Perry Rosenstein's Blog

Election Watch Parties

Perry Rosenstein — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:58:57 EST

Join fellow Democrats and Barack supporters at an election watch party. Let's enjoy the evening together as the results come in. The parties all begin after the polls close at 7pm.

Here are the details:

Las Vegas
Rio Hotel
Brasilia Ballroom
3700 W. Flamingo
Las Vegas, NV

Reno
Grand Sierra Resort
Nevada Room
2500 E. 2nd Street
Reno, NV

Elko
Elko Red Lion
Humboldt Room
2065 Idaho St.
Elko, NV

Pahrump
Our Bar
3720 W. Bell Vista
Pahrump, NV

This is it.

Perry Rosenstein — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 11:33:29 EST

Election Day is here. Find your polling location and go vote if you haven't already. And be sure to watch the short video below so you know your rights before heading to the polls.

Already voted? Take two hours of your time and help get out the vote in your neighborhood. It's not too late to knock on doors, drive neighbors to the polls, and make a difference in your community.

The course of this nation will be set today. Remember Barack's words: This is our moment. This is our time. Now let's go change the world.

Know Your Voting Rights

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:43:35 EST

Tomorrow is election day. Be sure to know when, where, and how to vote.

Watch this short video below to make sure you know your rights as a Nevada voter.

The main takeaways from this video are:

You can vote in Nevada from 7AM-7PM on Tuesday, November 4.
If you get in line before 7PM, stay in line.
First time voters should bring a Nevada driver's license, state or Federal ID card, or a student ID card.
If you have problems, don't ever leave without voting or calling 1-877-OBAMA-NV.

Today is the last day to vote early!

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 15:10:28 EDT

Take Nevada Day to vote early for Senator Obama. Voting early is convenient -- you'll avoid the potentially longer lines on election day -- and is a vote in the bank for Barack.

Watch the video below and find your nearest early vote location.

Saturday: Barack Obama in Henderson

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:53:10 EDT

Please join Senator Obama and fellow Barack supporters for a Change We Need Rally in Henderson.

Here are the details:

Change We Need Rally
with Senator Barack Obama
Coronado High School Football Field
1001 Coronado Drive
Henderson, Nevada 89052
Saturday, November 1st
Doors Open: 7:00 a.m.
Click here to RSVP

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required; however an RSVP is strongly encouraged.

Barack in Nevada: Watch the Video

Perry Rosenstein — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:25:28 EDT

Last Saturday, Barack was in Nevada. Check out what he had to say.

Once you've watched the video, sign up to help get out the vote on election day. A couple of hours of your time could change this country -- and the world -- for years to come.

There are only six days left in this election. After the last eight years, we've all learned that we can't take any election for granted.

Take Election Day Off for Barack

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:30:27 EDT

A letter from National Field Director Jon Carson.

Friend --
Ask your Boss. Ask your Professor.
Take Election Day off and volunteer to make history.
Watch this video and sign up to help get out the vote on Tuesday, November 4th
This election will be decided by what this grassroots movement can accomplish on Election Day.
We have volunteer shifts to fill throughout the day -- make calls, knock on doors, and make sure your fellow voters get to the polls.
No previous experience is required. Sign up now to take the day off and make history on November 4th:
http://my.barackobama.com/taketheday
Thanks,
Jon
P.S. -- This Wednesday, October 29th, supporters are gathering in homes across the country to watch Barack's 30-minute primetime presentation and make phone calls to voters in battleground states.
Sign up to host or attend a Last Call for Change house party

Monday: Michelle Obama in Las Vegas

Perry Rosenstein — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 18:58:26 EDT

Please join Michelle Obama and fellow Barack and Michelle supporters on Monday, October 27 for a Change We Need Rally.

Here are the details:

Doolittle Park
1950 J Street
Las Vegas, NV 89106
Doors Open: 7:00 p.m.
Program Begins: 9:15 p.m.
Click here to RSVP

SATURDAY: Barack Obama in Las Vegas, Reno

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:10:12 EDT

Join Barack Obama and fellow supporters at Early Vote for Change Rallies in Las Vegas and Reno on Saturday, October 25.

Here are the details:

Las Vegas
Bonanza High School
Judy K. Cameron Stadium
6665 Del Rey Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89146
Gates Open: 12:00 p.m.
Program Begins: 3:00 p.m.
Click here to RSVP

Reno
Peccole Stadium
University of Nevada, Reno
Reno, NV
Doors Open: 7:30 AM
Click here to RSVP

The Election Begins Tomorrow

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 21:18:43 EDT

We're finally here.

Starting Saturday, October 18, you can cast your vote for Senator Obama here in Nevada. Take this opportunity to vote early for Barack when lines are short.

Click here to find your early vote location.

Watch the video below to meet some people who will vote early and learn more about early vote.

Former President Bill Clinton in Las Vegas, Elko, Reno

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 20:49:30 EDT

Join President Clinton and fellow Obama supporters for Change We Need rallies in Las Vegas on Sunday afternoon, and in Elko and Reno on Monday morning. President Clinton will talk about Barack's vision for creating the kind of change we need.

Here are the details:

Sunday, October 19 - Las Vegas
Chaparral High School
Outside the Gym in the Atrium
3850 Annie Oakley Dr
Las Vegas, NV 89121
Doors Open: 3:30 p.m.
Click here to RSVP

Monday, October 20 - Elko
Great Basin College
1500 College Pkwy
Elko, NV 89801
Doors Open: 8:00 a.m.
Click here to RSVP

Monday, October 20 - Reno
Truckee Meadows Community College
7000 Dandini Blvd
Reno, NV 89512
Doors Open: 10:30 a.m.
Click here to RSVP

These events are free and open to the public.

FRIDAY: Senator Joe Biden in Henderson, Secretary Madeline Albright in Las Vegas

Perry Rosenstein — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:28:31 EDT

Friday, October 17 is an especially exciting day for Nevada. On the day before Early Voting begins all across the state, Clark County will host a Change We Need Rally with Vice Presidential Candidate Joe Biden and a National Security Conversation with Former Secretary of State Madeline Albright.

Here are the details:

Change We Need Rally
with Senator Joe Biden
Morrell Park
500 Harris Street
Henderson, NV
Friday, October 17th
Gates Open: 4:30 p.m.
Click here to RSVP

National Security Conversation
with Secretary Madeline Albright
UNLV Student Union- Room 207
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
4505 Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV
Friday, October 17th
Doors Open: 10:45 a.m.
Click here to RSVP

Watch the Debate with Your Neighbors

Perry Rosenstein — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 13:54:18 EDT

Tomorrow, Senator Barack Obama will debate Senator McCain for the third and final time. Barack supporters all across Nevada will meet at 5:30pm to watch the debate with their neighbors. Here are a few locations:

Paradise Cantina - Las Vegas
4480 Paradise Rd
Las Vegas, NV 89169
Click here to RSVP

Amendment 21 Grill & Sports Bar - Reno
425 South Virginia Street
Reno, NV 89501
Click here to RSVP

Latino Advisory Committee Watch Party at Fresh Mex - Reno
985 W 5th St
Reno, NV 89503
Click here to RSVP

To find more debate watch parties on my.barackobama.com, click here.

Join Justin Timberlake Tomorrow in Las Vegas

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 15:56:17 EDT

Please join the Nevada Campaign for Change this Saturday, October 11th, for the "Last Chance for Change" Rally and Canvass Kickoff featuring Justin Timberlake.

Here are the details:

"Last Chance for Change" Rally and Canvass Kickoff
with Justin Timberlake
Clark County Amphitheater
500 South Grand Central Parkway
Las Vegas, NV

Saturday, October 11th
Doors open: 10:00 a.m.

