GLBT Colorado for Obama

Dr. Bob's Health Care Reform Check-up 2009

Dr. Bob — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 22:41:43 EST

President Obama supports the current health insurance reforms in process in Congress, wholeheartedly, yet as unfinished works in progress. These bills emerged clearly as a reflection of his unending hard work, his impetus, and his inspiration, which stimulated this sea change toward a critical social justice that he and many of us have worked for much of our lives -- health care as a right, not a privilege. Everyone knows this crucial beginning is just and only that, our lifetimes may not see its end result.
Yet at the same time it seems that so many demand that President Obama hang a "Mission Accomplished" sign on this. Didn't we learn from that? Sure, we all could have demanded a single payer or robust public option right now for health care, just the way we like it. That would have been great, but impossible by any reasonable political standard in the Senate or House, like it or not. But on the other hand, whatever happened to the perspective that, "A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." Did we not show extreme patience when we were all on that "marathon road to victory" to the White House starting in the early primaries? Well, health care reform is another journey, another marathon, that we are all on with Barack Obama. A longer and more strenuous one, certainly, than the campaign, not to mention a one that past generations have died lining up just trying to begin. We, ourselves, might just be lucky enough to actually get the journey started and even to get in a few good miles along the road.
And in this health care reform battle, when it comes to the man we all worked so diligently to help elect, let's not lose perspective. Barack Obama is to be admired for the many significant and historical steps he has taken in his very young and burdened presidency. The uphill path of compromise, with its jeering detractors and demanding constituents takes a man of true mettle. Those who have accused him of taking the easy route have it backwards. It's the timid and unsure who quickly find only the applause lines to appease the cheering crowds of fans on the sidelines, and ignore the realities when they must be addressed. No one rallies to the cry of "compromise ahead!" Barack Obama warned us early on that to get to the real change that we really want we just might have to take the hard road. Well here it is, compromise and all. And it's not all lined with cheering crowds.
President Obama has the bravery to take this hard road to reach health care reform when it is now the only road we have beneath us, because the time is now to begin, and we may not get another time reasonably soon. Let's have the courage, maturity, and patience to walk this hard road with him.
YES WE CAN!

Dr. Bob

we need to demonstrate for the stimulus

john ferguson — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 00:27:14 EST

I think we need to make it clear that we want the stimulus, and that in fact we are pissed that the senate has added in private enrichment tax breaks and taken out the investments we need in schools, health and engergy that will get us moving in the right direction. How hypocritical to talk about the interest and inflation burden on our children after the mess they created with the war deficit and the give away to the financial barons with their billion dollar incomes. I am sick of their double dealing and slimy two faced lies they tell to fool people into supporting federal policies that keep the middle class folks in line and poor. We need investment is schools. We need preventative health care and care for everyone. We need investment in green energy to stop using the naturla resources that are under their sands. If we demand it we can have it. We have to demonstrate in the streets as decisively as we voted in November. Don't let them take the election away from us now. Please! Don't let them do it!

Tell Barack Obama to stand up for the things he got elected to do. Tell him to not be afraid to call their bluff. Them him we will demonstrate in the streets to support him. We need CHANGE. WE NEED REAL CAHNGE.

Disgusted at Obama.

Link48010 — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 01:10:03 EST

The choice of Warrner to be be at Obama's inauguration has me disgusted to no end. HRC and several other important gay rights campaigns had thrown their support behind Obama during the election. Obama said that despite his religion, he would not support discrimination and would leave the choice of Gay marriage to the states, but then he invites a man that supported Prop 8 in California after Obama himself said it was a bad vote. Could he give supporters a bigger slap in the face? Short of inviting Bill Ayers I don't think so.

Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ENGLISH/SPANISH

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 02:30:35 EST

This Declaration was created by Eleanor Roosevelt during the Creation of the United Nations after WW II. The whole world agreed to it, but, given Guantanemo, maybe we all need to review it.

Link in English:

http://www.unhchr.ch/udhr/lang/eng.htm

Link in Spanish:

http://www.unhchr.ch/udhr/lang/spa.htm

http://www.unhchr.ch.htm

gets you to the site of the UN High Commission on Human Rights, a very valuable launch pad to humanitarian efforts round the world.

Everyone should read this list, every New Year's Eve. There is a movement to have it printed in each new passport, so people will read it while standing in line at Security.

Gracias, ObamaDoug

Ambassador Evans Betanco

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 10:54:44 EST

I know, I know, I know! It's totally crazy for me to think I'd be chosen to be the next American Ambassador to Nicaragua since I'm just a poor pensioner, and I have no diplomatic background or past government service, or even good political networking; but, heck, this is a New America, playing by new rules, speaking a higher truth, and anything could happen, and might, even this. A guy can dream, can't he?

I'm caught up with all the possibilities for building Millennial linkage between the US and the emerging dynamo of capital and development that Latin America, especially in Brazil and Venezuela, now represents. I could transform the relationship between the US and Nicaragua, now a very wounded beast of corruption, greed, special corporate interests and controlling, covert manipulation, harking back to US imperialistic hegemony, terroristic client-state thinking from the 80's, and a blinded overview which fails to see the needs of the impoverished people of Nicaragua, 90% of the population, working for $2 a day. All the US aid which the Embassy in Managua administers ends up in the pockets of the elites, one way or another: no campesino in Nicaragua has ever seen a dime of it. All of that would have to change.

Having lived with and supported and built bridges of love and understanding between rico Coloradans and Northern Nicaraguan peasants for the last fifteen years, as American Ambassador, I would bring the peasants' voices to the table for the first time, not just the elitist voices of "The Men from Managua" who own most of the country. It would work a miracle of transformation for all the people of Nicaragua and, as well, transform our US stance as a change agent for peace, healing, mutuality and economic restoration in a country that has witnessed firsthand the nastiest face of American foreign policy, for the last hundred years. I could help President Obama bring brotherhood, opportunity, education, health and democratic power to the people, who, to a man, woman or child, are the world's most capitalistic. My American Embassy would be a new beacon of light and gratitude for the mutual benefit of all. My ultimate mission: to foster the empowerment of Nicaraguans to empower themselves, as friends working together in the Greater America, the same tool of transforming change that President Obama used to win the election in North America.

I would also bring a 21st century voice to the State Department's 20th century muddle, which really needs to happen if we are to befriend and build alliance with the emerging Latin American panthers. In many ways, Latin America is getting it together without us: we need to get on the same page with them by changing ourselves.

Gracias for participating in my dream.

Charles Douglas Evans (aka Doug Evans Betanco in Nicaragua)

Could Fantasy Turn Real? Tantalizing!

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 21:04:21 EST

So, I went and donated five dollars to the Obama Transition Team effort, but, Lord, I've lost on paper fifty percent of my net worth, so my donations may get down to a dollar, pretty soon. I also know I've pretty much said Sayonara to this Blog, but, what can I say, I break my rules all the time, as do we all. I'll at least update the National Blog occasionally, but most of my thoughts will be at centerdoug.blogspot.com, my CenterDoug Blog.

Anyway, today, I applied again for another Obama Administration position--Hoo-hah!--a truly fantasy-fest for me, except, of course, a part of me wants it to come true. How like me!

I want to be the Ambassador from the USA to Nicaragua. Stranger things have happened. I am a truly upstanding, dignified and locally-respected senior cirizen with no money but--man, could I make a difference, in that post! In Nicaragua and here, I am both a campesino and a Sandinista pacifist for All America.

Here's the letter I sent to the Obama Transition Team:

My Vision for America

My New America keeps its word, internally and externally, and walks its talk with maturity and courage as One with the rest of the world, an honorable nation among nations. Acting maturely means being peaceably responsive to the needs of all the world's peoples, not just the rich elites; honoring international law and World Court decisions, even when they go against us; and, especially, owning to our past mistakes, rectifying them when possible, and choosing in the future to forge a higher path.

My New America, for instance, would honor the World Court's decision in the case of Daniel Ortega and Nicaragua vs the USA in the 80's: the Court found for Ortega, found the US guilty of "conducting a terrorist operation" against the State of Nicaragua from 1979-88, and levied reparations in the billions against the USA. This has been ignored by the State Department for 20 years, and the whole world knows it. If we expect our fellow nations to honor that Court’s decisions, we need to honor them ourselves. When we don’t, we build support for world-wide terrorism’s ad campaign on the ground against us. Honoring this debt is in both the national interest and for the world’s security.

My New America would honor that debt by paying those reparations with interest and monitoring the funds so at least half gets into the pockets of some of the world's poorest people, the campesinos who comprise 90% of Nicaragua's citizens and who have borne the brunt of the ruinous hardships this US action catalyzed. Nicaragua’s economy is ruined, perhaps irretrievably. While the funds might technically go to the current Ortega government, they must be administered by a third party, perhaps The Carter Center, to assure that our tax money does not end up lining only the pockets of the Nica elites. The people at the bottom of the world's economic beanstalk need nourishing, if the beanstalk is not to topple out of starvation at its roots. As well, the USA needs to honor its own laws, in order to stand taller in the world.

My New American President Obama would need to re-educate the American public to understand the truth about Nicaragua: the Sandinista Insurrection of 1979 was both reasonably peaceable and justified, very much like the American Revolution in intention and inspiration, and in no way a "Communist takeover" by wild-eyed guerrillas; the only terrorists in Nicaragua were the Dictator Somoza's National Guard, trained by the US to subjugate the population; after the Triunfo of the Sandinistas, we paid the Guardsmen who had fled the country to terrorize the new and legitimate government of Nicaragua from Honduras and Costa Rica.

The New American people need to understand that the spin-dance of Old-American foreign policy vis-à-vis Latin America in the past no longer exists in the New Millennium, that we will not be lied to anymore, because our New America will no longer lie to its citizens or to the world.

My New American President Obama would travel to Nicaragua to offer both apologies for our dreadful past together and gratitude for the opportunity to make amends, so that we can move forward to stronger democratic and economic bonds. I want to accompany him on that trip because, In my New America, I would like to help build those bonds, if only by this suggestion, or, even better, in a more visible and responsible role. It would bring great honor to my "family" there and to me, here and in Nica. As I've bonded with the people of Nicaragua and lived part time there for fifteen years and spent my time both here and there forging stronger links between these two American countries, I'd just leap for joy to see brotherhood and honor reign in both. The rest of the world would fall to its knees and pray, in a thousand languages, "Thank God, the US we know and want to love is back with us today!"

Gracias, Charles Douglas Evans (aka, in Nica, Doug Evans Betanco)

Day Before Election Day

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 20:41:40 EST

First, thanks to to Coloradans for Obama for keeping its community group going during the transition. All us mountain valley cave-dwellers here in Glenwood have gone back into hibernation for the winter, but I'm sure moveon.org will get some activism going here soon. I'm off to Nicaragua in three weeks for the rest of the winter, if the plane's are still flying, but, when I return in June, if nothing's happening in Glenwood, I commit to getting a neighborhood potluck going here to push Obama's agenda thru Congress. I'll look to Coloradans for Obama for help. Gracias.

