August 15 Camp Obama Attendees

[GRANT PARK] VICTORY SONG: my suggestion

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 02:43:49 EDT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-TPk3OPEOc

Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes - 1975 - Wake Up Everybody

Debate Reaction - Your email asked what I thought...

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 02:30:13 EDT

Really? You want to know. You didn't lose. But did not inspire or dare to even ask for a mandate. That is how to overcome McCain attempt to steal the "change" message. Make it the MANDATE message you truly want and deserve.

Can you give those of us early supporters a hint of what you started is going through?

Just before I read your email I was thinking:

Why didn't Obama highlight the fact that these are turbulent times and serious changes are occuring which are manifesting themselves today, regardless of party or blame. It is fact.

Instead of trying to tie policy to how computers were developed and moon shots (almost sounding like Gore and the Internet on the computer thing); be real. And help us re-realize that the computing power that we had to fulfill a mandate of moon shot A did not exist when we said we'd do it and B. Is an exponential fraction of what we have today (probably the equivalent of household or at least a small office, certainly nothing compared to what it takes to run a company),yet we did it. And in additon to the inspiration that gave to millions of people (not just Americans) around the globe it gave us technology and leaderships in markets for technology that lasted Barack's life to date. That ties into why he considers himself a Kennedy inspired youth. Can we imagine the hardships faced druing the depression (yes and once felt we adapted to put in controls to prevent them for almost 100 years), can we reflect on the turbulence of the 60's and the turmoil in the world, (yes because we have the same today) can we draw direct comparisons and act as we did in the past (no, that is insufficient) but we can face these greater challenges with the even greater tools we've managed to generate and say "Yes we can" once again. And if we do, we do come together and face these hard problems, these turbulent times, these deep divides and we succeed, what then could the benefits look like in 50 years. As amazing to us today as the thought of our technology of today to the people of the 60s who thought we could never go to the moon. Think about what you thought was not possible in your lifetime, and then think of a child just born, and think what they will think of you if you say "yes we can" and you come together to change the planet once again. This is why I'm running for President. This is why I'm asking you to let this incredibly important dialogue transcend current systems by giving me an mandate to make these changes. You've already given your empowerment to your government, I'm here to make sure they deliver on a promise since 2001. Let's together make the changes that matter. Let's together make the next dream build off the old not admire its fall and rate ourselves by what we use to be. Give the idea the mandate to achieve, now is the time. Stay Fired Up! Say Ready to Go! Now we need it even more and in 3 weeks from tonight we can all come together and say, I'm not happy where I am but I am on my way to something better.

And I don't think it would hurt if you highlighted how your campaign has already changed The Campaign (disrupted Clintons, made democrats pick a "maverick), the country, and the people involved in your campaign (use examples). Connect the millions of dots you're connecting...

There came a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. - Anis Nin

I'm FIRED UP! and READY TO GO! Election is Step 1 to the future. As an early supporter, you have already changed my life and I will continue the message regardless of election results. You've done what you set out to do. Now make sure you DO WHAT YOU ARE CAPABLE OF!

Build UP not Bail out: Friedman should be heard, listned to, understood, and acted on!

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 17:50:50 EDT

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/28/opinion/28friedman.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin

What Thomas Friedman wrote in his Op-Ed piece today should be distributed to everyone.
He is promoting a real economic stimulus that could truly impact our future as a country. Am shocked Obama has not gotten in tune with this game changer.

Time to make intelligent moves not bailouts!

Please pass to all you know.

REVITALIZE Campaign, Move Towarrds UNITY

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:19:15 EDT

Greetings all,

If like me things are not always so clear on how to act in the face of passionate desires, here are some universal truths from Gandhi that I think are very appropriate for everyone to re-read and apply to getting the energy of this campaign at the high spiritied high minded high impact that was present. Especially appropriate for Ft Flager to review

http://www.positivityblog.com/index.php/2008/05/09/gandhis-top-10-fundamentals-for-changing-the-world/

VICE PRESIDENTIAL - Consider Webb if Edwards not willing

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Thu, 22 May 2008 13:02:48 EDT

Greetings,

A lot of talk about VP going around.

I've supported Obama from the start. I hear the pundits talking about the ticket for VP. If push comes to shove the Obama HRC ticket, can and will only be viable with a lot of re-lensing and combined effort on the part of Obama and HRC. However, the scenario which this is feasible in my opinion is one where the Democratic party gets its TOTAL act together, generates a clear and visonary message, puts two highly qualified people who have put aside their differences for the sake of the country and are on their way to a great big change. This is somewhat of a fairytale, but a good story.

More realistically:

My preference would be that Edwards commits to VP spot.

My second preference is that Jim Webb of Virginia be the VP : http://webb.senate.gov/ He could go a long way in helping with the southern region Barrack is having trouble making headway yet he is truly an accomplished thinker and shares Obama's deep reflection on the nature of politics.

Others I've heard:

- Colin Powell: Trouble with the War issue. Would require some serious about facing by a very great candidate

- Governors: Rendell, Strickland, Sebelius, Schweitzer. Of the 4 I think Schweitzer is strongest VP total package. All are regional politicians that may help sway some votes in that region, but do not necessarily represent Obama change.

- Others to placate HRC fans. Just bad business/politics.

WHY NOT CAMPAIGN HARD IN WEST VIRGINIA

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Wed, 07 May 2008 15:59:06 EDT

Dear Campaign,

With the presumed nomination in hand, I was stunned to see that there would not be a lot of events held in West Virginia. I think part of the UNIFYING message should be to gather support in areas not already in the coalition. Let them get to know you NOW and run the 50 state race as soon as possible. Tell them that a visit now brings great attention to their state and you're happy to bring your focus to people who "on paper" aren't expected to agree with you. Seems to me a great opportunity to do so.

Fired UP!

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL HARD WORKING VOLUNTEERS

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Wed, 07 May 2008 15:55:55 EDT

Just a personal thank you to all the hard working people on the phones, in the field, and elsewhere working for this campaign.

KEEP IT UP.

TO CAMPAIGN: Don't play HRC game, is not path to victory.

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:33:57 EDT

1. I feel bad that I was more involved early on.

2. I feel worse, about how HRC runs her campaign.

3. I feel helpless to stop it.

4. I feel Obama campaign can not only win, but truly direct this country with wisdome and compassion and not placation and homogenization.

5. Someone at HQ must wake up and apologize to the supporters but stop falling prey to her, stimulating the Obama base and stop playing into HRC tactics.

Brooks form NYTIMES, amazing comments about how this goes, I leave his words from Sunday talk shows about how things have changed.

OBAMA remind them 3 months ago, no one wanted what is happening. People wanted your message. Your message has been co-opted (she acuses of copying-it all becomes ridiculous).

Basically, I would prefer - you do not get nomination IF IF IF you have to win by defeating her tactics. Her tactic is that you win Nomination, but do not succeed with people. WE DESERVE BETTER THAN HRC TACTICS. The more you stay with TRUTH of YOUR VISION the better. No one EXPECTED you to win. EVERYONE EXPECTED YOU TO BE BETTER THAN HER!

NAMASTE

Powerful Bring it to the People of PA

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 13:12:51 EDT

Just a note to thank Barack Obama for making not just a political positioned statement, but a true speech to a topic.

For those concerned that it was not politically expedient I cannot understand what they want of their government. We by seeing Barack's example that there is another way to lead the country. There is another way to lead ourselves.

"It is always one person within a group or a cluster who calls fort the HIGHEST VISION, who models THE GRANDEST TRUTH, who INSPIRES and CAJOLES, and AGITATES and AWAKENS, and ultimately produces a CONTEXTUAL FIELD within which COLLECTIVE ACTION is rendered POSSIBLE and BECOMES INEVITABLE"

The quote above always makes me think of Barack Obama and then makes me think of how I can be a better person who inspires those in the lives I touch.

My hope is that the campaign will take the remaining time and not CONCEEDE Pennsylvania, but go out to town hall meetings and repeat them. Work PA like Iowa and let the people who meet and discuss with Barack and I believe the message will be heard.

GOBAMA. Stay FIRED UP! READY TO GO!

STAY ABOVE - STAY ENGAGING

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 12:47:30 EDT

A message to all to not let the current tone of the campaign get us off track.

HRC and this kitchen sink survival style is just looking for something to distract the Obama movement so they can quickly reframe. I felt this was the case in Ohio and Texas. They will now throw out multiple items and then drive in on whichever one rides best against the one Obama camp bites into.

Don't be dragged in, and better still, don't WAIT. Stay above it all yes, but stay engaged to your platform and message - as if you are the only candidate out there. It feels like the campaign is allowing Clinton to frame the discussion. That is what they do best. Barack, focus on Mississippi and take the time on the ground in PA to get back to caucus like town halls!!!! Big tent events won't get you to the people like we did in Iowa.

- Would like to know a position from the campaign on Florida and Michigan revotes. Seems doable. You will get $ from me to fund the revote and additional money to fund the campaign through that added expense.

Stay clear, drive the message of mandate, empowerment, highlight how you're already changing the party by running this campaign, it is working, and it will drive the future of the party by bringing the people out in an engaged way. You have given so much already and just want to tell you how much I appreciate it. Beyond inspiration.

Stay FIRED UP!

[To Campaign] Look out for this...

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:23:04 EST

Anti-Obama Film On the Way

By Leslie Wayne

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/02/08/anti-obama-film-on-the-way/

A conservative group -– Citizens United -– that has produced a film now in distribution attacking Hillary Clinton called “Hillary, the Movie,” has its sights set on a new target: Barack Obama.
The group has budgeted about $1 million to produce a documentary film about Mr. Obama that is set to be distributed this summer. At the moment, Citizens United has its researchers poring over Mr. Obama’s records as a community organizer, state legislator and United States senator in the same way that it scoured Mrs. Clinton’s record with a highly critical eye and a sharply conservative point of view.

“Obama is a completely clean slate,” said David Bossie, president of the group. “We will develop the image that we want the people to see. We’re doing the hard work of the research right now. The American people don’t know much about Obama, except that they like his speaking style.”

If the Obama movie is anything like the one about Mrs. Clinton, Mr. Obama had better prepare himself. “Hillary, the Movie,” and promotional ads for it, present statements from Dick Morris, Ann Coulter, Robert Novak, Jeff Gerth (a former New York Times reporter), Newt Gingrich and others in which she is called everything from a liar, to a European socialist to being more devious than Richard Nixon.

“If you want to hear about the Clinton scandals of the past and present, you have it here,” said the movie’s promotional materials. “Hillary the Movie is the first and last word in what the Clintons want America to forget!”

The Obama movie would be the sixth long-form documentary film made by the group, which says it is dedicated to “restoring our government to citizen control.” While some of the movies have been in theatrical release, most are distributed as DVDs on-line and in bookstores.

Musical Interlude....

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 12:36:38 EST

http://www.dipdive.com/

If you haven't see this it may not have specific policy positions, but is very nice and inspiring...

Stay FIRED UP! Stay READ TO GO!

Feb 5... BIG DAY!