Click here to RSVP for the Justin Timberlake rally and canvass kickoff.

Don't miss out on one of your last chances to register to vote.There are only a few days left before the deadline, so bring your friends and get registered at the rally.

Following the rally, volunteers will be going door-to-door to talk to voters. Canvass packets may be picked up at regularly scheduled events or at the rally.

Join Senator Tom Daschle in Reno on Tuesday, Las Vegas on Wednesday

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 12:40:31 EDT

Senator Tom Daschle will join Reno natives at Sierra Gold in Reno to watch the Presidential Debate on Tuesday, and will head down to Las Vegas to discuss Senior issues Wednesday morning in Las Vegas.

Here are the details:

Debate Watch Party
With Senator Tom Daschle
Sierra Gold
680 S Meadows Pkwy
Reno, NV 89521
October 7, 5:30pm
Click here to RSVP

Senior Issues Discussion
With Senator Tom Daschle
2475 Chandler Ave
Suite 4
Las Vegas, NV 89120
October 8, 10:30am
Click here to RSVP

Recap: Obama Women Participate in Susan Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Run

Perry Rosenstein — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 20:34:17 EDT

Northern Nevada Women for Obama participated at the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation run at UNR this Sunday. Women for Obama understand the critical role we play in this election as well as the candidate who is invested in protecting the health and security of our families.

Health care is a central difference between the two tickets. The stakes for reforming America's broken health care system are particularly high for women. The majority of our nations uninsured are women, and women also are the nation's primary caregivers of seniors, Americans with disabilities and children. Obama-Biden will expand quality affordable health care to all and ensure that insurance companies cannot discriminate for pre-existing conditions.

Get involved with women's issues and the Obama campaign by joining the Nevada Women for Obama group. Together, we can help reshape Washington.

Sunday: Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano Holds Economic Town Hall at UNR

Perry Rosenstein — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 14:43:44 EDT

On Sunday October 5, Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano will campaign for Barack Obama in Reno, holding an economic town hall with Washoe County voters at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Here are the details:

University of Nevada-Reno
Joe Crowley Student Union - 3rd Floor, Theatre
87 Stadium Way
Reno, NV 89557
1:30 p.m.

This event is free and open to the public. An RSVP is strongly encouraged.

Click here to RSVP.

Register to Vote Right Now!

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 18:53:23 EDT

Check out this video about the urgency of registering to vote.

The deadline to register to vote by mail in Nevada is Saturday, October 4 -- that's only two days away. Be sure to register to vote, and once you've done that, make sure your friends are registered too.

Barack Obama in Reno at 10 AM: Watch From Your Computer!

Perry Rosenstein — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:44:10 EDT

Barack Obama's Change We Need Rally in Reno is streaming live at 10 AM today.

Click here to check it out.

TUESDAY: Barack Obama Returns to Reno

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:33:50 EDT

Join fellow supporters in Reno, Nevada on Tuesday, September 30th, where Senator Obama will host a discussion with area voters about the important issues facing our country.

Here are the details:

CHANGE WE NEED RALLY WITH BARACK OBAMA
Tuesday, September 30
University of Nevada, Reno
Quad
1664 N. Virginia St.
Reno, NV 89557-0042
Doors open at 8:00AM

This event is free and open to the public -- no tickets are required. However, an on-line RSVP is strongly encouraged. Space is available on a first-come-first serve basis.

Click here to RSVP for the event.

Saturday: Women's Brunch

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:34:07 EDT

Join Obama supporters at a women's brunch this Saturday in Las Vegas.

Here are the details:

September 27th
10:00 AM - 12:00 Noon
At the Home of Rich Gurrola
3066 Blue Monaco
Las Vegas , NV 89117
Near the intersection of Desert Inn and Buffalo

Click here to RSVP for the event.

Hope to see you there!

Friday: Attend a Debate Watch Party

Perry Rosenstein — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:31:27 EDT

The first of three critical Presidential debates between Barack Obama and John McCain will take place this Friday at 6:00 p.m. Nevada supporters will be hosting debate-watching parties all across the state. This is a great time to bring an undecided friend or neighbor into the Obama network. It's a time to listen, discuss, persuade and inspire each other to work for change.

Click here to find or host a debate watch party in your neighborhood.

Tuesday in Reno: Expert Panel on Stimulating Nevada's Tech Economy

Perry Rosenstein — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 13:02:19 EDT

Please join fellow Barack supporters and an expert panel of local business and community leaders in Reno to discuss how Obama's technology policy would help stimulate the state and local economy.

Panelists will include:

Tim Casey, Co-Founder and Partner Silversky Group L.L.C
David LaPlante, CEO of Twelve Horses
Donica Mensing, Assoc. Professor, Reynolds School of Journalism
David Bobzien, State Assemblyman

Here are the details:

Tuesday, September 23
5:30-6:30 PMT
Cathexes Architecture
250 Bell Street
Reno, NV 89503

Click here to RSVP for the event.

TOMORROW: Join Us for a Women's Leadership Brunch and Roundtable Discussion

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 17:25:31 EDT

Please join Louise Helton, Gloria Sturman, Diana Mullen, Rose McKinney-James, Helen Foley, Kathy England, and Obama Campaign Western Political Director Toni Morales tomorrow for a Women's Leadership Brunch and Roundtable Discussion.

Here are the details:

Saturday, September 20th
10:00 AM - 12:00 Noon
At the Home of Rich Gurrola
3066 Blue Monaco
Las Vegas , NV 89117
Near the intersection of Desert Inn and Buffalo

See you tomorrow!

TOMORROW: Decorated Veterans for Obama Roundtable in Carson City

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 14:09:00 EDT

Tomorrow, two decorated veterans will host a Veterans for Obama roundtable discussion in Carson City, NV. Retired army Platoon Leader John Hurley and Army Ranger Ryan Southerland will discuss why they believe Barack Obama will bring the change that our veterans need and why they would like to see Barack Obama become Commander in Chief.

Here are the details:

Comma Coffee
312 S. Carson St.
Carson City, NV 89701
Arrive at 9:15 a.m.

Click here to RSVP for the event.

Here's a bit more information on John Hurley and Ryan Southerland.

John Hurley
John Hurley is a lawyer and small business owner. He lives in Wellesley, Massachusetts with his wife, Anne Goggin. They have three children, Caitlin, a field organizer for Barack Obama in Wisconsin, Conor, and Julia. Hurley is a Vietnam veteran and served with the U.S. Army (Platoon Leader, Co. B, 69th Engineer Battalion) in the Mekong Delta, 1967-1968. He is a member of Barack Obama's Veterans Policy Team. In 2003-2004 Hurley was National Director, Veterans for John Kerry. Hurley is 65 years old and is passionate about his family, Cape Cod, and the Boston Red Sox.

Ryan Southerland
An Oklahoma native, Ryan attended West Point and trained to become an Army Ranger. His first deployment to Iraq occurred in 2003, where he led a platoon in the first Stryker brigade in Iraq. Only six months after his return, Ryan volunteered for a second deployment in 2005 as an advisor to new Iraqi Army units, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. He separated from active service in 2007 and is currently a law student at Stanford University.

TODAY: Join Barack Obama in Las Vegas!

Perry Rosenstein — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 13:02:40 EDT

Please join Barack Obama today -- Wednesday, September 17 -- for a Change We Need Rally. This event is free and open to the public.

Here are the details:

Baseball Stadium at Cashman Center
850 Las Vegas Blvd North
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Doors Open: 2:30 p.m.
Program begins: 5 p.m.

Tickets are not required but an RSVP is strongly encouraged. Please click here to RSVP.

Wednesday: Barack Obama in Las Vegas!

Perry Rosenstein — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 13:42:06 EDT

Please join Barack Obama for a Change We Need Rally. This event is free and open to the public.

