Organizing for America | SAIS Students for Obama

SAIS Students for Obama

Join fellow SAIS graduate students and community members working to help elect Senator Obama. The time for change is now and Obama is our man.

SAIS Students for Obama October 1st Update

By Sarah J-G - Oct 2nd, 2008 at 1:19 am EDT

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Hello team,
Thank you to everyone who came to the NPR event last Friday, I think a lot of insightful pro-Obama comments were made and heard around the nation. I am sure everyone is looking forward to the Palin-Biden debate tomorrow night. If you're looking for a party check out the email below from DC for Obama, there are plenty to attend, as well as the viewing at SAIS in Kenney.
Also thanks to those who have been going to VA each weekend, it is the single most important battle ground in our area and the results are very positive.
Moving forward we will continue to canvass each weekend in VA through the campaign season. Contact Sarah Morgenstern by Friday at noon if you would like to attend <smorgenstern05@gmail.com: We will also be adding on weekly phonebanking from the Obama DC HQ. The campaign has asked our group whether we would like to have a featured SAIS Students for Obama night at their office in Farragut North, very close to school. If you are interested please rsvp to me by tomorrow night and let me know which night of the week works best for you. I'll then send out a list to those who RSVPed with the address and more details.
As many of you know the deadline to register to vote in DC and VA is this MONDAY, OCTOBER 6th and the 14th in Maryland. So we will be holding a visibility event and voter registration table this FRIDAY at the Happy Hour at SAIS from 5-8pm. If you are interested in helping out with this please let me know, we will have signs and stickers, but most importantly laptops so people can register on the spot. If interested in staffing this with us, please bring your laptop and rsvp to me by Thursday night.

Thank you everyone, we've got 34 days to go!
Best,
Sarah

SAIS Students for Obama is an independent group and it is not affiliated with SAIS or the Johns Hopkins University. Views expressed are on behalf of the group or the individual member, not of SAIS or JHU. SAIS and JHU do not endorse or oppose candidates for public office.

Date: Wed, 1 Oct 2008 10:03:21 -0400
To: sarahjohnstongardner@hotmail.com
From: hpark4@aol.com
Subject: [DC for Obama] 10/1 Newsletter, Voter Registration Deadline

PLEASE FORWARD To subscribe to this list, go to www.dcforobama.com As always the most complete source for local events and info is the main campaign site www.barackobama.com

Items 1 - 17 relate directly to the Obama-Biden campaign, events that follow #17 support other Democrats.

1. It's All About Voting & Voter Registration

The time is NOW to make sure you are registered to vote at www.voteforchange.com and www.barackobama.com. The DEADLINE to register in Virginia and DC is NEXT MONDAY, Oct. 6, in Maryland the deadline is Oct. 14 -- avoid delays and make sure you, your friends and family are registered well before the deadline. Here's a list of deadlines in other states: http://www.eac.gov/voter/Register%20to%20Vote/deadlines If you know someone overseas (military or civilian) who needs info on go to vote go to: http://www.fvap.gov/ Be proactive, make SURE your overseas friends take the proper steps too vote, don't wait until the last minute. In addition, many states such as Ohio and North Carolina have early voting. Please encourage friends to take advantage of it so they won't be deterred by long lines, sudden health issues or family obligations on election day.
2. DC Obama HQ, Open 7 days a week!

The DC Obama-Biden field office at 803 Florida Ave., NW (one block from the eastern exit of the U St. Cardozo Metro near the African-American Civil War Memorial) is open Monday - Friday from 10:00 am - 10:00 pm and weekends from 11:00 am until 10:00 pm. Our focus is on Virginia, the DC Field office is the place to make phone calls to local Obama supporters in an effort to get them to volunteer for the campaign in Virginia. Check out this video of Mayor Fenty opening the DC office, thanks also to Councilmembers Kwame Brown and Murial Bowser: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/dc/2008/09/fenty_to_campaign_for_obama_in.html

3. Biden-Palin Debate Watch Parties Oct. 2
We could easily fill every slot in this newsletter just about Oct. 2 VP debate watch parties, here are just a few...DC for Obama's watch party at Mezza Luna is filled to the RSVP capacity. Other Debate Watch parties include Bohemian Caverns at 11th & U Sts. NW just up the street from Obama HQ, Young Lawyers for Obama & Foreign Policy Professionals for Obama will gather at Porter's, 1207 19th St., NW ($15 suggested donation), Drinking Liberally with Featured Guest Mike Lux is at their usual spot, Timberlakes, 1726 Connecticut Ave., NW (free!) Latinas for Obama-Biden will gather at Nena, 2039 Wilson Blvd. (2nd Floor) in Arlington (Courthouse Metro), live music & speeches state at 7:00, the debate from St. Louis starts at 9:00 pm, RSVP at: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/fundraising/gsh3my and there are pre-debate parties too -- see below...

4. Labor Pre-Debate Party Oct 2nd: Obama Party for Change (After Work Event)
Please join labor and D.C. area activists by attending a major celebration and fundraiser for Barack Obama at Club MCCXXIII on Thursday, October 2, 5-8 pm. Special Musical Guests: The U-Liners (Fans voted among Top 3 Bands, WAMA-2007)

Address: 1223 Connecticut Ave Washington - 5-8PM [Walk from Red, Orange, Blue Metro]

Please sign up to attend the party and make your contribution online:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpl9gq

5. Asian Pacific Americans for Progress, Pre-Debate Fundraiser/Happy Hour, Oct. 2...

...at Teaism, 400 8th St., NW, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, $20 suggested donation, $10 students).

6. Join Sen. Joe Biden in DC for GLBT Fundraiser for Obama, Saturday, October 4th
...will be the only major GLBT and Friends fundraiser for the Obama campaign before the election with one of the Party’s major candidates. Senator Joe Biden will speak at the fundraiser that will be held at the Washington, DC Convention Center. This event will be held just prior to the Human Rights Campaign dinner that same evening. Tickets are $1,000. If you have maxed out to the campaign you can still join us and make a donation to the DNC. For more information contact Peter Rosenstein at 202 255-0850 or peter@prosenstein.com.

7. Volunteers are needed for voter registration at Alexandria metro stations

Weekdays until October 6. Morning shifts from approximately 6:30--9:30 a.m. Evening shifts from approximately 4:30--7:30 pm Contact Laura, plaze@comcast.net if you can help at:
-- King Street
-- Eisenhower Avenue
-- Braddock Road

8. Data Entry Help Needed at DC Office
The DC Campaign Office can really use some help with data entry during the day. All you need to help is a laptop and a few free hours in the morning and afternoon hours. Again, the office is located at 803 Florida Ave NW, a block from Metro. Please share this message with your networks. We don't want them getting behind on their data entry. That leads to people being called too many times and having their doors knocked on multiple times in the same week.

10. Energy Security and Policy Panel - Mon. Oct. 6
Join YLFO, Foreign Policy Professionals for Obama, and Clean Tech for Obama for a panel discussing the energy security and domestic policy challenges facing an Obama administration. Featuring Bob Sussman, former Deputy Administrator of EPA, Charles Ebinger of the Brookings Institution, and other energy policy experts.

When: Monday, October 6, 7 pm
Location: National Press Club, 529 14th St. NW
Contribution: Ticket - $100; Government/public interest - $50; Students - $25
Hosts - $500 (raise or write); contact Elia (eboggia@gmail.com) to host
Donate and RSVP here.

11. Literary Event - Mon. Oct. 6YLFO and Young Jewish Professionals for Obama invite you to join Jewish literary stars Michael Chabon, Nathan Englander, and Ayelet Waldman for readings and conversation.