Here's a fresh story full of the essence of Colorado for me. Enjoy. Doug

99.44% Pure Democracy

©Doug Evans 2008 (730 words)

For the Glenwood Post Independent

On November 3, 2008, the day before Vote Day in America, my intuition led me to rush down to Obama HQ in Glenwood Springs, to volunteer for standing in the middle of the busiest intersection in the City, Grand and Sixth, at the Bridge. I felt I had to do something different from phone-banking, canvassing, and walking downtown in Obama regalia: “Dancing in the Streets” with my Obama/Biden Yard Sign fit the bill! Full of joy and fervor, having chosen a month earlier to believe the President-Elect would win in a blue-state landslide, centered in Colorado, this sign-dance would not only be good exercise, practicing The Stroll and the Cha-Cha and The Frug in traffic, but, also, maybe one of my former students from CMC might decide for the Dems because of my example. I’d also carried a “Vote, Please” sign in downtown Glenwood on Election Day, 1976, for Jimmy Carter: it felt like a way to Get Out The Vote and integrate disparate parts of my life, as well.

When I got to the Bridge at the 4:30 rush hour, two other Obama supporters stood with their signs, so my dance floor had shrunk a little, but the company was welcome. We really got it together as a chant team out there, yelling “President Obama, For 8 Great Years,” while I twirled and whirled and boogied—There were even some ballet leaps, at the start!—shaking my power-stick-sign at passing motorists like a Ute Shaman on warpath for “Liberty and Justice for All.” It was, as they say in London, “quite brilliant!” Horns were honked, more often than not; thumbs went up as much as down; I only saw a few middle fingers, which made me laugh. I honestly haven’t had such fun since I played Sancho Panza in “Man of La Mancha, singing about impossible dreams!

Then, the rest of the world intruded on my patriotic-trance-dance.

From out of the “Road to Nowhere,” as if by magic, 20 men, women and children appeared along the edges of the intersection, carrying McCain/Palin cardboard signs, soon flooding the island in the middle and all the other corners with ardent Republicanism. Ay, Chihuahua!

“Uh-Oh,” I thought, “this could get ugly.” So, instinctively, I began to laugh at the top of my diminished lungs, just giggling hysterically at the comedy life was showing rather than dwelling on potential tragedy. It was—and it became even more so—a laugh riot, for some time, in front of the Hotel Colorado, with everyone having chuckle fits of excitement. I’ve been told many times that my laugh is infectious, especially by directors of comic plays who want me in their audiences, so maybe my giggle made a difference. At any rate, we were all most civil and joyful, for two hours of red-white-and-blue; some of the kids broke away from their Moms and picked up Obama signs, balancing the ratio; four passing Glenwood High students also got into the spirit with more OBAMA placards, doing their patriotic duty with gothic flair; and every car honked for one or the other candidate, so I’m sure the Valley echoed all the way to Carbondale. It must’ve sounded in Glenwood Park like the world’s longest wedding caravan! Yet, imagine: how often has anyone seen the two Parties sharing the same space, deliriously happy?

Reporters and photographers then showed up to make us part of the City’s visual history, and-- Goodness Gracious!—I ended up looking stern and somewhat patriarchal, probably because my back hurt, on the front page of the Post on Election Day! Now, I guess I really am a star, though I wish the photo had shown me giggling: that’s what I’ll remember. And this: All of us had the thrill of participatory democracy in action. All of us felt “special.” All of us knew we were witnessing a unity of purpose above partisan division: we were all there to Get Out The Vote for America.

What a great lesson for all those young kids holding signs with us older patriots! People who are divided over issues or candidates or campaigns can still be united by common values of fair play, free speech, and respect for law and order, at least here in America. We have much to be grateful for. We could’ve been clubbing each other with our signs! In many places in the world, we would’ve been. Instead, we participated in a Happy Birthday Party for a proud new America, walking its talk, for the rest of the world to see.

Perhaps, I should rent myself out as a dancing, laughing clown, or, even, a court jester.

[See my centerdoug.blogspot.com Blog for a picture of my out on the streets. Obama Doug]

Finally, It's Election Day

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 09:05:52 EST

I hardly slept last night, too edgy, too expectant of miracles, too full of predictions. I'm tired and scattered and hardly can believe how excited I was yesterday, out on the pavement with my Obama/Biden yard sign. My back hurts this morning from waving and shaking the sign at 5000 passing cars for four hours. Oh, well. Maybe 12 hours from now, we'll see what this outstanding election campaign has wrought. We've all done our best, I believe "right" is on the Obama/Biden side, and I pray that all voting Americans have been inspired by the potential of this great race.

I hope my enthusiastic prediction of a Landslide actually becomes a tsunami of blue, spreading east to west, across this glowing land. I simply can't imagine how anyone could vote Republican in this election year.

GOTV!

GOBAMA!

President Obama, for 8 Great Years!

Gracias, Doug Hussein Evans Betanco

Fruitful Research on "Hussein"

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 22:09:53 EST

It's good to know, since I've adopted the name, that "Hussein" means "the Good," and "the Handsome" in its heritage as a name. "Hussein" was a grandson of the prophet Mohammed of Islam, but President Obama was named Hussein because it is the name of his Kenyan grandfather.

I really like adding the "good, handsome" magic to my name. Oh,well, at 63, beggars can't be choosers.

I just got back from GOTV work, standing in the midst of rush hour traffic in Glenwood for three hours with my yard sign. What a trip! I got far more honks and thumbs-up than middle fingers. About halfway thru my time at the intersection, about thirty McCain supporters showed up, as if prompted by a reaction to the Obama people already there; honestly, it was like the sixties in Glenwood for a change, and all of us, both sides, were just darned happy for the American Democracy! For Glenwood Springs, it was an electric moment. I haven't ever seen anything like it here. The Press was there. That bodes well for both the Obama campaign and for America! Huzzah! I was just so darned happy! Hope my beaming face shows up in the Post tomorrow.

Sleep as well as you can on this bittersweet night, my son. She's just more accessible now.

Gracias, Doug Hussein Evans Betanco

Here's the Hussein Story: Love My Pen Name Now!

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 16:48:10 EST

A letter to the editor appeared in our local paper on Saturday. A local man wrote that he hoped he'd never see the day that a President would bear your middle name. Yikes! It incensed me. And, so I decided to not only add Hussein to my pen and blog name, but also to write the following letter:

Dear Mr. -------,

I want you to know that as a direct result of your Letter to the Editor of the Post, I have added "Hussein" to my pen name, so that I am now Doug Hussein Evans Betanco, in my articles, letters and blogs. Hope it makes you grow in tolerance.

Gracias, Doug Hussein Evans Betanco

I love individuating on that powerful name! Huzzah!

"President Barack Hussein Obama, for 8 Great Years!

Today, I electrified the GOTV staff in Glenwood by telling them, that instead of canvassing, I wanted to stand at the busiest intersection in Glenwood, holding up my Obama yard sign. Heck, everyone in Glenwood knows I'm a wise old fool from my local articles and 25 years of teaching practically everyone who drives by, so maybe you'll get more spur-of-the-moment votes tomorrow, and I'll definitely have the grateful time of my life with my Vote sign T-shirt on, GOTV.

Gracias, my son and grandson and father, and Power to you!

Doug

Count your vote, Make it count

Duane Kuehn — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:59:24 EST

Hi All,

     Election Day is upon us, then we can go back to regular commercials on television.
     Congratulations, it appears that everyone's hard work will surely "pay-off".

    Unfortunately, one major problem remains unaddressed and appears to be worse this year, more widespread, than the 2004 election. Vote Fraud. Not, mind you, voter fraud, but computer dysfunction, hacking, and even built in "flip" voting.

     Do we remember the 2004 election? All the networks declared John Kerry the winner, except Fox News. As the very important Florida votes came in, Fox News declared George Bush the winner. The other networks checked their own figures and "gosh darn" George Bush was the winner. How did that happen, all the other networks somehow had the wrong figures, or more exactly, suddenly those figures "flipped".

     Later, December 2004, a man named Clint Curtis testified under oath before the House Judiciary Committee on vote fraud.

      http://www.brasschecktv.com/page/465.html

     Mr. Curtis testified that he worked for Yang Enterprises Incorporated (which proudly proclaims on its site, "To provide high quality engineering and computer services for both the government and private industries"). Clint Curtis testified under oath that he was approached to create and did create a program that would “flip” a percentage of the votes to the other candidate. I hope you will click the link and watch the full video (from a movie insert but apparently the true testimony)

     The House Judiciary Committee did find vote "flipping" in the Presidential election of 2004. One "hint" of this happening is the flicker on the screen. The program which Curtis mentions, however, does not "flip" as the individual votes, a person flips a specific percentage of the votes after the voting is finished. Did the 2004 Florida vote “flip” at the last minute? We the People should be very worried.

     Already, some machines are showing flickers, many called “over or under sensitive screen problems etc. This is not some programmer or screen-maker error. This could easily be resolved in programming, why was it not done. We like to believe in honesty, especially in the election process, however, it is just no longer feasible to believe this.

     Like it or not, we need to take back our country, "change from the ground-upward" as we have been told. Our politicians will do nothing to address this problem but "We the People" will, in order to KEEP this more perfect Union more perfect!

     Election Day, Tuesday November 4, 2008, I plan to go to my appointed voting place, vote and stay there, all day if I must.

     I will take with me a large cardboard box having a hole cut in the top. I will take thousands of slips of scratch paper and a gang of pencils. Staying at least 25 feet from the building entrance, I will ask voters to please write "M" or "McCain or "O" or "Obama" on a slip and put it, unseen, into the box.

     Explaining that this is an anonymous gathering of the votes to check with the computer totals at this precinct to make sure there is no large difference between the ballots cast inside and the intended receiver of that individual vote. The ballot is the private business of the individual voter but the total of votes cast and for whom is important to keep the system honest.

     I will wear no campaign materials, this is not for campaigning, supporters are to take the day off, says Obama. You deserve that.

     This situation, however, demands our time. We are doing this for the honesty of this election and the protection of future elections in this country. If the other candidate wins in our individual districts, one need not be happy but we know that we are able to accept what comes.

     We are much stronger than to tamper with the paper trail we are creating in our individual districts. Tampering, with our own totals, will only do us harm and is out of the question. This is for the future voting rights of all Americans.

     I am inviting anyone to volunteer for this with me. Regardless of political affiliation, color, creed, etc. This is for the nation at large, not for our individual egos. Wherever you live, gather and do your individual precincts.

     I hope you will join me in this. Some may scoff at me but I do not care, this very Democracy deserves my time. Be it alone all day, I wholly plan to do this.
     I hope that you will do the same at your precincts. We have come too far to trust this election to others. Nobody will watch out for us, We must take action. If the results are true, then great. If the results are incorrect and we have done nothing, we get what we get, like it or not.

     For input or more information please contact me at   de-wah@usa.com
Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

President Obama, for 8 Great Years!

