Obama's New York Blog

Election day at NY HQ

Benjamin from New York, NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:25:22 EST

A record number of volunteers and a record number of calls to battleground states. New York hit this one out of the park.

And Natalie Portman stopped by to do some phonebanking and motivate the volunteers.

Last Day for Change

Benjamin from New York, NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:02:50 EST

Here's what you can do:

VOTE

GET OUT THE VOTE
Phonebanks are open tonight until 9pm to call battleground states. Come down and be a part of New York making history in this campaign.

The Scene at HQ-The Scene for the Final Two Days

Benjamin from New York, NY — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:49:48 EST

HQ has been so busy co-ordinating all of our wonderful volunteers, the blog has taken a back seat. Here's a taste of what's been going on.

The volunteers and staff at Obama HQ New York are fired up. The excitement created by occasional special visitors (Sarah Jessica Parker, Matthew Broderick, Peter Yarrow from Peter, Paul and Mary in the last few days) is but a brief spike before the volunteers are back to work calling voters in battleground states:

The street team is out there inspiring you to phonebank to help Get Out the Vote on Tuesday:

Back in quieter times we had a party for the HQ volunteers:

Come down and join the excitement here at HQ or at a phonebank near you, Monday and Tuesday; all day, both days.

Last Call for Change - Final Four Days

Benjamin from New York, NY — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 00:22:14 EDT

This is it!

We're coming down to the final stretch and Barack Obama needs your help now, more than ever before!

Please bring your cell phone, a charger and a few fun friends who care about change and join with thousands of your neighbors in the largest ever-attempted phone bank effort in New York state history. The Obama campaign is hosting several of these "mega call centers" all over New York, so invite your friends and family to make calls to voters in key battleground states and change America for years to come.

Visit http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/nylastcall to find a location near you.

New Yorkers in Florida!

Benjamin from New York, NY — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 01:27:09 EDT

Dispatch from Florida Volunteer Kristen

"Greetings from the sunniest battleground state!

After doing hometown duty in NYC and border state canvassing in PA, I headed down to Tampa, Florida last week to help win the Sunshine State once and for all (and hopefully, by more than a few hanging chads). The Early Voting push is in full swing at my post in Hillsborough County, which is THE swing county to watch this election. Here in the field, we are doing our darndest to get Obama supporters to the polls and counted before November 4th, and we are super busy rounding up our Obama army for the massive GOTV push starting this weekend. That means hitting the streets – and the phones – hard, and not taking “I’m busy” for an answer.

Speaking of early voting, turnout has been awesome so far, and we got a sweet break yesterday when Governor Crist extended early voting hours to 12 hours a day (long lines are a VERY good thing!). We were also downright giddy to find out that Jimmy Buffett would be doing a Parrotheads for Change rally at Tampa’s Ford Amphitheater this Sunday.

As for my personal experience, it has been nothing short of thrilling to be right in the thick of things, and it’s hard not to feel energized and encouraged by all of the passionate people I’ve had the pleasure to work with and chat up. Here in this Swing State, the Yes We Can spirit is alive and well, and we plan to ride it all the way to victory.

Oh, and to any New Yorkers thinking about heading down to Florida to help Get Out the Vote for Obama: The weather is absolutely beautiful. And we need you something fierce."

More kids for Obama

Benjamin from New York, NY — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:19:23 EDT

Report from Volunteer Andrea Scoppetta on the photo sets she posted:

"The first set was at The Moxie Spot in Brooklyn Heights. Daphne, a St. Ann's teacher, where my son, Luca goes to school, makes these original, fantastic, glittery, colorful Obama pins which children and their families decorate to send to canvassers in swing states to help GOTV. Daphne does not believe in selling the pins- her motto-"Obama can't be bought!"

She has made thousands of individually decorated pins for over a year now and gives them all away. We've given them to hundreds of volunteers and voters in the field, our children and our friends, as well as to the Biden and Obama family. I've also heard that they were featured in Teen Vogue recently, and people comment on them constantly.

I gave one to Obama, at the Alfred E Smith dinner, and he said it was "the prettiest pin" he's seen. It was moving-a real connection between grassroots activity and our candidate. Michelle Obama mentioned "grassroots glitter" in her speech at The Women's Leadership Forum in Chicago, and that is what these pins provide. They truly make people hopeful and happy. They help weary people smile and hold themselves upright.

The first set of photos are of children and their parents, grandparents, teachers and neighbors gathering together to decorate Daphne's pins on Friday evening from 5-9. Daphne shies away from recognition and sees her pins as a community effort. She's the pretty, petite, brunette with short hair and glasses in the photos.

The second group of photos is the Kids Rally For Hope, held this Sunday Oct. 26th in Madison Square Park from 3-5pm. Our children wrote a collective manifesto, sharing their hopes and dreams for the next President of The United States. We also helped the USO suport our troops overseas with children's notes and drawings. We asked our children to create signs that spoke to their hopes and dreams for their future. We decorated a "Wish Tree" with hopes for Obama and our world. We formed an inspiring children's marching band that sang, honked on their kazoos, played their tambourines and marched around Madison Park waving their handmade Obama signs and their American flags.

Both of these grassroots events embody the heart of the campaign. As Obama eloquently says: " Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change we seek." What better way to pass on his message of grassroots empowerment than through our children."

Volunteers speak up!

Benjamin from New York, NY — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 20:05:03 EDT

Some volunteers sent in a wonderful video about volunteering!

Virginia, help Barack Obama during the home stretch from Dan Ramirez on Vimeo.
(Links to two shorter versions: 2 minutes and 1 minute)

Please join us for the home stretch: Out-of-state calls and canvasses and overdrive in the Final Four Days!

Change: One Kernel At A Time from Sarah

Benjamin from New York, NY — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:00:15 EDT

As a steady-when-I’m-not-out-of-town-working volunteer for GO – Generation Obama, I’ve made it to a number of events. I’m an avid MSNBC watcher and have been known on occasion to tune in to the same show twice in one evening. Yes. Yes I do. So moving from yelling at my TV screen to volunteering at Obama events and actually participating was not a difficult transition. It was a call to arms. For me, no event is too big (comedy nights, debate parties) or too small (university panels on politics and race ).