When: Monday, October 6, 7 pm; VIP reception - 6 pm
Location: Carnegie Institution, 1530 P Street NW
Contribution: Ticket: $360; Young professional: $180
Host: $1,000 (raise or write); Co-chair: $5,000 (raise or write)
Donate here. For info. and to RSVP contact DCLiteraryEventForObama@gmail.com

12. Help Protect the Vote on Election Day, MY.BARACKOBAMA.COM/COUNSELFORCHANGE

Senator Barack Obama's Campaign for Change and the Democratic Party of Virginia's Coordinated
Campaign need you to help protect the rights of each and every voter on Election Day, November 4th.
Young Lawyers for Obama has been a powerful force for change throughout this historic election;
we are now reaching out to invite you to be a part of our Voter Protection Program.

You can help make sure every eligible voter receives the opportunity to cast their ballot,
that every vote is counted, and that any efforts to suppress the vote or spread misinformation do not
go unanswered. It's great if you are an attorney to participate in this program, but it is not required.

Put your legal skills to work (but you do not have to be a lawyer) on the front line in our battleground state as a poll watcher on Election Day - answer the call by clicking on the following link and filling out the form that will follow: MY.BARACKOBAMA.COM/COUNSELFORCHANGE

Please circulate this e-mail far and wide to those who wish to help voters participate in this great Democracy. After you sign up, we will be in touch regarding training materials and poll assignments.

Thank you again for your time and consideration, Scott Pluta & Rita Aguilar
Voter Protection Coordinators. If you have any questions please contact us at promotethevote@vaobamaforchange.com

13. Health Care Policy Discussion - Mon. Oct. 20Join YLFO for a discussion of Senator Obama's health care policy proposals, featuring former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, and other health care policy experts.

When: Monday, October 20, 6:00 pm Location TBD Contribution: ticket: $150; public interest/government: $75; students: $50
RSVP and donate here.
Hosts: Raise or write $900; contact Tom (tom@groupmagellan.com) to host.

14. From Obama Ohio Out of State Coordinator Rosa Goldensohn

Note: The place to be for most DC and Maryland volunteers is Virginia but if you have any special ties to friends or family in the state of Ohio, here are some ways to get plugged in there. EARLY VOTING has started in Ohio!

http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/ohcometoohio
This is how to sign up, or you can email volunteerohio@ohioforchange.com
You can also sign up to make calls at: http://oh.barackobama.com/callohio

15. Barack Obama at the ALC Gala in DC, Sept. 27

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYsVcLMO7HU&feature=user

16. Check out: http://foreignpolicyforobama.com/ newly redesigned!

17. Check out this locally produced interesting video from DC local artists & designers in support of Barack Obama, go to: www.xculture.tv and forward liberally!

18. Oct. 1 -- WEDNESDAY NIGHT -- Rep. Norton/Ward 4 Dems
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton will be our guest speaker at the October 1, 2008
meeting of the Ward 4 Democrats, which will be held at Emery Recreation Center, 5701 Georgia Avenue, N.W. Congresswoman Norton will discuss the federal rescue plan legislation, as well as
Presidential Politics leading up to the Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Election. We will also serve dinner. Please join us on Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. for dinner, Democratic fellowship, and the insightful remarks of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton.

19. Stein Club Reception With Kwame Brown, Oct. 5 at Halo
The Gertrude Stein Democratic Club, the voice of LGBT Democrats in DC will have a reception with Councilman Kwame Brown on Sunday, Oct. 5, 5:00 - 7:00 pm at Halo, 1435 P St., NW, free but please RSVP at http://www.steindemocrats.org/events/KBrown Councilman Kwame Brown was a key supporter of the grassroots Obama campaign at a crucial time in the primary process!

20. Go Local with two events from the Ward 6 Democrats Oct. 7 & 27
City Council At-Large Candidate Forum
October 7, 2008 @ 7pm
Tyler Elementary School
1001 G St SE
Washington, DC 20003

Invited Are: Kwame Brown, Democrat Party, Michael A. Brown Independent Party, Dee Hunter Independent Party, Mark H. Long Independent Party, Patrick Mara, Republican Party, Carol Schwartz, Republican Party
David Schwartzman, Statehood Green Party

A Conversation with Lisa Raymond, Candidate for State Board of Education
October 21, 2008 @ 7pm (tentative)
Tyler Elementary School
1001 G St SE
Washington, DC 20003

21. Artists' for America for 21st Century Dems, Oct. 14Please join area artists in a benefit for 21st Century Democrats, an organization which is fielding Democratic trainers and organizers in Michigan, Ohio & Pennsylvania, 6:30 - 9:00 pm, Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2017 I St., NW, at the Arts Club of Washington, the former home of President James Monroe, for more info go to: http://www.actblue.com/page/artists-for-america

22. Newsletter Policies
We are all volunteers with DC for Obama. The number of e-mails we can send out is limited. You can always post an event using the tools at www.barackobama.com. Until further notice we will be sending out one big event roundup, usually in the beginning or middle of the week. If you want us to include an event please send a plain text e-mail to Howard Park hpark4@aol.com at least 7 days before your event. Unless the event is especially important, such as an appearance by Barack Obama or Joe Biden, we cannot send out listings of events on short notice at other times during the week. It is preferred that your listing be sent in a 10 point, Ariel font. We cannot include attachments of any kind. Thanks! We look forward to including your event

We apologize if we missed your event. Listed above is really just a few of the many Obama activities coming up within the next few days in greater DC.

Yes, we can, Yes, we will!

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

SAIS Students for Obama Update: Thursday Sept. 25th Meetings

By Sarah J-G - Sep 26th, 2008 at 1:29 am EDT

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Hi all,
For those of you who couldn't make our meeting today here is an update of our group activities:
Looking forward to tomorrow!
-Sarah

Priority number one: Register to VOTE
Gabriel S. and Chris R. have crafted flyers for SAIS encouraging everyone to vote that will go up around SAIS. Here is voter registration information for each state, most are 30 days before November 4th:http://www.eac.gov/voter/Register%20to%20Vote/deadlines
You can also register and download information at: http://www.voteforchange.com/
Including overseas, so please forward especially to your friends abroad!

Bologna outreach - Dan V. will follow up on reaching out to our students there to make sure they have the info available to get their absentee ballot

Canvessing in VA
A very successful group of SAIS Students for Obama have already been canvassing in Northern VA. There is still time to join! Please e-mail Sarah M. by noon this Friday if you plan to join us this Saturday, the 27th. Please also indicate if you're available to drive.
As with last week, we'll meet at 1pm in the SAIS Nitze Courtyard (1740 Mass Ave.), canvass from around 2-6, and return to DC by 7:30ish. Feel free to forward this e-mail on to any friends who'd like to come along.
Contact Sarah Morgenstern: smorgenstern05@gmail.com

SAIS Debates
We are in touch with the SAIS McCain group about hosting another round, or two of SAIS Presidential Debates. If you are interested in helping out with this please contact Kwame Boadi, kboadi@gmail.com
Watching the real debates - be sure to be there tomorrow for the NPR coverage. We'll be in touch about where we'll be watching the next two together.

Visibility at SAIS and in DC
Sarah and Kwame are going to try to get materials to SAIS before Oct 6, to host a visibility table at the next happy hour (the 3rd). If you're interested in helping out please let me know (sarahjohnstongardner@hotmail.com)

Gabriel and Chris are working on publishing op-eds for the SAIS observer and local newspapers. If you want to help with that please contact them: gabrielserrato@jhu.edu and chris.rizzi@gmail.com

Marine Corp Marathon Visibility - it is coming up, a member suggested SAIS Students for Obama go out for Obama visibility. Sarah JG is in touch with the campaign to see if this is possible and will follow up.

New DC Field Office
803 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001 Phone bank schedule: M-F 5-9 Sat 11-8 Sun 2-8
More details available at http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/dcoffices.