Here are the details:

Baseball Stadium at Cashman Center
850 Las Vegas Blvd North
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Doors Open: 2:30 p.m.
Program begins: 5 p.m.

Tickets are not required but an RSVP is strongly encouraged. Please click here to RSVP.

Recap: Governor Bill Richardson Hosts Town Hall, Kicks Off Canvass in North Las Vegas

Perry Rosenstein — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 13:19:59 EDT

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson arrived in North Las Vegas today to rally Latinos and kick off canvasses for Senator Obama.

The day started off with an Economic Town Hall at The College of Southern Nevada. State Assemblyman Ruben Kihuen (D-11) previewed the morning's discussion with a recap of Las Vegas' economic plight. With foreclosures on every block, high gas prices, and a national economic downturn hurting tourism, he said, "We can't afford four more years." The good news? "If Latinos vote, Senator Obama will be President Obama." Kihuen exhorted everyone to talk to their neighbors, phone bank, and canvass for Obama. "Every person here represents hundreds of people. I'm asking you to make that effort."

Governor Richardson started the Town Hall on a personal note. After observing Obama on the campaign trail, "I saw something special in this man. I saw somebody who can bring this country together." Richardson argued that Obama has concrete plans for the economy, immigration reform, education, and the environment.

Much of the time was devoted to a wide-ranging question-and-answer period with the participants, many of whom had ideas of their own to share. A few devoted Clinton followers who had switched to Obama were anxious to see her on the campaign trail. "Women are the lowest paid segment of the work force. Have Hillary speak to them," one woman suggested.

Questions on energy independence and alternate fuels led Richardson to emphasize the huge differences between Obama and McCain. While Obama favors a comprehensive approach that includes limited domestic drilling and intense investment in alternative energy sources, McCain's policy is "drill, drill, drill" and huge tax breaks for oil, coal, and nuclear companies.

An administrator at CSN asked Richardson about the Dream Act, which offers a route to legalization for high-achieving immigrant youth by serving in the military or attending college. "We need resolution, or the dreams of young people at the school will be dashed." Richardson declared that "education is the most important issue for Latinos." With Obama as president, "the Dream Act will be the law of the land." In addition, Obama would provide $4,000 in college tuition aid to students in return for 100 hours of community service.

Richardson closed by reminding everyone that the Western states could decide the election. "The battleground is in the West. Latinos are 25% of the population here. Get involved, sign up, and get us some votes!"

After the Town Hall, Richardson ignited a cheering crowd of well over 100 volunteers at a North Las Vegas Canvass Kick-Off. People were eager to express their reasons for coming out. Nancy K. had already canvassed that morning, but was back for more. "He had me at Hope," she said, smiling.

Alma "Jai Jai" G. was there for her grandchildren. "I want them to have respect for the government," something she felt was lost in the Bush years.

Charles R. wasn't going to take it anymore. He'd gotten a call the week before from a phone banker and decided to "do some registering." McCain, he said, had no ideas. "Drill, drill, drill. That's not an answer for our country!"

The crowd greeted Governor Richardson with a cheer of "Go Bill Go!" He soon had them laughing with tales from the campaign trail. He also gave them some advice. "When you canvass for Barack, and people ask you, 'Why Obama?' Let it come from your heart. We're proud Americans, and we want to take our country back."

Recap: Governor Bill Richardson Hosts Town Hall, Kicks Off Canvass in North Las Vegas

Perry Rosenstein — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 00:38:39 EDT

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson arrived in North Las Vegas today to rally Latinos and kick off canvasses for Senator Obama.

Click Here to Continue Reading...

Wednesday: Barack Obama in Elko

Perry Rosenstein — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 17:33:11 EDT

This Wednesday, Senator Obama will host a discussion with voters about the important issues facing Elko and our nation.

Here are the details:

Elko Change We Need Event with Barack Obama
Main City Park
1467 Idaho Street
(Between Chris Sheeran Way and 14th Street)
Elko, NV 89801
Wednesday, September 17
Doors open 9:30am

Click here to RSVP to the Elko event.

Hope to see you there!

Meet Marjorie and Sally: Precinct Captains Uniting for Change

Perry Rosenstein — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 21:29:30 EDT

Sally and Marjorie were neighbors and friends in Sparks, Nevada. So it was an odd coincidence when they found themselves representing opposing candidates during the Democratic Caucus: Sally was the precinct captain for Senator Clinton, while Marjorie was the precinct captain for Senator Obama.

But during the caucus, rather than let their political affiliations lead to animosity, Marjorie and Sally cooperated with each other. "We went to each other's caucus parties," recounts Sally (pictured left). Soon enough, when Marjorie reached an ardent Clinton supporter, she'd send the lead Sally's way. And Sally did the same for Marjorie. On caucus day, they helped set up each other's tables. After the caucus ended, Marjorie and Sally maintained their friendship and spent the next several months pursuing other interests.

Last Sunday, Marjorie was invited by Shoshana, her Field Organizer, to attend a house party.

"My first thought was to invite Sally," Marjorie said. Sally agreed to go with Marjorie. At the house party, Shoshana made clear that the most important role in the General Election, just as it was during the caucus, was that of the precinct captain. Shoshana asked Marjorie and Sally whether they'd be interested in becoming precinct captains.

"We knew we couldn't do it single-handedly," Marjorie said. "But when Shoshana asked, we looked at each other and said: we can do this together!"

Sally and Marjorie are shining examples of how Democrats have united around Barack and are stepping up in their neighborhoods to bring change to Nevada and Washington. Join Sally and Marjorie today and become a precinct captain.

Write Your Local Newspaper: The Importance of Community Organizing

Perry Rosenstein — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:25:57 EDT

"I guess a small-town mayor is sort of like a 'community organizer,' except that you have actual responsibilities."
--Vice Presidential Nominee Sarah Palin, September 3, 2008

In her acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention, Sarah Palin revealed disdain toward community organizers who unselfishly work for the common good. And her Republican audience actually laughed in response.

Community organizers are the ones who provide job training to those who lose jobs, run after-school programs, deliver essential emergency food aid to the elderly, and fight foreclosures to keep neighborhoods intact. Community organizers have changed the world; some of the most well-known community organizers include Martin Luther King Jr., César Chávez, and Susan B. Anthony.

As a community organizer, Barack Obama fought for laid off steel workers. The people of Chicago were poorly served by politicians who did not understand or care about the concerns of working Americans.

We canʼt let Sarah Palin's condescending comments go unchallenged.

If you are a community organizer, have worked with or been helped by community organizers, or simply are outraged by these comments, please share your thoughts and experiences with your local paper. Tell the editor about the importance of community organizing and how Sarah Palin and the Republican Party are out of touch with the lives of ordinary Americans.

This Weekend: Women's Tour Canvass Kickoffs in Las Vegas and Reno

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:02:38 EDT

This weekend, Nevada is proud to host women who support Senator Obama and his plan to ensure equal pay for equal work, provide paid family leave for people who have to take time off for a family emergency, ensure all Americans have sick days and increase funds for afterschool programs.

LAS VEGAS
Saturday, Sept. 6
Actress Nancy Lee Grahn, who plays Alexis Davis on General Hospital, and Illinois Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky will host a canvass kickoff. Join them to talk about Sen. Obama's plan to restore the American Dream for working women, and then knock on a few doors to Campaign for Change!

4440 S. Durango Dr.
Suite D
Las Vegas, NV 89147
Meet at 12:30 p.m.
Click here to RSVP

RENO
Sunday, Sept. 7
Join Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky as she kicks off a Campaign for Change canvass kickoff!