But last night I hit the mother load. A benefit concert at the Hammerstein Ballroom where the likes of John Legend and India Arie were the warm-up acts, preceding Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel. Any way you look at it that’s an amazing ticket.

As one of about 40 volunteers who showed up to help the campaign (and catch a listen to a few musical legends along the way), I lucked into the plum assignment of working the popcorn station in the VIP lounge. Unfortunately, my popcorn maker was having technical difficulties. The performers, however, were most certainly not, rocking the venue into a state of frenzy.

Though I can say that passing Jon Bon Jovi at the bar, followed by Anna Wintour at the snack table were certainly highlights, they paled in comparison to the spirit of the evening. Listening to Billy and Bruce play each other’s hits, most with little practice, felt like watching an intimate jam session in someone’s basement. But everyone there was really attending for Obama, who took the stage at 11:30, eloquently reminding all of us that what we’ve all contributed so far has been vital to his success and that in this final sprint towards November 4th, the single greatest thing we can do to hurt the campaign is to stay home.

All I can say is, get out and volunteer.

10/18 NY to PA Drive for Change

Benjamin from New York, NY — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 01:26:12 EDT

From Volunteer Valentino:

On Saturday morning, 55 New Yorkers (including me, not a real New Yorker...) met at Port Authority Station and took a bus to Easton, PA.

In Easton the awesome people from the Obama office provided, as they kindly do every time, an energizing breakfast with coffee, donuts and pies made by local volunteers, and they drove us to our canvassing locations. One group stayed in Easton, another went to Nazareth and my group went to Bangor.

Before going door to door we had a brief training even though all of us had already been canvassing in the previous weeks and everybody was looking forward to getting started.

My group has been canvassing in a neighbourhood where most of the signs outside the houses were from Obama supporters, and we met many of them, and they were excited to go to the polls and vote for Obama. We also talked to undecided people and we did our best to explain the main issues of the Obama plan for changing America.

We had two canvass session, one in the morning and another in the afternoon after a great lunch provided by the wonderful Obama cooking volunteers.

Canvassing is always a great personal experience, very important for the campaign, and also a good opportunity to meet other people. If you haven't yet, please sign up for a Drive for Change event, or come again if you have!

NY Latino Obama Supporters Hold Phone Bank

Benjamin from New York, NY — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 11:39:26 EDT

Over the weekend, Latino Obama supporters gathered to make hundreds of calls to Latino voters in Florida and Pennsylvania.

To kick off the phone bank, several Latino elected officials, union leaders and community leader motivated the crowd by talking about why Senator Obama is the only candidate that will bring the change we need for Latino families and all Americans during these tough economic times.

In attendance were Assemblymember Félix Ortiz, Assemblymember Jose Rivera, Council member Joel Rivera, Sonia Ivany, of NYS AFL-CIO, Pete Gutierrez, of Teamsters, Agueda Arias of Local 888 UFCW, District Leader Maria Morillo and more.

Have you tried the tax calculator?

Benjamin from New York, NY — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:43:39 EDT

Obama-Biden Tax Calculator

Barack Obama and Joe Biden will cut taxes for 95% of working families, and provide at least three times as much tax relief for middle class families as John McCain and Sarah Palin. The Obama/Biden plan provides $1,000 of tax relief for workers and new tax benefits to help families pay for college, childcare and save for retirement.

More info here!

Oct 10 & 11 National Women's Leadership Issues Conference in Chicago

Benjamin from New York, NY — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:33:21 EDT

NY volunteer Andrea Scoppetta attended the National Women's Leadership Issues Conference in Chicago. Here are her photos!

Yes We Carve

Benjamin from New York, NY — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 16:14:21 EDT

Here's a really fun way to express your Obama support!

10/1/08 The Inspiration of Barack

Benjamin from New York, NY — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 15:12:57 EDT

Benjamin Yee attended a screening of "The Inspiration of Barack" at Columbia University. You can find out more about the film series produced by Qasim Basir at http://www.yeswecantour.com/

10/11 Hempstead 2 Phone Banking

Benjamin from New York, NY — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 13:21:56 EDT

Hempstead office had a second phone bank. In attendance were Community leaders and organizers including NY Assemblyman Hon. Charles Lavine, NY Assemblywoman Earlene Hooper (celebrating her Birthday), Nassau County Legislator Roger Corbin, former Mayor and first African American Republican James Garner of Hempstead, Joanne Arrington, Andre Huff (Campaign Manager of Hon. Earlene Hooper), Cryscell Andrews (candidate running for Hempstead Village Trustee), Candidate Kristen McElroy (Democrat for State Senate), local Judges, and more.

They also registered twenty-five new volunteers!

Recent Stories from the NY Deputy Field Organizers

Benjamin from New York, NY — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 14:37:43 EDT

Joe Parenteau in Ohio

I took the initiative to contact the Ohio Volunteer Coordinator, Rosie Goldensohn, myself in Columbus, Ohio by email. She was on the phone with me within 15 minutes after I sent my email. She arranged to send me to a county in Ohio, a very Red county, about 30 miles east of Columbus.

Driving up the quarter-mile driveway, I saw my hosts had cut up a couple of trees that had fallen down following the damage from Hurricane Ike. Turning the bend, I saw that they had had a backup generator cranking away—it is the only house with power in the area. This guy was a software programmer and an expert car mechanic. Talk about self-reliant Midwesterners! This was exactly the guy you want to be with if you were marooned on a desert island.

The newscasts said that power would be out for seven to eight days since Ohio had sent its repair crews down south to deal with hurricane damage down there. I figured there would be no campaign work going on for a few days—wrong, wrong, wrong! The next day, the Obama crew met at a local coffee house that still had power and wireless Internet access. All operations were moved to the coffee house for a couple of days. They didn’t miss a beat.