Local Events:
You can get this full list by joining DC for Obama or visiting their site: www.dcforobama.com

From our friends at AU:
The Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies
&
Council on Latin America

Cordially invite you to attend
The 2008 Presidential Election
Battle for the Latino Vote
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
6:00-8:00 p.m.
Mary Graydon Center Room 5

Moderated by
Dr. James A. Thurber, Director of the Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies
Panelists will include
Mark Hugo Lopez, Associate Director, Pew Hispanic Center
Maria Teresa Petersen, Executive Director, Voto Latino
Rafael Bejar, Advisor to Senator John McCain's Presidential Campaign

Danny Sepulveda, National Campaign Advisor to Senator Barack Obama

*For more information contact Olga Gallardo (202) 885-3491 or Marguerite Jimenez (202)885-3605.*

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Hopkins for Obama - Update

By Brendan - Sep 20th, 2008 at 4:32 pm EDT

Also listed in: 9 groups

Barackstars,

I know I've said this before but you guys have really done a fantastic job and I appreciate all of the hard work and effort. I would also like to give a special shout out to the College Democrats here because they've taken on a lot of the Hopkins for Obama (JHSFBO) responsibilities in a really great way.

With that said, we've really got our work cut out for us. Since this campaign has started Bear Stearns, Meryl Lynch, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Farmer Mac, IndyMac, Washington Mutual, AIG, Lehman Brothers, and others have all succumb to bankruptcy, government bailouts, company buyouts, or are nearing one of these fates every day. The market crashed more than 700 points before rebounding this week in what will likely be an ephemeral bounce back up. Needless to say, the economy isn't doing well.

This is exactly why we need to work EVEN HARDER because this race is tied in most of the battleground states of PA, WI, NM, NV, OH, VA, NH, CO, and others. Unlike the McCain/Palin campaign, we have manpower as a great resource but we must use it if we're going to win. I understand that we're all busy but I cannot stress enough how important it is to take at least 1 night a week to phone bank or canvass in Pennsylvania.

Here is a list of upcoming events...

Canvass trips to the Northeast Philadelphia Area:
Saturday, September 27 9AM-TBD
Saturday, October 4 9AM-TBD
Saturday, October 11 9AM-TBD
Saturday, October 18 9AM-TBD

If you can canvass, please contact Claire Cravero (ccraver1@jhu.edu) or Lakshmi Muthu (lmuthu1@gmail.com) to RSVP

Phone bank sessions in Krieger 302:
Wednesday, September 24 from 7-9PM; Deputy State Director Jason Waskey will be joining us!
Thursday, September 25 from 6-9PM
Monday, September 29 from 6-9PM
Wednesday, October 1 from 6-9PM
Friday, October 3 from 6-9PM
Monday, October 6 from 6-9PM
Wednesday, October 8 from 6-9PM

If you can phone bank, please sign-up on our Facebook group or our group at http://my.barackobama.com

I cannot stress enough how important it is for all of us to make time at least once a week for phone banking. This race could not be any closer and it will be volunteer efforts like these that make the difference.

Best,
Brendan Ullman

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Virginia: Update on Warner

By Daniel from Great Falls, VA - Sep 9th, 2008 at 1:31 pm EDT

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Yesterday the Virginia Fraternal Order of Police (VA FOP) said that they back VA democratic candidate Mark Warner, giving him credit for doing a great job as governor. Warner (who had been discussed as a VP candidate pick) is running for Senator of VA. The VA FOP backing notes the significant momentum the Democratic Party in VA: This is the first time the VA FOP has EVER backed a democratic candidate in the state

This is not the only sign that Virginia is a purple state this year, and Obama's campaign is making a concerted effort to win the state. Yet, I live in VA, and on the way in to class today there were over 30 McCain signs along the road and none for Obama. Warner is an exciting chance for VA, and voting blue in the national election will be that much more exciting. The momentum is there, we need to make an effort to the south of our SAIS borders (yes, some of you may have to leave Dupont Circle). I propose a bit of discussion on Thursday as to what the SAIS Students for Obama can contribute to really get VA with Barack Obama and Mark Warner as well. So, that is my two cents.

DISCLAIMER: SAIS Students for Obama is an independent group and it is not affiliated with SAIS or the Johns Hopkins University. Views expressed are on behalf of the group or the individual member, not of SAIS or JHU. SAIS and JHU do not endorse or oppose candidates for public office.

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Foreign Policy Address

By Sarah J-G - Jul 16th, 2008 at 11:12 pm EDT

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Hey guys,

Here is the video of the speech we saw this past week. Great 5 points on the future of U.S. For Pol.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/newstrategy

Enjoy and discuss!

Best,

Sarah

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Support the SAIS Presidential Debate!

By Sarah J-G - Apr 20th, 2008 at 2:21 pm EDT

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Come support our very own Obama - Kwame Boadi!

SAIS Debates: The Presidential Candidates
Monday April 28, 12:30-2, Rome Auditorium

Mock debate between Jess Stahl (Clinton Campaign),
Phil Kreck (McCain Club), and Kwame Boadi (Obama Club) on three policy
issues: Foreign Policy, Economic Policy, and Environment/Energy
Policy. It's going to be a high-level debate of the candidates'
positions by people in the know, and there is going to be free
pizza.

See you there!

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Update, Meeting today, and trips to Ohio

By Sarah J-G - Feb 15th, 2008 at 12:45 pm EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Hi all,

As you know we're holding an Obama fundraiser, Rock for Barack on Monday, March 3rd at the Science Club, 6pm-9pm. We will hold a short meeting tonight at 5pm in the Nitze cafeteria to confirm who is doing what and what still needs to be done.

Beyond this the campaign is still looking for callers, to Texas and Ohio. I would recommend signing up to the other groups in DC on my.barackobama.com so you can receive their updates too. There is a group organizing trips to Ohio, here is the info on that,

Thanks to the generosity of many supporters in the area, we will be able to offer at least three buses to Ohio in the coming weeks. We are receiving messages everyday from folks in DC who are opening up their wallets to ensure that these trips are a reality. The outpouring of support is truly inspiring.I know that many of you received a message from the campaign last night regarding volunteering in Ohio. There is no need to fill out that form if you are coming to Ohio with DC for Obama. We will be going to Columbus, Ohio the weekends of February 23 and March 1. Please use the following form to register: http://www.surveymethods.com/EndUser.aspx?D9FD918BD1998F82The need for grassroots support has never been greater than it is right now, especially in Ohio. Hillary has gone even more negative there over the past couple of days and it is only going to get worse. The campaign will need us as ambassadors if we are going to win the state. I hope you'll come along for the ride.Note: Please use the supplied form to sign up. Due to my time constraints, I cannot reply to individual inquiries in a timely manner. Our group will respond within 48 hours to all signups.__________________________________________Join DC for Obama, Young Lawyers for Obama and other grassroots groups for a DC-area victory party and Wisconsin returns watch party this Tuesday, February 19, at Hawk n Dove. Join us in the Obama room upstairs and to the back, where we'll watch the returns.We're there to celebrate the victory here in the Potomac, and to talk about what's next -- but what better way than to celebrate another Obama victory?But, in order for us to celebrate a victory, we will need to help contact supporters in Wisconsin. You can do so at http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/phonebankmap.__________________________________________Fired up!- Adam

--
Adam L. Barr
albarr@gmail.com
Founder, Out of State Coordinator
DC for Obama
http://www.dcforobama.com

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Obama speaking tomorrow, Fundraising and Super Delagates

By Sarah J-G - Feb 10th, 2008 at 11:59 pm EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Hi all,

If you don't know Obama is speaking at the Univ. Of MD tomorrow at 10:30 am. You'll probably need to be in line by 8am based on my experience at AU. To RSVP for the event, contact Matt Verghese, Deputy Director of Maryland Students for Barack Obama, at mmverg@umd.edu.

