Sherry Boyd if you are interesting in learning more about our plans and would like to help. Her email is sboyd@teleport.com

New Office

Many of you have asked about our future office location. We are waiting for the local Democratic Party to finalize their plans for a General Election Campaign office. Pat Ackely and Phil Philiben will be our liaisons with the Deschutes Democrats. If you would like more information about getting involved with other local and statewide campaigns please email Pat at pat@ackley.com or Phil at philphil@bendcable.com.

The next Deschutes Democrats meeting is 7pm on June 12th at the Bend Community Center. We will have an Obama table at the meeting and hope to see lots of Obama supporters there. For more information check the Deschutes Dems website at www.deschutesdemocrats.org.

Thanks again for your great support and I know we are all looking forward to November.

Sincerely,

Rob Cohen

Barack Obama in Bend!!

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Fri, 09 May 2008 01:24:11 EDT

Senator Barack Obama will be in Bend on Saturday, May 10 at Summit High School. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. The event begins at 11:30 a.m. The event is free, but you must have tickets to attend.

Tickets will be distributed tomorrow, Friday, May 9 in the parking lot of the Bend Obama Headquarters at NE 4th & Greenwood Ave beginning at noon.

Support Bend Area Transit Workers!

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 10:39:36 EDT

BAT workers will rally at 4 pm Wednesday, April 16 in front of the Bend City Hall. Be there in your Obama gear to support local workers in their efforts to obtain a union contract and a living wage.

Obama Office to Open in Bend

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 11:01:48 EDT

Big news at last night's meeting -- plans are in the works to open a Central Oregon Obama Office at 373 NE Greenwood Ave in Bend. Several local supporters have raised enough money and if all goes well there will be a Grand Opening this Saturday!! Contact Jonathan Manton (jamanton@barackobama.com) if you have a laser printer, copy machine, tables, chairs or other office supplies to make available for at least two months. Watch for more details to follow.

Our table at the Bend Art Hop was an incredible success. So many Central Oregonians changed their party affiliation to Democrat in order to vote in the primary May 20! A big thank you to all the volunteers who braved the cold windy weather! Next event will be the Sisters Art Stroll this Friday, April 11. Contact Thom Gardner (thom@oregonobama.com) if you'd like to participate. Upcoming events include the Bend Earth Day Fair on Saturday, April 19 & the Redmond Art Event, Friday, April 25.

Dina Horsch (dphorsch@yahoo.com) and Maren Craig (mlcraig@q.com) have organized voter registration tables at Ray's Markets, Newport Market & Food 4 Less. Contact them if you'd like to get involved.

Jonathan would like to see volunteers registering people to vote at the following: Tues Apr 8 & Wed Apr 9 @ 6:30 pm at the Environmental Center on Kansas, Fri Apr 11 Free Ski Day @ Mt Bachelor, Thur Apr 10 & Fri Apr 11 @ High Desert Museum, Sat Apr 12 M.S. Walk at Les Scwaab Amphitheater. Bring voter registration forms, black pens and a clipboard.

Next Meeting: 6 pm Tuesday, April 15 at our new office: 373 NE Greenwood Ave (East of Bus 97 at NE 4th St)

April 1st Meeting a Success

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 01:36:55 EDT

Great turnout tonight at the Bend Library!

Oregon superdelegate Wayne Kinney spoke briefly about the role of the superdelegates in the nominating process. He will present a training at a future date on how to become a delegate for the Democratic Party of Oregon. If you're interested, check out their website www.oregondemocrats.org

Jonathan Manton our organizer from the Obama for America campaign spoke about the successful neighborhood canvass on Saturday. Another canvass training will be held this Saturday at 3 pm at the library. Then we will pair up and walk neighborhoods. See the event listing for details. After the canvassers return, we will need volunteers to enter the data they collect. Jonathan is also organizing phone calls to Oregon voters this week. If you'd like to get involved, contact him at jmanton@barackobama.com

Our next meeting will be Monday, April 7 at 6 pm in the library. See you there!

Another Great Meeting in Bend

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:49:44 EDT

Last night over 50 Obama supporters met to strategize for Central Oregon Obama success. Jonathan Manton our new field organizer from Obama for America spoke to us about his recent experiences in Nevada, California and Wyoming and what our next steps will be in Central Oregon.

Our next event will be a neighborhood voter registration canvass. We'll meet at the Bend Library this Saturday at 11 am for training and then we'll head out into the neighborhoods. If you want to participate, live in Central Oregon and don't want to drive into Bend, Jonathan will print a list of addresses in your area and send it to you. You can contact him at jmanton@barackobama.com or call him at 541-729-2923. Hope to see you Saturday!

C.O. for Barack Obama March 11 Meeting Notes

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:33:05 EDT

What a fantastic meeting tonight! Another great turnout of 40+ Obama supporters! We are on our way to a victory for Obama in Oregon on May 20.

Tonight we broke into groups to brainstorm on Voter Registration, Communication and Fundraising. Each group came up with new ideas and plans to implement them. A voter registration drive at COCC/OSU Cascades is in progress. We will provide volunteers for that and to set up voter registration tables throughout Central Oregon. Volunteers will write letters to the Bulletin, the Source and will contact local radio & TV stations. The fundraising group has some great ideas for age appropriate gatherings to encourage participation and generate income. Our next tabling event will be the Bend Peace Parade this Saturday, March 15 at 11:30 am on the corner of Wall and Newport.