There were three Field Organizers, one Volunteer Coordinator and a Regional Manager who also managed three similar Obama offices in other counties. They had all gone through six weeks of training in Chicago. Their so-called ‘salaries’ were about enough to buy bread crusts. The rent on the office was $300 a month. The Obama Campaign provided the office with four laptop computers, one desktop computer, one laser printer, one top-notch copy machine and wireless internet access.

That was it. The staff had to live off the land like Roman Legionaires for the rest: they had to scrounge up tables and office furniture, office supplies, cars, housing, etc. Cars loaned by local Dem supporters; spare bedrooms supplied by local Obama supporters.

Luckily, I was assigned to one of the FO’s who was probably in his late 20’s, reflective, politically knowledgeable and smart as the dickens. The power in his guest accommodations was out for six days. Six days without a shower. Not one complaint. I didn’t even know his power had been out until he mentioned how great it felt to take a shower.

***

So my advice is this: Go to a swing state. The volunteers are everything. Without them, the entire organization grinds to a halt. For a lot of blue collar whites, all they need is the chance to talk to a middle-aged person similar to themselves, to convince themselves that it is probably OK to vote for a black guy. I had many elderly people tell me that they couldn’t vote for a black man. My standard response to them was something along the lines of:

“If you are not in love with Obama, then look at the issues. I’m pretty conservative, but I have two issues that cancel everything else out: medical coverage and jobs. And if you can’t vote Democrat for yourself, you still owe it to your kids and grandkids. The Republicans have ruled the U.S. for 32 of the last 40 years, and look where we are. They seduce people like you and me, because they can’t win without us.  They get our votes and then they screw us. Ever wonder why we are the last industrialized country in the world without a national health care system? Even South Korea has it. Why not us? The answer: ‘Republicans only look after the business interests that get rich on our inefficient health care system, and as long as Republicans rule, we’ll get screwed.’”

It was a pretty effective pitch. I meant every word of it.

Lynn Lieberman in Pennsylvania
I spent ten days in the West Chester, PA office. When you come in the door, this very creative pumpkin greets you:

As you can see, the front part is set up like a living room. What you don't see is a play area for kids so that Moms can come and phone bank while their children play. It was a busy place—lots of local volunteers.

Working in a battleground State was tough. By the end of a phone bank—or even registering students to vote—I sometimes felt defeated, having had an earful of negativity and misinformation. But interestingly enough, when I did my tally sheet, we were running neck-and-neck for Obama.
Best Regards to my fellow Campers!

Elissa Paskin in New Mexico
Elissa here in the Land of Enchantment New Mexico in the town of Taos. Check out our video encouraging people to vote:

http://mail.google.com/mail/?shva=1#inbox/11cca5c71462da7d

Everyone here is very energized. Early voting begins October 7th. We want to win the vote before November 4th!

Abby Pariser and Peter Gollon in Pennsylvania
Peter and I arrived at the Obama office in Northeast Philadelphia on Frankford Avenue and were sent out with voter registration clipboards to the Walmart Plaza on Roosevelt Parkway. What a busy place. We worked it for about an hour until some security guard came out and shooed us away because we were "partisan.” So we walked to the Home Depot and continued until it was dark and headed to our host family around 8:30PM—such lovely, warm, welcoming people.

The next day, we canvassed three blocks of attached row homes on North 9th Street near Wyoming. We met extremely nice folks and even registered a handful of voters. Only met one man who "is voting for our opposition because Obama is too radical." We said "Thank you for your time"—just as we'd been trained.

Friday night we (and the neighborhood and the campaign staff) were invited to a Debate Watch Party hosted by PA State Representative Dwight Evan. It was cool—we met lots of people and saw some whom we had met at the Obama office. We ate, watched half the debate and listened to it on NPR on the way to our second hosts' home in Wynnewood: another lovely Obama family.

The next day, we returned to the Oak Lanes office, got our VR clipboards again and returned to the Driver License office to register voters. It was good, lots of people to talk with. There was also a laundromat, which was a great in-and-out type location that allowed us to ask: "Are you registered to vote?"

Our DFO experience was both fun and interesting. We felt welcomed and appreciated.

Franklin D. Carson, Ph.D. in Philly

While serving as DFO in Fishtown, the highpoint in voter registration for me came the day two kids bicycled past me at the Girard Street station on the Blue Line as I called out “Are you registered to vote?” From half a block away, I saw one of them swerve, call to his buddy, turn around, and come back to me. It turns out that his 18th birthday will be November 2nd, 2 days before the election, and he asked me if he’d really be able to vote. Talking him through the completion of his first Voter Registration Form, I felt like I was in the presence of a coming-of-age ritual—his naiveté and eagerness touched something deep in me.

10/15 Debate Watch Party Reports

Benjamin from New York, NY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:49:24 EDT

Submitted by:
Al Benninghoff
President of Manhattan Young Democrats

The clock was quickly approaching 9PM, but a laid back Justin Krebs was calmly sipping beers in the back of DCTV despite the flurry of activity going on around him. Laughing Liberally, a faction of the nationwide organization Living Liberally, hosted a Final Debate Watch Party at DCTV as a part of the ongoing Hysterical Festival. Before the debates, several performers took the stage to expose the hilarity of the current state of American politics for the comedy event headlined by Lizz Winstead. Immediately afterward, Justin took the stage to remind people of ways they could get active in Living Liberally and directed them to sign up to volunteer for the Obama Campaign saying, "if you're only coming out to drink and talk about politics, you're not doing enough." This was the theme that would repeat itself throughout the night, in nearly every conversation.

Once the debate began, everyone quieted down. The crowd watched intently as the two candidates opened the discussion, breaking out sporadically to cheer on an Obama jab or laugh at McCain's exaggerated expressions. I left DCTV midway through to join my own group, the Manhattan Young Democrats, who were gathering at the Village Pour House. We had reserved the entire backroom and, when I arrived, were spilling over into other parts of the bar. It was standing room only and the vibe was definitely upbeat. Everyone toasted when McCain would reference "Joe the Plumber." On more than one occasion the room erupted in cheers, as they did when Senator Obama made his comments about McCain's attack ads saying more about the character of McCain than about Obama.