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:03:43 EST

Repeat after me: "President Obama, for 8 Great Years! President Obama, for 8 Great Years! President Obama, for 8 Great Years!" I did that most of yesterday, and, believe me, it not only centered me up with joy but also disappeared the worries about these final days and the volatility of the nation. "President Obama, for 8 Great, Graceful, Grateful Years!

Try it: you'll like it and it will empower you to GOTV today and tomorrow. I'm hitting the streets this afternoon!

Gracias,

Doug Evans Betanco

Restoration

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 21:22:43 EST

This word has power in it in a transformative Presidency, since most of us down here, at least, feel robbed of what we've worked damned hard for! Restoration can be slow to come, then, quick, as in the long fight to restore the English Monarchy under Charles II. Or it can be as quick as a vote machine lever going down (up) for Obama. The point: I want to be restored as an American citizen, proud to walk in this world. I'd say that's happening, even if Election Day doesn't go my way: the rest of the world, inspired by Obama's candidacy, has already gone up the esteem ladder because we're considering a "Hybrid" President. (God, knows we all are! When people at the door say, "I just can't vote for a N-----," I just tell them, "OK, vote for his Irish Granddaddy's Granddaddy! My family probably drank whiskey with his, before the potato famine, since I have Irish blood, too." This works.

Love this whole crazy blog!

Gracias, Doug Evans Betanco

91% of Americans Resent the State of the Nation

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 20:16:37 EST

I feel there's an "inside revolution" going on, right now, an internal conflict, as late voters, still a huge majority of American voters, get angrier and angrier over the economic situation they're powerless against, and mostly blameless for, having spent their lives being careful. This bubble of resentment might twist the last-minute-vote with a contrary repudiation of the Republicans: "If I can't really punch the Bush-bastards who built this fiasco that's made a question mark of my future, I can at least make sure the bums don't get re-elected to make it worse." Vote: Obama, and maybe lots of other Dems, as well.

Good Lord, this is a volatile election. Everyone breathe deeply. "President Obama for 8 graceful years!"

GOBAMA2008!

Gracias, Doug Evans Betanco

The Most Grace-Filled Candidate: President Obama

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 18:33:24 EST

I'm surprised when I hear that the religious right is solidly for The Other Candidate, because my instincts and acquaintance with many born-agains now runs contrary to that: what I'm hearing, inside and out, and which I KNOW from having looked in President Obama's eyes in Grand Junction, on a rope-line, yet, for 15 seconds--it was enough for me to know that Brother Barack Obama is "Spirit-filled," in the Christian parlance, just brimming over with "Grace"! It's shining all over him, especially in his presence, but also over the Tube.

We have a candidate here who is a self-chosen, "shining Christian," ironic, given the smears.

So, I'm surprised more religiously right people, who usually have great discernment, have not seen this in him, as well, and, moreover, have not contrasted the President's glow with the shaded presence of the Republican Alternative, whose only shine comes from using too much white greasepaint, to underline him as the Great White Hope, I guess. Looks spiritually-dead, sorry to say, to me. I'm praying for his soul.

Maybe it's just an illusion from my obvious bias.

But many born-agains on the fringe of my circle--I was re-saved in 1993, but unchurched again soon after--validate my intuition. Some have been voting Republican for years; even with their pastors' rhetoric ringing in their ears, though, when in the booth, they tell me they're voting Obama, the candidate with the "Holy Spirit" in his eyes.

I really think this may be major.

I hope so.

Repeat after me: "President Obama for 8 Graceful Years," "President Obama for 8 Grateful Years"

Why would anyone want anything else?

Gracias, Doug Evans Betanco

Standing on the Power of Words

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 13:24:34 EDT

Yesterday's Streetwalking for Obama was empowering for me, but a tad unsettling, mainly because so many supporters of PBO are vocally fearful of an assassination attempt in this election period or afterwards: I shudder. I won't stand for it!

I understand it comes from the deep-woundedness we've all felt over the traumatic losses we've suffered since the Sixties. It also comes from the recent Skinhead Plot. But, remember, please, on my knees, thinking makes it so, sometimes, especially when a whole population is thinking it at once.

We must stand, in our thoughts, words and deeds, for the immaculate security of all our national leaders, especially the current candidates for President and their families, and, of course, for ourselves. We must stand for a more graceful 8 years to come, rather than dwell on such an evil.

Period.

Another blogger, Gina, has stated a more productive vision to practice. It's beautiful. Words are Power: read these:

The Power of Words By Gina from Woodland Hills, CA - Jun 17th, 2008 at 4:20 pm EDT Comments | Mail to a Friend | Report Objectionable Content

To All Obama Supporters,

I believe whole-heartedly in the transformative politics of Barack Obama. I believe that he can transform politics as usual.

I have found it unsettling and disturbing in the last few months to hear people casually say, with such certainty!, that Obama "will be assassinated." I am not standing for this. And neither should any of us who support his candidacy. I want to suggest that something be done to offer a hopeful, powerful alternative to such speech (see my suggestion below). This thought with its sinister expression in spoken words is on the minds of too many people. What can we do collectively to stand for his health, his safety, and his two terms in office to steer this country in a healthful, edifying direction for all U.S. residents and the whole world?

A suggested response to that dreadful statement:

I understand that in the 1960s our most transformative leaders were assassinated. This history does not have to repeat itself. It is in the past. It is gone and over. I stand for Barack Obama's health and vitality and for a spectacular first term in office as well as a powerful, inspiring, and transformative second term. His straightforwardness, clarity, judgment, and deliberative capacity are what we need in a president. He is not a reactionary. He carefully considers the circumstances and speech of others that he faces and he remains calm under fire. We need his inspirational leadership. Many of the country's systems are broken or depleted in some critical aspects and geographic areas: education, health care, immigration, justice, police, railroad, energy transmission lines, emergency management, highways and bridges, and public media (there isn't enough of it!). Barack Obama will gather the best and brightest skilled people to go to work to build new systems that are sustainable and uplifting for all of our citizens and residents. His dialogue of inclusion has inspired millions of people to work together for transformation. He will be president and he will serve two terms.

God bless Senator Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, and Sasha and Malia.

Very truly yours,

Gina

And, God Bless You, Gina! This is Affirmation of the Highest Order. Thanks

Let's include all these vulnerable public figures, as well, OK? Yes, even Whatsisname, the Republican Alternative.

Gracias, Doug Evans Betanco

Bradley Effect Turned Upside-Down by Attitudinal Change!

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 22:27:51 EDT

OK, so all of us white, racist pigs are going to go into the booth and vote our racism?!! Please.

What's happening as we speak is that millions of decent, human-affirming Americans, many of them Moderate Republicans, are going to the polls or in their ballots, and voting for Obama, without daring to tell their wives or husbands (somehow treacherous), because Obama is the kind of person everyone but wackos would want for our President. They won't tell anyone, of course. Who cares? It's a landslide of the Authentic in America, the Bradley Effect Upside-Down!! Wait and see!

Gracias, Doug Evans Betanco

voter fraud protection, grassroots

Duane Kuehn — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 10:50:52 EDT

Hi All,

     What a long and sometime tumultuous ride we have had! I am so proud of this country because of fellow people like you. We are America.

     Of course, it is not over yet. I figure that I cannot just sit home and not vote on Tuesday, because I think it is going to be a "win". Lol I know that I have to keep on others to keep them motivated to go out and vote, for sure. One way is to offer rides to others, especially the elderly, but anyone.

     Frankly, an admittance, me bad, I know that there have been voting days when I just had to force myself to go out and vote because I just plain didn't feel like driving to the polling place. What always forced me to go is that I know if I do not vote, then I have nothing to say about the outcome. Now, we have to contend with gas prices so I will have to fill my tank (which I can surely not afford) and offer to drive others to the polls.

     Nevertheless, I see a greater problem here. I am most worried about voter fraud. Computers with too sensitive touch screens (this has to be rigged, as there are too many 'double check's which can be programmed which have not been). From the 2004 gaffs to next Tuesday's vote, I am afraid and I am sure I have a right to be.

     I believe everyone should be afraid, after what we have seen in the past few elections. One county with around 500 registered voters allegedly posted around 5000 votes for George Bush! There should never be a ballot without a paper trail; this is just plain sense.

     I am now thinking (do not laugh, I do that sometimes) that I might take a box or a few boxes, a few thousand slips of paper and some pencils to the local polling place. That I would try to sit at the polling place all day and ask voters leaving the booths that they please write, privately, for whom they voted and stick it into the box(s?).

     Later, after the polling is over, I would count those slips and check to see if there is any big difference between my count, my averages, and the election results posted by the voting precinct I was at all day.

     Now, I am wondering, what if this happened at local polling places all across the country. Is it possible, a People’s Paper Trail to keep tabs on the big boys?

     All of you have created and maintained a wondrous grassroots campaign. I will bet you can do the same to make sure this is a clean election.

     Is anyone else interested in such a thing? It does not have to be fancy but it is something we can do to watchdog our election.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Colorado Voters Purged

Jan CO — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:53:25 EDT

Colorado has a wicked storm brewing over the Rockies’ in the form of Colorado’s Republican Secretary of State, Mike Coffman. Coffman also happens to be running against Democrat Hank Eng for the seat being vacated by Republican U.S. Congressman Tom Tancredo in Colorado’s 6th Congressional District. A lawsuit was filed in Denver’s federal court Friday against Mike Coffman to force him and his office to reinstate the more than 30,000 registered voters that were recently purged by the Secretary of State.

Advancement Project, who filed the lawsuit, states Coffman illegally disqualified 26,931 voters by removing them from voter rolls between July 31 and October 31. Federal law prohibits purging voters within 90 days of Election Day unless they have died, been convicted of a felony or requested removal. In addition, they claim another 14,089 voters were missing from that same list when a comparison was done; those names disappeared between August 15 and October 13.

As if that were not enough another 5,000 newly registered voters aren’t registered due to a check box on the new voter registration forms. In the IDENTIFCATION (Required) section voters were to enter their Colorado driver’s license number, OR Department of Revenue ID number OR if you have neither “must provide the last four digits of your Social Security number”. It goes on to say, “If you do not have a driver’s license number, a Dept. of Revenue Id number, or a Social Security number, you must check the appropriate boxes.” The “NOTE” at the bottom of that section states, “If the identification section is left blank and you do not check the boxes indicating you do not have identification you will not be registered to vote”. One check box says “I do not have a Colorado Driver’s License or Dept. of Revenue Identification Number”, the other box says “I do not have a Social Security Number”.

Thousands of people put their Social Security number and did not check the box saying they don’t have a driver license; others put both their driver license and social security number without checking any box. What’s the problem? Mike Coffman told County Clerks these applications cannot be registered until “corrected”. While two big Republican counties who have Republican clerks have disregarded Coffman’s order saying other laws favor the voter there are still thousands of new registered voters that as of this writing won’t be given a ballot.