MANDATE - NOT JUST ANOTHER CANDIDATE

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 15:43:34 EST

Some thoughts of late:

1. Barack kind of backed off in my opinion in NH. Not taking questions after rallies was mentioned by several NH people on CSPAN at other candidates meetings as a negative. I understand what may have been the thought of not taking chances with such poll leads. But this whole thing is a chance. Always press honestly on with the fact that you are the people listening to the people. Not to LEAD them but to STAND FOR THEM.

2. I hope the strategists at Obama stick to creating a MANDATE of change the system and the administration. The change message is getting used by everyone GOP included. Therefore, it is up to Barack to re-frame the change to where it orginated, not where James Carvelle is trying to frame it for HRC.

3. Don't get drawn into a battle by HRC Machine. Fight for a mandate, not to be another candidate.

4. Change message must be layered on. It may be difficult to sustain for 10 months. Therefore, let's start getting people's COMMITTMENTS TO CHANGE. IE After you leave Iowa, New Hampshire, etc. Treat the constiuents and the energy (after all, only 7,000 fewer votes there and still an important state in general election) with respect.

A. Get people who supported Barack in early states involved in getting out suport to other states

B. Start recording (and promoting) impact that Barack has had on people who've gotten involved. He has inspired me to reengage, get people telling their story out loud, so that they are empowered. A huge number of empowered people is a lot better than any "support" HRC can drum through the machine. AN IDEA FOR FACEBOOK CAMPAIGN: Have a I am BARACK campaign - Have people on facebook change their profile pictures to a picture of Barack (same one would be powerful), goes back to what I learned in Obama Boot Camp, "its not enough to support Barack or talk up Barack, you have to BE LIKE BARACK - taking action, being positive influence, and striving to make everyone's life better." This will help drive the mandate.

C. Start collecting people's commitment to work not just for the election but for when the country has taken itself back. "When the people replace business as usual I am COMMITED TO CHANGE...." As I've posted before, I am a small business owner and could be seen as having concerns about some policies that would come up in a Barack Administration. I say I trust Barack to make the hard choices and commit to doing the hard work ahead in full support of knowing that whatever hardship my business faces, I am alongside Barack who I trust and the other COMMITTED TO CHANGE constituents who are ready to do the hard work and excellent things we can, as soon as we trust, respect, and are inspired by our leader. Politics as usual will not inspire people during the administration of HRC and the counry will suffer as a result. Don't let this happen by forgetting the mandate and becoming another candidate.

I am FIRED UP! I am READY TO GO!

YES WE CAN.

Back to the HQ this week for me for sure.

Everyone, now is the time to get involved more and more.

DON'T TAKE THE BAIT - DO PREPARE FOR COMMITTMENT TO CHANGE

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:42:36 EST

Hello!

Just saw Hillary crying on CNN web clilp. Not that I am for making anyone cry. I like her showing emotion. But it irritated me as tactic, which made my gut go hard.

Barack, please stick to the message and don't let this play get campaign upset. Be compassionate and considerate but don't deny you will be baited by the other candidates.

You are NOT out to win the election (alone). You ARE developing this movement.

I would like to know when Barack will move from Stand Up for Change to COMMIT TO CHANGE. Thereby, yes asking people to vote, but then, going the next step, and opening the dialogue for change by getting people's committment to change and stories of how they have already changed by being part of the election. IE> Grassroots NOW! I for one have been inspired by the talks of Barack for sure and most recently by Michelle in NH on Sunday 6th as seen on CSPAN. However, it is even more dramatic the inspriration I have felt by being part of the campaign at the headquarters in Chicago, doing a canvas in Iowa, making calls to friends and strangers.

I think the campaign would do well to start opening up to new things. IE I am a small business owner in the US. I understand (in my head and heart) that not every single program to come in a Barack administration will be the "best" one for me alone. But I blame this not on DEM socialism, but the last 7 years of insane application of surplus and total fiscal irresponsibility of the REP party, as well as just the cold hard facts of globalization. I for one TRUST Barack to make the hard decisions known, work hard to be fair, and create the solution that does lift up the nation as a whole. If there is someway to get people involved in the political change deeper than pure electioning (not instead of but in addition to) I think it would be wise. It will still be a long battle but if people are ACTING on changing the by the community not just to organize for an election but to PREPARE for the upcoming environment we can see unprecedented momementum.

STAY FIRED UP! BE READY TO GO!

NAMASTE

Adam

Our Moment is Now

Marc R. Peters — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 12:41:16 EST

Get your facebook profile here, and share it with your friends. Our time is now!

One of Us: The Obamas Know the College Loan Crunch

Marc R. Peters — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 11:14:31 EST

By Luke Messac

Every four years, candidates try to convince voters that their concerns are our own. To students, this claim is usually a tough sell. But with Barack, our pain really is his pain! At a recent event in Iowa, Michelle Obama admitted that she and her husband finished repaying their student loans only three years ago!

"We would still be in debt if Barack hadn't written two bestselling books," she explained. "Most young adults like us don't have that miracle."

You had better believe that all-too-recent memory motivates Barack to ensure that tomorrow's college graduates don't have to spend decades working their way out of the red. With tuition costs skyrocketing and the average college senior graduating with more than $19,000 of debt, there has never been a better time for presidential empathy.

For more proof of Obama's commitment to access to higher education, just take a look at his record. The first bill he ever introduced as a United States Senator proposed increasing the maximum Pell Grant to make college more affordable for millions of students. As a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, he cosponsored legislation to increase need-based aid while decreasing fees and interest rates on student loans.

As President, Obama's vision for change goes even further. His plan calls for a fundamental reform of the student loan program which would free up funds for grants and low-interest loans by eliminating wasteful subsidies to private lenders. Obama's personal knowledge of college debt helps inform his dedication to making higher education a goal that all Americans can realize. Talk about experience that counts!

Qualifications/Experience or Quality and Expectations

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 17:02:53 EST

Hi ALL

What?

I would like to say the following:

What "preparation" does Hillary Clinton have as President? She "lived in" the whitehouse for 8 years. I am tired of hearing she is More Experienced. I think the Obama campaign should stress the direct experience to experience. Obama has been in the community, Hillary has been in the boardrooms, Obama has been in public office changing what he saw in the community (and he's been doing this LONGER than Hillary), Hillary has been a first lady (no offense, but fact). Finally, they have about equal experience in Senate, but Barack has been doing it for people who support him and know him because he's been involved with them for 20 years. Hillary came up and has made a name for herself in a community she chose for its political position.

Finally:

Hillary will ask you to look to Qualificatins, which I don't believe she has.

Hillary will ask you to look to Experience, which will bring us more of the same bad decisions.

Barack will bring a quality of character and committment that raises people up.

Barack will bring a higher level of expectations on the tough issues coming to this country.

Get Fired Up when you here these comments. Barack is READY TO GO!

Time for change...Time for Barack Obama.

Adam

Can One Person Change the World?

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 11:57:51 EST

In this context one person can make a huge difference, for it is always one person within a group or cluster who calls forth the highest vision, who models the grandest truth, who inspires and cajoles and agitates and awakens and ultimately produces a contextual field within which collective action is rendered possible and becomes inevitable.

In the news: Obama on Higher Education

Marc R. Peters — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 09:38:01 EST

Yesterday, the Chronicle of Higher Education posted an interview with Barack Obama. The transcript is below:

A Chronicle Q&A with Barack Obama
Barack Obama responded via email to questions from The Chronicle. Here is a transcript of the exchange.

Q. You have pressed many policies to increase student aid and expand college access, as have many of your Democratic challengers for the presidential nomination. Which of your ideas on these topics set you apart from the others and best define the direction in which you would take higher-education policy if elected president?

A. Serving on the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, I have worked to ease the debt burden on students and to improve public education across the country.

But I also served as an advocate for students and teachers in years prior to that when I was a state legislator, where many decisions that affect public higher education are made. In Springfield, I sponsored legislation to establish tax credits for higher-education expenses and to grant in-state tuition to non-citizens, and I also supported prepaid tuition contracts.

When I was elected to the U.S. Senate, the first bill I introduced was the HOPE Act, an expansion of the Pell Grants, paid for by decreases in SAP [Special Allowance Payments] payments. This year, I worked with my colleagues on the HELP Committee to increase Pell Grants, not by increasing the deficit, but through reductions in government subsidies to banks and other lenders.

And while some of the other candidates have called for the elimination of subsidies in the federal student-loan program, I have been advocating that policy since my 2004 Senate race.

Q. What role, if any, should the federal government play in trying to rein in rising college costs?

A. The Senate proposed a compromise to hold colleges more accountable for their cost increases that I believe will work. The proposal creates a watch list of colleges whose costs are increasing faster than costs at other colleges, develops a higher-education price-comparison index, as well as a price calculator to clarify the cost of attendance for students of different income levels. Students can insist that their institutions focus more on the quality of instruction than the building of new football stadiums.

Q. You have called yourself a firm believer in affirmative action. How big a role should race play in college-admissions decisions, and why? How much should socioeconomic status factor in to those decisions, and why?

A. Diversity enriches education. As America grows more diverse, it is essential that students be exposed to diversity in all its forms and learn how to effectively communicate, collaborate, and compete with people of all backgrounds.

Some measures traditionally used to determine college admissions—such as college entrance exam scores—might not necessarily be the best predictors of college success, placing some very talented students at a disadvantage.

One of this year’s MacArthur awardees—the “genius” awards—is an innovator named Deborah Bial. She proposed a model to identify promising students from disadvantaged urban backgrounds, using an alternative set of qualities as predictors of success in college.

Candidates for this program are selected using a process based on qualities such as leadership, motivation, teamwork, and ability to effectively communicate. The students that are selected form a “posse,” and are provided with extra supports, and end up graduating form selective colleges with a very high success rate.

This shows the validity of using less-recognized skills as indicators of likely educational success. And this would probably be considered affirmative action, by specifically choosing students from less-advantaged backgrounds. But maybe it just shows that the playing ground, using traditional metrics for college admission, is unacceptably uneven.

When properly structured, affirmative action programs can open up opportunities to qualified minorities—and can do so without diminishing opportunities for white students. Given the dearth of black and Latino Ph.D. candidates in mathematics and the sciences, for example, a scholarship program for minorities interested in getting advanced degrees in these fields won’t keep white students out of such programs but can broaden the pool of talent that we need to prosper in the new economy.

We shouldn’t ignore that race continues to matter: To suggest that our racial attitudes play no part in the socioeconomic disparities that we often observe turns a blind eye to both our history and our experience—and relieves us of the responsibility to make things right.

The very question suggests this is an either/or thing—either you want to increase opportunities for racial minorities or you want to increase opportunities for poor students of all races. I reject this. We can—and should—do both.

We should work to build an America where the qualified white student from rural South Carolina who worked hard to beat the odds and the qualified black student from the South Side of Chicago who did the same can attend classes together, learn from each other, teach their classmates a thing or two and vice versa, and together go off into the world prepared for a diverse workforce.

Q. On the same subject, you said in an ABC interview that your daughters should probably be treated by any admissions officer as people who are “pretty advantaged.” What did you mean by that? Should an applicant’s race play a role in whether he or she is admitted to a college if that person is from a middle- or upper-income background? Please explain.