After the event, I made an announcement urging people to volunteer for the final days of the election. Dozens of people stuck around to ask questions about ways they could get involved. More than one person commented on the tremendous turnout and speculated on the organizing efforts of MYD. How had an event planned in only a few days - and centered on nothing but a television broadcast - draw over 200 people? The truth is that young people all over the country are getting interested, and through the campaign's efforts, getting involved in politics. This generation, more than any before it, recognizes the impact of their participation and the power of their influence over the future of the nation. You can see it in the level of discourse on the issues before, after, and during the debate. You can see it on their blogs, in their emails, and on their clothes. You can see it in the poll numbers, the registration numbers, and the attendance numbers. It starts with going to a bar, buying some beer, and yes, watching a debate. But, when it becomes volunteering in the Obama HQ or in a battleground state - on the streets on on the phone, volunteers giving their time and energy to do whatever it takes to ensure that the next four years are better than the last eight - it is no longer just an event: it's a movement.

Photos from other Debate Watch parties:

10/16 Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner

Benjamin from New York, NY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:44:06 EDT

Our very own Andrea Scopetta gives Barack the pins that a St. Ann's teacher has been making with her kids at the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner on October 16th.

10/12 Last Call for Change in Bryant Park

Benjamin from New York, NY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:23:41 EDT

It was 50 degrees and people could barely see their call sheets, but they kept going!

Join Last Call for Change events every weekend and the last four days before the election!

10/4-10/5 Camp Obama Manhattan

Benjamin from New York, NY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:07:03 EDT

Final Debate tonight!

Benjamin from New York, NY — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 18:44:31 EDT

The last Presidential Debate is tonight! Click for all Debate Watch Parties in NYC.

Oct 11 NY to PA Drive for Change

Benjamin from New York, NY — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:41:01 EDT

Upper East for Obama volunteers Pamela Mason, Kimberly Howard drove for change in PA!

Join up for Drive for Change!

9/26 Asian American Pacific Islander Press Conference

Benjamin from New York, NY — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 14:09:52 EDT

New York Asian Americans for Obama, South Asians for Obama, and Filipinos for Obama have a strong presence in New York City and encourage Asian American New Yorkers and other interested parties to subscribe to our respective list serves by clicking on the boxes to “Join Group” and to get actively involved in the Obama campaign in these last few critical weeks.

On September 21, 2008, New York Asian Americans for Obama and South Asians for Obama co-hosted a press conference on the steps of New York City’s City Hall, heralding their support for Sen. Obama for President, with featured speakers including State of California Controller John Chiang, Democratic Assembly Primary Winner Grace Meng, Edison, NJ Mayor Jun Choi, NYC Council Member John Liu, Rocky Chin, Theresa Thanjan, Korean American Political Association president Jennifer Kim, and UNITE’s International Vice President May Chen.

On September 26, 2008, New York Asian Americans for Obama, South Asians for Obama, and Filipinos for Obama co-hosted an organizing meeting for prospective Asian American volunteers at UNITE HERE in Manhattan, and some 80 people from all walks of life participated. Since that time, they have been organizing weekly trips to Philadelphia, Allentown and Northern Virginia to do voter registration and door- to-door canvassing (identifying Obama supporters and engaging undecided voters) as well as hosting debate watch parties.

Additionally, a number of New York-based Asian American donors, together with The Asian American Finance Committee and DNC APIA, South Asian American, and Indo-American Leadership Councils, hosted a fundraiser at the home of Virg Davies and Willard Taylor on October 6, 2008 that featured former President Bill Clinton and world-renowned cellist, Yo-Yo Ma, which raised funds for the Obama Victory Fund.

IT’S STILL NOT TOO LATE TO GET INVOLVED IN NEW YORK CITY! You can find events and campaigns to join on the main New York page and also through the Groups, including the following special opportunities.

Longer Term Trip to Ohio, Another Battleground State:

Please be in touch with Michael Yap at Michael.a.yap@gmail.com or Christine Chen at chrchen@yahoo.com if you are interested and able to make a 3-7 day commitment to volunteer in Ohio.

Weekend Trips to Virginia/Vietnamese Speakers Particularly Needed:

There is an especially critical need for Vietnamese speaking volunteers who are willing to go to Northern Virginia. Interested persons should contact Bao Nguyen, the Obama AAPI State Field Director, at BNguyen@vaobamaforchange.com or (571) 839-0641. Housing will be provided.

If you are New Yorkers who need help with transportation to Virginia, please contact Theresa Thanjan at t_thanjan@yahoo.com.

Asian Foreign Language Skills for Translation Assistance:

Asian Americans for Obama needs your help to translate documents. If you don't have time to go out of town, this is a great way to help the movement on your time. Please email Allan Benamer (allan@asianamericansforobama.com) with the following info: How many years of schooling have you had in English and your Asian language? Are you a native speaker of your Asian language? Do you have fonts for your language?

Join a group and get involved today!

Political Director Dawn Smalls' photos from AAPI Press Conference:

NY Kids for Obama

Benjamin from New York, NY — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 20:13:43 EDT

Obama volunteer Andrea Scoppetta attended two Brooklyn events last weekend. One was a rally with nyckids4obama “the grassroots movement that uses pint-sized power to put Obama in the House.”

The other was a fundraiser at a family home in which Dan Zane played for even more kids and they raised over $30,000.

Visit the kids’ blog to find out out upcoming events including THIRSTY FOR CHANGE LEMONADE WEEKEND Oct. 18 & 19 (kids all over NYC will sell lemonade then donate the proceeds to Obama) and the KIDS RALLY FOR HOPE '08, Sunday Oct. 26, 3-5pm at Madison Square Park.

http://nyckids4obama.blogspot.com/

Driving for Change: NY to PA - Valentino from New York

Benjamin from New York, NY — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:38:57 EDT

Valentino headed to Easton, PA, this past weekend to canvass swing voters. He has been canvassing every Saturday since July; on this past trip, he joined forty-some other New Yorkers to knock on doors in key battleground territory.