Colorado’s Attorney General and Bush appointee, John Suthers, says in his opinion that “people may use their SSN only if they don’t have a Colorado driver license or ID…” Why wasn’t it worded like that on the registration form, the current wording is confusing. Most people have their SSN memorized but not their DL so it’s logical many would put the last 4 digits of their SSN as a matter of convenience. If a person put their SSN, with or without their Colorado DL number, why would they check the box saying they don’t have a DL if they do?

According to Mike Coffman, "Voters can rest assured that maintaining accurate voter rolls is our top priority”. I can assure you Mr. Coffman that not many are resting including I’m sure Hank Eng knowing that you are counting the ballots.

President Obama in Denver!

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 12:40:51 EDT

Make no bones about it, President Barack Obama will be the next President of this country; to me, he's already President, far more Presidential now than our current one or the RNC Alternative.

He's in Denver today, 1:30, at the Civic Center Park downtown, near the Statehouse, Art Museum, Denver Public Library and City Hall. As it's already too late this morning to get down there, I'll be watching the Obama Blog livefeed or local TV, sending affriming energy to the wonder and miracle of the Obama landslide to come.

Gracias, Doug Evans Betanco (aka CenterDoug) Glenwood Springs CO

Adding Students/Seniors/GLBT Supporters to Groups

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 12:30:48 EDT

Welcome to CenterDoug's Obama Blog. Since I am a lifelong student, 63, and gay, I'm hoping what I write here every day will interest and empower you, as it does me. Welcome to the audacious world of Doug Evans Betanco, GOBAMA08!

Next Nine Days

"Obama Doug" Evans Betanco — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 22:24:53 EDT

What happened to October? Fading fast.

Honestly, briefly, I'd bury the phone calls [I know this sounds like treason to all those dedicated phone-bank-callers, me included, but I hear it every day as grumbling, even from dedicated Obama supporters: keep clearing off numbers of those who've voted and finetune your audience, every day!]; then, triple the emails and get every volunteer there is out on the streets, with warpaint (Oops, I mean Peace Paint!) of Obama T-shirts etc, yard signs, upheld. It's both time to get to the streets, one on one, and time to can the phone disturbance, which everyone in the States is totally angry about. Give it up. Switch tactics: it's time to emerge from the trees, as the freedom fighters in 1776 eventually did, and aim straight on to the target, face-to-face. Be visible, vocal, and eye-to-eye, one-to-One for the new American Spirit that Obama reflects.

I promise to spend every day next week, for hours, roaming thre streets of Glenwood and the marketplaces, in my T-shirts for Obama, and my yard sign, spreading the peace that comes from knowing one is on the wave of the future.

I am a very persuasive person, eye to eye. Every step of mine in Glenwood will make a difference.

For you, President Obama, go very slowly. Whatever happens with your Grandma, the issues raised at that level, joined with all the rest of it, need careful attention, time and rest; honestly, I feel you have already established the standard. Lay back, yet persevere. Tell us now what we're gonna get by voting for you, in the biggest terms of comfort, like unity, harmony, greater balance, from your attitude thru us to everywhere.

Be confidently looking towards and intimating the new future that's gained from each of us working to make our present better! GOBAMA2008.

The Liberal Libertarian point of view. A message to Obama, McCain, and everyone else.

Link48010 — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 01:15:56 EDT

Yep. I'm a liberal libertarian. Let's break it down a little bit to let people know how exactly someone can be both of those at once, but first a little bit of history about myself. I've lived in rural Colorado for many years now, previous to that I lived in the fairly large city of Denver Colorado. I have both large city and small town values instilled in myself. Second, my parents where foster parents for as long as I can remember (I am their real son), I've seen more kids than I can remember flow in and out of my home, all of which expanding my knowledge and open mind to so many different point of views and ways of life. I've seen people from every corner of the country, richer kids from corperate America, struggling people on the verge of bankrupcy, and as hard as it was, the worst side of society, abusive parents or families, physical, sexual, menally, all of the above. I know how bad it can get, and yet I know how good it can get as well. My parents raised me to be open to other way of living, to other points of views, to accept people for who they are, and finally, to respect everyone I come into contact with. It is that which makes us different that makes us great was the philosophy that I was raised around, and I've lived my life by it.

Enough about myself now. Back to my original point, Liberal libertarian follows two normally different views, but I've found the way people. Liberal, the dreaded L word and one that's normally associated with Democrats and the left wing. I've very liberal an social and human issues. Torture, any form of it should be banned. Gay Marriage, I think it should be allowed but my views on that are completely personal (more on that later). Discrimination, why are we still living in the past?

this one I'm going to rant on a little more. Libertarian now, a term previously given to republicans(although I don't think the current generation really can use this term anymore) and the conservative right wing. It's pretty obvious, I support the smallest government possible. A government that doesn't get into anyones lives at all or as little as possible. The Patriot act, what ever happened to the Right to Privacy and the Constitution? The recent Bailout or Rescure, whatever. Obama keeps saying that it's an important first step and that we need to look back on how we got into this situation to begin with, I humbly disagree, but I don't agree with McCain either (as he voted for it then showed a stance against it later saying, "We need to get the government out of the business of bailing out banks"). What we need to do is bring the budget under control and have no use for 700 billion dollars, the government shouldn't have that much in it's yearly budget to begin with. Cutting spending by reforming or eliminating projects is the way. Ron Paul, look him up, ridding us of the IRS, cutting earmarks to almost nothing, a non-interventualism policy saving billions in the military, starting fair trade to encourage economic growth, eliminating the income tax, all fo these are brilliant ideas and can easily be acomplished with a reduction in beurocricy and over bloated and inefficient government policies. There is a reason the IRS is slow in calculating taxes, and obviously we can do better in a way that spends less money. I am tired of paying someone to take my money and then to mismanage it later. This libertarian view is also the reason I can't say "legal" or "illegal" about Gay marriage, now if I had to chose either, yes I support gay marriage 100%. )One of my foster brothers came from lesbian parents and was one of the best kids to ever cross my threshold, bankrupcy and the loss of their house was the reason he was placed in foster care.) Now sit down and think about it, where in the Constitution does it say that the supreme court can say *anything* about marriage or who can marry? It's simple, it doesn't. First of all, nothing government related should have anything to do with gay marriage, it should be a church issue since marriage is from a religious foundation. Second, why is it that being married effects your standing with the government, example the income tax? It shouldn't, and never should have. Being married in a religious ceremony should have nothing to do with the government. I want to go the other direction with the government and say that, "anyone can be married as long as the church is willing to accept it, but in order to effect standing in any way, shape, or form, you must apply for a domestic partnership." What this would basically do is to reduce the title Marriage to just that, a title. If your married but don't have a domestic partnership, your treated like two individual people, if you have a domestic partnership but not married, then you get the same benefits as a current married couple does. This sets everyone on equal terms as people cannot be turned away from a domestic partnership, and the religious sect can not be upset because it doesn't give the government the power to say that gay marriage is legal or not. It keeps the LGBT community happy because they have the same equal rights as everyone else, and gives the religious side nothing to complain about. Now that's one of my most extreme possitions on things. This stance puts me at some opposition to both the religious side as I'm reducing the idea of Marriage, and many LGBT people want to be able to marry people, I understand this, but like abortion, I can see no simple "yes" or "no" that will please anyone, logically this is the best solution I can find myself.

Now the reason I'm supporting Obama is because my social and humanity issues take priority on how the government is run. As long as the government is sensitive to our rights, it can be as big as it wants for the time being if that's what it takes to mend the economic crisis.

Write About It.

Jamie Citron — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 19:52:24 EDT

Have something to say?

Want to share with the LGBT community why you support Obama?

The most powerful voice is yours. Write a letter to the editor today.

Click the icon below (or click 'write a letter to the editor' in the TAKE ACTION section above) and get started. Don't know what your local LGBT paper is? No problem, we have them listed for you. Not sure what to say? We have talking points at the ready to help you get started. You are one click away from making your voice heard in a way that will spread Barack's message to those who need to hear it, our community.

Writing a letter to the editor is an important way to keep our movement growing, as the LGBT press is an effective and targeted way to reach undecided LGBT voters. In addition to promoting Barack’s message of equality, your letters will play a crucial role in inspiring other supporters to get involved.

Canvassing

Aydrian — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:23:25 EDT

This weekend I had the opportunity to canvass for the first time. On Saturday my field organizer from Golden, Rory, took me out and showed me the ropes. We had a great time, and by Sunday I was comfortable enough to go out on my own.

For those of you that don't know me, I am a prime example for everything Barack Obama stands for. I'm gay, live with my partner of two years, am not recognized under his health insurance, and therefore am severely underinsured. I've had four surgeries this year, and am tens of thousands of dollars in debt to the medical industry and pay week-to-week for my medications because they're too expensive to pay for a months supply at one time. I'm a server, and over the past three years the industry has crashed, to where I'm making 1/3 of what I was four years ago. I badly need to finish my college education, but since the economy has tanked, no one will loan me, or my partner, money for tuition.

While walking this weekend, I learned that my story is not the only one. Of the several people I talked to, four did not have health insurance, either for themself, their family, or their children. How sad is it that there are six year old's living in the richest nation in the world without health care. I spoke with three men, all of whom are/were construction workers. Needless to say, none of them have a job. One of these men broke his foot and in the past year has racked up tens of thousands of medical bills due to complications from surgeries. A couple of families were stressed and in jeopardy of losing their homes. I spoke with four teachers in one day that were experiencing first hand the horrors of "No Child Left Behind".

This weekend's canvassing opened my eyes and my heart to the troubles American families are struggling with. For several months I was so focused on myself and the issues affecting my life, while not really noticing what my neighbors were dealing with. Seeing it on TV is one thing, but speaking with my neighbors, sitting down with strangers and learning what they're dealing with, has encouraged me to pledge to work harder to elect Obama and local Democrats. I'm not alone in the struggle to survive.

I ask everyone to speak to at least one person every day and find what is affecting their life. You'll learn that we're not alone. You'll also see why sitting on the fence until November 4 is not the answer to rectifying the crisis America is in. I urge everyone to contact your local Barack Obama Campaign for Change office and get involved. Open your hearts and learn of others' struggles and do your part to bring the change we so desperately need.

With hope,

Aydrian

Golden, CO

Aydrian — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:25:35 EDT

Today I had the privilege to see Barack Obama in person at the Colorado School of Mines. It was apparent to me, and the millions of people around the country that Obama knows the economy is in trouble, and he has a plan to fix things.

I met a lady in line this morning waiting to get inside. We talked, learned of each others disappointments, dreams, and life in general. While watching the speech, the lady beside me cried about halfway through the speech. The message Obama gave today struck a cord in every heart in that room, and every person in America that watched him speak.

I was floored yesterday when McCain stood in Florida and said the "fundamentals of our economy are strong." I don't know what planet he is living in, but in Littleton, where I work, any intelligent person can walk through the mall, or drive around the city, and notice business after business closing, and an astronomical number of houses for sale, with no buyers.

President Bush put the economy in shambles, and McCain happily admits that he's voted 95% of the time with Bush. What help can he bring for America? Are you willing to take a 5% chance on McCain? If you are, you'll have one serious explanation to give your children and grand-children in the future. That's a talk I'm not willing to have. I put my hope in Barack Obama!