A. My daughters are the children of a very talented and accomplished woman, and of a U.S. Senator. They are growing up in a neighborhood which provides the benefits of one of our nation’s great universities. They attend an excellent school. That seems pretty advantaged to me.

I think that my daughters should probably be treated by any admissions officer as folks who are pretty advantaged, and I think that there’s nothing wrong with us taking that into account as we consider admissions policies at universities.

I think that we should take into account white kids who have been disadvantaged and have grown up in poverty and shown themselves to have what it takes to succeed. So I don’t think those concepts are mutually exclusive.

I think what we can say is that in our society race and class still intersect, that there are a lot of African-American kids who are still struggling, that even those who are in the middle class may be first-generation as opposed to fifth- or sixth-generation college attendees, and that we all have an interest in bringing as many people together [as we can] to help build this country.

Q. You have proposed eliminating the bank-based lending system and moving all college students to the direct-loan program. Some lenders and others have argued that the bank-based system creates important competitive pressures that help drive down costs to students. How do you respond to such arguments?

A. That would assume banks are able to offer lower interest rates, or lower costs to students, than direct loans. It is true a small number of borrowers may benefit. What is clear is that this system costs the taxpayer billions of dollars each year, billions which could be used for direct grant aid to students. And the debt burden on college students and the interest rates they pay have gone up exponentially. The direct-loan program has been very effective at universities in Illinois.

Q. You have said that you want to help working families adjust to the global economy. What role do you want colleges and universities to playin helping people make that transition, and how should the federal government support that role?

A. The global economy is driven by information. The most important skill is knowledge, and the ability to apply it critically to new and complex problems. Universities, colleges and community colleges all have a place in putting Americans on a path to success in the global economy, and many have established their excellence in achieving that goal.

This is not a system that needs to be overhauled, but one that needs to be nurtured, refined, and made accessible to more of our citizens. Higher education is the long-term solution to reversing the income disparities that have stretched the middle class to the breaking point.

We must increase access to higher education, through increased grant aid, and improvements in student loan system, as well as by working to slow the rate of college tuition and cost increases.

We must prepare students entering college with the skills they need to succeed. This starts with improving K-12 education, but colleges and universities can support marginal students who enter by working with schools to help them develop standards and instructional practices that make sure that high school graduates are college-ready.

Institutions should work with schools and districts in partnerships so that all sources of expertise are encouraged to provide useful input, with better communication about how to align K-12 curriculum and instruction, high school graduation requirements, and college entrance expectations.

We need better ways to help students determine whether they are on a path that leads to postsecondary success. An important part of the assisting working families [to] adjust will be played by community colleges. The federal government should provide incentives to help schools assess the types of skills and education they should offer, and how they might work with other institutions of higher education to contribute to a full postsecondary education.

Our education system also has a critical role to play when our workers lose their jobs because of trade. I believe community colleges can make Trade Adjustment Assistance job training more relevant and responsive, so that these schools reach out to employers in the community, find out what job skills are needed, and work to give laid off workers the tools they need to bounce back from a plant closure.

Q. What key accomplishments on higher-education policy would you like to highlight from your service in Congress, in the Illinois Senate, or in any other of your previous roles?

A. I would first highlight Higher Education Reauthorization, where we significantly expanded Pell Grants, which has been a high priority of mine since I entered the Senate. We also expanded loan forgiveness for those who enter public service and brought more transparency to the student loan process.

There are also some provisions that were included, based on legislative proposals I introduced. Title II overhauled the teacher preparation process, with much more emphasis on effective mentoring and induction systems, including my proposal for Teaching Residency Programs.

Good preparation programs can make novice teachers effective more rapidly, and Teaching Residency Programs do this through school-based partnerships in which prospective teachers teach alongside a mentor teacher for one year, while undertaking coursework to attain teacher certification. Graduates of the program are placed in high-needs schools and continue to receive strong mentoring and support for their first years of teaching. This is a model of effective teacher preparation that I advocated since before I was elected to the Senate.

The higher-education package also contains a provision to support Predominantly Black Institutions, an issue on which I worked with my House colleague, Danny Davis. Predominantly Black Institutions serve a growing number of African American students, most of whom are the first in their families to go to college and most of whom receive student financial aid.

Congress has long supported the essential role of similar institutions through provisions supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities, but newer institutions serving a needier, but deserving student populations can now also be recognized and supported.

My record in the Illinois Senate also demonstrates my work in expanding access to higher education. I co-sponsored a bill to aid low-income students with children. I co-sponsored legislation to provide need-based grants to retrain workers in IT. I co-sponsored a bill for in-state tuition for non-citizens.

Dreams from My Country: Obama and Education

Marc R. Peters — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 13:26:08 EST

“We need to put a college education within reach of every American. That's the best investment we can make in our future.” Barack Obama, Reclaiming the American Dream, 11/7

As students supporting Senator Obama we know that this campaign pays attention to our vision for this country’s future. We look to him to address our concerns about Iraq, about global warming, and about restoring our country’s reputation as a fair and just leader of the free world. We get so caught up with global ills that we begin to overlook the suffering of our neighbors, our friends, our brothers and sisters. We are incredibly fortunate in the fact that we are getting a college education. We have the opportunity to participate in this campaign; we have the freedom to engage in philosophical discussions about worldly issues. But what about those youth that do not have the same opportunity afforded to them. How do they reclaim their American dream?

Barack Obama would start by simplifying the financial aid process. He would drop the FAFSA entirely and rely on tax information instead. More than 1.5 million high school students failed to apply for aid in 2004, despite being eligible for a Pell Grant. This has been largely attributed to a convoluted application process that harms low-income students the most.

But even if students do apply for and obtain federal aid, in a lot of cases the Pell Grant does not begin to do the job. 20 years ago (when most of us were born), the maximum Pell Grant covered 55 percent of costs at a public four-year college, but now that our generation is in college the grant covers only 32 percent. Barack Obama worked in the Senate to achieve an increase in the Pell Grant to $5,400. We can count on him continuing to fight for increased aid for low-income students when he is in the White House.

We must do more than simply improve the current system; we must bring innovation to the way that government approaches aid to students. In an Obama administration the first $4,000 of a college education would be free for most Americans: enough to cover two-thirds the cost of tuition at the average public college or university. This “American Opportunity Tax Credit” that President Obama would bring to the table would provide money to families at the time of enrollment, when the bill comes due. Not a year or more later when tax returns are filed.

These reforms are only the beginning of Obama’s vision for higher education in America. He recognizes the vital service that community colleges provide in our country, enrolling 12 million students (half the undergraduate student body in America). Obama will create a Community College Partnership Program to strengthen community colleges. He will provide grants to ensure that community college students are able to directly use their skills in the workforce following graduation, and be prepared to continue their higher education.

We are college students in America. We are well on our way to the American dream. However, we cannot fail to help our peers reclaim dreams of their own.

Obama's Appeal Across the Parties

Kim Ahern — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 13:53:10 EST

In the December edition of the Atlantic Monthly conservative leaning Andrew Sullivan writes a telling and insightful piece on Senator Obama. Sullivan elaborates on what so many students already know, that Obama is the candidate for real change in our country. But Sullivan delves deeper and tells an intricate story of race, the Vietnam War and the Baby Boom generation in America. Intertwined throughout is a resonating message of why Obama would be an ideal General Election candidate: his message appeals to people all across the ideological spectrum.

Sullivan said of this appeal, “It isn’t about his policies as such; it is about his person. They are prepared to set their own ideological preferences to one side in favor of what Obama offers America in a critical moment in our dealings with the rest of the world. The war today matters enormously. The war of the last generation? Not so much. If you are an American who yearns to finally get beyond the symbolic battles of the Boomer generation and face today’s actual problems, Obama may be your man.”

The article describes in great detail just why Obama stands out amongst a field of other candidates, both Democrats and Republicans alike:

"But if you sense, as I do, that greater danger lies ahead, and that our divisions and recent history have combined to make the American polity and constitutional order increasingly vulnerable, then the calculus of risk changes. Sometimes, when the world is changing rapidly, the greater risk is caution. Close-up in this election campaign, Obama is unlikely. From a distance, he is necessary. At a time when America’s estrangement from the world risks tipping into dangerous imbalance, when a country at war with lethal enemies is also increasingly at war with itself, when humankind’s spiritual yearnings veer between an excess of certainty and an inability to believe anything at all, and when sectarian and racial divides seem as intractable as ever, a man who is a bridge between these worlds may be indispensable.

We may in fact have finally found that bridge to the 21st century that Bill Clinton told us about. Its name is Obama."

Newsflash: New Fall Gear at the Obama for America Store!

Marc R. Peters — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 16:49:53 EDT

Get the credit cards ready...

Who needs fashion week in New York, when the new fall fashion line of Obama Gear just came out. Grab a warm and cozy Obama '08 fleece blanket or a nice fleece coat to cuddle up with while watching the fall debates or canvassing in New Hampshire.

There are also some great deals being offered under Supporter Packs– get them while they last! For only $25, you and two friends can get three t-shirts and 25 Obama logo signs, these are deals you don't want to miss and also affordable enough for students to buy. And as always, all these products are union and USA made and all the contributions go directly to electing Senator Obama as our next President of the United States!

Debate Recap: Hit Em With Hope

Marc R. Peters — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:32 EDT

In an online poll of Drexel University students after the debate, Senator Obama won with 47% of the respondents saying he had the best performance of the night. I asked the blog team to weigh in with their reactions:

Senator Obama did a great job at tonight's debate to distinguish himself from the status quo that many other candidates will bring to Washington. He spoke about his experience and judgment. Qualities that are necessary for us to really have change in this country. ---Kim Ahern, Roger Williams Law School

Barack Obama faced a lot of tough questions going into tonight's debate, and answered them all clearly and forcefully. I found myself nodding my head and agreeing with the Senator over and over as he responded to other candidates' inconsistencies, articulated his specific vision for change, and pointed out the experience he brings to the table. Everyone involved in Students for Barack Obama knows how challenging and rewarding it is to organize a community, meet real people and get to know their concerns and problems personally. Barack Obama brings that brand of experience. ---Josh Darr, Boston College

Obama was, above all, forthright. I continue to see in him a leader willing to state his vision clearly to the American people. ---Luke Messac, Harvard University

Obama was quick to differentiate himself from his competition and end with remarks of positive political change. He demonstrated composure and exhibited considerable strength in the debate hosted in the city of brotherly love. ---Moses Wilson III, Hampton University

Barack's performance increased in intensity as the night went on. After his response to the National Archives issue he launched into a fabulously eloquent speech on being upfront and honest with the public, about making Americans feel like the government is working for them. ---Sierra Gladfelter, homeschooled high school student

Senator Obama demonstrated what it means to draw distinctions constructively, respectfully, and in a way that elevates the debate instead of playing to our lowest expectations. ---Justin Charity, Georgetown University

Personally I thought Barack showcased his tenacity and threw a few haymakers of hope at his fellow candidates. He spoke with passion about issues like Iran and put them in a broader context. Once again he reminded me why he's the candidate best suited to rebuild constitutional authority and restore our image abroad. He is the right man with the right experience to lead our country ---Marc Peters, Syracuse University

OBAMA ARMY - Article

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 19:15:24 EDT

Times seem rough...Polls seem low...

