Old Obi-Wan Kenobi's last words just popped into my head. Not that the conversation was about Star Wars at all -- we were actually taking about charges of impeachment and war crimes on George Bush and Dick Cheney . . . but the "Obi-Wan Kenobi syndrome" is nevertheless applicable: "If you strike me down, I shall become powerful than you can possibly imagine."Blame the above-mentioned, pseudo-insightful analogy on my self-induced sleep-deprived 4-day road trip from Oregon to D.C. for tomorrow's historic Inauguration. But it seemed to strike a chord with Laura, so I figured: What the hell. I'll share it with you too.I suppose it's now somewhat of a moot point -- considering today is President Bush's FINAL day in office (!!!), but if our party is to engage in further charging the 43rd president with treasonous war crimes (of which, yes, I do believe there is a strong argument to make in regards to his abuse of executive power, privilege, and blatant lies to the American people), then we risk making an already pathetic GW even more pathetically appealing to a public that's proved time and time again how much we love to forgive. You see, by stoking the fire of impeachment/investigation, we actually risk elevating the party of a man whose political capital is so spent and whose name and reputation is so tarnished; we risk a potential comeback for the Republicans to rally around.It's a risk Democrats can't afford. Like American moviegoers did when we saw Olive Stone's bitingly clever "W" this last fall, empathy may kick-in and families -- entire communities of Joe six packs and Plumbers and whoever would feel sorry for G.W. and Poor President George would be the sad sentiment of forgiving short-term memory America. That attitude would dangerously pave the way for a Jeb or a Newt or a Jindal to lead the charge of rallying behind their washed-up past president. I'll say it again and in bold print: It's a risk we can't afford. After all, when one leaves the highest office in the land with the lowest approval rating (22%) since the Gallup Poll started taking ratings over 70 years ago, we should recognize that geez, all George and the G.O.P. can do is go back up.Barack Obama must be aware of this. Believe it or not, there are larger fish to fry than grilling Bush and seeking political payback (something many Dems have been longing to see for a long, long time). But we must be patient. And for the sake of our nation, we MUST move forward.There's a photo-shopped pic of Barack Obama (with a lightsabre in-hand) on our local county party's refrigerator. Though the President-elect Obama looks pretty cool among a sea of molten lava with the weapon of a Jedi in hand, Obama is no Jedi. He's no deity. He's no divine entity. We may like to think so, but no. He's just a man like you and I. But unlike you and I, tomorrow he will hold the most important and honored keys to the kingdom: executive powers, privilege and the Constitutional responsibilities of the President of the United States. However, thanks to the constitutional terrorists Dick Cheney and George W. Bush, a President Obama and future executives governing from the Oval Office can now wield a rather dangerous authority and a most unprecedented Patriot Act of power. When the Obama/Lincoln parallels are drawn, I'll admit, even as a true-blue, National Obama Delegate, I'm a bit alarmed when considering Abraham Lincoln's Civil War suspension of the Constitution. Realizing exactly how much authority team Bush-Cheney has granted the office of our president, I -- and every free thinking American -- should raise an eyebrow. Wire-tapping, suspension of habeas corpus, Orwellian monitoring of U.S. citizens under ANY administration is cause for serious concern. Unlike this past, most failed administration that has successfully waged war on our freedoms and declared Jihad on the Constitution, President Obama's team will undoubtedly be forced to rise above. At least, we hope so.I trust Obama to do what's right. More importantly, I trust in our ability as American to rightfully ensure that our president remains the Barack Obama we celebrate today and fought so hard in so many frigid and brutal primaries to nominate and elect as our 44th president of these United States. Yes, indeed, America, we did. And, as this National Day of Service illustrates, we most certainly will continue to do! Clearly, I'm quite glad to be in D.C. to see, firsthand, the ultimate highlight to this most storied journey. Weeping, like I was in the Helena office for the announcement of our victory the evening of Montana primary; weeping, like I was in Denver with our dynamic Oregon Delegation; and weeping like I was -- like you were too -- on the evening of November 4, 2008, tomorrow, I'm sure I'll shed a tear or two of joy and sorrow . . . of hope and change . . . of trust and recognition of this beautifully historical impact we've made for our future.Thank you, Mr. President -- Obama, that is! (And hell, I suppose we owe the last guy a thank you as well.)
Live from Washingtion, D.C. (at the Old Ebbit Grill - sitting next to Kim and Leslie from Dallas, Texas), Matt Keating, Delegate (OR-4)
We had our national day of service in tiny Creswell, Oregon. We collected over 500 pounds of food and and a huge box of socks, scarves, gloves and school supplies for the elementary school. We passed out fliers in front of Bi-Mart and employee owned store here in Creswell.
I got to thinking about the employees of Circuit City and other companies being forced to close. What better way to renew America than to help the employees keep these business establishments going as an employee owned business. Perhaps it's impossible maybe not. The companies have most of what is needed to keep going and if their communities knew perhaps they would choos them first.
Then again maybe not but I think it's worth a look.