To organize or participate in a Drive For Change trip, visit sign up for Drive for Change. To make calls from home, visit try the innovative Neighbor to Neighbor tool.

JOIN LAST CALL FOR CHANGE Saturday and Sunday in NYC

Benjamin from New York, NY — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 17:12:04 EDT

This weekend we're holding phonebanks at campaign offices and other locations across New York so that Obama supporters can reach out to voters in swing states. No experience is needed to participate -- staff will give you all the resources you need to succeed. All you need to do is bring your cell phone. Nothing is more powerful than having undecided voters hear from ordinary folks about Barack and this campaign for change.

http://ny.barackobama.com/NYlastcall

Debating Parties III - Emmy from New York

Benjamin from New York, NY — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 11:18:39 EDT

It was only 8PM, and Nightingale’s in Stuyvesant Town was already filling up with enthusiastic Obama supporters. A host of organizations had come together to host this event—Asian-Americans for Obama, South Asians for Obama—and the pins sold at the sign-in table reflected their diversity. I bought a pin with Barack Obama’s picture and the Korean letters for “hope” on it for $2.

As 9PM approaches, the organizers of the event took the mic for a brief introduction and to rally the crowd. Anthony and Theresa spoke to everyone about the outreach trips they are organizing to send Asian language speakers down to key counties in Virginia to persuade swing voters. Korean and Vietnamese speakers are especially needed. Ben explained the campaign’s strategy in New York for the 28 days until Election Day; the goal is to call over two million voters over the next two weeks, and then organize a massive effort to make sure people get to the ballot box.

Everyone settled down once the debate began. Though there were outbursts of cheers and applause when Barack made a great point—the moment he called healthcare a 'right'‘ and not a 'responsibility' elicited a particularly large response—the general mood was much less raucous than the VP debates last week. It was clear that much of what the candidates said were things that had been heard before; there were no huge surprises.

After the debate wrapped up, people lingered to discuss impressions and sign up for volunteer activities. Anthony grabbed the mic again and announced that event had raised over one thousand dollars for the campaign, and thanked everyone for their support.

Stand up for the ideas and ideals you heard in the debate - join New York's Weekend of Action!

If this sounds like fun, find a Debate Watch party near you for the next, and final debate, right here in NY.

And, if you can make it to Hofstra, join us for huge pre-debate rally at 3pm.

- Submitted by Emmy from New York

Canvass Video from Pennsylvania

Benjamin from New York, NY — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 08:55:13 EDT

Canvassing in a battleground is the most effecive way to make difference. And, as some of friends and I found out, it's also a fun and satisfying way to spend your weekend - another group of us are planning to go again this weekend!

If you'd like to lead or join a canvassing trip, but need help convincing your friends to come, show them this great new video highlighting the process and tell them you can sign up to do either here.

A special thanks to Chas Danner, Sara Haile-Mariam, Shannon Manning and Emmy Harris-Suzuki who went to PA, had a great time and made a video to share that with the world.

Debating Parties II

Benjamin from New York, NY — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 12:13:46 EDT

Today is the second, Presidential debate. All around New York Obama groups will gather in bars, clubs and homes as they have before for Debate Watch Parties.

Last week it was the Vice-Presidential debate and I, like 300 others, crammed into Side Bar in Union Square to watch Sen. Joe Biden and Gov. Sarah Palin discuss the issues before the American public. Watching dueling politicans shoulder to shoulder with hundreds of Obama supporters was actually a really fun way to spend my evening. There was whooping and hollering every time Joe Biden made his point and, while everyone was respectful of Palin, there was laughter every time she winked at us.

The Debate Watch Party was a huge success, so much so that the media came to share the experience. MSNBC even handed out Debate Watch Party hats. Ultimately, though, it wasn't the free hats or 15 minutes of fame but the excellent performance of Joe Biden that left the crowd with a sense of happy satisfaction.

Find a Debate Watch Party near you with the Volunteer Event Map.

Hugs For Obama - Tyrone and Pablo in Long Island

Benjamin from New York, NY — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:16:50 EDT

On Saturday, October 4, 2008, local organizers, community leaders, and elected officials of Long Island, New York assembled together to support and help push the Obama for America 2008 Campaign for Change.

Hugs for Obama led by community leaders Pablo Sinclair of Westbury, Tyrone Sylvester of Massapequa, and Eugenia Agard, Hugs for Obama founder and property owner of the campaign office space, mobilized the Hugs office within days of meeting.

The Hugs for Obama Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony brought about more than four hundred people to talk with officials, community leaders and organizers about how supporters could volunteer and get involved to most help America's Democratic Presidential Nominee, Senator Barack Obama. The Hugs for Obama Grand Opening day brought together many elected officials that include, U.S. Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy, New York State Senator Craig Johnson, Assemblyman Charles Lavine, Nassau County Legislator Roger H. Corbin, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper and Town of Hempstead Councilman Robert Troiano.

Westbury Hugs for Obama, serves as a niche group of campaign leaders specializing in helping to drive grassroots forces dedicated to efforts such as the LI/NY Phone Bank Leadership Cross State Team. Hugs operations are to maintain focus upon battleground states to support areas like Pennsylvania, Ohio and Virginia with voter outreach Get Out the Vote efforts.

This aggressive phone banking operation plans help Long Island ‘spread the word’ and ‘make a difference’, two principles of a personal formula to help Barack Obama win on Election Day. Hugs' first two days of operations resulted in more than 150 new volunteers and 900 calls to the state of Pennsylvania.

This was one of the most exciting and greatest weekends for Barack Obama in Nassau County because so many elected officials had gathered in unified representation and sending a strong message of undivided support throughout the broader Nassau community and to their representation for Obama for America important to Election Day.

As community leaders, Hugs pride themselves in their program initiatives for others to give Barack a Hug, by committing to make 125 phone bank calls within 7 days.
Organizers, Pablo Sinclair and Tyrone Sylvester were proud of their unique accomplishment in Westbury.