If you want to participate in the Voter Registration Drive, contact Dina Horsch at dphorsch@yahoo.com. If you'd like to be a part of the Communications Team, contact Pam Cooper our new Public Relations Chair at nowcoop@yahoo.com. For letter writing, contact Arnie Wolfe at aswolfe@ilstu.edu. To participate in tabling, contact Pete Horsch at petehorsch@gmail.com. If you're interested in helping with the Fundraising, contact Dan Stephenson at mail@danstephenson.com.

Our next meeting is 6 pm Tuesday, March 25 at the Bend Public Library. Hope to see you there!

C.O. for Barack Obama Feb Meeting Notes

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 01:02:03 EST

Great meeting tonight!! What a lot of positive energy and enthusiasm and what a great turnout!!

Volunteers signed up to help with the website, host a house party on Sunday, help with the voter registration drive, organize a youth group, participate in the Bend Peace Parade, and table at the Art Hop and Earth Day in April. We had so much to talk about, we ran out of time so we've planned another meeting in two weeks. WOW!! Thank you everyone for stepping forward to make this happen in Central Oregon.

First up will be the House Party this Sunday, March 2nd at 4 pm at Carlos & Gwenn Wysling's house. I will be posting the details soon. Hope to see you there!

Deschutes Democrats Neighborhood Training

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 00:38:52 EST

The Deschutes Democrats asked if we would be interested in setting up an Obama table at their monthly meeting and I agreed. This is the first time they've asked me. Usually it's the other way around. Up until now they haven't seemed interested in committing to one particular presidential candidate, so this is very encouraging.

I attended their meeting Thursday night. They meet the 2nd Thursday of each month at the Bend Community Center at 7 pm. Two representatives from the Democratic National Party presented training sessions -- Attracting & Keeping Volunteers and Effective Neighborhood Organizing. I was very impressed by their professionalism, their enthusiasm and apparent effectiveness.

They asked for volunteers to commit to talking to 25 neighbors three times before the election. They will provide names, addresses and party affliations. They want us to update the information for them and make personal contact. We will be able to update our information online. It sounds very simple, so I signed up. I'll keep you posted.
Oh, and I'm also supposed to provide them with the names of two people who might be interested in doing the same thing in their neighborhood. So, please let me know if you're interested.

Super Tuesday in Central Oregon

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 03:26:42 EST

We're home after a great evening at the Bend Community Center watching Super Tuesday returns with fellow Deschutes Democrats. We set up our table early and had a prime spot visible to everyone. KTVZ & KOHD covered the event. With the votes evenly split after today's races, Oregon may still have the opportunity to decide who will be the Democratic candidate come May 20. Tonight Senator Obama won the straw poll in Bend with 72% of the vote.

Thanks Pete and Dina Horsch for tabling with us this evening.

Next up is Winterfest this Friday, Feb 8 through Sunday, Feb 10. Hope to see you there!

Excitement Building

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 15:06:45 EST

Exciting news I want to share...

The "YES WE CAN" video brought me to tears. I hope you'll take a few minutes to watch...http://yeswecansong.com

The Nation, MoveOn.org and Rep. Blumenauer's endorsement.

The L.A. Times endorsement of Senator Obama...http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-ed-dem3feb2,0,3530861.story

The Huffington Post ran an editorial giving all the reasons not to vote for Hilary Clinton...
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-pearce/hillarys-looming=electab_b_84549.html

Show Your Support: Super Tuesday & Bend Winterfest

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 02:00:30 EST

C.O. 4 Barack Obama will have a table at the Bend Community Center this Tuesday, Feb 5 for the Deschutes Democrats Super Tuesday event. If you'd like to be a part of the change happening in Central Oregon, sign up to volunteer for a few hours between 5 and 9 pm Tuesday.
Our Winterfest table will be near the ski races by Bend City Hall. Winterfest is Friday, Feb 8 thru Sunday, Feb 10. We can set up as early as 3 pm Friday. Pick a two hour time slot for Friday evening or between 11 am and 9 pm on Saturday.
RSVP for both events to itsmemaryann@gmail.com
You will receive an email confirmation.

C.O. for Barack Obama Jan Meeting Notes

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:15:41 EST

We had a great meeting last night. We talked about our most recent events, what's going on with the Deschutes Democrats, the candidates debates and what we'd like to do next to support Senator Obama.
Thursday, Jan 24, 7:30 pm, Jeff Merkley, U.S. Senate Candidate will be at the Bend Community Center, 1036 NE 5th St. Contact Courtney at 503-274-4439 or courtney@jeffmerkley.com for details and to RSVP.
Tuesday, Feb 5, beginning at 5 pm, the Deschutes Democrats will host a Super Tuesday Party at the Bend Community Center. Enjoy beer, wine, soft drinks and pizza. Watch the returns on wide screen TV or with your laptop via free wireless internet. $10 per person at the door. Email info@deschutesdems.org to reserve a spot.
We will be setting up a table with Obama literature at the Bend Winterfest downtown, Friday evening Feb 8, all day Saturday, Feb 9 and Sunday morning Feb 10. If you are interested in "tabling" for a few hours, contact Mary Ann Hart at itsmemaryann@gmail.com

Mary Ann's New Blog

Mary Ann from Bend OR — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 02:06:12 EST

Hi. This is my brand new Obama site. For some unknown reason I have been unable to log into my old site since the night of the Iowa caucuses. I've tried to reset my password to no avail. So, rather than waiting and waiting and waiting for help, I created a new gmail account, new site and new blog. If you want to reach me, you can do so at itsmemaryann@gmail.com. Mary Ann