I would like to encourage every Obama supporter, if you are so inclined, to make calls to help get out the vote for Jim Martin in Georgia. I just did a few and the call script is specifically designed just to ensure his voters show up and no knowledge of Martin or convincing of voters is required. As many of you may already know turn out is key in run off elections. Martin only lost by 3% on election night and if we can ensure all of his voters show up while maybe a few Chambliss voters do not we can get that much closer to that filibuster proof 60 vote Senate. Not to mention the "Remember Max Cleland" call needs to be heard throughout this country by getting Chambliss out of the office he never deserved to have in the first place. Chambliss has vowed to block Obama's and our vision for this country so this is one of the first ways we can ensure the change we want happens.Luckily My Barack Obama has created an easy way for all of us to help out. The call lists are available using the neighbor to neighbor tool we used during the campaign and the link is included below this paragraph. Please check it out and make a few calls prior to the election on 12/2. Note early voting has ended in all but one county(Coweta and only part day this Sat 11/29) from what I can tell, so the idea is to remind people of the run off and get them to the polls on 12/2. No persuasion is required so it is very simple and unobtrusive, though you can find out more about Martin at http://www.martinforsenate.com/home.html.
http://my.barackobama.com/page/votercontact/landing
Good luck everyone! and Happy Thanksgiving! We sure have a lot to be thankful for this year, as despite the hard times, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Thanks,Wayne
Hyperbole aside, our voice — our VOTE mattered! I truly believe our collective efforts have helped save our city, save our community college, save our county, save our state, save our country and save our planet. For that, we thank you.
President-elect Barack Obama’s in-box will undoubtedly be monstrous. His team, already being assembled, will certainly have their hands full of an unfathomable economic, domestic and international mess. But locally - right here in Lane County - we can assist our 44th president by staying actively involved. We must remain as dedicated to the cause of change as we were leading up to that most memorable Tuesday, Novemeber 4. Yes, we did - but now we must buckle down and “be the change we want to see.”
Join fellow Dems/Eugene for Obama-Biden/Lane Student Democrats/Lane Students for Obama on Thursday, November 20 at the monthly Democratic Party of Lane County Central Committee meeting. Stay plugged-in to local, state and national politics and celebrate, with great revelry, our long path to victory. (DPLC Central Committee meetings are normally held on the 3rd Thursday of every month at EWEB. The Novemeber DPLC meeting/volunteer “thank you” pot-luck, however, is at the Woodworkers Union Hall at 1116 S. “A” Street in Springfield -- 6:30 p.m. -- RSVP at http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gsx2jw.)
With your help, we will not only implement president-elect Obama’s environmental awareness, education reform, health care and social improvement plans on a local level, but we must also hold ALL our elected officials accountable. Stay engaged. Be the Change.
See you Thursday, Novemeber 20 at the Woodworkers' Union Hall in Springfield for our DPLC volunteer “thank you” potluck. Yes, Lane County, we did! And as Rep. Chris Edwards likes to say, "Now let’s get to work!"
Matt Keating, Candidate for Vice Chair of the Democratic Party of Lane County
Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy, Matt Keating and Mario Parker-Milligan at the Lane County Elections Watch Party, 11-4-08 (photo by JB BOTWINICK/The Torch).
OK here are some things I'd like to know.
1. Will Barack go Big and Bold of Tiny and Tepid?
2. Will the democratic leaders vote their hearts or heads or both or none of the above.?
3. Will Jimmy Carter's reputation and actions be reviewed and renewed (Tire of Reagan effusion).
4. Will the government make the transition to renewables affordible for everyone?
5. I have an M.B.A. - can I work on the transition?
6. Will the field organizers for the campaign ever forget what they accomplished - they are special?
7. Will the Democratic Party leaders and Congressional members stand up for their own beliefs and stop playing partisan games and encourage the Republicans to do the same. (Compromise doesn't mean you stand for nothing?
8. Will Barack promise to listen to Dennis Kucinich's ideas they are excellent though not politically accepted?
9. What will be done to align wages and SS benefits with the cost of living well?
10. When can Barack and Michelle come visit my home?
We all think we know what Barack should do first. He's connected so well with his supporters we all think he will do what we think is best. The next few months the president-elect will be defining his Mission statement that will tell us the general direction and temperament of his administration. The Mission will be clearly defined if Barack Obama is the pragmatist I believe him to be.At the same time he will be looking for a staff and cabinet who will mesh with the mission he has defined.
After the Staff and cabinet are selected they will all get together to clearly define the Strategic Objectives that shoud be an outgrowth of the mission statement. Strong personalities will hammer out what needs to come firstand what approach they expect to follow. There will be opposition for sure because 10 years of control is hard to change. I do believe with strong leadershipand a good strategy Barack can succeed in bringing back American values of self reliance, ingenuity and social responsibility to those of us who who desire a better America. This is a great country helping each other isn't socialism any more than self-reloance is beinf anti-social(ism).
The Tactics employed in achieving goals and the Operational steps we take will determine success of all the plans that are made. This is where the average citizen plays a part in giving feedback to the government and participating by understanding what is best for our country,region, state, county and city/town. Many of us reduced the use of energy and there are small thing that add up. Properly inflating tires, driving at slower speeds when we can, recycling, proper maintenance of home and autos and many other things. Most important is by becoming knowledgeable about the issues facing the country.