DON'T LET ANYONE STEAL THE MESSAGE OF HOPE AND CHANGE

STAY FIRED UP! and READY TO GO! KEEPY PUSHING FOR OBAMA

Here's a good article about how the change is already happening...

Obama's army

By Al Giordano 10/09/2007

http://ww2.sdcitybeat.com/cms/story/detail/?id=6230

First Student Rewind of October

Marc R. Peters — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 11:39:31 EDT

In two previous rewinds we have highlighted the impressive work that the University of Wisconsin does on behalf of Senator Obama. Well this week was no different as UW-Madison students traveled to Iowa to canvass. The reviews are in and they are positive:

“I loved it so much that I just wanted to keep coming back and doing it,” junior Stephanie Gilski said.

Stephanie’s classmate Liz Gilbert, agreed that it was worth the trip: “I came out here today because I know one more voice can help out,” she said.

The support in Madison is so overwhelming that their October 15th rally with the candidate is moving to a bigger venue.

The Badgers aren’t the only students turning out in droves. Dozens of students attended Cornell University’s Rally for Change. According to The Cornell Sun, SFBO is currently the largest of the student groups supporting 2008 candidates, on their campus.

Not to be outdone by their Ivy League brethren, Princeton University also hosted a successful Rally for Change on October 2. Some of the Princeton's SFBO leadership can be seen below.

Elsewhere in SFBO news this week:

BarackStars still going strong in Iowa

Senator Obama will be appearing in my home state of Maryland at Prince George's Community College this week. Discounted tickets are available for students.

Ohio State University hosted a 5K Run/Walk for Change fundraiser. Forty people turned out for the event and the group raised over $600.

Featured Student: Ephraim Cruz

by Josh Darr

Pima Community College, in downtown Tucson, Arizona, may seem like an unlikely place for political activism. A small campus away from the early primary states would typically go unnoticed by national campaigns. However, the Obama campaign is far from typical, particularly in its approach to student involvement. Ephraim Cruz, leader of the Pima CC chapter of Students for Barack Obama, spoke at the Tuscon Rally for Change on Tuesday, October 2:

“I’m a student at Pima Community College-Downtown, and I know what it’s like to work 50 hours a week, work the overnight shifts, and go to school full-time. And let me tell you something about the people I go to school with. The students of Pima Community College are working people, some with families, all with other responsibilities in addition to their studies. Politicians usually don’t pay attention to students like us.”

But Empraim knows what we all know: Barack Obama wants to hear every voice, hear every region, and hear every American speak out and make their opinions known. Even a little community college’s voice can be heard across the country:

“Barack Obama is the first candidate in a generation to say to students, 'I want you at this table, I need you to be a part of this movement.'"

You can watch Ephraim’s speech here.

Keep checking Students.BarackObama.com throughout the week for more updates on SFBO.

Five years later: Brooklyn Rally for Change

Marc R. Peters — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 12:02:28 EDT

The following is a post by Ericka Mitton, Syracuse University alumna, who was in attendance at Tuesday's rally:

"What I am opposed to is the attempt by political hacks like Karl Rove to distract us from a rise in the uninsured, a rise in the poverty rate, a drop in the median income - to distract us from corporate scandals and a stock market that has just gone through the worst month since the Great Depression. That's what I'm opposed to. A dumb war. A rash war. A war based not on reason but on passion, not on principle but on politics"- Barack Obama, October 2, 2002

Five years later the same problematic disparities still resonate from our nation's capitol. Dozens gathered Tuesday evening at Brooklyn Borough Hall, in New York, and were privileged to hear prominent leaders and members of the community speak about the War in Iraq and the need for political change.

The crowd's melancholic energy gave way to a brimming ambience of hope founded upon a common faith in Barack Obama's ability to change the political climate in Washington as our next president. Spectators cheered loudly while Obama's 2002 speech on Iraq was read.

Prominent leaders in the Brooklyn community were present at the rally and gave speeches on the need to turn the page in Iraq. Brooklyn assemblyman Karim Camara told us, "Let's conquer the world together with Senator Barack Obama, who will be our next president of the United States of America!" as he waved his hands in the air. The chant "Turn the page! Turn the page! Turn the page!" began echoing through the crowd.

Obama knew back in 2002 the War in Iraq was irrational, and strongly opposed it. Politics in Washington left the American people disillusioned and political secrecy betrayed our trust. He led by example and spoke out against the war at a time when that view was unpopular. And he continues to speak out against it today:
"In the 21st century, we cannot stand up before the world and say that there's one set of rules for America and another for everyone else. To lead the world, we must lead by example. We must be willing to acknowledge our failings, not just trumpet our victories. And when I'm President, we'll reject torture - without exception or equivocation; we'll close Guantanamo; we'll be the country that credibly tells the dissidents in the prison camps around the world that America is your voice, America is your dream, America is your light of justice." (Barack Obama, October 2, 2007)

As students for change we all must do our part, by making sure we are registered, and advising our friends, family, peers, and colleagues to do the same.

Setting an example

Marc R. Peters — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 17:03:58 EDT

"I wouldn't be on this stage if, throughout our history, America had not made the right choice over the easy choice, the ambitious choice over the cautious choice. I wouldn't be here if I didn't think we were ready to move past the fights of the 1960s and the 1990s. I wouldn't be here if, time and again, the torch had not been passed to a new generation – to unite this country at home, to show a new face of this country to the world." ---Barack Obama, A New Beginning (10/2/07 at DePaul University)

Everyone should take today's speech at DePaul University to heart. We students, the generation waiting in the wings for our turn to lead, must pay special attention. Senator Obama pointed out our responsibility to question the world as it stands, to observe mistakes made in the past, and learn from them as we go forward.

Had the conventional thinkers in Washington questioned the world as it stood in 2002, as Senator Obama did, we might not be in the quagmire that we are in now. Now, five years later, we have the opportunity to turn the page on a failed foreign policy. We have the attention of our nation and the world when our candidate speaks about his vision for American foreign policy:

"President Kennedy once said – 'the pursuit of peace is not as dramatic as the pursuit of war – and frequently the words of the pursuer fall on deaf ears.' In the fall of 2002, those deaf ears were in Washington. They belonged to a President who didn't tell the whole truth to the American people; who disdained diplomacy and bullied allies; and who squandered our unity and the support of the world after 9/11."

The responsibility was not the President's alone. We were failed by much of the Washington establishment, Obama said. We were failed by the media reporting spin rather than facts. We were failed by the majority of Congress:

"Let's be clear: without that vote, there would be no war….When we have a debate about experience, we can't just talk about who fought yesterday's battles – we have to focus on who can face the challenges and seize the opportunities of tomorrow."

I know that Senator Obama is ready to make the most of this opportunity. I was re-energized today when he said that when he is President, we will seek a world that is free of nuclear weapons. I was re-energized by his commitment to a new era of diplomacy defined by the simple willingness to talk. A willingness to find the common ground:

"Just look at our history. Kennedy had a direct line to Khrushchev. Nixon met with Mao. Carter did the hard work of negotiating the Camp David Accords. Reagan was negotiating arms agreements with Gorbachev even as he called on him to 'tear down this wall.'"

Barack Obama wants to combat the messages of hate being spread around the world with his vision of hope, with America's vision of hope. Today, he endorsed the Millennium Development Goals, which aim to cut extreme poverty in half by 2015. Once elected, those goals will be America's goals, and the Obama Administration will double foreign assistance to $50 billion to lead the world in achieving them:

"In the 21st century, we cannot stand up before the world and say that there's one set of rules for America and another for everyone else. To lead the world, we must lead by example."

Barack Obama set an example today. I can only hope that we all follow it.

Introducing...Kim Ahern

Marc R. Peters — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 17:39:41 EDT

We are adding yet another blogger to the mix. I had the pleasure of meeting Kim at Camp Obama back in August and I could tell then that she was an incredibly passionate supporter of this campaign:

"In the face of impossible odds, people who love their country can change it." –Senator Barack Obama

I am currently a second year law student in Rhode Island, originally from Oak Hill, Virginia. I have to admit that up until about four years ago I was completely apathetic to politics. I came to Rhode Island for college and to learn more about community organizing. I began to realize that community organizing was inextricably bound to the political sphere.
Despite my initial hesitation, I began to realize that politics is the potential vehicle for changing our society. And now, Senator Obama is my candidate of choice. His background in community organizing demonstrates that he is the first candidate in years that will can truly empathize with everyday Americans like you and me and avoid ties to special interests.
Community organizer, Saul Alinsky, once said, "There is no such thing as apathy – only bad organizers." Although I once claimed to be apathetic, I take Alinsky's words to heart. Too many people believe our generation, the 18 – 30 year-olds is non-caring, not motivated and just generally lethargic. We can prove them wrong.
Senator Obama's message speaks in some way to every single one of our peers. Perhaps it is universal health care or the rising cost of student loans or the notion that we should treat our fellow citizens with the basic decency that we all deserve. Senator Obama has the ability to reach an entire group of young Americans who previously may not have voted because no one was reaching out to them. This is exactly what Students for Barack Obama is doing and that is why I am proud to be a part of this movement for change.

In the news: Obama and HBCUs

Marc R. Peters — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 17:47:26 EDT

"There's no doubt that young people have to vote as just a starting point for involvement. That's absolutely critical. And I think that to the extent that you are active in the community where you're going to school, the idea of mobilizing voters around local politics is a terrific idea.”---Senator Barack Obama.

We all knew that Barack Obama attracts a diverse coalition of supporters: from Brooklyn MC Talib Kweli to the New York City’s Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association, from liberal legend Theodore Sorensen to hip-hop luminary Common. Students too have been active in this campaign for change, Ivy League and community college students alike. And now another student group is emerging as a force.

In overwhelming fashion, students at historically black colleges and universities are uniting with Senator Obama. And the relationship has been reciprocal. Obama has appeared at Florida A&M (pictured above), Hampton University, Xavier University in New Orleans, South Carolina State University and Howard University.

Candice Tolliver, senior communications adviser for African American press, said, "Senator Obama and the Obama campaign have done several events to show our dedication to historically black colleges and universities and other historically black institutions of learning. The campaign is actively seeking students to help win in the early primary states like Iowa and South Carolina.”

Almost 20 historically black institutions have SFBO chapters. Overall, there are nearly 500 such chapters across the country.

"Our purpose it to get 20 percent of the student body registered to vote and pledge to vote for Barack Obama," said Charli Cooksey, chapter coordinator at Prairie View A&M. "We plan to do this through forums, social events, and educating people on why they should vote for Obama."

Click for the full story.

Campaign Update, Talking Points and Schedule for this Week

Kobi Little — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 21:58:25 EDT

This week's blog is packed with new information from the campaign. Special thanks to my friend Teal Baker for her contributions to this post. Take it all in and then share it with others. If you like this blog or if you find this information useful please send me a friend request and join my group, Kobi Little's National Network for Obama.