Meanwhile, in DC, there's lots to do, Please remember to sign up to volunteer on election day, this Tuesday. Fill out this survey to get on board:

http://www.surveymethods.com/EndUser.aspx?F8DCB0AAF1B8AEAE

DC headquarters are now open at 1225 Pennsylvania Ave SE -- stop in any time to volunteer for events and activities Let's keep the momentum of this weekend's victories going!

I. SAIS Fundraising Event - Monday March 3rd, Science Club

email me if you're interested in being part of the planning group

II. Super Delegates.

There are 796 uncommitted super delegates from all over the country. Since we're are also from all over the country I propose we each write a few letters to a delegate we know describing why we support Obama and encourage them to do so as well. Here is the list,
http://demconwatch.blogspot.com/2008/01/superdelegates-who-havent-endorsed.html

III. Big Tuesday in the District.

If you can volunteer on Tuesday the campaign is still looking for canvassers.

Also Prof. Brimmer has invited us to attend her event at Karma on Tuesday, I sent the evite out to everyone.

IV. Spanish callers still needed

Join our effort today, or forward this request to a friend, neighbor, or family member who speaks Spanish:

http://my.barackobama.com/spanishcalls

Texas and VA are crucial for the Latino vote.

I'll be in touch soon about our next meeting.

Best,

Sarah

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

SAIS for Obama events this weekend and update

By Sarah J-G - Feb 7th, 2008 at 6:51 pm EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Hello all,

There are several fabulous events coming up for everyone to participate in, for those who couldn't make it to the meeting tonight the info is below, please RSVP tonight.

Friday, Feb. 8th - Friday night lights

We will represent the campaign in a visibility campaign in Adams Morgan from 7:30-10pm. We will walk together from SAIS leaving at 7pm. If you haven't signed up yet please email me your name and cell phone tonight. - sarahjohnstongardner@hotmail.com

Saturday, Feb. 9th - Canvassing in Fairfax

We have been asked to help in the swing county of Fairfax. We will depart from SAIS at 11am. If you have not signed up for this please email Kwame, kboadi@gmail.com and be sure to include cell phone and whether you need a ride or can offer a ride.

Tuesday, Feb. 12th - Primary day - DC, MD, VA

The campaign would like volunteers at the polls. You can sign up for that on the campaign website or by contacting ward captains see below. Please be sure to remind everyone you know to vote, and vote for Obama. To find information on polling places, in-person absentee voting go to:
VA Board of Elections (www.sbe.virginia.gov)
DC Board of Elections (www.dcboee.org)
MD Board of Elections (www.elections.state.md.us)
- VA polls open 6am-7pm, DC/MD polls open 7am-8pm -

Monday, March 3rd - Rock for Barack - the SAIS for Obama fundraiser, Science Club, 6:30-9pm

Mark your calenders. This is the tentative time and date for our fundraiser. We will need a core group of volunteers for various tasks (ticket sales, door, PR, etc) please email me if you're interested, sarahjohnstongardner@hotmail.com

Si se puede - el voto latino

The latino vote is critical for Obama's success as we saw on super Tuesday. The campaign has materials in Spanish and has phone numbers available if you would like to make calls in Spanish to Latino voters. I would also recommend signing up for Latinos for Obama in DC on mybarackobama.com, they hold local events and this is a good way to support the campaign.

Please forward events and our site to all your friends!

Thanks!

Sarah

* more info on the 12th

2/12 Work The Polls / Obama Ward Leaders in DC ***

As you know, next Tuesday is the big primary. While the efforts of this weekend and the past week will have been essential in turning up the vote, nothing will be as crucial as getting out on Tuesday, all day, and driving up voter turnout all over the city. Your time and energy are needed!

Please fill out the following survey if you can help on Tuesday. If you know of any potential volunteers, please forward this as well. THIS IS THE MOST CRUCIAL TIME TO VOLUNTEER.

http://www.surveymethods.com/EndUser.aspx?F8DCB0AAF1B8AEAE

Here are the ward captains to contact if you want to get active in your neighborhood.
1.    Ward 1: Jerry Clark jclark1939@aol. com
2.    Ward 2: Paige Shevlin paige.shevlin@ googlemail. com
3.    Ward 3: Ron Bitondo rrbitondo@aol. com
4.    Ward 4: Keith White keith.white@ smithbarney. com
5.    Ward 5: Alan Bray alanrbray@hotmail. com
6.    Ward 6: Apriel Hodari hodaria@cna. org
7.    Ward 7: Kim Morton kim4dst@hotmail. com
8.    Ward 8: Philip Pannell acc01@aol.com

If you are not sure in which ward you live, go to http://citizenatlas .dc.gov/atlasapp s/reporthometab.aspx

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Update from the campaign - loads of events for you to join

By Sarah J-G - Feb 7th, 2008 at 6:12 pm EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

PLEASE FORWARD TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS!!!

GENERATION OBAMA-DC/VA UPDATE
(more details below)

Call 2/9 Washington and Louisiana Voters!
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/phonebankmap

Volunteer at the OFFICIAL NORTHERN VIRGINIA HEADQUARTERS TODAY, from 9am-9pm Fri-Mon and 6am-7pm Tue, Feb 12 Primary Day!
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/vaoffices

Get involved in VA Community Outreach (Women, Latinos, etc.)!

New DC HEADQUARTERS opens Friday!

New MD offices in Silver Spring, Baltimore and more!
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/mdoffices

Sign up for Get-Out-The-Vote Activities!
http://my.barackobama.com/VAgotv
http://my.barackobama.com/DCgotv
http://my.barackobama.com/MDgotv

Check out the VA/DC/MD Web Sites!
http://va.barackobama.com/
http://dc.barackobama.com/
http://md.barackobama.com/

Barack The Bars in DC and VA on Friday!

Get-Out-The-Vote Kickoff Rally at NOVA HQ at 9:30am and Canvass at ACDC HQ in Court House on Saturday!

Senator Obama at Jefferson-Jackson Dinner on Saturday!

Make sure to spread the word that the Chesapeake Primary is Feb 12th and it's an OPEN PRIMARY IN VIRGINIA!
(any registered voter can vote in the democratic election)

In-Person VA Absentee Voting until 7pm TONIGHT and ends 5pm Saturday!

Find information on polling places, in-person absentee voting, etc.!
VA Board of Elections (www.sbe.virginia.gov)
DC Board of Elections (www.dcboee.org)
MD Board of Elections (www.elections.state.md.us)
- VA polls open 6am-7pm, DC/MD polls open 7am-8pm -

VA Lawyers needed for Voter Protection on Primary Day!
(Contact Chris D'Angelo, 917-617-8272, cmd279@gmail.com)

OBAMA DC-METRO AREA ACTIVITIES & CAMPAIGN NEWS:

*** Help NoVa's donation drive by visiting our fundraising page! ***
http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/maingroup/ArlingtoniansforObama

Volunteer at the Northern Virginia Headquarters!

*** with 9:30 am Saturday, February 8th GOTV Kickoff Rally ***

400 N Washington Street (Rt. 29), 3rd Flr, Falls Church, VA 22046
(off Route 66's Exit 69 and only a 10 min. walk from East Falls Church metro)
9:00am-9:00pm Friday, February 8-Monday, February 11
6:00am-7:00pm Tuesday, February 12 (during poll hours)

Contact:
Chris Lewis, clewis@barackobama.com

Jim McBride
(phone bank coordinator)
virginiaforobama2008@gmail.com
703-867-5070

This location is conveniently located between Washington Boulevard amd Broad St. (Route 7). Lots of people have questions about getting involved, but the best thing to do is just show up and we will put you to work on whatever you want!

This location will feature 20 phone lines, so phone banking will be a primary focus, but computer and other tasks are available....in the meantime, cell phones and laptops are still welcome!