There is a wealth of good information if we can learn to consider the source of that information we hear, read or see. Chain letters are rarely fact and keeping our minds open to ideas is what has made the US a great country.
Barack Obama is a great communicator and will not hide his plans from the country he serves so lets see if we can listen, understand and act for the good of us all.
Something I sent to friends and family. Thought I would share in case some others liked some of what I wrote.
Everyone, I just want to encourage you all to vote no matter what party, person, etc. that you may be for. By voting for what you believe in regardless the outcome your voice is counted. While that one vote does not always directly determine the end result of the election the aggregate of yours with everyone else's does. Not only that, but by voting you are listed as such and thus your demographic, whatever it may be, has to be listened to. For instance for many years young people have not voted, while senior citizens have. This has led to most legislation being passed based on this reliable older demographic of voters the politicians have to have to win. Just something to keep in mind for why you need to vote. Also do not forget that many times your vote on local ballot initiatives, mayors, commissioners, etc. actually impact your life more than that of the President or Congress. Finally, too many of our fathers, grandfathers, uncles, aunts, mothers, friends, those included in this e-mail, etc. have served, sacrificed and/or died for our right to vote, for us not to exercise that right. "Freedom is Not Free" so go Vote!Now for my Obama sell. I realize I have written some of you a few times over the past 4-5 months, but have tried to keep things to a minimum. These are my own thoughts and not a forward based on rumors or non-factual information. The main thing I ask is that you base your decision on policy and the actual qualities of these two men and not rumors that have been proven time and time again to be false. That goes both ways, but particularly for Obama who has horrible rumors spread that he is not a US Citizen, that he is a Muslim, that he has "deep ties" to terrorism (Bill Ayers), that he does not say the pledge of allegiance, he is a "socialist" and many more. All of these have been proven false by all media and fact check organizations. If you do not believe just click the links I imbedded or visit the following sites, the first two are independent well respected 3rd party sites and the third is the Obama site: www.factcheck.org, www.politifact.com, & www.fightthesmears.com. Again do not believe smear chain e-mails that provide no 3rd party verification, but just state things that are completely untrue as fact.Now for why you should vote for Obama. There are many reasons I have: from his stance on Iraq War from day one in 2002; to his energy, education & health care policies; to his working "across the aisle"; to just the way he is trying to bring our country together. "Someday we may be able to tell our grandchildren about the Election of '08 when we, the people, turned away from anger, hate and greed and once again embraced the better angels of our nature." By Joseph L. Galloway | McClatchy Newspapers / Barack Obama The one policy I will share in depth is his economic policies and how he has had the foresight to both see the problems coming and react appropriately with actions and policies. It is just too bad he was not already President to ensure these were done quicker to eliminate much of the pain we all will have to endure in the months to come. As Obama has said in many speeches, "Now, make no mistake: the change we need won't come easy or without cost. We will all need to tighten our belts, we will all need to sacrifice and we will all need to pull our weight because now more than ever, we are all in this together.". Again while I do hope you are all voting for Obama, my main hope is that you all vote. This election is too important to sit on the sidelines. Thanks for your indulgence in reading this and I wish you all the best. Feel free to forward or use any part of this e-mail if you wish.
Everyone, I just want to encourage you all to vote no matter what party, person, etc. that you may be for. By voting for what you believe in regardless the outcome your voice is counted. While that one vote does not always directly determine the end result of the election the aggregate of yours with everyone else's does. Not only that, but by voting you are listed as such and thus your demographic, whatever it may be, has to be listened to. For instance for many years young people have not voted, while senior citizens have. This has led to most legislation being passed based on this reliable older demographic of voters the politicians have to have to win. Just something to keep in mind for why you need to vote. Also do not forget that many times your vote on local ballot initiatives, mayors, commissioners, etc. actually impact your life more than that of the President or Congress. Finally, too many of our fathers, grandfathers, uncles, aunts, mothers, friends, those included in this e-mail, etc. have served, sacrificed and/or died for our right to vote, for us not to exercise that right. "Freedom is Not Free" so go Vote!