Breaking news from the conference call with Campaign Manager David Plouffe: A new online fundraising contest is being launched that will grant the members of the My.BarackObama.com groups that raise the most money through the end of the week the opportunity to participate in a personal conference call with Senator Barack Obama and Campaign Manager David Plouffe. Be on the lookout for more information from the My.BarackObama.com team.

State of the Campaign

When we got into this race as a largely unknown candidate new to the national political stage, we never expected that nine months later at this stage of the race, we would be in a tight three way race in Iowa; leading in the money race; have the largest grassroots organization in modern political history; and have an organizational advantage in the early states and February 5 over a quasi-incumbent from the most powerful political machine in modern political history.

Barack is the candidate with the message and biography that is most in synch with the electorate – according to a Gallup poll in September Democratic voters prefer change to experience by a margin of 73 percent to 26 percent.

The Obama campaign has: the largest organizations with the most experienced staff and enthusiastic volunteers in the 4 early states;

An unexpected financial advantage that allows the campaign to compete in multiple contests at the same time;

The most donors by far in the race, who as the election draws nearer will get even more active on our behalf, giving us financial sustainability;

A significant organizational advantage in February 5th states.

Barack Obama's Schedule: On Monday, Barack Obama received the endorsement of the New York City Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association. Tuesday, he’s speaking at Change to Win in Chicago. Wednesday, he can be seen live on the NBC/NECN/New Hampshire Public Radio/New Hampshire Democratic Party debate, which will be broadcast live on MSNBC at 9pm EST. Following the debate he’ll head to New York, where he’ll participate in a live interview on ABC’s The View at 11am EST on Thursday before leading a major rally in Washington Square Park. On Friday, he speaks at Howard University’s Convocation and participates in the CBC Issues Forum in Washington, DC.

Student Rewind (September 16-22)

Marc R. Peters — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 12:55:09 EDT

In the news this week....

Numerous campuses around the country this week held countdown for change parties.

Some California-area students (above) took to the streets (well took to a table actually) as well.

Meanwhile in the Midwest, National Youth Vote Coordinator James Hannaway completed his tour of the state's college campuses (Read James' diary of his travels: Part I of the series here, Part II here, Part III here and the finale here)

R&B superstar Usher introduced Senator Obama at an event in Atlanta (the fundraiser offered a discounted ticket rate for students).

The Obama campaign got shout-outs in multiple campus op-eds this week: George Washington University, University of Wisconsin, University of Iowa and Washington University.

University of Wisconsin-Madison is at it again, now offering podcasts and an original promotional video for their chapter.

Ohio State University also got into the action this week, signing up over 300 new members of their chapter.

Not to be outdone, Iowa State University hosted Barack Obama at an event this week (shown above). According to the Sioux City Journal, "the crowd was so large and the stage so tiny that Obama looked like he was floating over the thousands of supporters."

Stay tuned to Students for Barack Obama blog during the week for profiles on passionate students, updates on news from SFBO chapters and highlights from the campaign trail.

Introducing...Justin Charity

Marc R. Peters — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 22:32:30 EDT

Staying with our tradition...I introduce to you our newest blogger, Justin Charity. Justin comes to us from Georgetown University and these are his words on why he supports Senator Barack Obama:

“The dedication of a lifetime — these are words that are easy to utter, but this is a mighty assignment. For it is often easier to fight for principles than to live up to them.” – Gov. Adlai E. Stevenson (D-IL)
I fell in love with politics at an early age. I grew up on NBC Nightly News and the West Wing. Back then, politics was more of a passion than any sort of practical ambition. I recognized my own convictions in the Democratic Party, and I was sure that those convictions meant more than mere talking points and theater, even if I couldn’t completely grasp why.
My passion swept me to Georgetown, where I looked to reclaim some of the optimism of my younger self. For quite some time, I’d grown used to being disappointed by the political process – elections come and go, and yet some things never change. We’d invaded Iraq, we’d abandoned our schools, we’d abandoned universal healthcare. The past several years have taken their toll on our hopes and our expectations.
Even after the Congressional gains by the Democrats in 2006, I continued to look ahead toward our prospects for taking back the White House in 2008, recognizing all the while that leadership means more than simply being better than the Republicans. When Barack Obama announced that he was running for President, I wasn’t quite sure what to think. I remembered his convention speech from 2004, and I recalled the audacity of hope that he had inspired in my mother and me.
I wasn’t quite sure what to think, but I knew for sure what I felt – a sense of commitment, to do whatever I could to help Barack Obama spread his message of hope to the rest of America, red and blue. Barack Obama – like Adlai Stevenson and Bobby Kennedy before him – recognizes politics as a force for good rather than as a necessary evil, and he has committed himself to sharing that optimism with all of America, despite so much cynicism born of the Bush presidency and its years of discontentment.
I recognize that not everyone holds the same hope for politics, so long as it inevitably involves politicians. But I’d like to think that, at the end of the day, politics is merely the means to a much more important end – a better tomorrow for all. That’s why I support Barack, and it’s why I’m stand beside him in this campaign.

James Hannaway's Minnesota Road Trip (THE FINALE)

Marc R. Peters — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 19:11:45 EDT

Youth Vote Coordinator James Hannaway has completed his mission. This is part four of the four part series chroniciling James' travels. (Read Part I of the series here, Part II here and Part III here):

I am back in Chicago. My Minnesota adventures are sadly over. These past few days were not without excitement. The University of Minnesota kickoff, the St. Olaf and Carleton kickoffs, Jesse James Days, meeting with College and Young Democrats leaders and almost all of our 11 chapters in the state… Just driving in that car with the windows rolled down was fun enough.
The St. Olaf and Carleton field kickoffs in particular were really worthwhile. While not as high profile or as high volume as the University of Minnesota kickoff, theygave me a sense of what people are doing across the country. Having conversations. It is probably the simplest and most effective way to spread our message. We got about 3-4 canvassers at each school. Each canvassed for about 2 hours. At a rate of about 7 pledges an hour, we got a lot done. More importantly, we enjoyed ourselves.
Chicago is great, but is no Minnesota. Where are the giant concrete otters? Where is giant concrete Paul Bunyan? I feel alone and confused without them.
I will be back. Minnesota is organizing its caucus convention on October 6 and I need to organize for that. But still, every minute I spend eating deep dish pizza on Michigan Ave, I could be spending eating lutefisk in St. Peter.
Also, because I could not resist, here is the Washington Street Bridge at the University of Minnesota. We sure have some very talented kids at Students for Barack Obama.

[SPEECH] SEIU in Washington Video of Speech

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 19:05:24 EDT

http://webcast.seiu.org/

This page links to Obama speech at SEIU conference held September 17th in Washington.

There is a LOT of preamble of SEIU organizers (worth listening to) but Barack comes out about 20+ minutes in and speaks for about 20+ with the great FIRED UP! READY TO GO! ending.

Have seen much positive feedback from bloggers on the speech.

Anyone else?

Student Rewind: Week of September 9th

Marc R. Peters — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:18:49 EDT

In the news this past week...

Senator Obama's speech last week to members of Nevada for Health was featured in UNLV's student newspaper.

And his address to City College in Santa Barbara drew 4,000 people.

Georgetown student Justin Charity (shown above) chronicled his summer internship with Obama for America in the Georgetown Hoya

Brown University's SFBO chapter previewed their first meeting in the Providence Daily Dose.

Director of Students for Barack Obama, Meredith Segal, was profiled by her school's paper this week.

Yale for Obama kicked off their fall semester and garnered some coverage from the Yale Daily News.

Chapter highlight

Now on to what can only be described as the University of Wisconsin rewind...

The chapter's kickoff was previewed in The Daily Cardinal. The paper also featured them in another article later in the week. The kickoff meeting was also covered by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's political blog. The Badger Herald highlighted the meeting as well.

Chapter coordinator Andy Gordon also had an op-ed published.

Kudos to the SFBO chapter at University of Wisconsin for their strong showing this week. Keep up the good work!

And now a message from our high school coordinator...

Marc R. Peters — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 22:08:36 EDT

The following is a public service announcement from SFBO high school coordinator, Harris Mercer:

In the 1860 election, a presidential campaign was propelled to victory by a group of young volunteers who called themselves the Wide-Awakes. These dedicated supporters of Abraham Lincoln, the ultimate change candidate, marched and canvassed all over the country. They didn’t have any help from the established party machine, but, as you may know, that election turned out okay.
The Wide-Awakes are also helping Students for Barack Obama figure out how to handle something that’s not supposed to be happening.
Today’s generation of teenagers is the most apathetic in history, right? We’re not engaged. We’re not informed. We’re disconnected from American ideals and too pessimistic to do anything about the problems our country faces, the problems we’ll have to shoulder in not too long.
In other words, any campaign that’s relying on us has gotta be pretty desperate. Any candidate who trusts us will fold pretty fast.
That’s what everybody told us -- but it’s not true. We’re active. In fact, we’re wide awake. And in every part of this country, high school students are working to help win this election for another change candidate.
We had to come up with something new. We had to turn to Abraham Lincoln, to learn from his example -- so to ensure that the passion and enthusiasm and hopefulness we all feel is converted to something tangible, we’re involving high school students in an unprecedented way by signing them up as official representatives of Barack Obama.
Seize the moment and find a chapter near you. If you’re in high school, become a representative. If you’re in college, you can create or join a chapter. And if you’re the parent of a high school student, if you’re the friend of a high school student, if you know a high school student, if you were a high school student -- reach out. Spread the word so we can start strong and get stronger.
We need you to continue to inspire us, to join us, to work with us, and to speak for us.
We’re already witnessing an inspiring burst of support for a candidate who has renewed our faith - as he puts it - “in what this country can be.”
So let’s be more than witnesses.
Instead of remaining bystanders to history in the making, we will work hard. We will wake up Washington. We will again transform American politics.
Go to http://students.barackobama.com/page/content/sfbofind to learn more.
This is a marathon, but we have the momentum to win it. Let’s get organized.

In the news: Student loans

Marc R. Peters — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 20:14:06 EDT

"At least eight top officials in our own Education Department have taken or had jobs in the student loan industry, including one who was fired for still owning $100,000 worth of stock in that industry. These are the same private lenders and banks who have been caught actually bribing colleges to steer business their way – the same ones who charge taxpayers $8 billion a year to provide student loans at inflated rates, instead of offering the loans directly and using the savings to help more kids. And we wonder why 200,000 students didn’t go to college in one recent year for the simple reason that they couldn’t afford it." ---Senator Barack Obama, Taking Our Government Back

Michael Kinsey has an op-ed in today's Washington Post on the debacle that is student loans. He mocks what is referred to as an "industry":

There are no factories. The only things it "makes" are loans. Furthermore, it exists only because of a government program. Yet in the four decades since the federal government started it, the student loan business has evolved into a pretty good imitation of an industry, with trade associations, lobbyists and support from politicians, mostly Republican.

Kinsey goes on to debunk common myths surrounding students loans. Visit WashingtonPost.com for the whole story.

Passing the torch...