4-9pm 2/7 RSVP:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/organizing/4r74j

*** Virginia "Hope Ambassador" Community Outreach Contacts ***

"Hope Ambassador" Captain:
Laura Castillo, lcastillo82@sbcglobal.net, (210) 884-1687

Students for Barack Obama:
Abby Williams, Virginia State Coordinator
awilliams@studentsforbarackobama.com (757) 537-1466

Women for Obama:
Crystal Plati, crystalplati@gmail.com (202)-369-5334

Latinos for Obama:
Crystal Martinez, VA/DC/MD Latino Outreach Coordinator
crystalmartinez@gmail.com (574) 514-6010
latinosunidosporobama@gmail.com

Northern Virginia Latinos for Obama:
Cristina Chiappe, chiappe_cristina@yahoo.com

Asian Americans:
Rose Chu, rccmason@gmail.com

Arab-American/Muslim:
Wasime Entabi, wasime@msn.com, (571) 217-8261

Ethiopian:
Kedist Geremaw, kgeremaw@yahoo.com (202) 758-0847

African Americans for Obama:
Krysta Jones, krysta.n.jones@gmail.com

LGBTQ:
Charley Conrad, president@vapartisans.org, 703 835 6614

Faith:
Laura Castillo, lcastillo82@sbcglobal.net (210) 884-1687

For Jewish Outreach, please contact Rachel Signer at rachelsigner@gmail.com

For Muslim Outreach, please contact Wasim Entabi at wasime@msn.com

Veterans for Obama:
Richard L. Klass, rklass@comcast.net

Northern Virginia Educators for Obama:
Helena Payne, paynespen@yahoo.com

Seniors for Obama:
Rosemary O'Neill, roisdubh@yahoo.com

*10:30am 2/8 Obama for America Opens Its DC Headquarters*

All are invited to join Mayor Adrian Fenty and grassroots volunteers for the opening of the DC office of Obama for America. Yard signs will be available at the office opening. The office will be the hub of campaign activity through the Chesapeake Primary on the 12th. There will be some campaign materials at this location.

Come to the DC headquarters over the next 5 days to get involved phone banking, canvassing, or running visibility.

Obama for America - DC Office Opening
Friday, February 8, 10:30 AM
1225 Pennsylvania Avenue SE (4 blocks from the Eastern Market & Potomac Ave. metro stops)

*** 2/8 Friday Night Visibility in DC ***

There's an opportunity for another great visibility event on Friday night, just like the very successful Verizon Center event this past Saturday.

The idea is to hit DC-metro voters when they're most impressionable: right before they go out on a Friday night. Now, we'll be flyering and holding signs at five major night spots just as the evening kicks off, from 7:30 until about 10 pm. These events are high-energy, fun, and coupled with flyers that remind residents to vote on FEB 12, they're very effective. Please join us -- you can make it part of your night out! Send an email to the event coordinators for each site below with FRIDAY NIGHT in the subject line.

Adams Morgan
Kesh Ladduwahetty: keshinil@yahoo.com

Dupont
Ethan Pollack: ethanpollack@gmail.com

Georgetown
Lee Catherine Booker: lee.catherine.booker@gmail.com

U St Corridor
Lynn Kim: lkiowagirl@aol.Com

H St NE Corridor
Mike Velasquez: mike_velasquez@yahoo.com

Each event coordinator will work with DCFO to develop a plan based on the number of volunteers at each site as to where to assign you.

*** 2/8 Barack The Bars in DC and VA! ***

If you like drinking, socializing and spreading the news about Barack Obama (not necessarily in that order), then this event is for you!

Join Barack the Bars-DC and Barack The Bars-VA to bar hop, talk to people about the primaries and tell them why they should vote for Senator Obama on the 12th.

DC-Meet at The Front Page in Dupont Circle to start up the night at 8 p.m., we'll take off from there around 8:30 p.m. Wear any Obama gear you have; we'll provide stickers for all to wear and distribute.

Contact: Anne Marie Ashburn, annemarie.ashburn@gmail.com, (801) 971-2836 if you have questions.

DC RSVP:
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=10242096239
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4r5rb

VA- Meet at Whitlow's on Wilson in Clarendon to start up the night at 8 p.m., we'll take off from there around 8:30 p.m. Wear any Obama gear you have; we'll provide stickers for all to wear and distribute.

Contact: Laura Castillo, lcastillo4100@gmail.com

VA RSVP:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4r5cv
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=8939718270

*** Join DC City Councilman Tommy Wells for Capitol Hill Canvassing on 2/9! ***

The best way to ensure that Barack Obama wins the DC primary is make sure every voter remembers to show up on Feb 12th! We need you to donate a few hours of your time so that we can knock every door this weekend!

Time: Saturday, February 9 at 11:00 AM

Host: Melissa Byrne

Location:
Sidamo Coffee and Tea (Washington, DC)
417 H Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002

RSVP: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4r7qj

*** 12pm Canvass for Change on Saturday! ***

Please join us to canvass for Obama in Arlington on Saturday, February 9 at ACDC Headquarters, 2009 N. 14th Street, Arlington, VA. Please meet us at noon in the lobby for instructions, and then we will leave shortly after to go door to door. Please send RSVPs and questions to Krysta Jones at krysta.jones@comcast.net by 12 noon on Friday, February 8.

ACDC Headquarters-Lobby
2009 N. 14th Street
Arlington, VA 22201
(Court House Metro)

RSVP:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/organizing/4r7b2

*Obama at Jefferson-Jackson Dinner in Richmond on Saturday!*

Sen. Obama will return to Virginia this weekend for the Democratic Party's annual Jefferson Jackson Day dinner in Richmond. A limited number of tickets are still available for the sold-out event. Please contact Joanna Martin at jmartin@barackobama.com if you are interested in attending the dinner.

Tickets are $175. $100 non-dinner theater style tickets are available through this link for Obama supporters: https://secure.vademocrats.org/page/contribute/Obama08JJ.

For more information please visit the Democratic Party of Virginia website: http://www.vademocrats.org/pages/jj_dinner_information.

Please join Virginia "Call to Chapel" -
*Visiting Church for Barack Obama this Sunday, February 10th!*

Senator Obama is a committed Christian and believes that people of all faiths have an important place in American public life. Your presence at worship service will send a strong signal that Senator Obama knows and cares about people of faith across the state of Virginia.

You will be visiting church simply to worship with Virginians and have a presence for the campaign. You will also be coming with a letter from Senator Obama for you to offer to either be read by a church member or by you, or to be delivered to the pastor if the church wishes not to have the letter read.

The packet will contain the following:
    * A letter for you to print and deliver to the pastor and the church
    * Do's and Don'ts for your worship experience
    * Talking points in the event you are asked to speak

Contact:
Laura Castillo, "Hope" Ambassador - Faith Outreach Coordinator
lcastillo82@sbcglobal.net, (210) 884-1687

For Jewish Outreach, please contact Rachel Signer at rachelsigner@gmail.com

For Muslim Outreach, please contact Wasim Entabi at wasime@msn.com

*** 2/11-12 Morning Visibility at bridges and intersections! ***

RSVP:
Mary Kay Ogden, 703-527-0332, marykayogden@gmail.com

*** 2/12 Volunteer at the Arlington Polls for Obama! ***

Contact: Krysta Jones, krysta.jones@comcast.net

RSVP:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/organizing/4vt5y

*** 2/12 Work The Polls / Obama Ward Leaders in DC ***

As you know, next Tuesday is the big primary. While the efforts of this weekend and the past week will have been essential in turning up the vote, nothing will be as crucial as getting out on Tuesday, all day, and driving up voter turnout all over the city. Your time and energy are needed!