- Submitted by Tyrone and Pablo in Long Island

Camp Obama: Harlem Edition - Clare from New York

Benjamin from New York, NY — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 19:07:24 EDT

Spending the weekend at 'Camp Obama' was a really special experience for me. Walking into the hall at the start of the day I was struck by the broad spectrum of people, people of all ages, races, male and female all united in their desire to help change America for the better. The passion and strength of grassroots activism makes this election campaign truly groundbreaking. After an inspiring welcome and overview of the days agenda and campaign goals we approached the 'Story of Self'. Drawing on Barack Obama's 2004 DNC speech as the ultimate 'Story of Self', we heard the stories of all the Camp Obama volunteers. The uplifting and motivating stories I heard by the wide variety of people and backgrounds that have come together in this campaign revealed the values that drive us to act and the personal experiences that tie politics to people.

Then it was down to the issues like the economy, healthcare, iraq; understanding the key differences in policy between Sen Obama and Sen McCain and a way to present this information to counteract the familiar, and untrue, refrain of 'All talk No Substance'. The goal of the weekend was to equip us with the skills we will need to talk directly to voters, train and organise other volunteers to build the campaign to get the most voters to turn out on election day. As a course in grassroots mobilization we learnt a great deal on how to talk with voters, organise canvassing and the efforts behind a phonebank. Not only will this knowledge help us help Barack Obama but, as an exercise in personal development of skills and team building, it will benefit us and our communities now and beyond this election.

Day 2 introduced us to 'New Media' and the internet as a tool for reaching and coordinating the masses. Offering opportunities for everyone to get involved in the campaign at all levels with things like Neighbor-to-Neighbor, text message alerts and downloadable materials. We heard from a Field Organiser out on the ground in Pennsylvania about the time and energy needed in the countdown to Nov 4th, all preparing us for our deployment to battleground states in the upcoming days. It was a great couple of days, and I know we all left Camp Obama fired up and ready to go.

- Submitted by Clare from New York

Debating Parties

Benjamin from New York, NY — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 07:08:51 EDT

Last thursday 57 million people watched the first Presidential debate; over a hundred of which were packed into New York's Mansion. Hosted by Generation Obama, the event drew a huge crowd anxious to see how the candidates would spell out their vision of the future.

Before the debate began, Jeremy Goldberg, a co-chair of Gen O, gave an impasioned speech calling on people not only to watch, but to do. He invited people to volunteer and representatives from the Obama campaign were on hand to accept all offers.

Although largely composed of young professionals supporting Obama, there were, intermingled in the crowd, several McCain supporters whose views, while respected, were drowned out by the thunderous applause unleashed every time Obama drove a point home on the economy, Iraq or foreign policy.

The plush interior of Mansion, including suade couches and large projection screens mounted high on the walls against the balcony, made the venue a fantastic location to both enjoy a party and follow a political debate. The only drawback being that to get a good seat you had to show up well in advance. Still, attendees sat in the stairwells and on sofa backs for over an hour to get a glimpse of what the future of the country might be.

Tonight, Joe Biden and Sarah Palin will have their own debate - if a party sounds like fun find an upcoming debate watch party near you. And since taking action is more rewarding than watching, sign up to volunteer here.

Hitting the Streets in Easton, PA

Benjamin from New York, NY — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:34:57 EDT

When the election is viewed through cable news, and blogs, the dizzying whirlwind of modern media, it can be hard to tell what matters. But when you talk to someone at their door it is easy to explain the stakes in this election. We carried Barack’s message of tax reform to the doors of Easton, telling people about his tax cut for 95% of Americans, and his promise to put the middle class first in his administration. There is no substitute for this kind of in-person, one-on-one contact, but it does not happen by itself. It takes a skilled organizer to set things in motion, and it takes a committed volunteer corps to hit the streets and get on the phones. After a day spent in northeastern Pennsylvania, I am happy to report that they have both in Easton.

- Excerpted from a post by Kevin in Pennsylvania. Read the full post here.

And sign up for your own PA canvassing experience here.

Calling All Neighbor-to-Neighbor Users!

Benjamin from New York, NY — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:06:16 EDT

For those of you who use Neighbor-to-Neighbor (n2n) to get involved or those of you who want to start, tomorrow there will be an online "webinar" with CHICAGO! Jon Carson, the campaign's National Field Director, will be on the call to talk to you about the campaign's strategy and how you can use n2n to make a big difference in this election.

The conference call and webinar take place

Today (October 1st) at 7:30 p.m.
Register, if you are able, at my.barackobama.com/nywebinar

At 7:30pm call 703-259-9001 and go online, if you are able, to my.barackobama.com/nywebinar. The access number for the conference call is 332-034-252.

Help make a difference with n2n and Barack Obama!

Camp Obamas

Benjamin from New York, NY — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:33:05 EDT

The Obama Campaign in New York has been carrying on with its Camp Obama’s. Here’s a little update.

Enthusiastic Camp Obama attendees have gathered together in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Rockland (Hudson Valley) and Mineola (Long Island) in the past two weeks. Despite the gorgeous weather every week, the camp has consistently packed union halls, college gyms and Democratic club headquarters; although last week's meeting in Rockland had a very sunny storefront office.

At the camps the Obama staff leads activities and training sessions. Introductions move smoothly into our first session on communication skills: "The Story of Self". The breakout sessions always animate the room and eager to learn campers turn a simple power point presentation into inspiring speeches and hilarious role-plays. And oftentimes attendees leave the event requesting to be deployed to Pennsylvania with fellow alumni as they become fast friends.

The last two weeks has been a successful string of Camp Obamas whose members will add to the Obama blue in PA!

If you can give 4-5 continuous weeks in PA, sign up for your own Camp Obama. Next we’ll have sessions in Buffalo/Rochester and NYC.

You can also volunteer in New York or canvass in PA.

Camp Obama in Mineola, LI

Camp Obama in Suffern, Rockland

Driving for Change in PA - Emmy in New York (and Pennsylvania)

Benjamin from New York, NY — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 16:20:40 EDT

The ride from New York City to the battleground neighborhoods of northeast Pennsylvania takes us approximately two hours. There are five of us crammed into the car, and we blast cheesy pop-rock all the way down, discussing the presidential debates from the night before and trying our best not to get lost. We roll into the parking lot of the appointed WaWa—a fantastic convenience store that unfortunately hasn't yet infiltrated New York—and see a large group of canvassers proudly sporting their Obama gear and listening to Isaac and Zack, the field organizers, giving them the low-down on what they'll be doing that day.