There is NO other person running for president that is more able to help us than Barack Obama. I've pledged to work more for the campaign throughout the next 49 days. I urge everyone to do the same. Anyone not touched by Obama's word's today needs some self examination in their life. I encourage you to learn who Obama is, what he wants for EVERY American, and give every penny or hour you're able to in the next few weeks.

Your life, my life, and the lives of our families and children rest on who we put in office next. Someday we'll have to answer to the next generation for what has happened in the past 8 years. I hope each of you are able to follow it up with the truth, that you followed up that mistake by putting the only person able in to the White House November 4th. Get to work!

With love and hope,
Aydrian

To read the speech from this morning follow this link. Then I encourage you to sign up to work for Obama in your community. Every vote will count this year in every state: http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/amandascott/gG5XWF

NEW VIDEO: Michelle at the LGBT Delegates Luncheon

Jamie Citron — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:24:15 EDT

Colorado has its say

Jamie Citron — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 10:51:20 EDT

The Colorado Stonewall Democrats enthusiastically endorsed Barack Obama today:

After the historic National Democratic Convention held in the Mile High City the Colorado Stonewall Democrats proudly endorsed Senator Barack Obama for President of the United States as the best candidate in this presidential race looking out for LGBT Americans. From hate crimes legislation to an inclusive ENDA and from HIV prevention to Gays in the Military, Senator Obama is on the right side of the issues. As demonstrated during Senator Obama’s acceptance speech at Mile High he, like millions of fair minded Americans believes that we can rise to our greater natures and find respect and a place at the table for LGBT Americans.

Equality.

Jamie Citron — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:26:05 EDT

Last night, Barack Obama gave a landmark speech at Mile High Stadium in Denver, Colorado. Eighty thousand people were in attendance and another thirty eight million watched on TV. The following is an excerpt I wanted to share with you:

“The challenges we face require tough choices, and Democrats as well as Republicans will need to cast off the worn-out ideas and politics of the past… I know there are differences on same-sex marriage, but surely we can agree that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters deserve to visit the person they love in the hospital and to live lives free of discrimination.”
- Senator Barack Obama (D-IL), August 27, 2008

Obama Pride prepares for Convention

Jamie Citron — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:22:58 EDT

Evening everyone! It has been three exciting days here in Denver and the festivities have not even technically begun. Shortly after arriving in Denver we were greeted by this poster in the DNC Convention Headquarters:

Obama Pride Denver is ready to go!

We settled in quickly and got to work but took some time to take a sneak peek at the convention podium.

We rounded out Sunday evening by speaking at the closing ceremonies of the College Democrats of America Convention and we were truly moved by the passion and excitement of the young LGBT and allied future leaders of our party.

It is time to pack it up and call it a night but check back tomorrow for photos of the first DNC LGBT Caucus meeting and the opening night speeches!

Touched down in Denver

Jamie Citron — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 04:03:20 EDT

Obama Pride heads to the Convention!

Greetings from Denver, Colorado. The LGBT Vote team just landed and we are tired, but we are excited about joining thousands of other Democrats all working hard towards electing candidates who care about our issues!

Obama Pride will be participating on the convention floor, in caucus meetings and in events all over Denver. Check back often for daily updates from every corner of the 2008 Democratic National Convention!

Team Obama further empowered by LGBT Clinton supporters

Jamie Citron — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:25:09 EDT

Yesterday, the Washington Blade reported on the recent influx of prominent LGBT activists who have joined Team Obama who supported Senator Clinton in the Primary. It is an honor to have them join us and we look forward to working together towards November.

As the Democratic National Convention fast approaches, former supporters of Sen. Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign are joining Sen. Barack Obama’s gay steering and policy committee.

Among the most prominent new members of Obama’s campaign is U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), the only openly lesbian member of Congress. The Obama campaign recently invited Baldwin to join the committee as co-chair alongside sitting chair Tobias Wolff, a law professor at the University of Pennsylvania...
Other former Clinton supporters who have joined Obama’s gay policy committee include Mandy Carter, a lesbian North Carolina activist; Jesse Garcia, president of the Dallas Stonewall Democrats; and Peter Rosenstein, a gay D.C. activist.

Obama campaign spokesperson Ben LaBolt said Clinton attracted strong support from gay leaders during the primaries. The Obama campaign is “grateful that so many of those supporters have joined our efforts to bring the change to Washington that we desperately need,” LaBolt said.

Baldwin said Obama’s decision to bring so many Clinton supporters on board “is clear sign of unity in the party and momentum building behind Sen. Obama’s campaign.”

CLICK HERE to read the whole article.

A Historic Moment at Invesco Field

Ron Booth Adams County Colorado — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:05:58 EDT

As we all sit biting our nails wondering what is up, having heard a number of different rumors and having gotten some info from field organizers that was either confusing or somewhat inaccurate I would suggest that you visit the link below to the 9NEWS story from last night, I'm reasonably sure their information is pretty well vetted:

http://www.9news.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=97596&catid=348

In addition I would like to share a little personal background and a few thoughts:I became involved with the campaign about a year ago as did many others. I've worked with a good many of my fellow Adams county Obama supports in phone banks and door knocking and done the same through the "old" HQ down on Santa Fe as we cranked things up for the caucuses. I traveled to Iowa last November for my birthday along with Ray Rivera and several van loads of folks there to canvass as well. Since the caucuses as the Fellows and new Field Organizers have rolled into place I've worked with them on VRDs, canvassing and phone banking. During the course of the past year I've had the opportunity to welcome new folks as they have become plugged in and have had the pleasure to meet many people who have contributed far more than I have to this incredible movement.

At this point, like most all of you, I have no idea whether or not I'll get one of the cherished Community Credentials or not and that's OK. From the beginning, for me at least, it has been about the success of the campaign and trying to get more people plugged in and active in the campaign to insure that we will have the best president this country has seen in decades.

Yes, I would love to be inside at Invesco Field on the 28th for that historic occasion but if not, my hope is that in the seat I may have filled will be a much younger person who becomes inspired by the ideas and ideals that will flood the stadium, a young person who will be inspired not only to volunteer to help make sure that we elect Barack Obama as our next president but also a person who will through that experience will come to understand that each and every one of us holds the ability to help make a difference in our communities.

If I had my druthers, each and every seat at Invesco Field would be filled by people who are maybe luke warm about Barack or Hillary supporters who haven't gotten whole heartedly behind Barack yet, or Republicans and Independents or undecideds who just come to see what this guy with the funny name is all about who then come to understand they don't have to vote party line, that there is a clear choice and hope for the future in our country.

Regardless of who gets inside and who doesn't the one important thing to remember is that we are all part of making history and in that, no one is left out, whether they just became involved with the campaign yesterday, a year ago or following August 28th.

Lastly, let's not forget our brothers and sisters from Maine to Hawaii, from Washington to Florida who have worked their butts of on this campiagn most of who because of goegraphic location and the great cost there would be to travel here don't enjoy even a remote chance of being able to attend this historic event on August 28th. Rest ssured they will all be there in spirit as well.

Let's keep our eyes on the prize and get our country back on the right track.

Best wishes to all who are hoping for tickets, whether I get one or not I'll be right there with you in spirit.

Ron Booth Adams County

Precinct 020 CD2

Barack Responds to the New CDC Numbers on HIV/AIDS in the US

Jamie Citron — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 10:29:40 EDT

Senator Obama released the following statement on the Center for Disease Control's report about new cases of HIV/AIDS in the United States.

"We have now learned that 56,300 new HIV infections occurred in the United States in 2006, not 40,000 that had been previously cited. These new figures should bring new focus to our efforts to address AIDS and HIV here at home.
"As president, I am committed to developing a National AIDS Strategy to decrease new HIV infections and improve health outcomes for Americans living with HIV/AIDS. Across the nation, we also need to prevent the spread of HIV and get people into treatment by expanding access to testing and comprehensive education programs. This report also demonstrates the need for more timely data about HIV transmission so that we can effectively evaluate prevention efforts.
"Combating HIV/AIDS also demands closing the gaps in opportunity that exist in our society so that we can strengthen our public health. We must also overcome the stigma that surrounds HIV/AIDS – a stigma that is too often tied to homophobia. We need to encourage folks to get tested and accelerate HIV/AIDS research toward an effective cure because we have a moral obligation to join together to meet this challenge, and to do so with the urgency this epidemic demands."

To read Senator Obama's plan for fighting HIV/AIDS world wide and at home, click HERE

Do you think saving up to $0.76 a gallon on gas is a joke?

Len & Jimmy — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 13:59:54 EDT

John McCain does.

What does the Department of Energy, under Republican President George W. Bush, have to say about Barack Obama's "silly" plan for Americans to reduce energy consumption and save money?

Click here to find out:
http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/maintain.shtml

Truth. Pass it on.

Let's send some messages to demand responsibility in government

Duane Kuehn — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:40:55 EDT

Hi All,

     We have watched our political system become filled with irresponsibility and a demand that people are above our law.
      I hope you will please investigate these links, which are timely, and make a decision if you would want to see responsible politics put back into the system.

     This one is Karl Rove (McCain’s new campaign spin/lie master). He claims nothing less than “executive privilege” to not honor a Federal Subpoena. I forget when he was elected President! Do not let him get away with this!

http://sendkarlrovetojail.com/?utm_source=47433

     Hold McCain responsible for his lies in his advertisements.

http://therealmccain.com/pac/?utm_source=rgemail

     Like Barack says, it is “bottom up” instead of “top down”. We cannot expect one man to change everything about the way government is run. We must take action ourselves to help Barack. One think is holding people responsible for what they say and what they do.
     Bush said many things about responsibility and takes none himself.

     Let us hold these people responsible for what they do. Show them that we are not just some supporters of Barack Obama for some “movement”. That we are the movement and we mean business.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Hey Wow! Win a beautiful heritage Obama Quilt!

Duane Kuehn — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 10:27:59 EDT

Hi All,

     Okay, he it is, I have begged and pleaded for people to donate at my Fundraiser. I have crawled and cried and… Okay, maybe not. Lol

     This, is where you should surely donate! Any amount will help and we can help these wonderful persons who made this quilt reach their goal. I know we can do it, you and I.

     The great part is that you will be put in the pot to win this quilt! It will be a great heirloom for sure. A quilt made in honor of the man who has already changed the way politics works. He is already one of the greatest figures in American history.

     Please, let’s do this. For us, for Obama, for our children’s future.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/maingroup/QUILTERSFOROBAMA

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Repost: Barack Obama vs Bush's McCain drone

Duane Kuehn — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:12:53 EDT

     A young man stepped up to the podium at the 2004 Democrat's National Convention to give a speech. A riveting speech it was. He touched the heart, the mind and the soul as he spoke of the civil rights of all Americans. About the need to take back our government, to change the way government operates and make it transparent to the people once more.