Please fill out the following survey if you can help on Tuesday. If you know of any potential volunteers, please forward this as well. THIS IS THE MOST CRUCIAL TIME TO VOLUNTEER.

http://www.surveymethods.com/EndUser.aspx?F8DCB0AAF1B8AEAE

If you are not sure in which ward you live, go to http://citizenatlas .dc.gov/atlasapp s/reporthometab.aspx

*** VIRGINIA LAWYERS NEEDED FOR PRIMARY DAY ***

The Barack Obama campaign is in looking for lawyers and law students to staff its voter protection program on the day of the Virginia primary (Tuesday, February 12).

A strong voter protection program will ensure that the Democratic Primary runs as smoothly as possible so that all of Senator Obama's supporters have an opportunity to cast their ballot. While having experience with elections and election law is great, it is not necessary. The Obama staff will conduct brief but comprehensive trainings the week before primary day (both live and by phone) and will have a network of experienced election lawyers on call to address complex problems that may arise.

This is one of the most important contributions that you can make to the Obama Campaign—protecting access to the ballot in Virginia and ensuring that every vote is counted. Share this email with your friends and colleagues in the Virginia area who are Obama supporters.

If you are interested in joining us, please send an email to me at cmd279@gmail.com. Please include your full name, email address and cell phone number in the text of the email.

Chris D'Angelo
VA Voter Protection Coordinator
Obama for America
917-617-8272
cmd279@gmail.com

*** Volunteer with Wisconsin for Obama during President's Day Weekend - Feb 19th Primary ***

I'm coordinating volunteers interested in going to the tropical cheese state of Wisconsin for the Feb. 19th Primary. Wisconsin for Obama is need of volunteers and has two offices in Milwaukee and two more in Madision. The airfare to Milwaukee is currently only $117 roundtrip for primary weekend on Airtran with direct flights from Baltimore to Milwaukee. I currently am flying out of BWI at 8:20 am out of BWI on Saturday, Feb 16 and will be leaving Milwaukee on Feb. 19th at 7:00 pm. I'd be happy to host some volunteers in the Peltzer abode as well. Please contact Angie at angelapeltzer@gmail.com and at 202-340-0133 for those interested in volunteering!

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Beyond Super Tuesday - firing up for DC, MD, VA primaries on the12th

By Sarah J-G - Feb 6th, 2008 at 2:16 am EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Hi guys,
I am sure you're all eagerly awaiting the returns - forecasts look really good but it is crunch time for DC, VA and MD. Please let me know before Thursday's meeting if you are going to work the Friday and/or Saturday events - the campaign would like a headcount as soon as possible.

What you can do:

Make calls: get set up in the build hope database so you can call local supporters. Very important for Spanish speakers!

Friday night lights: We've been asked to help the campaign this coming Friday night in their visibility campaign from 7:30-10pm in Adams Morgan. I'll send more details as I get them, sounds like a perfect post happy hour event to me :)

Saturday in VA - the local Obama campaign staff has requested that we help in Fairfax, VA. There will be an assortment of tasks available for all. Please let me know if you have a car and if you want to go on Sunday or Monday as well.

Sign up online to help Get Out The Vote for the D.C. primary on February 12th:
http://my.barackobama.com/DCgotv
...More local events and contact information are listed below.

Our next meeting will be Thursday the 7th at 5pm, Nitze caferteria. Please RSVP and tell me which events you can attend. See you then!
Thanks all,
Sarah

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Jim McBride <virginiaforobama2008@gmail.com>
Date: Feb 4, 2008 3:00 PM
Subject: NOVA BTH UPDATE: 6pm Grand Opening of Obama HQ @ 400 N Washington St in East Falls Church TONIGHT! Feb 5 Calls until Midnight!
To: virginiaforobama@gmail.com

Dear Build The Hope Volunteers,

Almost all of you have a Virtual Phone Bank to work with on BuildTheHope.com and hopefully many of you are members of the National Call Team so you can call Super Tuesday Voters in any state you want tonight:
http://my.barackobama.com/feb5calls

Eastern Time Zone:
MA, CT, NY, NJ, GA (call until 9pm)...little late

Central Time Zone ( 1hour behind....call until 10):
AR, OK, ND

Mountain Time Zone (2 hours behind...call until 11pm):
CO

Pacific Time Zone (3 hours behind....call until Midnight):
CA

But we now have an official, metro-accessible Northern Virginia for Obama headquarters at 400 N Washington Street (Route 29) in Falls Church!

2/4 RSVP: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4r52t

This location is conveniently located between Washington Boulevard and Broad St. (Route 7) and the Exit 69 of Route 66 and just a 1/2 mile from East Falls Church orange line metro (about 10 min.).

Lots of people have questions about getting involved, but the best thing to do is just show up and we will put you to work on whatever you want!

This location will feature 20 phone lines, so phone banking will be a primary focus, but computer and other tasks are available....in the meantime, cell phones and laptops are still welcome!

Office Hours and a list of contacts for signing up with Get-Out-The-Vote volunteer activities are below.

Contact me if you have questions or would like a ride from the metro station.

Stay fired up!

Jim McBride
703-867-5070
Virginia Volunteer Database Coordinator
Generation Obama-DC/VA
virginiaforobama2008@gmail.com

NORTHERN VIRGINIA FOR OBAMA HQ OFFICE HOURS:
400 N. Washington Street (Route 29), Falls Church, VA

6:00pm-9:00pm Monday, February 4
9:00am-9:00pm Tuesday, February 5
9:00am-9:00pm Wednesday, February 6
9:00am-9:00pm Thursday, February 7
9:00am-9:00pm Friday, February 8
9:00am-9:00pm Saturday, February 9
9:00am-9:00pm Sunday, February 10
9:00am-9:00pm Monday, February 11
6:00am-7:00pm Tuesday, February 12

** Sign up for NoVa Get-Out-The-Vote Volunteer Activities! **

Northern Virginia for Obama Bumper Sticker Requests:
Jean Crawford, jeancrawford@comcast.net

Northern Virginia for Obama Yard Sign Requests:
Paul Holland, pah@hotmail.com

BTH Database "Volunteer @ Home" Training:
(in our office space or over the phone)
Nate Thomas, hope_change2008@yahoo.com

Door-To-Door-Canvassing Team RSVP:
Krysta Jones, krysta.jones@comcast.net
Pat Haman, phaman3839@gmail.com

Work the Polls on Primary Day RSVP:
Anne Marie Ashburn, am.ashburn@mac.com

2/4-12 Flyering/Visibility Team RSVP:
Rachel Signer, rachel.signer@gmail.com
- Join metro/commuter, event and shopping area visibility teams!

"Hope Ambassador" Community Outreach Team RSVP:
Laura Castillo, lcastillo82@sbcglobal.net

- We need ambassadors to these communities and any of your affiliated groups. Such as:
African-American, Latino, Asian-Pacific Islander, Disability Community, Labor, Faith, LGBTQ, Military/Veteran, Small Business, Professional, Lawyer, Women (Women for Obama), Young People (Generation Obama), Students (Students For Barack Obama), Seniors, Progressives, Democratic Orgs
(we want to hit meetings, events, church services, etc.)