141 E. Pueblo
Suite B
Reno, NV 89502
Meet at 9:45 a.m.
Click here to RSVP

Recap: Labor Rally in Henderson

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:33:33 EDT

More than 100 union members gathered Thursday to prepare for a "Walk for Barack." Participants planned to knock on doors of fellow union members and talk to them about Senator Obama's plan to cut taxes for 95 percent of working families.

Mark Ayers, president of the 3 million member Building and Construction Trades Department of the AFL-CIO, reminded the crowd that they couldn't afford more of the same with John McCain!

Today in Las Vegas: Labor leaders to hold canvass kickoff before McCain speech

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:41:42 EDT

Members of the Southern Nevada Building Trades Association plan to knock on thousands of doors tonight while Sen. McCain accepts the Republican presidential nomination.

Union members will preview McCain’s speech with a “Walk for Barack” canvass kickoff TODAY at 4 p.m. at the International Union of Painters & Allied Trades. During the walk, they will talk to voters about why they support Sen. Obama, who has a plan to put people back to work and cut taxes for 95 percent of America’s working families.

Mark Ayers, president of the 3 million member Building and Construction Trades Department of the AFL-CIO, will address the crowd before they head out to talk to their union members.

Who: Members of the Southern Nevada Building Trades Association

What: Canvass kick-off for a “Walk for Barack”

When: Kickoff begins at 4 p.m., TODAY, September 4

Where: International Union of Painters & Allied Trades, 1701 Whitney Mesa Drive, Henderson

Get Involved: Nevada Latino Leadership Advisory Committee

Perry Rosenstein — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 22:08:42 EDT

Nevada Latino activists and community leaders gathered today in Las Vegas for the Obama Campaign's Nevada Latino Leadership Advisory Committee. The committee is currently comprised of over 80 leaders in the Latino community here in Nevada.

Among those in attendance were Assemblyman Ruben Kihuen, Chairman of the National Association of Hispanic Publications Foundation Edmundo Escobedo, community activist Vito De La Cruz, and Culinary 226 President Geoconda Arguello-Kline. The campaign, working with the Latino community, created this committee in order to highlight the importance of Latino issues to the campaign, and will be vital to Barack Obama's efforts in Nevada.

Escobedo kicked off the event, talking about the importance of this committee in reaching out to the Latino community and mobilizing them to vote. De La Cruz talked about the most salient issues facing Latino families today: healthcare, education, and sensible immigration reform. Finally, Arguello-Kline spoke poignantly about her experience working her way up as an immigrant, as well as the struggles that working families face in this declining economy.

We need the help of strong leaders like you to turn the Silver state into a Blue state. The committee will hold meetings to update leaders on campaign progress and to encourage an open dialogue with community leaders to share ideas and provide feedback. Click here to join the Nevada Latino Leadership Advisory Committee.

Help Gulf Coast Residents and First Responders

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 16:21:09 EDT

Please read this message from Barack.

Today, the thoughts and prayers of all Americans are with those in the path of Hurricane Gustav -- and many of you are asking what you can do to help.
We do not yet know what the impact of Hurricane Gustav will be, and we hope with all our hearts that the damage will not be as great as it was three years ago.
But we know there will be damage, and there is something you can do right now.
Your financial support will strengthen organizations like the American Red Cross that are evacuating Gulf Coast residents and planning to help communities get back on their feet.
Make a donation to support the American Red Cross today.
At times like this, it is our compassion and resilience that define who we are as a nation.
Please give whatever you can afford, even $10, to make sure the American Red Cross has the resources to help those in the path of this storm:
https://donate.barackobama.com/redcross
Thank you for your generosity, and I hope you will join Michelle and me in praying for the safety of those in the path of the storm and the first responders who are doing all they can to ensure the safety of their communities.
Barack

Recap: Convention Watch Party in Incline Village

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:00:35 EDT

Walt is a Republican who supports Barack Obama for President. He is currently a volunteer for the Nevada Campaign for Change in Incline Village.

Some 175 enthusiastic supporters jammed the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe to watch Senator Obama's acceptance speech along with millions of other Americans last Thursday evening.
Although we didn't have a stadium for our event, we still had a local stadium party to celebrate the historic occasion.
The Incline Village crowd was all fired-up and ready to go as they left the party - and hopefully this event will pay-off for the campaign in the coming days and weeks.

Hurricane Katrina: Three Years Later

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 20:37:28 EDT

Originally from New Orleans, Lauren Mayeaux is a Field Organizer in Las Vegas for the Campaign for Change.

The semester that Katrina hit, I was studying Homeland Security and Emergency Management in Louisiana. I was looking at statistical data and correlating it with data from local, state, and federal agencies to minimize damage and save lives. My graduating class would to be the first hires of the new hurricane center to be being built on the West Bank of New Orleans.

“We just did a study,” one of my professors told me. “Hospitals will need seven days of food and water for a fully occupied hospital in order to be fully prepared for a storm. Right now the law only requires that they have enough for three.”

That was August 24, 2005. Katrina would hit five days later.

The night the storm hit I was in Marksville, Louisiana. My mother was lost in McComb, Mississippi, right in the path of the storm. My father was on his way to save her. I was busy trying to find a way to get his medication. He has leukemia, and in our rush to evacuate had left his pills at home. We didn’t go back for them because we thought we would be gone for only three days.

When exhaustion claimed me, I thought that life would be bad for a while, but at least our government would be prepared for this kind of thing.

The next morning, my parents home safe, we waited for news. The one moment that we learned our fates happened with no fanfare. The out of state reporter for Fox News clearly didn’t understand the magnitude of his broadcast.

“I don’t know if you can see this...the water behind us has been rising steadily over the last hour or so.”

It hadn’t been announced officially, but if you grew up in New Orleans, you knew what that meant. A levee had broken.

I knew it was the worst case scenario. But I had hope. They would have placed supplies outside of the danger zone. Reservists would be on standby to enter, secure, and evacuate the city. Air drops would be made to emergency shelters. Hospitals would be evacuated or restocked with supplies and staff. People would be directed to the right locations. They knew they only had a few hours to pull it off, or all hell would break loose. I was 22 at the time, and had only taken a few classes for Emergency Management, but anyone with even minimal experience could have told you what needed to be done.

Powerless and scared, we waited. We waited for signs that our world would be righted and order restored. We waited to roll up our sleeves and get to the work of repairing our lives. We waited to help our neighbors. We waited to see the troops. We waited to see the evacuations. We waited to see the help.

We waited.

Tuesday morning I woke up to the images of nurses begging for help with signs in hospital windows. Looting was in full force. Chaos was the new norm. But I still had hope.

Wednesday. Things had gotten worse. Stories were coming out of the Superdome and Convention Center. A New Orleans Police Officer had killed himself, too overwhelmed by the loss, in his cruiser, in the middle of a street. Hospital staffers were getting more desperate everywhere. But I still had hope.

When I heard Federal Emergency Management Agency director Mike Brown tell Diane Sawyer in an interview that he didn’t know people were at the Convention Center, I gave up hope.

For days we watched as the Gulf South was destroyed by water, wind, and the incompetence and negligence of our government.

For weeks we focused on getting my dad’s pills and going home.

For months we learned to cope with the loss of our way of life.

For years we have been going through the motions of our new lives. If we stopped to think about the waste of money and the squandering of resources, the force of our rage would be extrodinary. If we stopped to think about the people that on August 28th were home owners, and today are still living in tents under bridges, our sorrow would fill oceans. If we admitted that the reason more is not being done is simply because our story doesn’t rate well on the news, our heartbreak would be felt by the world.

Rage. Sorrow. Pain. Longing. Loss. Hate. Despair. These emotions are still just as raw for us today as they were then. It is overwhelming. And throughout the region people are failing to cope.

I am one of them.