     That we ARE one nation and should refuse those who would tear us apart for their own political gain. That we are a diverse nation, Latin’s, Blacks, Whites and every shade in between. Members of various religious creeds, races, and individuals along the vast spectrum of sexuality financial capability. That we are God’s diversity and in our diversity is our true strength. That we are a house divided by political mudslinging and lies. That we must come together as a house united. Not mentioning what we all know, that a house divided can only fall.

     A "Keynote Address" he was giving too, a message of hope for the future, its unarguable truth unheard of in modern politics. I was glued to my seat, listening as this man spoke. Reminding myself that we are so good at coming together for one another in times of tragedy. Knowing that the current Bush/Cheney Administration itself was a tragedy of our proud heritage.

     His speech was in favor of John Kerry and we watched as a group, now indicted for their actions, called the “Swift-boat Veterans” slung heaps of lies and mud upon one honored veteran; and in doing so slung mud upon every veteran in the grand military history of this country. The people we swayed by the mud, untruth and spread of fear which would never come to be. He advocated John Kerry and John Kerry lost the election.

     Giving us four more years of economic decline, military bumbling, an oil consortium growing rich as the rest grew poorer. But for the rich, like Warren Buffet who, upon receiving his $395 million dollar tax break said he didn’t ask for it, he certainly didn’t need it. The other wealthy were not so forthcoming as another four years of feeding the rich at the expense of every hard working American.

     But, the average American was also rewarded with tax breaks. Little did they suspect that they would pay dearly much more than they received. The Bush administration stood tall and proudly demanded that the dollar was strong, the economy on the upswing, as they had for four years prior. No one seemed to pay much attention that the dollar, for seven straight years, had been continually falling on the world market. The world market being the true barometer of a national economy, though the elite like to confuse things with GNP and deficit spending or consumer buying.

     For six years, George Bush replaced “unemployment” with “unemployment rolls”, a smooth move. “The unemployment rolls are down this month”, not mentioning that the unemployment rolls are reduced each month that any unemployed person’s benefits have run-out. They didn’t get jobs, they just were off the rolls. When they did get jobs, it was usually making much less money than they had been.

     Seven, going on eight, years of deceitfulness and blatant lies in government, all allowed by an obviously controlled press. Yes, you can fool all of the people some of the time. Even for eight years running.

     This man who gave that keynote address speech that was so riveting. His name, we know, is Barack Obama.

     I watched him over the years and yes, he fulfills his promises. He acts in a bipartisan manner and even produced the most compelling ethics laws that the State of Illinois has ever seen. In the United States Senate, he began to open the government, in spite of George Bush's disabling of the Freedom of Information Act.

     He recently created a huge stir with his support of the new FISA legislation. Though fulfilling his promise to fight to have the immunity provision removed, it remained in the bill, as expected. The rewrite of this FISA bill itself, reins in Bush's domestic surveillance but allows for International surveillance, so long as an American citizen is not involved in what is espied.

     That the PAA was to expire in August and Bush had already demanded that he would veto another extension, the passing of this bill is necessary. Add the fact that it was known that this bill would pass the Senate with little friction, I must wonder. Why did Barack Obama support it when it would pass with or without his vote? The only answer is that there was an "Old-School" trade-off.

     You see, Obama knew that his support would create a wave of unrest in his supporters but said, "I will take my lumps". What nobody seemed to be watching at the time is that, probably the most important financial and health legislation was also going through the Senate, a Medicare bill that Bush promised to veto.

     A number of Republican's oddly did an about face and approved the new Medicare legislation. John McCain the only Senator absent for the vote (but he has a history of being absent from the Senate floor for his entire career more than any other Senator anyway). Ted Kennedy, recover ing from brain surgery even made an appearance, casting the deciding vote, which made the legislation veto-proof. Hence, I believe that Obama put himself on the line for an "Old-School" trade-off. He is, after all, only a Senator and must work within the system. I think that everyone might understand that.

     I almost forgot the "Change" thing. Yes, "Change" has been used in many campaigns before. However, contrary to what many people claim, Barack Obama defines "Change" if one reads his proposals or listens to his speeches it is all there.

     Open (called now, "transparency") Government is Barack Obama's "Change". A change in how government operates. A reopening of the doors that have been closed as government operates behind them. Promising executive order to reverse many of those Bush put into effect. Like George's lengthening the President Act that the activities of Presidents would not be public knowledge for a full 25 years! Moreover, reversing the executive orders Bush used to disable the Freedom of Information Act. Barack also promises to correct George Bush's extension of the "National Security" classification to include what Cheney had for lunch at a public restaurant. (My joke, me bad.)

     I hope that everyone recognizes that Barack Obama does bring us a new Hope. That the "movement" part of his campaign is the promise to Change the way that a government we have come to mistrust, operates. This from a man whose political history is the "proof in the pudding" that he keeps his word.

     I watch now as the McCain campaign begins to smear tactics. Slinging lies blatantly into the media which devours them like Adam and Eve devoured the Fruit of the Garden. I wonder how many people will be swayed into believing these lies and campaigning spins.

    I hope very few.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Oil-shale debate moves West

Jan CO — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 02:19:51 EDT

Oil-shale debate moves West

By Anne C. Mulkern The Denver Post Article Last Updated: 07/23/2008 06:07:07 AM MDT

WASHINGTON — With six months left in office, the Bush administration moved Tuesday to accelerate oil-shale development across the Rocky Mountain West.

Shale deposits in Colorado, Utah and Wyoming could provide 800 billion barrels of oil, Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne said, enough to meet U.S. demand at current levels "for 110 years."

"We need to be doing more to develop our own energy here at home," Kempthorne said. "Public lands have a significant role to play in meeting our domestic energy needs."

Tuesday's release of draft rules for shale exploration by the Bureau of Land Management was the latest shot in the growing battle of politicians pointing fingers over $4-per-gallon gas and oil as high as $147 per barrel.

Oil shale, along with drilling offshore and in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, is part of the solution, Republicans say.

Democrats counter that none of those actions would lower energy costs in the short term and that more must be done to develop alternative energy. In the case of shale, some argue, too many uncertainties exist to move forward aggressively.

"The administration is trying to set the stage for a last-minute fire sale of commercial oil-shale leases in western Colorado, despite the fact that we are still years away from knowing if the technologies for developing oil shale on a commercial scale are even viable," said Democratic Sen. Ken Salazar.

In a conference call with reporters, Kempthorne said it would be 2015 before shale development produced oil. Even so, he said, that could affect gas prices by signaling to the futures market that the U.S. is ramping up domestic production.

For now, the Interior Department is limited in what it can do. Language inserted in a spending bill by Salazar bars the department from issuing final rules on oil-shale development. That moratorium expires Oct. 1. Kempthorne and Republicans want to prevent Salazar from extending that through 2009.

Kempthorne said he plans to move swiftly if given an opening.

Issuing the preliminary regulations started the clock on the final regulations, which could be published in about two months if the moratorium dies.

Environmental groups that oppose oil-shale development said the 235- page BLM document with preliminary rules is unnecessary. In it, the BLM states that "currently, there is no oil-shale industry and the oil-shale extractive technology is still in its rudimentary stages."

The Convention and the 1st Amendment

Ron Booth Adams County Colorado — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 12:14:27 EDT

In addition to the erosion of the 4th amendment that we have seen with FISA, once again as has been the case in the past several election cycles we will see some draconian restraints placed on the 1st amendment rights of activists who wish their voices to be heard by the Democratic party.

Make no mistake, in addition to the 20,000 or so credentialed delegates and special guests there will be equal or even greater numbers of representatives/activists from a wide number of special interest groups in the streets seeking to have their voices heard in addition to which. because the acceptance of the nomination will now be held at a 75,000 seat stadium, we can likely expect an even larger influx of “non-credentialed persons” hoping to gain access to INVESCO Field at Mile High.

If the media decides to focus on conflicts between protesters and an overly zealous “security forces” then the mainstream media coverage will detract from our candidate’s message, detract from the party’s platform and possibly alienate people from the party itself.

Under the guise of ‘security’ we have seen the development of “Free Speech Zones” that isolate the voices of our citizens rather than embraces them. The very idea of “Free Speech Zones” flies in the face of everything our party and this country are about.

Historically, those who have elected to not be herded into “Free Speech Zones” like cattle and have instead chosen to fully exercise their first amendment rights have been subjected to tear gas, mace, beatings and arrest. The drama of these actions are quite fully covered by the mainstream media while the substance of the issues that these activists try to bring to the attention of convention delegates go largely ignored.

Additionally, when activists rebelling against the abhorrent concept of “Free Speech Zones” become the focus of media attention our candidate and our party’s platform dissolve into the background rather than being at the forefront.

Whether you are a grassroots supporter who will be watching the 2008 DNC & RNC Convention from afar, an Obama supporter who is also an activist of whatever stripe or a delegate to the DNC you have the opportunity to help create a new kind of atmosphere for the upcoming convention.

Currently Denver authorities are gearing up for 1,200 arrests per day. Shy of people voluntarily allowing themselves to be herded into “Free Speech Cages” authorities also are withholding information from activist groups as to what sort of activities might instigate an arrest or what sort of activities might result in an escalation of physical force/violence on the part of the police making it impossible for activist to be able to judge what forms of speech or expression will be permitted without the person’s action resulting in arrest or a possible wide spread sweep by the police. In the past these sort of scenarios have resulted in not only activists and protesters being swept up by police but by-standers and even delegates. The authorities in Denver in conjunction with Federal authorities are creating a scenario where the only safe way to exercise freedom of speech is to volunteer be imprisoned in a cage a considerable distance from the convention site blocked from sight by the area where the media will be set up.

The hope is that collectively we can develop ideas which will create a safe and just environment for freedom of speech to take place and a respectful atmosphere overall during the course of the convention for the country and world to witness.

Footnote: Yesterday a personal friend of mine who is a local attorney attended a special training for lawyers who are willing to provide legal assistance to activists arrested for attempting to exercise their 1st amendment rights. One of the things that became abundantly clear is the perception that the Denver Police Department has that they have been led to believe intent of protesters is primarily to create chaos and disruptions including flinging feces and urine at the police. Obviously this perception does not bode well for the mindset being created within the police department. Also of note is the fact that the various groups that are operating under the umbrella of Recreate68 have been undertaking non-violence trainings in preparation for possible conflict while at the same time reaching out to Denver authorities to create some common understandings and dispel the many myths and rumors floating around about the intent of organizers and participants, so far those attempts have fallen on deaf ears.

Desperately Seeking Housing for DNC!

Allison Ruby Reid-Cunningham — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:40:26 EDT

Hi,

My name is Ruby and I live in Berkeley, CA. I'll be driving to the DNCC in Denver to volunteer at the convention (and campaigning/door-knocking in NV, UT, & WY along the way).

I'm really excited, but I can't find a hotel for less than $300/night! As a poor social worker/grad student (who is putting the trip on a credit card) that feels "prohibitive" at best....

so I'm looking for a friendly Obama couch or a recommendation for a hotel that might have space/be cheaper?

Any help would be much appreciated!!