Now for my Obama sell. I realize I have written some of you a few times over the past 4-5 months, but have tried to keep things to a minimum. These are my own thoughts and not a forward based on rumors or non-factual information. The main thing I ask is that you base your decision on policy and the actual qualities of these two men and not rumors that have been proven time and time again to be false. That goes both ways, but particularly for Obama who has horrible rumors spread that he is not a US Citizen, that he is a Muslim, that he has "deep ties" to terrorism (Bill Ayers), that he does not say the pledge of allegiance, he is a "socialist" and many more. All of these have been proven false by all media and fact check organizations. If you do not believe just click the links I imbedded or visit the following sites, the first two are independent well respected 3rd party sites and the third is the Obama site: www.factcheck.org, www.politifact.com, & www.fightthesmears.com. Again do not believe smear chain e-mails that provide no 3rd party verification, but just state things that are completely untrue as fact.Now for why you should vote for Obama. There are many reasons I have: from his stance on Iraq War from day one in 2002; to his energy, education & health care policies; to his working "across the aisle"; to just the way he is trying to bring our country together. "Someday we may be able to tell our grandchildren about the Election of '08 when we, the people, turned away from anger, hate and greed and once again embraced the better angels of our nature." By Joseph L. Galloway | McClatchy Newspapers / Barack Obama
The one policy I will share in depth is his economic policies and how he has had the foresight to both see the problems coming and react appropriately with actions and policies. It is just too bad he was not already President to ensure these were done quicker to eliminate much of the pain we all will have to endure in the months to come. As Obama has said in many speeches, "Now, make no mistake: the change we need won't come easy or without cost. We will all need to tighten our belts, we will all need to sacrifice and we will all need to pull our weight because now more than ever, we are all in this together.". Again while I do hope you are all voting for Obama, my main hope is that you all vote. This election is too important to sit on the sidelines. Thanks for your indulgence in reading this and I wish you all the best. Feel free to forward or use any part of this e-mail if you wish.
Then I added my economic sell on Obama that is posted at my blog http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/WayneCassidy/gGgkhl
Well I want to post some information on Obama’s economic plans that will work to get our economy out of the difficultly it is in now. First I want to start with the Tax Calculator so you can determine your savings under Obama’s plan versus McCain’s. Remember for those making under $250,000 there will be no tax increase and for people under around $200,000 there will be a tax cut. Check this out to see where you stand. For almost all of us we will see bigger number under Obama’s than McCain’s plan. (for 3rd party verification go to the Tax Policy Institute at http://www.taxpolicycenter.org/ with a full report and summary).
http://taxcut.barackobama.com/
Now I will show and discuss briefly information on Obama’s response to the various economic problems. As you may have noticed when the crisis struck Obama was prepared while McCain initially was still stating the “fundamentals” of our economy are fine. That McCain speech was given on the day Lehman Brothers failed and Merrill Lynch was purchased by Bank of America showing how weak our financial system was and still is.
In comparison here is the statement Obama gave on the bank failures the same day. http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/stateupdates/gG5qKN
In addition Obama sent the following letter to Secretary Paulson regarding corporate “golden parachutes” http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/stateupdates/gG5qWh
Some of you may have also seen the advertisement Obama ran following that discusses his economic plan, with the link shown on the ad and the second down.
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/samgrahamfelsen/gGg42R
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/amandascott/gGgmlK
Article on the above Obama ad, his plans and their contrast with McCain’s. http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/stumper/archive/2008/09/17/on-wall-street-obama-is-all-wonk-and-mccain-is-all-words.aspx
Now finally here is the actual economic plan and this is not new. Obama has believed in many of these plans and warned and submitting proposals for regulation of Wall Street for months/years. Please take a look to see how Obama has been prepared for and continues to be prepared for the economic crisis. Since I compiled many of these he helped get the “rescue plan” with real protections for tax payers, ability to modify home mortgages, elimination of “golden parachutes” and other good items for our country passed by working behind the scenes rather than making empty dramatic gestures like suspending his campaign. He proved yet again he can “walk and chew gum” at the same time and get real legislation passed with real leadership, but you can read it for yourself needless to say there were things put in the speech to keep some “blue dog” Democrats in the House on board for this Senate version of the bill.
October 2008:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/economyplan & http://www.barackobama.com/issues/economy/
In March 2008 he said:
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/politics/jan-june08/obamaeconomy_03-27.html
In September 2007, Obama gave the following speech at Nasdaq.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/17/us/politics/16text-obama.html?pagewanted=print
Received the following from our local county organizer involving Obama working hard on making sure every vote counts. Another good story on this from my favorite website 538.com and another here. Thought this would be encouraging after my previous posts related to voter suppresion in MI (by the way Obama campaign is on that one too, but I can not remember where I heard that so I leave the Google searches to you all).
Morning Great Lane OATs!
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mollyclaflinblog/gGgyHYhttp://my.barackobama.com/page/s/vpcvol2We will have lawyers everywhere on November 4th—we are amassing an army. Thus, folks need not fret, we got this!Please let me know if you have any questions.
My now weekly update on what has happened in Cottage Grove, OR for Obama.
This past week saw an acceleration of volunteers and activity in Cottage Grove. There were 6 separate events during week including phone banking (1 continuous operation by leader Romney!), 3 canvass events (Tues, Sat two shifts and Sun with 13 canvassers several doing more than one shift), voter registration (Tues two shifts by 3 people) and our weekly meeting. This was about a 100% improvement over the previous week in people being involved, so that was great.
Some rough numbers I have are that we knocked on well over 250 doors and had somewhere around 30-40% response with the majority still being for Obama. I know having talked to several canvassers and seen for myself we are making a difference with the undecided vote. As noted at 538 for every 12 voters we talk to face to face we get one voter to the polls. Based on that we got at least 8 or so voters for Obama in one week. That may not sound like a lot but when you consider Kerry lost Cottage Grove precinct by about 250 votes (more exact numbers from elections office will be in later post) that can make a huge difference. With double the number of canvassers we can easily double that number of voters we get for each of the remaining 6 weeks. That would mean we turned at least 96 votes between now and the election and that is not counting Romney’s phone calls and our voter registration effort that is outperforming even the Obama campaign expectations.