Marc R. Peters — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 12:17:52 EDT

Society is an illusion to the young citizen. It lies before him in rigid repose with certain names, men, and institutions, rooted like oak-trees to the center, round which all arrange themselves the best they can. ---Ralph Waldo Emerson (Politics)

President John F. Kennedy was one of the first politicians to recognize the power of young voters. He understood that, beyond their ability to energize a campaign, they represented the future of America and any issues needed to be framed in a way that took into account repercussions on the next generation:

The great trouble with American politics today is that we talk in slogans too often and symbols and we fight old battles. The sixties are going to be entirely different....We are a new generation…which will require new solutions, Kennedy said.

Well we too are a new generation and Barack Obama is the candidate to take the torch as it is passed from old politics to a new generation of politics, from a politics of division and fear, to a politics of unification and hope.

Due to the upward trend in youth voter turnout, Democracy Fellow Tova Wang and Kristen Oshyn are predicting that youth voter turnout in 2008 will increase yet again, giving young people the chance to drastically effect the campaign season and the electoral outcome.

In "Youth Vote 2008," a new issue brief from The Century Foundation, Wang and Oshyn look at the history of how young voters have been brought into the electoral process compared to more recent and possible future processes. Highlighting research, they argue that the current upward trend of young voter turnout will not only impact the 2008 election but politics for the next generation.

According to their study, 75% of young adults are registered to vote for 2008, 42% said that they are "definitely" going to participate in a primary or caucus, and 92% of 18-29 year olds said that they are "almost certain" to vote in 2008. They say that the best way to increase youth turnout is, “face-to-face contact, ideally with a peer, has been shown to be the single best way to get young voters to the polls.”

This is where we come in. We need to stand up and be counted. We need to have our voices heard. I agree with Senator Barack Obama that throughout history it has been young people who have stood up to put an end to acts of injustice, who have stood up to put an end to suffering. Well we cannot have the kind of change that is needed in American politics and American governance unless we are heard loud and clear. Step out of your comfort zone and talk to your friends about this election because there is much to be done and now is the time to do it.

Read an overview of the study here or view the entire study on The Century Foundation website

Countdown to Change---Washington D.C.

Marc R. Peters — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 15:15:30 EDT

I just wanted to pass along this message from the campaign regarding an event next week featuring Senator Obama. If you are going to be in the DC area I highly recommend that you attend. These events are always a good time! It's only 15 dollars for students and you get to be a part of this movement for change:

Join Barack Obama on September 18th at the Washington, DC Countdown to Change:

As summer draws to a close, we're counting down the days until the early caucuses and primaries in Iowa, Nevada, New Hampshire, and South Carolina. Victory in these early state contests will be crucial to securing the Democratic nomination and marking the beginning of real change in our country.
Together, we can bring an end to divisive, special-interest-driven politics. Join supporters, community members, and friends at the City Center Lot in Washington, DC to show support for Barack and start the countdown.
Here are the details:
Washington, DC Countdown to Change
September 18, 2007, 5:15 p.m.
City Center Lot
11th and H St. NW
Washington, DC 20005

Tickets: $25
Student Price: $15
Purchase your tickets online and help Barack Obama start the Countdown to Change
Hope to see you there!
Obama for America
P.S. -- For more information, please contact Kyle Watkins at kwatkins@barackobama.com.

Getting it done in Wisconsin

Marc R. Peters — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 21:55:10 EDT

The University of Wisconsin chapter of Students for Barack Obama is holding a Fall Semester Kickoff event today. Gus Doyle, son of Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle, will speak to a crowd that makes up the largest SFBO chapter in Wisconsin. This will be yet another successful event for SFBO, proving that we students can work together to voice a loud and clear opinion on the way that our country should be run.

James Hannaway's Minnesota Road Trip (Part III)

Marc R. Peters — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 12:22:34 EDT

Youth Vote Coordinator James Hannaway is on a mission. From now until September 16, he will be in Minnesota, on the road, organizing students around the state for Barack Obama. This is part three of the series. (Read Part I of the series here, Part II here). As James continues his travels he will write more about students and the extraordinary things they are doing for the Obama campaign:

Last night, University of Minnesota had their field kickoff. You might be asking yourself- what is a field kickoff? When people think kickoff, they think pump-up speeches and loud music, free food and good times. This was a little different. We had some pizza and a speech from the Mayor of Minneapolis, R.T. Rybak, but the focus was not to pat ourselves on the back. No, it was to get out in the field and sign up people to vote for Obama.

Mayor Rybak, probably one of the coolest elected officials around. The mayor got the volunteers pumped up. He told a story about why he supports Obama.

Then I did a little field training. Apparently, no one except me and our two coordinators had done this thing before. So we did some role plays. I made sure they were not frightened by the idea of talking with strangers about politics. We sent them out…

They hit the student union, frat row, neighborhood coffee shops, bus stops and every last place you could find a sympathetic student, simply asking, “Do you want Barack Obama to be the next president?” A couple hours later, we were able to get these:

We got almost 300 people pledged to vote for Barack Obama in two hours.Some people did it for 20-30 minutes and had to go to class. Some did it for two hours.. People did what they could and they did it well.

The best thing to get out of this was hands-on field training. As I mentioned, these were all novices. They had not been canvassing or anything before. I went out there with them and taught all 25 volunteers how to be upbeat and engaging. They came back to the action center with smiles on their faces.

Tomorrow night is the canvass kickoff for Carleton and St. Olaf. Off to Northfield!

OBAMA - Kenyan Tribute Song from Pitchfork music fest.

Time For Change - Adam Hicks — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 17:19:06 EDT

New Music: Extra Golden: "Obama" [MP3/Stream]

When half-Kenyan U.S. Senator Barack Obama traveled to Kenya a couple years ago, he was greeted by swarming crowds everywhere he went-- people from developing countries hear a lot of promises from old white guys that never pan out, but here was a man they felt they had a connection with, and they wanted to hear what he had to say. Now, half-Kenyan band Extra Golden has composed a song of praise for the senator. In their attempt to obtain visas to come to the U.S., band members Opiyo Bilongo and Onyango Wuod Omari were assisted by Obama's office, so their praise has a personal slant to it. The duo is joined by Ian Eagleson and Alex Minoff of D.C. band Golden, but the sound is very East African. Most of this is a pure benga tune, full of fluttering, clean-toned guitars, doubled vocals (not in English, either), and a stomping rhythm, but about halfway through the drums lock into a harder rock beat and the guitars take on a little dirt, with the wah-wah pedal all the way down, turning it into a fuzzy rock jam.

http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/page/forkcast/44659-extra-golden-obama-mp3stream

James Hannaway's Minnesota Road Trip (Part II)

Marc R. Peters — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 06:18:26 EDT

Youth Vote Coordinator James Hannaway is on a mission. From now until September 16, he will be in Minnesota, on the road, organizing students around the state for Barack Obama. This is part two of the series. (Read Part I of the series here). As James continues his travels he will write more about students and the extraordinary things they are doing for the Obama campaign:

The thing I like most about this campaign is its capacity to bring different people together.

I spent the other night in a sweaty church in Minneapolis, along with other members of Students for Barack Obama. It was the first student solidarity meeting for the local AFSCME strike. You might see some faces perspiring. Thankfully, you are not able to see mine, because it was gross.

You can read about why I was there in this article from the Minneapolis City Pages. The essence of it is that University of Minnesota workers are being treated unfairly by the administration.

The first University of Minnesota Students for Barack Obama meeting was scheduled for 6 PM that night. Everyone is fired up and ready to go. They know how they are going to win Minnesota for Barack on February 5. They know how to find the 400 Iowa residents on campus. Even cooler, they are organizing a massive canvass tomorrow, featuring the Mayor of Minneapolis, R.T. Rybak. U of M gets official props.

The meeting ends. Hands are shaken. Someone tells me there is a student solidarity meeting in 10 minutes at strike headquarters. Would I like to go?

We pile in the Obama-mobile and we are off. 10 or so of us enter the church basement. It is a flurry of activity. We had people doing press releases, coordinating outreach to the community, organizing where students are going to be and when.

I have been crossing this state and meeting with so many inspired (and inspiring) young people with so many good ideas. Take for example, the students of Carleton and St. Olaf handing out “Hope on a Stick.”

Jesse James Days is a mini-state fair in Northfield, Minnesota that happens right before school starts. There are lots of things on sticks. Pickles. Pork chops. Sausage. This might mark the first time political literature has been on a stick.

We passed out about 400 of these bad boys. The literature had information about SFBO first meetings- Carleton on one side and St. Olaf on the other. We went around, asking people- “Would you like some hope on a stick?” and then we would have to explain. Lots of laughs.

They were surprisingly fun to make:

Expect one or two more updates from Minnesota! Kansas is next! North Dakota after that! Back to the road!

Extra shoutouts to Macalester, Northwestern, Hamline, Gustavus, Winona and Morris! You rule even though I didn’t have space in here to mention all the awesome stuff you are doing.

Students for Barack Obama Rewind (Round III)

Marc R. Peters — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 20:50:23 EDT

South Carolina State University students register to vote, part of Obama for America’s student vote drive.

University of Missouri’s SFBO chapter receives pledges from their classmates to vote for Senator Obama.

It took a while, but I guess we rewound the tape far enough back that people are starting to come to the same conclusion that we here at SFBO came to long ago: Barack Obama is running the most aggressive campaign for the student vote.

The Concord Monitor specifically cited Obama for America’s extraordinary efforts in an article on presidential candidates courting the student vote .

Even the Students for Barack Obama blog is getting in the action with a shout-out on the FutureMajority.com.

The Emory Wheel, Emory University’s student newspaper, highlighted the school’s Students for Barack Obama chapter in a recent article.

And praise for students isn’t limited to our enthusiasm at SFBO events. We are showing up everywhere. At a recent Generation Obama fundraiser in San Francisco, students filled the balcony.

Elsewhere in the country, South Carolina high school students were partying like BarackStars this week calling their friends and urging them to vote. And University of Missouri Students for Barack Obama are getting their classmates to pledge to vote for our candidate.

And now for a new feature of SFBO Rewind...STUDENT OF THE WEEK!

Student of the Week: Natalie Rojas

Natalie Rojas, a student at the University of California at Santa Cruz, was recently named SFBO’s California State Coordinator. She is an active participant in College Democrats and the Santa Cruz County Democratic Central Committee, and has served in leadership roles within both organizations.

“California is a very forward-thinking, progressive state,” said Natalie. “Students here are especially hungry for change, and Senator Obama offers the type of new ideas and fresh perspectives that will win their votes.”

Natalie plans to spread Obama’s message in a way that resonates with students. She will highlight the senator’s grasp of the issues that students care about, ranging from the environment to health care.

We welcome Natalie to her new role and wish her the best of luck!

Stay tuned to Students.BarackObama.com for daily updates on SFBO...

Students for Barack Obama: We can do something different...

Marc R. Peters — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 11:24:15 EDT

At each and every juncture of our history, somebody's been audacious enough to say, "We can do something different." And more often than not it's been young people who have done it. ---Barack Obama

Thanks to the hard work of students from all around the country, from Illinois to Iowa, from Maryland to Michigan, from Connecticut to California, Students for Barack Obama has grown to more than 550 chapters nationwide.