I join the circle of volunteers—over the course of the day, it becomes clear just how diverse these volunteers are; there are teenagers too young to vote, seniors, men and women from all over—and listen in. Canvassers go out in pairs, armed with a manila envelope with a map stapled to the outside and a list of undecided or unregistered voters within; the idea is to knock on the door of every dot on the map and talk to as many folks as possible. Once the logistics are taken care of, Zack takes the lead on talking strategy: "Try to understand what issues matter to these undecided voters. Discuss the economy. Emphasize Obama's commitment to the middle class." The manila envelope also includes an easy-to-understand breakdown of Obama's major policies (a big emphasis on taxes and healthcare), so canvassers can get up to speed on the specifics and field questions. Everyone is antsy to get going, and after a final round of questions, people jump into their cars in twos and threes and head on their way. Zack and Isaac have their work cut out for them, though: even as the first group of volunteers head out, more are pulling up.

Our canvassing team consists of Kate, her 17-year-old son Kai, and his friend, Jake; this is Kai and Jake's way of helping Obama, since they're both too young to vote. We drive over to the neighborhood indicated on our map—it turns out to be a pretty, quiet suburb of two- and three- family homes. Yet despite the veneer of calm, it's clear based on the long list of names in our packet and the many McCain lawn signs that this is the epitome of a battleground district. We start knocking. Among the people who are willing to speak with us is an 87-year old diehard Democrat who invites us into her living room to talk politics; a young man in his 20s who signed up to volunteer for the campaign on the spot; and a remarkable woman in her mid-40s who had never voted before the Democratic primaries earlier this year and was "leaning Obama" after self-educating on the candidates. It's striking just how many people are willing to discuss the issues with perfect strangers; there's a real sense of urgency and vitality in the back-and-forth.

After five hours, we've finished off the packet. We head back to WaWa HQ and hand over the materials to Zack and learn about the stats for the day: roughly 2,500 doors knocked and 1,200 contacts made. Everyone crowds around the makeshift "office" (a.k.a., Zack's car trunk) to swap stories before heading home (or out, for Philly cheesesteak—an apropos way to wrap up this truly Pennsylvanian experience) in high spirits.

It doesn't get any more grassroots (and satisfying) than these voter-to-voter conversations about where we want the country to go, and who should be leading us there. Sign up here to go canvassing in PA yourself or volunteer in New York.

- Submitted by Emmy in New York

Wall Street Press Conferences Addresses Economic Crisis - Jeff in NYC

Benjamin from New York, NY — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 12:44:22 EDT

Over a hundred New Yorkers gathered outside the Federal Reserve Monday afternoon as New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and New York City Comptroller Bill Thompson discussed the latest financial crisis. Most in attendance were hopeful that the worst of the crisis had passed. But, many others were apprehensive about the security of their jobs, about the state of their mortgages and about the value of their 401Ks.

DiNapoli, and later Thompson, talked about McCain's recent plan for deregulation of health care and the privatization of Social Security. According to the speakers, McCain's latest plan for Americans' health care means more of the same deregulation that has created today's economic crisis. For many Americans already struggling under the disastrous Bush-McCain deregulation economic policies, the call for continued deregulation was seen as more of the same failed policy and hardly the "change" advocated by the McCain camp.

Those in attendance clearly seemed unhappy with the McCain proposals. One local New Yorker held a sign which read, "First Banks. Now Health Care? No Thanks, John!". Another, "Like Bush's Economy? Hire McCain".

The press conference was opened up by Senator Hillary Clinton. In recent days, Clinton has called for a moratorium on housing foreclosures. Many Obama supporters cheered and snapped cell-phone pictures as Senator Hillary Clinton addressed the media.

-A submission from Jeff in New York City

Long Island Rallies Female Counterparts in Pennsylvania - Susannah Mrazek

Benjamin from New York, NY — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:35:08 EDT

This past Saturday, women from across Long Island came to rally their
counterparts in Pennsylvania who barnstormed the state in the name of
solidarity. Mother, advocate and Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy led
the "Women to Women" rally on the steps of Glen Cove City Hall where
she called for all women to get involved in the Obama for America
campaign and to reach out to women everywhere.

Over fifty women from all walks of life, held signs above their heads
and cheered as Congresswoman McCarthy conferenced in a group
of women who were canvassing in West Philadelphia. Excited woops and
shouts came from the crowd in Philly as the Congresswoman finished,
"and remember, above all," she said, "we are all women."

-Susannah Mrazek

Women for the Change We Need - Sara Haile-Mariam

Benjamin from New York, NY — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 11:30:52 EDT

On an already warm afternoon, things got pretty fired up this Sunday on the steps of City Hall. People passing by stopped to look in on the commotion as the words "New York State, Obama 0-8" echoed throughout downtown Manhattan as women from across New York gathered to show their support for Senator Obama at a Women for Obama Press Conference.

Every age, every race, every background was represented. "Clinton supporters for Obama" sported buttons and were welcomed with open arms. Today, we were Americans first; coming together to acknowledge how much was at stake in this election.
There was an inspiring lineup of speakers from Councilwoman Letitia James who was often interrupted with shouts of "yes we can", to Kathleen Turner who discussed her battle with rheumatoid arthritis and the pain she felt when she considered the women who were not fortunate enough to have health care. Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez, Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins, Senator Liz Kruegar, and Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum, all electrified the crowd as they shared their stories and made it clear that a vote for Senator Obama was a vote for women.

As I listened to these women speak, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude and commonality. Everyone who spoke and attended the conference understood that their votes would not only determine the outcome of this election, but also, the kind of country we passed on to the next generation. It was in this spirit, that I, a college student, was given the opportunity to deliver the following remarks.