Speaking of voter registration, on Tuesday we did our normal Wal-Mart NON-PARTISAN voter registration and got another 22 voters registered and most were Democratic (not that was a goal, but nice nonetheless)! Do not have totals for the whole week, but that alone was a good day and Kathy is planning an all day Wal-Mart drive today and for the next two Tuesdays on top of an LCC voter registration drive, so please come help out. Also for those who can not do a set time get up with Kathy for training so you can “freelance” when you have time and at places you think will yield voters!
As for the other news of the week the chance for an office, that one is still in the works and not a done deal yet but with some luck by next week’s update we will have it up and running. Look forward to seeing many of you at the debate parties being held in town. Till then we have a great team here in Cottage Grove so let us keep working hard to make Cottage Grove turn Blue for Obama!
Wayne, Cottage Grove for Obama “computer dude”
Is it too hard to see the relationship of wages and Jobs to the current debt crisis?
Why did banks and lending institutions have to resort to "sub-prime" loans? Why did the term "Sub-prime" come into existence? Are those who ended up with sub-prime loans get there because the sellers wanted more money and lenders wanted to increase profits - in the short run?
So in order to keep the market "hot" and priced rising the stop-gap was to lower the interest rate and loosen regulations on lending so more people would be in the market for a new home.
The really sad thing about this economic meltdown is that those who stoked the market beyond reason are the ones we are bailing out.Richard Fuld (Lehman), E. Stanley O'Neal (Merrill Lynch), Chuck Prince (Citigroup) and Jimmy Cayne (Bear Stearns) left their firms with $311 million. That's roughly a third of a billion for four men. Add Carly Fiorina and you have$356 million and one woman
So now we will help the failing companies with taxpayer money. So those citizens will not only lose their homes but also will be asked to pay the freight along with other citizens barely getting by so the wealthy can keep their heads high and small stockholders lose their nesteggs and retirement.
Wouldn't it have been better for everyone if we didn't ship jobs overseas so workers had some stability and means of getting affordable loans. If the jobs stayerd home and wages were better profits may not have been as large but still enough to grow good companies.
Do you think stockholders would have prefered stable profits and reliable dividends to secure their futures, well maybe not while the market was good but how about now.
I thought about the bailout being made to the homeowners losing their homes to pay the portion of their mortgage that they could not pay no more than half the payment and then the loan sharks would get their money but it woulds come from the debtors and the debtors would have a chance of being OK for the short term.
Couple that with bringing jobs back to this country and maybe we could all survive.
What the Republicans forgot was that commerce is financed from the bottom up by consummers and the products that make money are made by workers and managers. It's the executives that really do the least productive but still an important job.
THe Republican Party's belief that regulation isn't necessary is a false argument unless we were back in slavery, feudal times and the days of company stores. Free Market sounds good but the only free thing in a free market is Greed. Supply and Demand sounds good and at times it's not a bad idea but when the product is Health, Housing, Food and Energy demand is a captive audience.
Wow I said much more than my simple thought that Secure Jobs and decent wages are the best solution to the economic woes of America. I believe Barack Obama is the right person to get this done.
Sorry for the long rant butit felt goo. No go help campaign for Barack/Joe and vote.
The following is from 4th Congressional District’s/Lane Community College’s Matt Keating, Oregon Delegate to the 2008 DNC. This entry is from Denver, CO (Friday, September 5, 2008) . . . . From the “Taste of Colorado” celebration at Civic Center Park to the steps of Red Rocks after the Nine Inch Nails show to a Friday night Rockies game at Coors, the week following the 2008 DNC, I remained in Denver to help resister, register, and register voters. Following my experience at the Convention, I’ve been energized to actively register new Colorado voters in an effort to campaign for Mark Udall for U.S Senate and Barack Obama for 44th President. (Plus, it’s VERY cool that the State of Colorado is adopting a progressive Vote by Mail system similar to Oregon’s.)
However, I must admit, last week’s Denver feels quite a bit different than the Convention week’s Denver.
The Mile High nightlife is an entirely different animal than was witnessed during the DNC. The 16th street mall, for instance, is a complete 180 from the what the delegates and Convention-goers realized during August 25-28. The homeless population has returned from their movie-theater/zoo trips and a town that just lat week sparkled Orwellian clean is back to the much grittier Denver that I remember from the mid-nineties.
It’s been over ten years since, as a wee 19-year old radio pup, I first resided in Denver, Colorado. And, I must say, this homecoming of sorts has been most interesting. As a delegate, I’ve actually been detained* and applauded, followed and welcomed, questioned and complimented. Perhaps I’ve over-stayed my visit in the police state of Colorado. (To be honest, I can’t wait to return to Lane County and the green confines of Eugene, Oregon.)
Just hours away from my 52-hour train trip home . . .