Words do not do nearly enough to express the level of anticipation and excitement present on campuses all over the United States. We need to make it crystal clear to our classmates that we need Barack Obama to secure a better future for not only students, but for all Americans.

We've created a short video featuring some of Senator Obama’s speeches, his thoughts on getting young people involved in the political process, and conversations with students. This fight is not his alone. We need to stand next to Barack Obama in this campaign. Take a simple step toward getting involved in the political process by checking out the video and sharing it with your friends!

Click the picture above for the video.

Are you smarter than a 13th grader?

Marc R. Peters — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 10:55:13 EDT

Editor's note: The following is a list released by Beloit College that highlights what the Class of 2011 has and has not been exposed to in their lifetime.

We here at the SFBO blog would like to make crystal clear that we have nothing but respect for freshmen. We don't get annoyed when we are approached 12 times for directions to the dining hall. We don't mind when a pack of 30 students (walking together of course) stops in front of moving traffic nearly causing an accident. We love having thousands of freshmen walking around campus Friday and Saturday nights begging to get into parties. We welcome you to our campuses with open arms. The list below is not our way of poking fun at you. Besides...Beloit College got on us our freshmen year too (Class of 2010, Class of 2009, Class of 2008).

Enjoy the list (and pay close attention to #17):

What Berlin wall?
Humvees, minus the artillery, have always been available to the public.
Rush Limbaugh and the “Dittoheads” have always been lambasting liberals.
They never “rolled down” a car window.
Michael Moore has always been angry and funny.
They may confuse the Keating Five with a rock group.
They have grown up with bottled water.
General Motors has always been working on an electric car.
Nelson Mandela has always been free and a force in South Africa.
Pete Rose has never played baseball.
Rap music has always been mainstream.
Religious leaders have always been telling politicians what to do, or else!
“Off the hook” has never had anything to do with a telephone.
Music has always been “unplugged.”
Russia has always had a multi-party political system.
Women have always been police chiefs in major cities.
They were born the year Harvard Law Review Editor Barack Obama announced he might run for office some day.
The NBA season has always gone on and on and on and on.
Classmates could include Michelle Wie, Jordin Sparks, and Bart Simpson.
Half of them may have been members of the Baby-sitters Club.
Eastern Airlines has never “earned their wings” in their lifetime.
No one has ever been able to sit down comfortably to a meal of “liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti.”
Wal-Mart has always been a larger retailer than Sears and has always employed more workers than GM.
Being “lame” has to do with being dumb or inarticulate, not disabled.
Wolf Blitzer has always been serving up the news on CNN.
Katie Couric has always had screen cred.
Al Gore has always been running for president or thinking about it.
They never found a prize in a Coca-Cola “MagiCan.”
They were too young to understand Judas Priest’s subliminal messages.
When all else fails, the Prozac defense has always been a possibility.
Multigrain chips have always provided healthful junk food.
They grew up in Wayne’s World.
U2 has always been more than a spy plane.
They were introduced to Jack Nicholson as “The Joker.”
Stadiums, rock tours and sporting events have always had corporate names.
American rock groups have always appeared in Moscow.
Commercial product placements have been the norm in films and on TV.
On Parents’ Day on campus, their folks could be mixing it up with Lisa Bonet and Lenny Kravitz with daughter Zöe, or Kathie Lee and Frank Gifford with son Cody.
Fox has always been a major network.
They drove their parents crazy with the Beavis and Butt-Head laugh.
The “Blue Man Group” has always been everywhere.
Women’s studies majors have always been offered on campus.
Being a latchkey kid has never been a big deal.
Thanks to MySpace and Facebook, autobiography can happen in real time.
They learned about JFK from Oliver Stone and Malcolm X from Spike Lee.
Most phone calls have never been private.
High definition television has always been available.
Microbreweries have always been ubiquitous.
Virtual reality has always been available when the real thing failed.
Smoking has never been allowed in public spaces in France.
China has always been more interested in making money than in reeducation.
Time has always worked with Warner.
Tiananmen Square is a 2008 Olympics venue, not the scene of a massacre.
The purchase of ivory has always been banned.
MTV has never featured music videos.
The space program has never really caught their attention except in disasters. Space Program
Jerry Springer has always been lowering the level of discourse on TV.
They get much more information from Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert than from the newspaper.
They’re always texting 1 n other.
They will encounter roughly equal numbers of female and male professors in the classroom.
They never saw Johnny Carson live on television.
They have no idea who Rusty Jones was or why he said “goodbye to rusty cars.”
Avatars have nothing to do with Hindu deities.
Chavez has nothing to do with iceberg lettuce and everything to do with oil.
Illinois has been trying to ban smoking since the year they were born.
The World Wide Web has been an online tool since they were born.
Chronic fatigue syndrome has always been debilitating and controversial.
Burma has always been Myanmar.
Dilbert has always been ridiculing cubicle culture.
Food packaging has always included nutritional labeling.

James Hannaway's Minnesota Road Trip

Marc R. Peters — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 11:28:11 EDT

Youth Vote Coordinator James Hannaway is on a mission. From now until September 16, he will be in Minnesota, on the road, organizing students around the state for Barack Obama. This is part one of the series, an overview of the start of the trip. As James continues to post he will write more about students and the amazing things they are doing for the Obama campaign:

There are lots of movies about road trips. Easy Rider. Harold and Kumar. National Lampoon’s Vacation. But I don’t think the movie industry has ever attempted to capture on screen what I am doing right now in Minnesota. It is a road trip, yes. There are adventures and interesting characters. But this is different.
I am here in Minnesota as a representative of the youth vote department of Obama for America. I am staring up at a giant concrete otter on the side of the road.
Someone obviously put a lot of love into this. It’s realistic, though a hundred times bigger than the real deal. I think to myself- I now have a goal.
By the time I am done, I will create the world’s largest concrete Barack Obama. It will tower on the side of I-35. Motorists from across the Great Plains will travel miles and miles to admire its giant concrete endearing grin and giant concrete lanky frame. If giant concrete Barack Obama does not get votes, then nothing will.
But wait-- should my master plan fail, I should have something waiting in the wings. I guess we have to motivate students to caucus. That sounds hard.
Or it would be hard...if colleges weren’t fountains of support for Senator Obama. Thankfully, college campuses across Minnesota overwhelmingly support him. There are 13 chapters of Students for Barack Obama.
Pretty much every major campus has an active chapter. They are sending volunteers to Iowa. They are canvassing their own campuses three times over. They are identifying hundreds of early state residents and turning them out where their vote matters the most. More immediately, they are helping to build a crowd for a huge event in Minneapolis, the Minnesota Caucus Convention. It is a humbling sight to see.
In these two weeks, I am taking my rent-a-car and meeting with all our student leaders and their chapters. From Duluth to St. Paul, I will be meeting with these people. Bible colleges, high schools, state schools, liberal arts schools- leaving no stone unturned. I am fueled only by instant coffee (shown below) and an abiding love for the Barack Obama campaign.

Here are just a couple of examples of the kind of support for Senator Obama that James is seeing in Minnesota:

In the news…Partying like a Barackstar

Marc R. Peters — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:45:52 EDT

Last night a dozen students decided to go to downtown Columbia, South Carolina…to phone bank?

Some of the volunteers will likely be voting for the first time, but others are prohibited from voting for Senator Obama. They’re too young. But that is not keeping them from making a difference in their state's primary.

Time and time again the Obama campaign has demonstrated an ability to attract young people to go above and beyond on the Senator’s behalf. According to CNN.com’s political ticker:

“The student volunteers read from a script as they called other young people in the area who have been identified by the Obama campaign as potential supporters. Obama operatives said the calls were made to teenagers as young as 17, who will be old enough to vote by the time the Democratic primary rolls around in January.”

This is just the latest of Obama for America’s innovative approaches geared toward harnessing the enthusiasm young people express for Senator Obama and turning it into a political force:

“The Obama staff told the students they were going to start organizing at more area high schools and encouraged the students to reach out to their friends ‘who are interested in politics, who are interested in Obama, who are just interested in change.’”

Read the whole CNN political ticker item.

Students for Barack Obama Rewind

Marc R. Peters — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 10:25:52 EDT

Here's a look at what Students for Barack Obama chapters have been up to this week...

Indiana communications coordinator Justin Trensnowski, a senior at Notre Dame, had an opinion-editorial published in the South Bend Tribune.

Meanwhile, the University of Wisconsin Students for Barack Obama chapter was highlighted in their campus newspaper.

Students from all over the country registered new SFBO members at their campuses. Southwestern University held its first SFBO meeting on campus.

Georgetown University student Chris Dodge got a shout-out in the Georgetown Independent.

Obama for America launched a week-long drive to register (at least) 1,000 student voters in South Carolina.

Howard University student Brittany Washington (on the far left) sat down to dinner with Barack.

More to come as the semester rolls on...

Hope Vernacular: Labor Day Rally

Marc R. Peters — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 22:16:50 EDT

There are a lot of people who have been in Washington longer than me; who have better connections and go to the right dinner parties and know how to talk the Washington talk. Well I might not have the experience Washington likes, but I believe I have the experience America needs right now. Hope and change are not just the rhetoric of a campaign for me. Hope and change have been the causes of my life. Hope and change are the story of our country. And we’re here today to continue that story.

Click here for the full remarks

In the News: Registering Students in South Carolina

Marc R. Peters — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 11:17:33 EDT

"Barack Obama’s message about fundamentally changing our politics has energized and inspired young people,” Obama South Carolina Youth Vote Director Elizabeth Wilkins said. “Now we have to make sure they’re registered to vote and get them to the polls."

On Saturday, Obama for America launched a week-long drive to register (at least) 1,000 student voters on college and high school campuses across the state. The campaign will be out and about at 40 high school and colleges. The campaign has already started to hold local events to get the youth out.

Click here for the full Slate article

Student rewind...

Marc R. Peters — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 20:32:12 EDT

Here's a look at what Students for Barack Obama chapters have been up to this week...

Senator Obama swings through Kentucky drawing student supporters to a rally in Lexington.

University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill)'s newly founded Students for Barack Obama chapter held its first organizational meeting.

The "Barack Chalk Jayhawks" welcome the senator to Kansas. The organization is currently working on putting together a trip to Iowa and organizing a Fall benefit concert, "Barack and Roll."

Florida A&M University students follow in footsteps of alumni activists and rally behind Barack's candidacy.

SFBO members out in full force in New Hampshire.

News recap: A rising tide of youth support

Marc R. Peters — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 13:23:25 EDT

"When a bridge is collapsing, the levees are in danger of flooding, or they're sitting in gridlock ... people don't care about, 'I saved you this much money,'" said Cal State Sacramento political communications Professor Barbara O'Connor. "They care when their life is better. Parties should try to fix things - or ignore them at their peril."

The rising level of political influence of our generation is hardly a secret. In 2008, young people will make up 17% of the electorate. And according to a Democracy Corps poll (from the Washington firm of Greenberg Quinlan Rosner) this may be very good news to the Democratic nominee.

According to the poll, among voters in our generation two-thirds believe that Democrats representing their views better than the GOP.