"I hope for a world where we might all be judged not by our attributes but by our ambitions. I see two very different tickets in this election - they are different, not because of the people on them, but because of what electing one of them might mean to my future and to your children's futures.

I know that we are being told that we should reconsider one of these tickets simply because of the woman on it - and it's in these moments that I feel privileged to have the right to choose. To be able to say, with all due respect, thanks but no thanks - I'm placing my hope with a ticket that will honor the legacy of the brave Americans who have fought before us, a ticket that will honor the legacy of the brave women whose shoulders we stand on today. Women like Susan B Anthony, and Elizabeth Cady who fought for the right to vote, women like Clara Barton who founded the Red Cross, Elizabeth Blackwell the first woman awarded with a medical degree, Marie Curie the first woman to win a Noble Peace Prize and women like Hillary Rodham Clinton, who has put 18 million cracks into the highest hardest ceiling. These trail blazers would not accept an America where woman who desire equal pay are told to enlist in more education and training…We owe it to these women to continue their legacy. Today I call on women from across this great country to stand with us, to vote for change, to cast your ballots with your children in mind. We need you; we cannot do this without you. On November 4th we can take a step towards rectifying the disastrous policies of the last eight years by sending Barack Obama and Joe Biden to the White House to begin the process of reclaiming the American dream for every American and ensuring that it remains viable for the next generation. “Together, we can work towards ensuring that the promise of this country, is reflected in the lives of its citizens."

- Sara Haile-Mariam

Find new events here and sign up to get involved here.

Canvassing Through Allentown - Jake Goldman

Benjamin from New York, NY — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 12:26:00 EDT

"The only way to convince those undecided voters to help this country steer clear of another presidential blunder is to make ourselves visible. There's still time to show our faces in these neighborhoods. One time isn't enough. Get out to Ohio or Pennsylvania or Nevada. People living in these homes may slam doors in your faces. They might curse at you or sigh heavily or flash a fake smile, hoping that'll make you leave. It doesn't matter. They'll remember you came and they'll remember it even more when you come back. Just being a presence shows the urgency of all this. I especially urge you to do this if you don't want 'another 4 years like the last eight.'"

- Excerpted from Canvassing Through Allentown by Jake Goldman in The Huffington Post

Read the full article here.

Camp Obama - Round II

Benjamin from New York, NY — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 11:49:37 EDT

Camp Obama only gets better and the second Camp Obama held in New York City was another huge success. Over 100 people, all committed to spending at least 5 weeks or more in a battlegound state, filled the gathering room of the Teamsters Union Hall. There, they learned about all the tools of the organizing trade – how to run phonebanks, lead canvassing groups, speak to voters and use online tools like Neighbor to Neighbor and campaign text messages (text NY to 62262) (you can do it too, just click the links!).

By Sunday, after a weekend of sharing stories, tactics, experiences and laughter, the attendees affirmed their commitments to make a difference where it counts – in the field. To rounds of applause and supportive cheers, members spoke of their determination to effect change and inspire others with their new skills.

If you would like to learn about how you can attend a Camp Obama, click here.

In Commemoration of September 11, 2001

Benjamin from New York, NY — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:07:17 EDT

Today, the nation honors the memories of those lives lost on September 11, 2001. On the seventh anniversary of the September 11th attacks, Senator Obama will join Senator McCain to visit Ground Zero. Senator Obama will participate in the ServiceNation presidential forum in New York City. Senator Joe Biden will meet with first responders in Parma, Ohio at the American Legion Post. He will also attend ServiceNation’s Presidential Forum on Service in New York.

The Obama campaign released the following statement from Senator Barack Obama on the Anniversary of the 9/11 Attacks:

Today, we honor the memory of each and every life that was lost on September 11, 2001, and grieve with the family and friends who lost a loved one in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. We will never forget those who died. We will always remember the heroic efforts of our firefighters, police and emergency responders, and those who sacrificed their own lives on Flight 93 to protect their fellow Americans. And we give thanks for the Americans defending our security in our communities at home, and in our military abroad.

On 9/11, Americans across our great country came together to stand with the families of the victims, to donate blood, to give to charity, and to say a prayer for our country. Let us renew that spirit of service and that sense of common purpose. Let us remember that the terrorists responsible for 9/11 are still at large, and must be brought to justice. Let us resolve to defeat terrorist networks, defend the American homeland, stand up for the enduring American values that we cherish, and seek a new birth of freedom at home and around the world.

Camp Obama is in Session

Benjamin from New York, NY — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 20:43:35 EDT

On August 23-24 Obama for America hosted its most recent Camp Obama in New York. Over 100 supporters dedicated to change made the commitment to relocate to battleground states and received special training in the tactics and tools of field organizing.

These intrepid individuals will be sent to important swing states in the upcoming weeks as Deputy Field Organizers to help the official Field Offices reach out to communities and organize phonebanks and canvasses.

With the success of the last Camp Obama, the campaign has committed itself to training hundreds more at weekly Camp Obama trainings held throughout New York State. If you can make a commitment to a battleground state and want to participate in a truly significant way, check out Camp Obama.

The First (Official) Phonebank

Benjamin from New York, NY — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 20:38:15 EDT

The New York office wasted no time getting phonebanks started in New York City, holding one in Brooklyn last Wednesday and a second the day after. Excited volunteers from around the city attended to make calls for shifts in the 4 hour phonebanks. Both events were great successes and helped pave the way for the upcoming Camp Obama trainings. Sign up for similar opportunities in your area and check out the photos from Thursday’s phonebank at the Teamsters Union below.

Labor Day of Action

Benjamin from New York, NY — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 19:43:15 EDT

The Obama for America campaign kicked off the September with a Day of Action. Over 150 supporters gathered at the Teamsters Union Local 237 to learn more about the campaign’s efforts in New York and how they could get involved. Highlights of the session included a discussion the campaign’s 50 state strategy and the new Neighbor-to-Neighbor online tool – allowing users to reach out to voters and volunteers in their neighborhood.

Afterwards, attendees met campaign staff, signed up to volunteer and committed to travel to battleground states.