Thanks a million! YES WE CAN!!!

-Ruby (rubymsw@gmail.com)

http://rubycrushonobama.blogspot.com

New Yorker Cover: WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR!!!

Allison Ruby Reid-Cunningham — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 20:05:52 EDT

I couldn't believe what is on the cover of The New Yorker. I usually look forward to the funny and often deeply satirical cover art, but this one shocked and outraged me.

The cover shows Obama in a turban and traditional Muslim garb and his wife Michelle dressed in fatigues--rocking an afro and combat boots--and packing an assault rifle. They are giving one another a congratulatory "fist-bump." There is a portrait of Osama Bin Laden above the fireplace where the American flag is burning. Oh, and by the way, the room they're standing in... it's the Oval Office!

Now I know that The New Yorker is known for cartoons that people either "get" or "don't get"...

But I have to say, "I don't get it!"

Could someone please explain the joke to me?

The New Yorker described Barry Blitt's work as lampooning of "scare tactics and misinformation in the Presidential election to derail Barack Obama's campaign."

"The New Yorker may think, as one of their staff explained to us, that their cover is a satirical lampoon of the caricature Senator Obama's right-wing critics have tried to create," Obama campaign spokesman Bill Burton said.

"But most readers will see it as tasteless and offensive. And we agree," Burton added.

Cartoonist Barry Blitt defended his work, saying this:

I think the idea that the Obamas are branded as unpatriotic [let alone as terrorists] in certain sectors is preposterous. It seemed to me that depicting the concept would show it as the fear-mongering ridiculousness that it is.

Although this may be the intention, the damaging impact of reinforcing rumors of the "Manchurian Candidate" variety by depicting imagery like this in the American popular media cannot be underestimated.

Throughout America, it is still widely believed that Barack Obama is a Muslim--and many readers may not realize that the cover is meant to be satirical. In its attempt to point out the obvious--that Obama is NOT a terrorist or Muslim or Black Power/"kill whitey" candidate--it may unfortunately have the opposite effect.

I'm not including the cover image here because I don't want to proliferate it unnecessarily, but I would like to encourage you to write a letter to the editor of the New Yorker to express your outrage at this racist, divisive, offensive and generally unfunny cover art.

Colorado Bloggers Needed!

Allison Ruby Reid-Cunningham — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 17:44:11 EDT

I've invited bloggers to commit to writing one post per week about Obama for the next 10 weeks. This will take us through the convention in Denver. Our guidelines are simply that the posts are positive and honest. The movement is building: already 25+ bloggers signed up, so that's at least 250 posts over the next 10 weeks, and more folks sign on everyday!

We want to get at least one person from every state involved with spreading this positive message over the web... so we need you COLORADO!!!!

Especially if you are already an active blogger, it doesn't take any extra effort. and your blog will probably get more traffic, since I'll be linking all the bloggers and promoting the event.

If you're new to blogging, I can get you set up with you own blog in less than 5 minutes! so why not? Join Operation HOPE!

Please check out the event details and sign up if you're interested in blogging for Obama: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/44hfj

I am coordinating the bloggers (with links to all the active bloggers doing 10 posts in 10 weeks) on my "Crush on Obama" blog at: http://rubycrushonobama.blogspot.com

Hope to see you at the convention and in the blogosphere!

-Ruby

repost: Obama behind the scenes

Duane Kuehn — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 16:44:02 EDT

Hi All,

Covered by the FISA fiasco we weren't watching behind the scenes.

As Barack Obama was taking the big hits for voting "Yes" on the FISA bill (which it was known was already going to pass by a huge majority without his vote), nobody seemed to notice the Medicare bill and the number of Republican Senators that jumped ship and voted, "Yes" on it.

Many of us were wiping the tears from our eyes as if maybe Barack Obama had stood us up for a date. When in fact, as Barack is not President yet but we are very aware of his persusive bipartisan influence; the Medicare bill was being passed with a majority vote that George Bush cannot veto.

A huge victory for the people of this country. What happened? We all know the give and take of Washington politics, the behind the doors goings on which Obama says will Change when he is President. But, Obama is not President yet and still apart of the give and take of Washington Politics.

I would venture to gain that the give and take was a trade off on a FISA bill which was going to pass anyway, for a Medicaid bill which wasn't going to pass. A bill which will now help to pave the way for a badly needed Universal Health Care bill.

Who knows but, I say 3 cheers to mybarackObama!

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/11/opinion/11krugman.html?em&ex=1216008000&en=ba067d25713ebe77&ei=5087%0A#secondParagraph

Loveya,

Duane Kuehn

Colorado Vets Rip McCain

Jan CO — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 02:08:08 EDT

Colorado Pols :: Local Vets Rip McCain Call for McCain to Answer Questions He Dodged Monday

Veterans for Progress Call on Senator to Follow Through on Promise

For immediate release
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Contact: Jim Hudson
720-296-1936

DENVER- Frustrated by Senator John McCain's voting record on veterans' issues and his distortion of that record at a Town Hall meeting in Denver on Monday, members of Veterans for Progress today called on McCain to explain his record as the Senator promised.

A story covered by the national press, McCain promised Jim Hudson, a Vietnam veteran who questioned McCain on his record, that he would be glad to examine Hudson's "version" of McCain's record. And today Hudson is following up on that offer.

Watch the MSNBC report: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...

"I value and respect Senator McCain's service in Vietnam," Jim Hudson said. "But as a Senator, he has repeatedly voted against health care spending for veterans. In Monday's Town Hall meeting, I asked him to explain those votes and he ducked the question."

"Today, I'm giving him another chance to explain by inviting him onto a conference call with me and other veterans," Hudson noted.

In the Town Hall meeting, Hudson was recognized by McCain as a Vietnam Veteran. Hudson then asked McCain to explain why he voted against his colleagues'proposals to increase health care spending in 2004, '05, '06 and '07 when troops were coming back from two wars.

McCain dodged Hudson's question and gave a list of veterans' organization he claims supported him. "The reason I have a perfect voting record from the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion and all the other veterans service organizations is because of my support of them," McCain said.

The Senator was wrong and Hudson corrected him.

"You do not have a perfect voting record by the DAV and the VFW. That's where these votes are recorded," Hudson said, referring to McCain's votes against veterans' funding over the past four years. "And I can give the specific votes, the numbers of those Senate votes right now."

Hudson said the conference call would give McCain an opportunity to either dispute the record or explain it.

"I hope Sen. McCain will honor a fellow Vietnam Veteran-and all American veterans-by agreeing to this call," stated Leon Rodriguez, a Vietnam Veteran and a member of Veterans for Progress who lives in Littleton, Colorado.

###

Veterans Issues (from www.ProjectVoteSmart.org):

2006 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Disabled American Veterans 20 percent in 2006.

2006 In 2006 Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America gave Senator McCain a grade of D.

2006 Senator McCain sponsored or co-sponsored 18 percent of the legislation favored by the The Retired Enlisted Association in 2006.

2005 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Disabled American Veterans 25 percent in 2005.

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the Disabled American Veterans 50 percent in 2004.

2004 Senator McCain supported the interests of the The Retired Enlisted Association 0 percent in 2004.

From the Congressional Record:

* McCain Voted Against A $20 Million Increase In Healthcare For Veterans. In 2006, McCain voted against an amendment that would add $20 million for veterans' health care facilities. It would offset the additional spending by striking $20 million in the underlying bill for AmeriCorps. Amendment failed 39-59. [HR 4939, Vote #111, 5/4/06]

* McCain Was One of 13 Senators To Vote Against Increase In Veterans' Healthcare. In 2006, McCain was one of 13 senators to vote against an amendment to add $430 million for outpatient and inpatient health care and treatment for veterans. Amendment passed 84-16. [HR 4939, Vote #98, 4/26/06]

repost: McCain funding loopholes

Duane Kuehn — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:39:44 EDT

Hi All,

I stole this link from newday4us's blog.

As we all know, John McCain locked himself into the public funding system before he realized that the Republican Primary would be a "walk in the park" for him. Then he could not get out of public funding without explaining a few million dollars in loans and a few million in corporate jet transport through his wife Cindy.

We know that Barack made the right decision going with us, the people of the United States.

Unfortunately, as Barack said, the McCain campaign will have plenty of misleading advertisement from the "527's". More than that, he is recieving huge donations through the loopholes via the RNC.

Barack will be needing donations and lots of them. I have donated and hope to donate more with every monthly check. Now, I decided to open one of those fundraiser spots and hope some of you might help me out to reach that goal. I can't start donating in my own fundraiser thing until my next rather measly but not complaining check.

I hope that I get the links right and I hope some of you all will help me out with my fundraiser thing, though I know that ya'll already donate elsewhere. 5 or 10 dollars is great and will be very much appreciated by me and the campaign.

The link to the article about McCains funds:

http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/stumper/archive/2008/07/07/for-mccain-money-talks.aspx

I tried to do a takeoff on the old saying and make it, "Wish in One Hand, Hope in the Other", kind of lame I guess.

The link (hopefully correct) to my fundraiser page:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/WishIn1Hand

Loveya,

Duane Kuehn

Obama and gays in the military

Duane Kuehn — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:24:36 EDT

Hi All,

We should all learn from history. When the very far right Republican Party that was his creation elected George Bush the father, he turned on them, he voted "Yes" to Civil Rights.

The result was a Republican Party of close-minded bigots who turned on him. This turning included many death threats, and death threats in Texas are promises in a land where people keep their promises.

Rather than run, George Bush gave what some consider the most amazing speech of his political career, and that man could give a speech. He called the Party Big-Wigs and Big Money to a meeting and talked to the outraged and angry mob.

The gist of his speech was that when he was in the armed service, he watched black men fight and die next to him. That if these black people could fight and die for this country, they deserved Civil Rights in this country. George Bush walked away from that meeting to thunderous applause.

John McCain is no fool. He must attack Obama's stance of allowing gays to serve openly in the military. He must because these are his trump cards with the huge voting block of the Religious Right.

Bill Clinton tried to allow gays to serve openly in the military. One of his generals had a hissy-fit about it and it changed to a "don't ask, don't tell" policy". It was a little better than the days of Vietnam when our troops were spied followed and spied upon in attempt to catch and criminalize anyone who was gay. A time when some of our most honored and highly decorated soldiers were thrown out of the service, not for sexual misconduct but for the mere fact that they were bisexual or gay.

Strange when one considers that the most famous of military leaders, Alexander the Great, was a homosexual. The homosexuality of Alexander of Mesopotamia is a documented fact, which proves that gays can be the best of soldiers and military leaders. That the Spartans were often homosexual couples because they would fight harder when fighting beside someone they loved.

The point being that gay men and women do not join the army to get a date.

Being gay is not a behavior; it is a natural part of life. It is not a "choice" for most anyway, most hate themselves for being gay and nobody would choose to live life in a closet of self-hatred. I do not think the marines have to worry about being raped by a gay soldier.