"On every single issue, Democrats are doing better with young people - no matter what the issue is," pollster Anna Greenberg said . "This is a more diverse generation, racially and ethnically, and it's more progressive on social issues like gay marriage."

Check out the SF Gate article for more information.

Rebuilding the Gulf

Marc R. Peters — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 13:57:41 EDT

"Let New Orleans be the place where we strengthen those bonds of trust, where a city rises up on a new foundation that can be broken by no storm," Barack Obama said. Let New Orleans become the example of what America can do when we come together, not a symbol of what we couldn't do."

Today, Senator Obama unveiled a comprehensive plan to rebuild the Gulf Coast infrastructure. The plan covers many elements of rebuilding: safety and security, infrastructure, economic development, and prevention.

The element I want to focus on is the Senator Obama’s dedication to rebuilding the schools of New Orleans. I spent two months this summer working with middle schoolers and New Orleans and came to know them as incredibly gifted and able students. But, their school system is failing them.

Fewer than half of New Orleans’ schools are reopening this fall. Student achievement is on the decline and teachers are expected to do much more with so much less. Senator Obama has used his position in the Senate to introduce legislation with Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA) to enable public schools affected by the hurricane to recruit and retain talented staff.

Senator Obama’s dedication to education does not stop there. He also introduced legislation to help three historically black colleges and universities in New Orleans recruit students and faculty. And he has proposed a loan forgiveness program to encourage students to go to school in the affected Gulf area.

The people of New Orleans are incredible and resilient. They have made tremendous strides in rebuilding their community on their own. I can only imagine what they could do with an ally like Senator Obama in the White House.

In case you missed it...Obama on the Daily Show

Marc R. Peters — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 15:31:45 EDT

If you want a completely unbiased and boring report about Barack Obama’s performance on the Daily Show, you probably should not be getting it from the Students For Barack Obama site. However, if you want to see it for yourself and make your own decision, well, that we can help you with. Click on the screenshot above to see Obama’s stellar performance:

We asked our entire blog team to write up their own brief opinions, and after carefully sorting through all of those that were submitted, we picked the best:

“I thought that Obama really did an incredible job incorporating humor as well as seriousness into what turned out to be a great performance.”- Carey

"Obama addressed the core of what is wrong with our political system when he noted that too often political debate is not 'on the level.' It's so inspiring to see a sincere leader remain so even in a grueling campaign season laced with so much opportunity for gamesmanship. History shows us that serious problems are only solved when we have faith enough in one another to tell the truth; Barack continues to offer this brand of leadership to the American people." – Luke

“Barack Obama's performance on the Daily Show made me feel like anything was possible no matter what the odds. I felt the Cubs could win the World Series, I felt like Saturday Night Live could once again be funny, and I felt that a young, charismatic, brilliant politician could change the world.”- Jason

Weekly Hope Vernacular: FAMU

Marc R. Peters — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 13:41:50 EDT

Florida A&M University (FAMU) has a rich history of student activism and during his visit there yesterday Senator Obama took time in his speech to recognize the efforts made by students in the 1950s to lead bus boycotts and sit-ins.

"Those young people from FAMU back in the 1950's decided, `you know what, we're tired of not being respected,'....and we're going to speak out," Obama said.

Senator Obama made an passionate case for a new generation of leadership, both at FAMU and in the White House.

"I believe the next president is going to have to lead in a whole new way," Obama said to a crowd of a 1000 students and 2400 other attendees. "Some people said that's naive and irresponsible. I said no, no, no, a strong nation and strong president are never afraid to talk to their adversaries."

Introducing...Josh Darr

Marc R. Peters — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 21:07:34 EDT

Hey guys,

I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce to you our latest addition to the blog team: Josh Darr. Josh is a junior at Boston College and the Massachusetts State Coordinator for Students for Barack Obama:

"For that is our unyielding faith - that in the face of impossible odds, people who love their country can change it." -- Barack Obama

    The first book I received at Boston College was "Dreams from my Father," Senator Obama's powerful memoir. We were fortunate enough to have him as the convocation speaker for my freshman class. He spoke eloquently and powerfully, and made a significant impression on me. I watched him from far away and wondered if my choice of a political science major could lead me to such a career, speaking powerfully in front of huge crowds (as he did at the 2004 Democratic National Convention), changing young people's lives through my words and actions. It made me hopeful that this education I was about to receive would be more than another four years in school: it would start me down a path, one that I hoped could lead to a better future for myself and my country.

    Two years later, I find myself deeply immersed in Senator Obama's campaign to become president, and absolutely certain in my choice of major and career path.

    My involvement in this campaign has borne out the unflagging sense of American optimism that first drew me to the Senator. I joined the Facebook group for Students for Barack Obama in October 2006, and asked to be Boston College Director. I met with the local chapter of DraftObama.org, which was also encouraging Senator Obama to run for president. Before I knew it, the Senator announced his candidacy, I was speaking at a rally in Copley Square, we hosted our first BC Students for Barack Obama meeting (with 70 attendees), and the ball was rolling on my political career. I was named Massachusetts State Director of SFBO, spoke to Senator Obama on a nationwide conference call, and have met the man (or "the man, the myth, the legend," as I like to call him) multiple times. I secured an internship in his Boston financial office to learn about campaign finance, canvassed in New Hampshire at the kickoff on May 19th, and helped to plan the Walk for Change in Jamaica Plain on June 9th.

    This flies in the face of the conventional wisdom on youth involvement in politics. We've all heard it: the youth don't vote, the youth don't care, and the youth never will. That makes me angry, for the simple fact that I know it's not true. We know that we can no longer trust our future to the current culture in Washington. There's too much at stake.

    Our generation faces real problems: a healthcare system that does not fulfill its most basic purpose, a war that should never have been authorized, and the looming bankruptcy of our social programs as our parents' generation retires. The future of America is at stake, and it's not the time to tune out.

    That is why I support Barack Obama. He believes that government has the power to help people. That what unites us is stronger than what divides us. That by working together and abandoning the petty political squabbles so prevalent in our age of television and punditry, we can solve the problems that lie before us. He believes in the power of politics to be a force for good. What attracts me most, however, is that he believes in the power of youth involvement to make a difference--it's the foundation of his campaign.

    I've done all this, but I can't help feeling as though I'm just getting started. All Americans should have the same opportunities to become politically involved that I did. I was interested in helping and committed to making a difference, and as a result, the doors of opportunity were opened to me. This campaign represents everything that is right about America: the inherent goodness of its people, the ability for one person to make a difference, and the freedom to make your own path in life. It is fitting that the campaign making the most significant commitment to the youth vote is also the campaign with the most forward-thinking vision for America. Our future can be bright if we make it so, and I intend to do everything in my power to make that future happen.

Reminder: Obama on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart TONIGHT

Marc R. Peters — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 17:22:59 EDT

Just a reminder, make sure to tune in tonight and watch Barack Obama and Jon Stewart in an epic battle of wits...well maybe not so much an epic battle as it is a worthy duel, but nonetheless make sure to watch.

11:00 pm/10:00 pm (Central)

To see Obama's November 2005 appearance on the show visit: Comedy Central

Common ignites the people like Obama...

Marc R. Peters — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 14:46:54 EDT

"If you're really supporting somebody, you're not looking for something back all the time," said Common. "He'd do best just getting elected and going in there and doing well, that's the best way he can give back to us. We don't need him to be at the concerts."

Real hip-hop is an art form and real hip-hop tracks have a message. That's why I was inspired by the fact that Common gives Senator Obama a shout-out on one of the tracks off of his new album, Finding Forever. In "The People" Common rhymes:

"I see the I in we, yours in my drama/Standin in front of the judge with no honor/my raps ignite the people like Obama"

In addition to being well on his way to being a hip-hop legend, Common is a "Chi-town legend" and his support shows that Obama hasn't forgotten his ties to the Southside of Chicago.

"He's fresh, you know, he's got good style," Common told CNN. "As far as people in my age group and people that love hip-hop, there's a love for Obama. He represents progress. He represents what hip-hop is about. Hip-hop is about progress, the struggle."

To view the music video for Common's song "The People" click on the YouTube screenshot above...

Introducing...Luke Messac

Marc R. Peters — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 19:38:26 EDT

I have good news for those of you that are getting tired of hearing from me and Jason...In addition to the return of high schooler Carey Markoe, we've added a new blogger, Luke Messac. In order for you to get a better idea of who Luke is and why he supports the Obama movement for change I asked him to write a short testimonial:

On a warm evening in late July 2004 in Albany, New York, I sat with my family in front of the television awaiting the speech that would capture the ideals of our nation. But sitting there, I did not foresee all that; all I knew then was that an unlikely favorite in the Illinois Senate race was to speak, and that he—like myself—was the son of a black immigrant father and a white American mother. I was intrigued by the prospect of a man with a heritage similar to my own on the verge of becoming a United States Senator. Yet I suspected, for the moment, that I would find little more in common with Barack Obama.
But I did find much more, as did most everyone I met who listened that night. From my compatriots in AIDS activism, to the guys on my baseball team, to fellow students I would meet upon entering college that fall, the common feeling was undeniable. When Obama asked “if you feel the same energy that I do, if you feel the same urgency that I do, if you feel the same passion that I do, if you feel the same hopefulness that I do,” we knew, collectively, that we did. His vision for America was our own.

Yet as inspiring as his words were, I needed to know more. I wanted to make sure that Barack Obama had dedicated his life to the ideals he expressed so eloquently that night. So I did some research; I read his books and talked to friends from Chicago who had known Barack Obama long before I ever heard of him. Soon, I knew his words were anything but empty rhetoric. From years as a student activist, a community organizer, a civil rights lawyer, a professor of constitutional law, a state legislator and a U.S. Senator emerged a man with a proven record of positive change, a deep commitment to justice, and an abiding respect for the dignity and worth of every human being.

Students who devote their time to service and advocacy around issues both local and global know how crucial it is that decision-makers share our commitment to solving today’s most stubborn challenges. Most of all, we need a president who has spent his life with his shoulder pressed against the wheel of history, pushing it forward. A president who knows that to stand still is to surrender our chance for a better world.
I've decided to press my shoulder against the wheel of history, as many other students have, so that Barack does not have to push it on his own. The more people we have standing together, the easier that wheel will turn. Ultimately, this is not about Barack Obama, and it's certainly not about me. This is a movement to create a better America for generations to come. And I know that in January of 2009, we will reflect proudly on the movement of change that we led.

Luke is a senior at Harvard and a 2007 Truman Scholar.

(In case you missed it...) Hope Vernacular: Iowa Debate

Marc R. Peters — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 18:58:18 EDT

"We don't have the power to prevent illness in all cases, but we do have the power to make sure that every child gets a regular checkup and isn't going to the emergency room for treatable illnesses like asthma.
We may not have the power to prevent a hurricane, but we do have the power to make sure that the levees are properly reinforced and we've got a sound emergency plan.
And so, part of what I pray for is the strength and the wisdom to be able to act on those things that I can control. And that's what I think has been lacking sometimes in our government."

For the full transcript of the ABC News debate visit: Transcript