Eighteen months ago I left home for Las Vegas. As much as I loved New Orleans, I couldn’t be there anymore. The problems are too big, the apathy from outsiders too great, my own failings too consuming to cope with in the face of so much need. So I ran away.

On my meandering path in Las Vegas, I found myself at an office opening for Barack Obama. I vaguely remembered seeing him at the 2004 convention; but after Katrina, anyone in or running for office was a damn liar and not to be trusted. But I had always loved politics, and am a constitutional law geek. So what the heck? The worst that would happen, I would lose an hour of my day.

It was clear that the other volunteers really liked Obama. I made friends with the staff. I saw their passion and wanted that for myself. I remembered what it was like to love my country that much, to want to make it better that bad, before the pain of the storm. So I became a part time intern; even if I didn’t feel that level of trust, I could be near theirs.

Then I saw Barack in person on June 1st 2007, during his second visit to Las Vegas. And the man made me cry with his vision for our country.

More staff and interns came in from all over the country – all of them with a singular passion to change our country for the better. I made more friends, and quit my job to be a full time intern despite my lingering doubts. Maybe if I just made myself do it, it wouldn’t matter that I was still scared of being betrayed by a politician again.

And then, one day, I walked into the office. It was more quiet than normal. When I got to my folding table of a desk, my field organizer told me Barack had given a foreign policy speech that morning and that I should read it.

Barack Obama had told the nation what they didn’t want to hear: the caves in Afghanistan and Pakistan were the problem, and that we weren’t going to be done with the Middle East once we got out of Iraq. I remembered thinking to myself:

In two days he will back down, he will do what is safe, and I’ll know it was okay not to trust him. And then I can walk away again and not feel bad for not doing more.

But he never did.

Weeks later we were still in the fight. He was still telling people that they deserved to know the facts before they cast their votes. That they needed to know the world as it was, not as the Bush administration wanted them to see it. That they needed to think about the choices before them, to ask questions, and expect more from those that governed them.

That is when I knew it was okay to trust Barack Obama. It was okay to let go of the fear. It was okay to hope for something better than the partisan politics I had known for 24 years of my life—the same politics that caused the political destruction after Katrina.

He wanted us to get involved, to take action, and to understand that change would only happen if we made it happen. And I wanted it too. I wanted the chance to really change what was wrong with my country.

After 19 months on the campaign, I know that we are making that change happen. I saw that change when I registered a 67 year old man that had never registered before because he didn’t believe politicans, but he couldn’t sit back and let the country fall apart anymore. I see that change when kids who should be more concerned with the newest shipment at the mall are clamoring to get in our offices to volunteer. I see that change in the out of state volunteers who come in on the weekend after a full week of work to register voters in the summer heat of our desert city.

It is happening, here and now, and will continue past November 4th, regardless of the results of the election.

Barack Obama’s policies for reconstruction of New Orleans are practical. His environmental policies will go a long way to lessen the threats facing the region. His economic policies will provide the Gulf South the economic CPR it desperately needs. We need his dedication to make reconstruction happen. We need his judgment to prevent this from happening again. We need his leadership to push us, all of us, into action.

Yes, we can save the Gulf South. Yes, we can fix the country. Yes, we can make real change happen. Barack has pointed out the path to that change; we have to make it happen.

We are out here doing the work. What about you?

Hurricane Katrina: Three Years Later

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 19:59:18 EDT

Originally from New Orleans, Lauren Mayeaux is a Field Organizer in Las Vegas for the Campaign for Change.

That was August 24, 2005. Katrina would hit five days later.

Read more...

Recap: Senator Obama Electrifies at Convention Watch Parties

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 14:09:00 EDT

Thousands of supporters joined their neighbors to watch Senator Barack Obama's historic conclusion of the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

David from Reno wrote about his experience:

Last night, the Washoe Democrats gathered at the Flowing Tide in South Reno to watch Barack Obama's nomination for President. They weren't in Denver, but they were a mile high after Obama's rousing speech.
The pub was noisy, but nothing could distract the eager Democrats, many of whom had been working for Obama's nomination since the beginning of the primaries and many who had supported Hillary Clinton or John Edwards.
There were misgivings. The empty field looked grandiose and already the Republicans were on the attack.
Then the stadium filled (a crowd of 75,000) with Democrats united in their desire for change and a hope of renewal. Al Gore warmed the crowd, eloquently contrasting the Democrats' platform with eight years of Republican mismanagement, misjudgment, and malfeasance.
I must admit at first we were a bit anxious. But there was no need. Obama laid out the specifics of his vision and then turned to confront John McCain on matters of national security. He reminded his listeners that "patriotism has no party" and that the Democratic Party is the party of FDR and JFK, a party that knows how to defend our country. We were on our feet, anxiety transformed into hope.
Then a funny thing happened as I was leaving. An older gentleman approached me, asking if we were a group of Democrats. I said sure, but he was welcome.
"Well," he said, "I just wanted to tell you I'm voting for Obama and I'm an ex-marine."
"Great," I replied, and asked him why.
"I'm from an army family," he replied, "and I voted for Reagan."
Welcome home, Reagan Democrats! Here comes Obama!

Senator Obama's historic speech is the just the beginning. We must now take action. This weekend, Obama supporters will be taking the streets to register voters. Find a Convention Weekend of Action event near you.

Tomorrow: Join Your Neighbors For A Memorable Night

Perry Rosenstein — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:29:57 EDT

Nevadans will join their neighbors tomorrow to watch Barack Obama accept the Democratic nomination for President of the United States. Supporters from all over the state have opened their homes to share this historic moment with fellow supporters in their communities.

Nancy is a proud grandmother hosting a house party in Henderson. Nancy worked as a precinct leader for Barack during the caucus and is currently a neighborhood team leader in charge of nine precincts. One of her favorite moments of the campaign was when she greeted an out-of-state volunteer who she agreed to host for the last month of the Nevada caucus.

"I expected a 27-year old from California," Nancy remembers. "I wound up hosting an 80-year-old semi-retired math professor from New Mexico. But it worked out, and we have remained close friends ever since."

Kristy, lead female singer of the Platters, will perform at Nancy's party.

Meanwhile, in North Las Vegas, Anne Zarate will be inviting her neighbors to watch Barack accept the nomination. An ardent supporter of Senator Clinton during the primary, Anne is a precinct captain for the general election who, like Senator Clinton, understands the stakes of this election. Anne's story was reported today in the Las Vegas Sun:

Zarate went through what she referred to as "a month of pouting."
...But, slowly, the anger subsided.
"I thought, 'What's it really about?' " she said. "It's about the issues and the country and who's going to take it forward. I thought they both presented a lot of opportunity for hope and moving forward. Obama is an extraordinary person, and economically, I couldn't reconcile where the Republicans are taking us."

Up in Reno, Marsy is hosting an event at Flowing Tide Pub & Grill. Marsy moved to Nevada four years ago. Originally a New York native, Marsy became passionate about fixing Nevada's broken health care system.

"In New York City, if you work for a company with two or more people, you get health care," Marsy explains. "I was shocked to find that if you work for a company with less than twenty people in Nevada, employers have no need to provide health insurance. And we kept getting turned down by insurance companies."

This injustice inspired Marsy to get involved as a volunteer with the Washoe County Democrats. An Edwards supporter during the caucus, she knows that Barack's plans for health care make him a great candidate for President.

The stories of hosts like Nancy, Anne, and Marsy demonstrate that no matter who you supported during the primary, we as Democrats must celebrate tomorrow night in unity with our friends and neighbors. With 150 convention watch parties throughout Nevada, there's certainly a convention watch party near you.

Join your neighbors in watching Barack accept the nomination.