. . . And less than sixty days stand between now and our defining moment to change the world. Only half of those days (till October 14) can be spent engaging in THE most important activity we can participate in: voter registration. At last count, an estimated 500,000 unregistered voters live in the Beaver State!
Want to help?
Please visit www.OR.BarackObama.com. Visit www.JeffMerkley.com. Visit www.KittyPiercy.com. Visit DPO.org. Vist DPLC.org. Visit your friends, neighbors, and family members and inspire ALL to get more involved TODAY!
Volunteer. Register voters! Volunteer. Make phone calls! Volunteer. Change Washington! Volunteer. Change the world!
We can. We will.
-Matt
*More to come on the highly anticipated report of a certain delegate’s brief detention!
Aslo available via Lane Community College's "Life@Lane" at www.lanecc.edu
Tonight is the night!
Sporting my best suit — my only suit — in honor of this astonishing evening, I CAN NOT WAIT to be there, on the floor with our Oregon delegation for Barack Obama’s historic acceptance speech! I’m rested, energized, “fired up and ready to go” see our future president rock the mile high city and the world!
I’m traveling with a couple books (actually four — Audacity of Hope and The Watchmen, however, will remain in my hotel room for the evening). The nation-building pieces of our past with me are Common Sense by Thomas Paine and my pocket-sized copy of the Declaration of Independence/Constitution of the United States. Both books will be with me and on-my-person for this evening’s Nomination Acceptance speech. Jefferson and Paine, I imagine, would be quite proud of what their 232 year-old experiment in Democracy has produced in Denver this last week.
Additionally, the culmination of generations of Americans whom have struggled for Civil Rights will be fully realized this evening. Activists of old and new, and anyone who’s ever bravely stood up in the face of discrimination, tonight’s dream, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. put it exactly 45 years ago to the date, is for us.
Onward to Day IV, the final chapter of this 2008 Democratic National Convention, onward to victory in November and onward to Barack Obama’s inauguration on January 19th as 44th President of these United States . . . .
Also available via Lane Community College's "Life@Lane" at www.lanecc.edu
First of all, let me just say this: The Georgia Delegation seriously knows how to throw a party!
I suppose I’m stating the obvious . . . and, yes, last night, little sleep was had.
Notes from this morning: Senator Rob Wyden introduced an equally tall Jeff Merkley (our State Speaker of the House) who’s running, of course, for a critical seat in the U.S. Senate. Sen. Wyden drew a remarkable parallel between beloved Oregon Senator Wayne Morse and the Hon. Jeff Merkley that our fellow Oregon voters should not ignore.
Champions of the ant-war movement, both men (Merkely and Morse) also share(d) the skill of effectively passing progressive legislation that promotes equality, fairness, higher education and our environment. (If that doesn’t sound like a ringing endorsement of Jeff Merkley for U.S. Senate, I don’t know what is!)
Speaking of ringing endorsements, it was great to hear from the always energetic Steve Novick, Mr. Merkley’s opponent in our recent Democratic Primary. Mr. Novick referenced the most memorable moment on the DNC from the floor of the Pepsi Center Delegation Hall when New York's Senator Hillary Clinton’s historically moved to nominate Barack Obama by acclimation as our Democratic Candidate for 44th U.S. President.
Siting the importance of staying true to our ideals, Novick — like Clinton — expressed that “bigger picture” realization that political contests are less about the person running, and more about the shared common values with whom they may be able to represent. That’s a classy, grounding, and most respectful point-of-view; if ever I have an opportunity to serve in public office, I will always remember and honor the above-mentioned sense of respect.
As our breakfast was geared to wrap up, our future Oregon Governor, Secretary of State Bill Bradbury (my favorite Super Delegate of our 65-member Oregon Delegation team) poignantly reminded us of the historical impact of Barck Obama’s acceptance speech on this 45th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech — in which a young Bill Bradbury attended. “It’s come full circle,” Bill cheered!
Indeed it has come full circle — for Bill, for America, and for the human race. And tonight, all 80,000 of us in attendance will be quite aware: History will be made and there won’t be a dry eye in the house.
***
I think it may be wise to get some rest before witnessing the greatest historical moment of my time . . .
Before taking that much needed nap, however, I’ll spend the next half-hour in “video-edit mode” from the confines of my hotel room. I’ve captured some rather memorable moments via I-movie that I can’t wait to share with you.
Various Convention video work can be seen at YouTube.com/mkeating2008 and YouTube.com/lanetuberscafe (all shot/edited on this handy little MacBook). And, of course, I’ve also been using this fantastic electronic tool to “blog” for Lane Students for Barack Obama's MyBo page and at www.lanecc.edu ("Life@Lane").
I just hope these entries accurately reflect the tremendously positive impact this fantastic Convention has had on us all. It’s been a pleasure and an honor documenting our Delegation’s DNC activity through the lens of my laptop and, to all back home, I thank you for allowing me to participate in this life-changing experience.
Just this morning it dawned on me that I haven’t really shared many snapshots from the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Assuming I can master I-photo, you should be able to take a sneak peak of yours truly alongside Oregon Democratic Candidate for U.S. Senate, Jeff Merkley (www.jeffmerkley.com).