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Voto Latino

By Daniel from Great Falls, VA - Feb 4th, 2008 at 10:44 am EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Hey all,

In an extension of the Obama campaign's request for Spanish speakers (see Sarah J-G's previous blog), I wanted to comment on this. This is an important issue, not only starting with the DNC elections but carrying on into the national elections. The significant Hispanic vote now and in November is a new and contested vote. The common stereotype that democratic Latino voters are on Clinton's side is mostly dependent on a Latino affinity with her husband and his presidency during the 90's rather than anything she has personally done for Hispanic Americans. After comments by Sergio Bendixen (Clinton's pollster) in New Hampshire about how Latino voters would not support Black candidates there has been a media debate about the Black/Brown divide. Some say it exists and others deny it (I have a few articles I can forward on to you if you would like to read about the debate, and there's a Voto Latino blog on the hyperlink).
I am under the belief that Latinos now, as in the past, are simply not well-informed and are given very imbalanced media. This year, unlike other's, the Hispanic vote will be a tremendous force for both the nomination and national election. Obama seems that he will have to face McCain, who has the support of the head of Univision and many other important national Latino leaders (McCain was also the only GOP not to snub a Univision invitation to a presidential debate). It is important to help the Latino community become aware of the politics of Obama and how they will affect them. If you have good Spanish communication skills I implore you to make a few calls. Below are a few good websites:

To make phone calls to Spanish speakers on Obama's behalf (kinda sorta a bit late):

http://my.barackobama.com/page/contact/splash/spanish0123

It's a little late, but if you are in touch via internet send your Hispanic friends, forward them to Obama's Spanish website:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/espanol

Latinos For Obama:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/latinoshome/

Voto Latino A non-partisan, Hispanic, "get-out-the-vote" group with some funny youtube, telenovela-spoofs that has been pushing for an increasing Hispanic voter involvement:

http://www.votolatino.org/

The Latino vote is as important now as it will be for the national elections, especially in key states like Florida and others with large Latino populations, and getting Latinos to understand why to vote for Obama now instead of later is important. If you have any questions or advice you can email me and I'll make sure to figure it out. And, yeah, I KNOW it's a little late, but I was having blogging issues beacause I as tech-savvy as I thought I was, it turns out I am not. This was supposed to have come out a week ago. Sorry. But, before, during and after these primaries, this is a key demographic that will determine the outcome of this election and all those to come.

Dan

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

"Yes, we can" - music video (will.i.am and Jesse Dylan)

By Liz - Feb 3rd, 2008 at 12:24 pm EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Perhaps you've heard by now that will.i.am and Jesse Dylan have turned Obama's NH speech into a music video. Here's a link to a higher resolution clip than the one available on YouTube.

http://www.dipdive.com/

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (1) | Report Objectionable Content

Medical History: Obama's clean bill of health (The New Republic)

By Liz - Feb 2nd, 2008 at 10:24 pm EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Medical History

Obama's clean bill of health.

Jonathan Cohn, The New Republic Published: Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Barack Obama's promise to move beyond partisan bickering has obviously given a lot of people hope. But, for those of us watching from the left, it's also been a source of concern. Oh, sure, it's nice when everybody in Washington gets along. But Obama's determination to embrace would-be adversaries sounds just a little naive, given the scorched-earth strategy Republicans and their lobbyist friends have waged against liberals in the last 15 years. Serious environmental regulation? Closing corporate tax loopholes? Major ethics reforms? As everybody from John Edwards to Paul Krugman has been saying, none of these are likely to become law without a fight.

And probably no fight will be bigger than the one looming over universal health insurance--which Obama, like his Democratic rivals, has promised to deliver. Since reformers of the Progressive Era first floated the idea of universal coverage in 1915, the goal has eluded four separate presidents. And the constant in this struggle has been the reflexive, ruthless hostility of conservatives and special interests, whether it was the American Medical Association slandering Harry Truman's coverage plan as "socialized medicine" in 1949 or the fictional TV characters "Harry and Louise" picking apart Bill Clinton's blueprint in 1994.

As it happens, Obama has his own history with health care reform. From 1997 to 2004, as a member of the Illinois Senate, Obama advocated several proposals to make medical care more accessible--culminating, three years ago, in a bill designed to force the creation of a universal coverage system for Illinois. And, while none of these efforts come even close in scale to what he's promised to try in Washington, they do provide a window into the governing style he would pursue there.

Time after time, Obama brought adversaries into the process early, heard out their concerns, then fashioned compromises many of them ultimately supported. In other words, he used the very strategy he's been describing on the campaign trail--the one giving people like me such angst. And yet, if you talk to liberals in Springfield, the ones who've spent decades fighting for universal health care, you don't hear a lot of disappointment with him. As far as they are concerned, Obama's signature inclusiveness was always a means to an end--a way to push the limits of reform rather than accept them. And, they say, it worked.

Obama has taken plenty of heat over health care in this election, mostly over his decision to roll out a policy blueprint for universal health insurance that--although promising--seems less ambitious than those of his chief rivals. But, whatever the merits of his prescription, his commitment to making medical care more affordable isn't in question. Or, at least, it shouldn't be.

In 1996, when he first ran for state Senate, he indicated his support for universal health insurance--and a single-payer system, in which the government insures everybody directly (although he acknowledged it might not be feasible at the state level right away). Three years later, he was the lead Senate sponsor for the so-called Bernardin Amendment. Named after the famous Chicago archbishop, the amendment would have enshrined a right to health care in the Illinois constitution. Although a symbolic measure--the amendment did not specify what a "right to health care" entailed--it would have pressured the legislature to come up with some kind of coverage plan.

The amendment failed, but soon Obama was busy with a more concrete effort: expansion of public insurance programs to reach more of the uninsured. It was a tough political environment for trying such an initiative: Republicans, always skeptical of expanded government, controlled the state Senate. And they often did the bidding of the insurance industry, which didn't like public programs encroaching on its turf. So Obama sought common ground.

The result, according to John Bouman, director of the Shriver Center on Poverty Law, was two main compromises, including one allowing those newly eligible for Medicaid to opt for private insurance instead. It was a significant concession, since it gave the insurance industry a chance to compete for the new business. But it also undermined one of the best rhetorical arguments of critics, since it appropriated one of their favorite mantras: "choice." With that trope out of the way, Obama was able to fight for what he and the reformers thought mattered most: bringing insurance to a great many more people. And they won, prevailing over resistant conservatives. "He could not be accused of partisan aggression," says Bouman. "But he got his way."

In 2002, when Democrats won back control of the Senate, Obama became chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee. And it was from that perch that he adopted his other noteworthy health care cause, a measure called the Health Care Justice Act. The brainchild of grassroots activists tired of fighting losing battles to create a single-payer system for Illinois, the act, as originally proposed, would have created a task force, empowered it to develop a universal coverage plan, and then forced the legislature to vote on that plan. Predictably, it aroused the ire of insurers and other business interests, who, by all accounts, lobbied to derail the effort. "They--the insurers--pushed [Obama] really hard," says Jim Duffett, executive director of the Campaign for Better Health Care, the group championing the plan. "They also tried to use other people to push him really hard."

Publicly, Obama used hearings to rally voter support for universal coverage. Inside the statehouse, he pursued a two-track strategy. He made common cause with doctors and hospitals, two groups that had become more sympathetic to universal coverage because of the financial burdens charity care placed on them. This gave cover to moderates who wanted to support the bill, while increasing pressure on the insurers to fall in line. At the same time, Obama carried on discussions with the insurance and business lobbyists directly, eventually granting them two key concessions: He altered the makeup of the task force to make it more industryfriendly and dropped the provision requiring a vote from the next year's General Assembly. "We had significant concerns and looked to Senator Obama, who is an extremely bright and accessible individual," Phil Lackman, who represents the Professional Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois, told me. "My experience is that he is willing to listen to anybody willing to talk to him."

It's those kinds of statements that lead to stories, like one that The Boston Globe published in the fall, noting that "Obama's own experience in lawmaking involved dealings with the kinds of lobbyists and special interests he now demonizes on the campaign trail." But, whatever the contrast with Obama's campaign rhetoric, reformers in Springfield say the concessions worked out just fine. As it turned out, binding a future Assembly to vote on a measure was probably unconstitutional anyway. And the presence of insurance representatives on the task force may have actually bestowed it with additional legitimacy. Although those members would end up filing a dissent to the task force's final report--which was issued after Obama had moved on to the U.S. Senate--press attention focused on the majority recommendation. And that recommendation was just what many advocates hoped (and opponents feared) it would be: a comprehensive plan for universal coverage, financed and overseen by the state government. "He didn't back down," says Duffett. "There was no mandate [on the next Assembly to vote], but that was a constitutional issue. ... We got everything else we wanted."