Watch Nevadan Xiomara Rodriguez Tomorrow

Perry Rosenstein — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 23:48:54 EDT

Reno native Xiomara Rodriguez will be speaking tomorrow at the Democratic Convention! Be sure to tune in at 5:30pm Pacific time.

Behind the Scenes in Denver

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 19:26:46 EDT

A message from Michelle Obama:

My mom, the girls, and I left home in Chicago and got to Denver yesterday. What a beautiful city!
The convention started this morning, and everyone here is getting ready for the big week.
All the work you've done is at the heart of what's happening here, and our team filmed a short video to give you a look behind the scenes at the convention center.
Take a minute to check out the video and share it with your friends:
Watch the video
This week, folks from across the country will get to know Barack and our family a little better. Tonight I'm giving a speech at the convention, and I'm planning to share a few stories about the Barack I know -- the husband, the father, and the man who shares my dreams for our girls, for this country, and for our future.
Before my speech, we're also going to show a video introducing our family to families across the country. Make sure to turn on your TV at 7:30 p.m. PDT to see it, or you can watch it at www.BarackObama.com.
This is such an important moment, and I hope you'll join me by tuning into the convention tonight and all week long.
Thanks,
Michelle

Recap: Californians Drive for Change

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:33:55 EDT

Angelina Burnett is the Nevada Campaign for Change Border State Coordinator.

This past weekend marked Nevada's first "Drive for Change" event of the General Election. Unaccustomed to hard fought national races, our neighbors in California have been anxious to contribute to the organizing efforts in their sister swing state. The accomplishments of the past two days prove Californians understand that what happens in Nevada will affect the whole country and that locals are excited to foster this mutually beneficial relationship.

On Friday night, over a hundred California volunteers traveled by car and plane to Las Vegas, Reno and Carson City. Many would have been unable to make the trip were it not for the hospitality of their neighbors. Guest rooms were made up, airbeds inflated and doors were flung open. Bright and early Saturday morning, everyone converged on their regional offices for a briefing on Nevada politics, voter registration training and an introduction to local volunteers before hitting the streets to do the important work of registering voters.

After a long day of canvassing and tabling in the intense August heat of Nevada, generous locals provided potluck dinners for the intrepid out-of-staters.

Sunday, they got up and did it all again.

All told, this first California/Nevada partnership resulted in registering over 2000 voters as we began to build relationships that will help turn out all these new folks from early vote through election day and paint Nevada blue.

Thanks to all the Californians for making the trip and to the Nevadans for being so welcoming. If you're interested in opening your home to an out of state volunteer, please sign up here.

Recap: North Las Vegas Office Opening

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:31:51 EDT

Over 100 people listened to music, met the Field Organizer in their neighborhood, and discussed plans to win in November with fellow Obama-Biden supporters at the Civic Center Office Opening in Las Vegas on Saturday.

Assemblyman Mo Denis spoke about the importance of the upcoming local and national elections for the future of Nevada, and how in particular Latinos need to make their voices heard more strongly by registering themselves and their friends to vote. The event inspired dozens to take on the role of precinct captain or commit some of their precious free time to volunteering for the Campaign for Change.

Office Opening with State Assemblyman Mo Denis: North Las Vegas - Civic Center

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 23:00:55 EDT

Join State Assemblyman Mo Denis, campaign staff, and supporters this Saturday at the new Campaign for Change Office in North Las Vegas.

At the office opening, we'll introduce you to the Field Organizer working in your neighborhood, discuss the race in Nevada, and make plans to fire up North Las Vegas and paint the state Barack Blue.

Here are the details:

2115 Civic Center Dr.
North Las Vegas, NV 89030
Saturday, August 23
6pm

Click here to RSVP for the Office Opening in North Las Vegas.

Recap: Howard Dean, Kal Penn, and Derek Fisher at UNLV

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 16:20:48 EDT

Yesterday afternoon at UNLV, over a hundred supporters gathered to hear DNC Chairman Governor Howard Dean, actor Kal Penn, and basketball star Derek Fisher talk about the importance of electing Barack Obama and Democrats up and down the ticket in November.

While these men had different reasons for getting involved in Senator Obama's Campaign for Change, each stressed the urgency of this election, the need for change, and the importance of bringing new voices into Nevada politics by registering voters and empowering concerned citizens to take ownership of the Campaign for Change through volunteer work.

Join us in the Campaign for Change by volunteering in your neighborhood.

"Seven"

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 14:51:19 EDT

Check out our latest ad on the air, which highlights how Senator McCain is out of touch with working class Americans.

This Wednesday: UNLV Campus Kickoff with Howard Dean, Kal Penn, and Derek Fisher

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:27:36 EDT

Please join DNC Chairman Howard Dean, Harold & Kumar star Kal Penn, and 3-time NBA Champion Derek Fisher for a Barack Obama Campaign for Change Campus Kickoff Event at UNLV this Wednesday.

Here are the details:

Hendrix Auditorium
4505 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89154
Doors open at 1:45pm

Click here to RSVP.

Hope to see you there!

Recap: Barack Obama in Reno

Perry Rosenstein — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:02:47 EDT

About 250 people, mostly union members, met at Wooster High School in Reno, Nevada to talk with Senator Obama about how to fix our broken economy. Senator Obama contrasted his plan to fix the economy with Senator McCain's, highlighting how Barack's plan will provide tax relief to 95% of Americans. Senator Obama proceeded to take questions on issues including taxation, social security, education, outsourcing jobs, and care for our nation's veterans.

After the event, Senator Obama greeted Reno natives eating brunch at PJ's.

Open Houses

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 21:33:47 EDT

Today, Senator Harry Reid, Congresswoman Shelley Berkley, state politicians, Campaign for Change staff, and hundreds of volunteers and Obama supporters gathered to cut the ribbon at the new Campaign for Change Headquarters in Las Vegas.

Harry Reid has firsthand experience working with both candidates in the Senate. He spoke about how Senator Obama has the right vision for changing this country. And he stated emphatically that Senator McCain is "wrong on the Iraq War, wrong on the economy, wrong on Yucca Mountain, and wrong on sports betting."

Let's work together to make sure Nevadans make the right choice. Come to an Open House on Friday or Saturday to meet others who seek change in Nevada and Washington. Get more information and RSVP to an Open House near you by clicking the appropriate link below.

Las Vegas
Four Locations
Friday, August 15
5pm

Douglas County
With Senator Harry Reid
Saturday, August 16
1:45pm

Pahrump
Saturday, August 16
3pm

Elko
Saturday, August 16
12pm

Barack's VP: Be The First To Know

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 19:51:39 EDT

From Obama for America Campaign Manager David Plouffe:

Barack Obama is about to make one of the most important decisions of this campaign -- choosing a running mate.
You have helped build this movement from the bottom up, and Barack wants you to be the first to know his choice.
Sign up today to be the first to know:
http://my.barackobama.com/vp
You will receive an email the moment Barack makes his decision, or you can text VP to 62262 to receive a text message on your mobile phone.
Once you've signed up, please forward this email to your friends, family, and coworkers to let them know about this special opportunity.
No other campaign has done this before. You can be part of this important moment.
Be the first to know who Barack selects as his running mate.
Thanks,
David
David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Get Involved: Students and Young Professionals

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:49:03 EDT

Matt McKnight (mmcknight@nevadaforchange.com) and Roger Horowitz (rhorowitz@nevadaforchange.com) are the Nevada Campaign for Change Youth Vote Directors.

This past weekend, students from all across Nevada came together in Las Vegas to share their support for Barack Obama and the Campaign for Change.

During the retreat, student leaders engaged in team-building exercises that emphasized the spirit of unity centered around the common goal of electing Senator Obama on November 4. Students found an avenue to express their desire for change and elect a candidate who will work hard to achieve it.