(Aslo availbale via Lane Community College's"Life@Lane" at www.lanecc.edu)
Wednesday, 8/27 — 11-something p.m. (mountain time)
Sitting front-and-center at the Pepsi Center amidst a sea of empty seats and thousands of campaign signs scattered about, I'm awed by the hostorical significance of this Convention. Others are enroute or already at the Washington/Oregon Delegation party. Inside, I’m celebrating the fact that it’s official: Barack Obama is our nominee and here we are, making history.
Just two hours ago, Wednesday’s session of the DNC (the official nomination portion of the Convention) came to an awe-inspiring close. Snapping their last snippets of the Convention Hall, a few photo-journalists from across the globe are still here. I’m still here. The volunteer army responsible for organizing this magnanimous event are still in the house as well . . . .
Thursday, we reconvene at Invesco Fields for Senator Obama’s highly anticipated acceptance speech. Meanwhile, stragglers are scouring the floor for more “Obama for the Change We Need” and “New Leadership for a Changing World” and “Securing America’s Future” and “McCain More of the Same”, of course, the coveted “Obama-Biden” signs.
Fret not, Lane County, I have scored scores of signs!
There’s still that palpable energy in the air. Though National Convention veterans knew it was coming, and even my pal Dave back in Eugene somehow was in the know, us newbies didn’t expect Barack Obama to personally appear beside Joe Biden at the close of our future vice president’s speech. But there he was: Our Barack alongside our Biden! Our candidates! Hell YES WE CAN!
Here in Denver — not just tonight, but these past three days — we have been taken by storm. Outside, the weather’s been warm and welcoming. Inside, our Party has witnessed an intense emotional rain. But like our “Great State of Oregon” (even though Senator Wyden didn’t get a chance to say it!), we welcome the rain. And tonight: it rained again — and again we roared with thunderous applause, approval and respect for Hillary Clinton’s grace and class. We teared up. We were choked up. We stood up — and we united as one
President Bill Clinton was in rare form — a flashback to why we romanticize about the 90’s. He was specific. He was witty. He was Bill. And, as you know, Bill is beloved. Though I never voted for him (and have oft been critical of NAFTA, the de-regulaltion of the media and the backwards Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy), witnessing firsthand the Clinton family’s class, charisma, and genuine care our country: it’s easy to see why they’re so loved.
In the last two hours I haven’t moved. At one point, caught on camera just staring into the future, I was photographed by a journalist from Dallas. (She has this “Life@Lane” web-address and I’m sure the two of us took great inspiration from each other –somehow — someway.)
I’ve been here a while. Reflecting. Looking forward. Thinking about this unlikely journey that now belongs to us all.
I was, am, and certainly will continue to reflect fondly on the historical impact of this moment.
As if sent on assignment from the future by whatever god he may (or may not) have believed in, Hunter S. Thompson once wrote, “No mix of music or words or memories can touch that sense of knowing that you were there and alive at that corner of time . . . there was a fantastic universal sense that whatever we were doing was right — and that we were winning. And that, I think, was the handle: that sense of inevitable victory over the forces of old and evil. Not in any mean or military sense — we didn’t need that.” Thompson knew, “Our energy would simply prevail . . . .”
I wish he was here. Undoubtedly, HST would scoff at the at the police state of Colorado and probably wind up in jail, but the 20,000 plus Pepsi Center attendees have ben acutely aware that the protection has been most necessary. (Upon entry tonight, I actually thanked a cop for being here.) Clearly, this isn’t Thompson’s kind of Convention, but I bet Barack Obama would be his kind of candidate. After all, Barack gives hope to the hopeless and, we’re all quite sure, will put an end the era of war mongering madness.
On the topic of war, President Clinton's wise comment will, we hope, define our foreign policy of the 21st Century: “People of the world are more impressed by the power of example as opposed to an example of power.” He couldn’t be more accurate.
I trust the example we’ve set as Democrats has proved to the nation that we may be diverse, but we Democrats celebrate our differences and embrace our shared progressive ideology. The common cause, as Hillary Clinton recognizes, is quite clear — and anything less than an Obama-Biden ‘08 victory is unacceptable.
We have “All the momentum,” Thompson noted back in '72. His words ring loudest though today, “We’re riding the crest of a high and beautiful wave.”
Also available via Lane Comminity College's "Life@Lane" at www.lanecc.edu
Note: The following was written on the Light Rail while enroute to the Green Democratic celebration (around 2pm-ish on Wednesday, August 27).
Personal reflection from Wednesday’s DNC (featuring an historic roll call vote/most respectful and inspirational moment with Sen. Hillary Clinton and her delegation, another Clinton “knock it out of the park” speech, and Sen. Joe Biden’s brilliantly moving acceptance speech as Nominee for Vice President) will come soon.