Expanding Medicaid or creating a task force is not even in the same league as shepherding a bill that would, potentially, seriously reduce the profits of insurers, drug companies, and other health care industries. And so it would be foolish to think that, just because this strategy worked in Springfield, it would work in Washington, too. (It's worth noting that, despite the task force recommendations, Illinois actually hasn't enacted universal coverage yet.) But it would also be foolish to suspect that Obama equates compromise with capitulation. "Do not conclude that he does not have firm principled bottom lines--he does," says Bouman. "He doesn't compromise for the sake of it or because he's beaten. The talent is to achieve consensus on a good compromise and then push it through." Indeed. And while Obama's history can't tell us whether, as president, he'd push hard enough, it can reassure us that he understands pushing is necessary. That should count for something, even to a wary liberal like me.

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Campaign Request for Spanish Speakers

By Sarah J-G - Jan 30th, 2008 at 12:59 pm EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Passing this on per our discussion last week...

Dear Sarah,

Millions of Spanish speakers in 22 states are getting ready to vote on February 5th.

If you speak Spanish fluently, or know another Barack supporter who does, you could have a major impact on the Democratic primary.

Sign up to make phone calls to California, New Mexico, Arizona, and other early primary and caucus states. Talk to voters about why Barack is the only candidate who can bring about real change, and help build our movement.

Join our effort today, or forward this request to a friend, neighbor, or family member who speaks Spanish:

http://my.barackobama.com/callfeb5spanish

After decisive wins in Iowa and South Carolina and strong finishes in New Hampshire and Nevada, Barack is on a roll.

But with states like California, New Mexico, and Arizona holding primaries on February 5, we need to reach out to Spanish-speaking voters and grow our movement.

The process is easy and fun, and you can use our online tool to call potential supporters from the comfort of your home. No prior experience is necessary.

You'll be provided with some guidelines, a simple script in English and Spanish, and a list of supporters' phone numbers. You may reach an English or Spanish speaker on the other end of the line -- simply find out if they support Barack and tell them why Barack has been a strong supporter of Latinos in the Illinois Legislature and the US Senate.

http://my.barackobama.com/callfeb5spanish

Thank you for supporting Barack,

Federico

Federico Peña
Former Mayor of Denver, Colorado
Former U.S. Secretary of Energy

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (1) | Report Objectionable Content

Kennedy to endorse Obama at AU event tomorrow - all the more reason to skip class and go!

By Sarah J-G - Jan 27th, 2008 at 2:50 pm EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Ted Kennedy endorsing Obama Email|Link|Comments (0) Posted by James F. Smith January 27, 2008 12:29 PM

By Susan Milligan
Globe staff

WASHINGTON -- Senator Edward M. Kennedy will endorse Barack Obama for president tomorrow, breaking his year-long neutrality to send a powerful signal of where the legendary Massachusetts Democrat sees the party going -- and who he thinks is best to lead it.

Kennedy confidantes told the Globe today that the Bay State's senior senator will appear with Obama and Kennedy's niece, Caroline Kennedy, at a morning rally at American University in Washington tomorrow to announce his support.

That will be a potentially significant boost for Obama as he heads into a series of critical primaries on Super Tuesday, Feb. 5.

Kennedy believes Obama can ``transcend race'' and bring unity to the country, a Kennedy associate told the Globe. Kennedy was also impressed by Obama's deep involvement last year in the bipartisan effort to craft legislation on immigration reform, a politically touchy subject the other presidential candidates avoided, the associate said.

The coveted endorsement is a huge blow to New York Senator Hillary Clinton, who is both a senatorial colleague and a friend of the Kennedy family. In a campaign where Clinton has trumpeted her experience over Obama's call for hope and change, the endorsement by one of the most experienced and respected Democrats in the Senate is a particularly dramatic coup for Obama.

"The America of Jack and Bobby Kennedy touched all of us. Through all of these decades, the one who kept that flame alive was Ted Kennedy,'' said Representative Bill Delahunt, A Quincy Democrat who is also backing Obama. ``So having him pass on the torch [to Obama] is of incredible significance. It's historic.''

Obama's landslide win in South Carolina yesterday gives Obama and Clinton two wins each in the primary campaign, and puts the two senators in a fierce battle for delegates on Feb. 5, when 22 states will hold Democratic primaries and caucuses.

While polls show Clinton ahead in some large states, including her home state of New York and delegate-rich California, the Kennedy endorsement gives Obama a stamp of approval among key constituencies in the Democratic party that could make Super Tuesday more competitive.

Kennedy plans to campaign actively for Obama, an aide said, and will focus particularly among Hispanics and labor union members, who are important voting blocks in several Feb. 5 states, including California, New York, New Jersey, Arizona and New Mexico.

The Massachusetts senator was key in helping his colleague, Senator John F. Kerry, score a comeback win in Iowa in 2004, sending Kerry on a path to the nomination. Kennedy campaigned on his own and released several senior members of his staff to work for Kerry.

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2008/01/ted_kennedy_end.html

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Upcoming Events, Notes and Results of Our First Meeting

By Sarah J-G - Jan 26th, 2008 at 4:53 pm EST

Also listed in: SAIS Students for Obama

Hello all,

Thanks so much for coming and joining our group - please spread the word! As I type this Kwame and I are volunteering at the Obama HQs in Virginia - we miss you guys! You're all welcome to join the partay!

I. Upcoming Events

1. First Senator Obama will be coming to the DC area on Monday, January 28th at American University, doors open at 10:30 and he speaks at noon. You can RSVP on the wbsite, http://www.barackobama.com/americanu

It is free and open to the public, more info below.. SAIS must represent!

2. Fundraising events

A. Tuesday, Jan. 29th, 6-9pm. Marvin Bar, 2007 14th St. NW (U and 14thSt). $15 for students, $20 for general admission.

B. Super Duper Tuesday, Feb. 5th, 7-11. Results Watching Party, Bailey's Pub and Grille Ballston . $20.

II. Notes and Results of our First Meeting

We discussed having a training session next week. However, this will not take place because the campaign needs you to come in individually to set up your laptop so you can call people from home. To do this come into the HQ at 2009 N. 14th St in Arlington. Suite 612. They are open 12-6 on Saturdays, and 12-4 on Sundays. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 6-9pm. They are focusing on calling known supporters in the area. I encourage you all to come here, and we can come together to make it more fun, or if we get trained then we can set up call times from SAIS or one of our apartments.

We also discussed holding a fundraiser prior to Super Tuesday on Monday the 4th. We are checking on locations and have confirmed two DJs.

Kwame and I noticed that the only Super Tuesday event sponsored by DC for Obama is in Ballston, so perhaps we should hold a watching party. I am going to check on Stetsons since they have TVs. If you know of any good bars please ask if they would host us too and blog back.

III. Next meeting

The next meeting will take place on Wednesday at 4:30pm in the Nitze caferteria. We need everyone to report back on locations for bars if you offered to do so and ask Massi if he was able to reach the Senator or not :) Spread the word and keep the hope!

- Sarah JG and Kwame

Further Info:

Please join Barack Obama at a 'Stand for Change' Rally in Washington, DC, where he'll talk about his vision for bringing America together and bringing about the kind of change we can believe in.

Stand for Change Rally with Barack Obama

American University
Bender Arena
4400 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20016

Monday, January 28
Doors open: 10:30 a.m.

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required but an RSVP is strongly encouraged, so sign up now:

http://www.barackobama.com/americanu

For security reasons, bags are not allowed inside the event. Please limit personal items. No signs or banners are permitted.

Mail to a Friend | Link | Comments (0) | Report Objectionable Content

Posts

Content on blogs in My.BarackObama represents the opinions of community members and in no way should be interpreted as endorsed or approved by the campaign.