Students who participated in the Leadership Retreat put together action plans for their campuses. These plans outline their fall semester goals for engaging fellow classmates in the democratic process by getting them registered to vote, introducing them to the Campaign for Change, and turning them out to the polls during Early Vote and on Election Day.

It was grassroots politics at its finest: engaged young people at college campuses becoming the keystone of free thought and community involvement.

Become part of the movement. The best way to do so is by getting involved in our Student and Young Professionals Leadership Training Summits next week.

Join the Southern Nevada Summit this Sunday at 2pm.

Join the Northern Nevada Summit this Monday at 3pm.

To elect Senator Obama and our down-ticket Democrats, we'll need your hard work and dedication. Join us at our Leadership Summits to meet fellow leaders and learn what we're all about.

Join the Nevada Weekend of Action

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 20:21:31 EDT

From Nevada Field Director Rachel Sigman:

This afternoon in Las Vegas, Senator Hillary Clinton kicked off our Campaign for Change weekend of action. See below for photos from the event.

Hillary rallied with Nevadans like you who are fired up and ready for change. And starting tomorrow, Saturday, August 9th at 10am, folks will be coming together at our offices across the state to organize community canvasses to register new voters and talk to their neighbors about this movement.

Bringing new people into the political process is one of the best ways we can help Barack Obama and Democratic candidates up and down the ballot this November.

Join fellow supporters at a weekend of action canvass event in your area.

Hillary reiterated her commitment to elect Barack Obama president at today's rally, and told us all how important registering voters and bringing them into the process is in achieving that goal.

This weekend is a great opportunity to join Hillary in that commitment by taking ownership of this campaign and helping to bring new people into our movement for change.

No political experience is required to get involved. Campaign for Change staff will provide you with everything you need, every step of the way.

Find your local office, meet fellow supporters, and join a canvass this Saturday.

Face-to-face contact with your friends, family and neighbors is the most effective way to spread Barack's message of change. And with fewer than 90 days left till Election Day, now is the time to go out into your community and bring new people into the political process...
If you can't make it to a weekend of action launch event tomorrow morning, there are more opportunities to get involved this weekend.

RSVP to a voter registration event taking place in your community.

Friday: Campaign for Change with Senator Hillary Clinton in Las Vegas

Perry Rosenstein — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 21:31:20 EDT

Please join Senator Hillary Clinton for a Campaign for Change Rally in Las Vegas, where she'll talk about bringing America together and creating the kind of change we can believe in.

Campaign for Change Rally
With Senator Hillary Clinton

Green Valley High School
460 Arroyo Grande Blvd.
Henderson, NV 89014

Friday, August 8th
Doors Open: 11:00 a.m.
Program Begins: 12:15 p.m.

Click here to get your free tickets.

The event is free and open to the public. However, tickets are REQUIRED. Members of the public may pick up free tickets on a first-come, first-served basis at the locations and times listed to the right. Seating is first-come, first-served for ticket-holders.

For security reasons, do not bring bags. Please limit personal items. No signs or banners permitted.

Hope to see you there!

Recap: George Lopez and Restoring the American Dream

Perry Rosenstein — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 15:52:35 EDT

Hundreds of Obama supporters gathered this morning in Las Vegas to unite for change with George Lopez. While known primarily as an actor and comedian, George Lopez today was first and foremost a concerned yet hopeful American citizen.

Lopez discussed his personal bond with Senator Obama: "I had no father in my life, and was largely brought up by grandparents -- just like Barack Obama." This helped to illustrate an important message: "The thing that's beautiful about the American Dream is that it's colorblind."

But he added that it's time for change. Noting that millions of Americans don't get the health care they desperately need because they can't afford health insurance, Lopez argued that "the American Dream is in disarray. I don't feel we serve the hard-working people vital to this country anymore."

Lopez explained that Barack Obama is the man to restore the American Dream and make necessary changes in Nevada and our country. "Senator Obama gives us a chance to restore hope, to restore faith, to restore compassion to the White House...He speaks from the heart. He speaks from his desire for change."

After the event, volunteers withstood the particularly formidable desert heat and went door to door to register voters. George Lopez inspired us not only to think more about how to make America better, but to take action to do so.

This Saturday: Free Event with George Lopez

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 18:46:05 EDT

Please join the Campaign for Change this Saturday, August 2nd, for a free rally in Las Vegas with actor/comedian George Lopez!

Chuck Minker Sports Complex
275 N. Mojave Road
Las Vegas, NV
Doors Open at 9:30am

After the rally, supporters are coming together to bring even more people into the political process by canvassing neighborhoods and registering new voters.

Click here to sign up for the event. Be sure to bring a friend. Hope to see you there!

A Letter from David Plouffe

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:45:38 EDT

A letter from Campaign Manager David Plouffe:

As we face the fundraising deadline at midnight tonight, I want you to know what we are up against.
Less than 24 hours ago, the McCain campaign launched the latest and lowest in a series of misleading attack ads.
This Karl Rove-style ploy misleads people about Barack's energy plan and even mocks his ability to inspire voters and bring Americans back into the political process.
Watchdogs in the media are calling McCain's accusations "bogus," "desperate," "wrong," "misleading," "ugly," "offensive," "reckless," and "a nasty turn into the gutter."

Tomorrow: Reno Office Opening

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 01:08:23 EDT

Join us tomorrow at 5pm for the grand opening of the Reno Campaign for Change headquarters.

141 East Pueblo Street
Reno, NV 89502

Come meet Campaign for Change staff and local elected officials, get to know fellow supporters in the area, and learn how you can make a difference in Nevada.

Click here to sign up to attend.

Hope to see you there!

Recap: Unite for Change with Congressman John Lewis

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:09:37 EDT

Political leaders and Obama supporters from the Las Vegas Area met yesterday at Nevada Partners for a Unite for Change Rally on behalf of Senator Obama. The evening was emceed by State Senator Steven Horsford (D-North Las Vegas). Nevada Congresswoman Shelley Berkley introduced the keynote speaker, Congressman John Lewis, calling him "the conscience of the House of Representatives."

Congressman Lewis is the sole living member among the ten who spoke at the March on Washington in August 1963, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his legendary "I Have a Dream" speech. His passion, eloquence, and wisdom left an indelible mark on all who attended.

He spoke about his humble beginnings in Troy, Alabama as the son of sharecroppers. He recounted how he heard Dr. King and others in the Civil Rights movement on the radio when he was fifteen. He was compelled to join the movement, despite his friends and family urging him to avoid involvement for fear of his safety. And he spoke of the momentousness of the occasion we united to celebrate: those he worked with and for in the Civil Rights Movement -- those that were beaten, imprisoned, killed, and given humiliating and unintelligible literacy tests -- would not believe that today, an African-American was 100 days away from becoming the next President of the United States.

And Congressman Lewis was not afraid to incorporate humor to clarify the need to elect Senator Obama: "I have met every President since John Fitzgerald Kennedy," Congressman Lewis stated emphatically. "Our current one is the worst."

Congressman Lewis's presence and words remind us that, above all, we as American citizens must constantly fight for change, no matter how daunting the task may seem.

Meet Elliott: Visionary Volunteer for Change

Perry Rosenstein — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:12:40 EDT

Like Barack Obama, Elliott has a vision for change in the world, and has dedicated his life to claiming that vision. He has been working in the electric car industry off and on for the last 30 years, and a few years ago started a company that developed the first all-electric five-passenger luxury car, to be released to the market in 2010.

Elliott first heard Barack Obama speak at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. He didn't know whether or when Obama would run for President; but Elliott knew that this man had a strong passion and vision for change in America.