Recap of Delegate Activity from Wednesday, August 25, 2008:
Sorting, organizing, and boxing 4.3 tons of food, 3 Oregon Delegates (myself, Karen Packer, and Dr. Huma Pierce) teamed up with Indiana, Arizona, Guam, and Washington Delegates at the South Denver Sheraton Hotel to participate in a day of giving back to the community. It’s “Delegate Service Day” in Denver and in conjunction with the Colorado Branch of Volunteers of America and Meals on Wheels, our respective delegations did what Democrats do best: work hard and work together!
This morning’s activity, on Day III of the DNC, was a rather heartfelt highlight of this historic Democratic National Convention experience. Sure, I’ve met some of my favorite progressive members of Congress; sure, I was there, front and center, “squating” with my Illinois and Virginia Delegate buddies for Senator Kennedy and Michelle Obama’s inspirationally moving speeches on Monday; sure, we were beyond proud of Senator Clinton’s magnanimous call for party unity behind Barack Obama; and sure, last night CNN's Paul Begala and I were chumming around the DNC like Democratic Party school kids . . . but . . .
The aforementioned, of course, are historic and quite memorable — however, no amount of speeches, caucus meetings, and post-Convention parties can match the tremendously uplifting feeling of working hard, working well, and working together for the common cause of helping our fellow man. (And special “thank you” to Jim White and our Volunteers of America friends who helped organize Wednesday’s Meals on Wheels program.)
I can’t help but think of our FOOD for Lane County program back home and how much they too are in need of our assistance. (http://www.foodforlanecounty.org)
Of all the great Convention gifts to bring back to Lane County — the contagious “Yes We Can” attitude; the TONS of Obama, Biden, Unity, Hillary, Kennedy, and Michelle signs; Dr. King’s “Fierce Urgency of Now” plea (that I’m sure Senator Obama will echo Thursday); the all-too-important call for unification underscoring our great desire to elect progressive Democrats from the bottom of the ticket up — I'd say the inspiration gleaned from working alongside the indefatigable Meals on Wheels volunteers was, without doubt, a most personal and very real highlight of this Convention week in Denver.
I suppose it’s ironic: my favorite Convention moment — thus far — was nowhere near the Pepsi Center, Convention Center, Lodo Bars, 16th Street Mall, or Invesco Fields. Organizing, sorting and boxing food for families in need made me pause and realize: Wow! Did I pick the right Party or what!?!
Del. Matt Keating (OR - 4th)
mkeating@studentsforbarackobama.com
To: Joan Aschim, Fr. Pat Brennan, Wayne Cassidy, Ellen Chase, George & Brenda Clarke, Joe Cronin, John Cuff, Pam Dane, Carol Horne-Dennis & Amber Dennis, Tamara Diaghilev, Miriam Champer, Cedar & Mel Drews, Josh Foster, Laura Gilpatrick, Curtis Haley, Diane Hall, Rob Handy, Sloan Heermance, Gary Huggins, Jim & Janet Kissman, Sydney Kissinger, Thaddeus Konar, Jacqueline Litchfield, Judy & Brian Martsfield, James McConkey, Ron McMullin, James Mooney, Parsa Naderi, Michelle Nordella, Maggie Nordella, Mary Ann Plunkett, Gemma Rettman, Judith "Sparky" Roberts, Fran Rosenberg, Peter Rodda & Vincenza Scarpaci, Rosie Shanks, Tracy Simms, Caroline Smythe, and Patrick Torelle,Thank you for your support and generous contributions towards my Delegate to Denver Fund. Your kind donations have helped me realize the dream of participating in this once-in-a-lifetime Convention. As you may know, these past few days I've been the one Oregon Delegate traveling to the National Convention via train -- truly taking the Green Dog Democratic Challenge! My train arrived in Denver tonight, just in time to attend in the Hyatt Regency's Tri- State Reception (AZ, OR, WA). Following this evening's gala and Monday morning's breakfast with the Arizona and Washington delegates, tomorrow afternoon I'll take part in a GLBT caucus meeting at the Convention Hall. I'm also slated to touch-base tomorrow with KVAL-TV and an independent film crew shooting the documentary movie "The Delegates." In addition to my crazy media commitments, I am quite anxious to hear Michelle Obama address our delegation -- and the nation -- prime time on Monday night.Senator Hillary Clinton will speak on Tuesday evening; 42nd President Bill Clinton and Senator Joe Biden, respectively, will address our delegation on Wednesday. And, of course, Senator Barack Obama will deliver our party's nomination acceptance speech on Thursday evening from Invesco Fields. I plan to keep you and our community informed and updated via the "Life@Lane" blog on LCC's home-page: www.lanecc.edu. Also, various video-clips highlighting the inner workings of our DNC - and DNC - will regularly appear at www.youtube.com/mkeating2008 and at the Democratic Party of Lane County's web page: www.DPLC.org.Again, thank you for helping make Denver a reality! Thank you for your continuous support of our future president. And, especially, thank you for entrusting me to serve as your 4th Congressional District Delegate at the 2008 Democratic National Convention.Matt KeatingEugene, OR
PS - Donations are still welcome! (This particular delegate is working on a less-than-shoe-string-budget!) Please e-mail mkeating@studentsforbarackobama.com for more info . . .