Late in the summer of 2007, Elliott received a call from the Obama campaign to volunteer. And then another. He realized then that Obama wasn't a candidate who only hoped for things: he was organized and committed to changing Nevada and Washington. He agreed to attend an organizational meeting, and found himself surrounded by many exceptionally enthusiastic volunteers and staff members. He decided to become a precinct captain, where he canvassed and made phone calls. He went to the county caucus and Nevada state convention, and will be a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in August.

As an expert in alternative energy, Elliott is excited about Obama's transportation policy. "I appreciate that Obama puts emphasis on non-oil fuels. We can create electric power in so many ways," Elliott says. And more broadly, Elliott knows that Barack Obama will change the way Washington does business because he already has changed the way presidents are elected, bypassing the hold that the elite has had on elections by collecting smaller sums of money from many average Americans. "We can expect more when Barack is in the White House."

Join Elliott and the thousands of volunteers across the country who are working to make a change in Washington. Find an event near you or sign up to volunteer for the Nevada Campaign for Change.

Make the Call

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:59:20 EDT

Now you can do your part from home to help elect Barack Obama to the White House.

The online calling tool is very simple to use. Click here to load the tool. Request phone numbers, and you'll be given a list of people to call. You'll have a script to read and an online form to submit what you find out about the potential voter.

The best time to call is between 5pm-9pm: after most people return home from work, but before they go to sleep. But calling any time you're free is worthwhile.

What are you waiting for? Start making calls, invite your friends to join you, have fun, and together we'll win in November!

Recap: Volunteer Leadership Organizational Meetings

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 07:44:23 EDT

This past weekend, over 500 volunteers from the Las Vegas, Reno, and Carson City areas met in five locations throughout the state to get acquainted with fellow volunteers in the Nevada Campaign for Change and devise and unify around a strategy for winning Nevada in November.

If you missed these conferences, don't worry -- there is still so much time to get involved and so much work left to be done. Join the Nevada Campaign for Change Obama Team to find out more about how our unparalleled grassroots campaign will propel Barack Obama to the White House. When you're ready to take the next step, find an event near you or volunteer for the campaign. Together, we can make a change in Nevada and Washington.

Attend a Nevada Volunteer Leadership Organizational Meeting

Perry Rosenstein — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:01:00 EDT

The Obama Campaign for Change is ready to take Nevada--and we're going to do it precinct by precinct, house by house, person by person! We're holding trainings all over the state for our volunteers who are ready to step up and take on leadership roles in the campaign as we make the big push to win Nevada and bring about real change in America. Click the location link below to sign up for the leadership event nearest you.

Be on the lookout for events coming up in Elko, Pahrump, and Silver Springs!

Carson City
Sunday, July 20 11am-2pm
Grandma Hattie's
2811 South Carson Street
Carson City, NV 89701

Las Vegas - North
Sunday, July 20 2pm-6pm
Sen. Steven Horsford's Campaign Headquarters
4060 Martin Luther King Drive, Suite 101B
North Las Vegas, NV 89032

Las Vegas - South
Sunday, July 20 2pm-6pm
SEIU Local 1107
3785 East Sunset Road
(corner of Sunset & Sandhill)
Las Vegas, NV 89120

Las Vegas - West
Sunday, July 20 11am-3pm
Democratic Party Headquarters
1210 S Valley View Blvd, Suite 114
Las Vegas, NV 89102

Reno/Sparks
Saturday, July 19 9am-12pm
UNR William Raggio Building Room 2030

Unidos Con Obama House Meetings

Perry Rosenstein — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 01:22:23 EDT

Enrique Lopez is an Obama Organizing Fellow in Las Vegas.

As an Organizing Fellow for the Obama Campaign for Change, one of the most rewarding experiences I have is meeting constituents in my region at house meetings because most of the attendees have never been politically active. This past weekend was a particularly memorable one. Three of the house meetings I attended were entirely in Spanish, while one was in both Spanish and English. The house meeting hosts ranged from a maid, to a record store owner, to a casino worker, to a music producer.

The first house meeting took place in the late afternoon on Saturday. The host, Adriana, works as a maid in a casino on the Las Vegas strip. She lives in a modest home but was an extremely gracious host, inviting a few of her friends to the house meeting. The host and attendees were relatively quiet but clearly well-informed. One of the attendees said that McCain does not share the values of people in her community. The attendees will contact their friends so that they can participate in future house meetings, and many agreed to volunteer with the campaign in the future.

The second house meeting took place at Segundo's house later in the evening. I met a family who had never really paid much attention to politics in the past, but seemed very interested in learning more about Obama. We talked about Obama's stance on a wide range of issues raised by the family's father, ranging from Immigration to Education to the Economy. The family seemed excited to talk about political issues so important to them, yet frustrated by the Bush administration and the current state of affairs. I left the meeting knowing that they would get more involved in the campaign in Las Vegas.

The third house meeting took place on Sunday afternoon at a record store. Marcos, the store owner, owns four record stores in the area.

Recap: Last Weekend's House Meetings

Perry Rosenstein — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 19:37:22 EDT

This past weekend, dozens of supporters all across the state of Nevada invited their friends and neighbors into their homes to talk about how they can help get Barack Obama elected in November. Check out photos from these events below!

Meet people in your community who are excited to learn more about the Campaign for Change. Find a house meeting or other grassroots event near you. And if you want to get even more involved, host a house meeting at your home.

UNITY Rally in Reno

Perry Rosenstein — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 13:44:23 EDT

Alfred Walking Bull is an Organizing Fellow with the Obama Campaign for Change. Alfred is from the Rosebud Sioux Tribe in Rosebud, South Dakota.

On Friday, I had the honor of addressing the United National Indian Tribal Youth conference in Reno on behalf of Barack Obama. The UNITY conference is a gathering of First American students and leaders from around the country, from as far away as Massachusetts and Connecticut.

Growing up on a reservation in South Dakota, I'd been involved with tribal youth leadership conferences and trainings. But this event was truly inspiring in that so many First American youth were not only aware of Barack Obama, but some were active in his movement and others were volunteering to help in their home states.

During my opening remarks, I recalled the collective tragedies of the First American people, all our trials and injustices. And I explained that while some presidential candidates use such histories to gain a connection with First Americans but have little else to offer, Obama has always had a solid plan to improve the lives of people in reservations and Native communities. I was proud to expound on Obama's plans to improve the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Services. And perhaps more importantly, Obama wants to hold an annual summit of tribal leaders at the White House, a "tribal G8." Barack Obama is not simply asking for our vote: he is asking for our participation.

During the speech, many clapped, many cheered, and several even trilled in agreement. It was then that I realized Obama's words and plans had touched a nerve, because trilling is the highest form of honor and agreement with what's being said. I stood amazed and a little overwhelmed.

It's simple things like this that keep me active not just in politics, but in seeking participation in First American communities. Obama inspires us all to better ourselves. I can't wait until I can see those results in Indian Country.

Welcome Back!

Perry Rosenstein — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 18:21:18 EDT

Welcome back to the Nevada state blog! After quickly catching our breath from the primary, we're storming back to continue this incredible grassroots presidential campaign and usher Barack Obama into the White House in November. In addition to countless volunteers and supporters, we have a small army of field organizers and organizing fellows that are working hard over the summer to make everything happen.
On June 28, Nevadans met in over 80 homes all across the state -- Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton supporters alike -- to unite in our common goal of electing a Democrat to the White House. Following that meeting, over 4th of July weekend, Nevadans came together to register thousands of voters.
With less than four months until Election Day on November 4, we have a lot of hard work left ahead of us. Take the opportunity to volunteer in Nevada. And look out for opportunities to attend volunteer leadership training programs, register voters, engage young people, and get involved in every neighborhood in our diverse state.
On behalf of all the Obama staff in Nevada, I welcome you back to the state website. Together, we can make change in Nevada and Washington.
- Rachel Sigman, Nevada State Field Director