Sexuality should not really enter into the picture but as a man has the right to say, "I have a girlfriend back home", or a woman has the right to say, "I have a husband back home", and so does the gay soldier have the right to share his life back home with his comrades in arms. Gay soldiers should not be forced to tell lies to their friends in the service for fear of court martial.

If a gay person chooses to fight for the United States of America, the United States of America should recognize that person's human rights; and the armed services are no exception.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Repost: thermal solar energy

Duane Kuehn — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 11:32:52 EDT

Hi All,
Here is a message I received from John Chamberlain at St.Louis for Obama. I hope you will all take a minute and enter a not on the Obama mypage as this asks. It is a marvelous system of renewable energy.

Apologies for any repeat postings.

I just sent this message to the Obama Team regarding America installing a real and feasible 100% renewable energy supply for America on a national scale - i.e. Thermal Solar power (not Solar PV panels), see:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/06/business/06solar.html? and http://www.trec-uk.org.uk/csp.htm .

This technology is applicable mostly to the American West & Southwest, i.e: California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. It is also applicable world-wide, with 90% of the world's population living within 1700 miles of a suitable area for such Thermal Solar power production, meaning only a max 5-8% transmission loss using HVDC lines. This make Thermal Solar power a TRULY 100% renewable power technology which can be applied world-wide to replace coal, oil and nuclear power stations and really start to clean up the world again. If it were fully installed in the USA (for less than the cost of the Iraq war) we would cut US C02 emissions by over 50% within 5-8 years.

The message to the Obama campaign is below. Please check this out. If you support the promotion of this technology, please send your own message on the subject to the Obama Team at this weblink:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/mypolicy -under 'Energy and Environment'

The McCain campaign is about to release a series of TV advertisements across America on Energy Policy, and the Obama Campaign needs to hear our thoughts on what real and renewable energies it should be promoting in return. Remember, Thermal Solar is in service TODAY and is 100% Renewable. Thermal Solar power plants only take about 2 years to build, and could take care of 100% of America's electricity needs in an area the size of 10% of Federal lands in Nevada. These plants could be dispersed across Western and Southwestern Sunbelt states and create thousands of jobs there too.

As members of the Obama Campaign let's promote 100% renewable energy technologies which really do work like Thermal Solar (and Geothermal) power, not hokey half-way houses like Biodiesel or so-called "Clean Coal" both of which will just do further damage to our planet in different ways. It may not be sensible to put 100% of our energy production into one technology, but clearly Thermal Solar should play a major or majority part in our future energy production.

If you support the promotion of this technology, please send your own message on the subject with your own technical and business inputs to the Obama Team at this weblink:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/mypolicy -under 'Energy and Environment'

This is not to say that other renewable power sources are not effective also (like wind, wave, tide etc), but this power technology is new to many people and in my mind offers the best advantages for the planet.

Sincerely yours,

John Chamberlain

BSc Eng, MBA

PS Some other links and resources regarding Thermal Solar Power are below:

Below is a link which gives you a good feel for production costs of Thermal Solar power vs. coal and other fuels.

http://www.trec-uk.org.uk/csp/costs.htm

www.ausra.com will likely have the lowest cost Thermal Solar power, and their new fabrication plant in Nevada has just been opened by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (click on RHS of webpage). Ausra uses Fresnel lenses (the same as in lighthouses) inside their mirrors to concentrate the solar power and heat the tubes of liquid above. Below are two nice slide shows on the technology:

http://www.ausra.com/pdfs/SolarThermal101_final.pdf

http://www.ausra.com/pdfs/070820discussion.pdf

http://www.ausra.com/pdfs/SolarPACESMills-Morgan.pdf

http://www.ausra.com/history/ History of Solar Power. Click on "1905-1954" and use the green arrow to scroll right to 1913. Amazingly this Thermal Solar technology was producing 55 HP (around 40 KW) back in 1913 !

Ausra's view on the future of Thermal Solar for the US is as below:

http://www.ausra.com/news/releases/080306.html

This is a very good article by John Hay on the same subject of Thermal Solar (check pages 1 and 2) plus a very interesting video

http://www.tellingthoughts.com/us-politics/baseload-renewable-power-solar-thermal-90-us-needs

It has also been pointed out that thermal solar plants usually need access to water supplies (not always accessible in desert areas!), although many types can use closed loop systems which limits the issue. In addition, Thermal Solar does not have to be the only renewable solution used, and others can clearly include wind, geothermal and solar PV.

Posting Question

Jan CO — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:53:42 EDT

Hey all,

Since most of us from Party Builder also blog about State & Local races is it ok if we do so in here?

I'm posting this to most of the Groups I belong to as well since I don't know about those either.

Personal reasons why

Aydrian — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 01:04:08 EDT

I was an ardent supporter of Hillary Clinton. I know she is a strong, outspoken woman that serves our country with heart. For her to jump behind Obama and support him as deeply as she has leads me to believe in him as well. For several months I've struggled with which of these two candidates to support. Since he is the Democratic nominee, it is apparent. I believe this country has hit bottom in the past seven years, and much change is needed. Obama may not be a seasoned man, when it comes to politics, but for once in our lifetime there is a man willing to stand up to adversity and call for change at every level of our government. Anyone not supporting him in that desire for change is obviously living in a different world than I am. It's often said that America is 20+ years behind Europe, in societal advancements. With the election of Obama, I believe America will catch up with, if not fully surpass, Europe in advancing the equality of each and every American. I know many of my friends that will read this live in small rural areas, and never experience the social evils of humanity. Living in Denver I daily see the effects of homelessness, poverty, inadequate education, and numerous other economic tragedies. These inequalities must be corrected if America is going to want to return to the world as a leading nation. We can not continue to stand in the UN or the parliaments of other countries and ask them to support human rights, while not dealing with the same issues in America. It's completely hypocritical, and in the past seven years the world has recognized that. It is time for America to return the great nation we once were. That will only be accomplished through the election of Obama and other fair-minded politicians like him.

Obama Pride Video

Jody Rodgers — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 02:58:50 EDT

Jen Hauseman and Jake Standish, co-directors of Seattle Pride and inspiring Obama supporters, had the idea of creating a video to introduce Barack Obama to the LGBT community. I worked with them on making a short video that highlights some of his past speeches with an emphasis on Obama's commitment and bold support of the GLBT community. I hope you enjoy the video and please pass it on!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRGHwRQ4qU4

Also, we have a very simple Pride button design that we will be adding to our templates page on Buttons4Obama.com very soon. If you haven't thought about making buttons for the campaign please check out the site as it is a lot of fun and we all know the world needs more flair!

Denver Pride Parade & Festival

Mendy — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 16:47:19 EDT

It's been a great gay pride weekend here in Denver! Yesterday I helped the Obama Campaign with registering voters and today I marched with the Democrats in the parade. Take a look at this picture to see the great signs we had... http://www.flickr.com/photos/27176662@N04/2601978454/

-Mendy

Hello Obamaland and the GLBT Community - Help Needed

Jan CO — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:58:27 EDT

I have been a member of Obamaland since the beginning of March but as you can see I haven't blogged much. However, I am a regular blogger in the DNC.org blog called partybuilder and boy do we need help. We have a pretty diverse group that blog frequently, and some not so often. We still have a few of Rush's chaos pundits hanging around, quite a few staunch, die-hard, Hillary supporters who state they will write her in or vote other and some Republican Trolls that can be quiet nasty at times. A few others from partybuilder have recently sounded the alarm in here and watching them come in the other night one after the other was like watching the Calvary ride in! Yes, it's been that bad. But we are in need of more support, especially those of the GLBT Community.

We have many from the GLBT Community that are frequent bloggers in partybuilder but not one is an Obama supporter, if there are they don't say so. Since Hillary suspended her campaign we have had many new Hillary people from the Community joining and looking for answers to their questions. While there are many of us straight people that do our best to inform your presence is very much missed and very much needed.

Tonight, Friday the 19th, there will be a GLBT Forum to inform and educate people regarding Obama's stand on Gay Marriage, California's new law and his stand on Civil Rights for the GLBT Community.

Here are two links to two short postings from one of our Hillary members regarding the forum GLTB FORUM ON PB and Open Public Forum: GLTB Civil Rights And The Democratic Party

I hope you will join us with your Unity Spirit, not just today but as often and as much as you can.

Peace,

Jan

p.s.

Jan CO in partybuilder

Let us move forward

Duane Kuehn — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:10:15 EDT

Hi All,

     Congratulations for a job well done!
     Mrs. Clinton has still not conceded, which is sad for the Democratic Party. I hope that she is not preparing to tear the Democratic Convention to pieces with lawsuits and such.

     We need solidity, solidarity. We need not make this such a battle of Republicans vs. Democrats as if we are Two Parties, as teams in a political football game. Now is the time to recognize that we are not Reps or Dems, “We ARE the People of the UNITED STATES”. “We the People” own this government and our government need to become Open, Transparent. Our elected officials should serve “We the People” not act behind closed doors or feed us false information to sway us to their agenda.

    I am thinking of calling myself a Democan. Lol

     It is time now to pull the people together. Put all of our personal thoughts aside and think of the “whole” of US. I hope we can set ourselves behind the goals of Barack Obama, and recognize his achievements. He did not slur Mrs. Clinton as many may have in his run for the nomination.

     I do not know whom Barack will chose as his running mate but remember that if he does choose Mrs. Clinton; their actual platforms are almost equal. For Barack she may not be such a bad choice. However, as in most things, Barack Obama knows much more than I do.
    Of course, only most things, not everything, I have to grab a little dignity here. LOL LOL

     It has been a historical primary, let us now offer our sincere condolences to the Clinton Clan, they fought hard for what they wanted and we should give them more credit for sticking to their guns and not give them abuse for ‘being “against” us’; for they are not really against us, they are a part of us. Moreover, they have shown great strength against a perceived adversary. They too, are knowing people and they shall make a great friend against McCain’s, or any other Bush candidates, lack of care for “We the People of the United States”.

     Let us be the strong who apologize to our fellows whom until today we have differed in opinion. If we are the victor’s, then to them hand the spoils.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

Obama campaign supplies

Duane Kuehn — Sat, 24 May 2008 23:02:04 EDT

Hi All,

     Purchasing campaign supplies can become very expensive, Terry Cooper has designed some wonderful Obama 2008 logo’s to make badges, pins, signs, banners, etc.

     Terry is offering these free of charge for Obama’s Campaign and they are easy on the budget.

     There are four logo’s, two are GLBT specific, they come with directions. I have downloaded and now use these so I never run out of supplies.

     To take advantage of Obama supporter Terry Cooper’s generosity, log on to the Obama website, under “Friends” click “find people”, type “Terry Cooper” into the “Display name” box and click “search”.
     There are two Terry Cooper’s, the one with the exclamation point in front is the artist with the logo’s. Click the name “ ! Terry Cooper ”, click the “add Terry Cooper to your friends network”.
     In the personal note box, write that you would like the logo’s and give your email address. Terry will send from her personal email to not take too much bandwidth at the Obama site.

Loveya,
Duane Kuehn

http://www.helium.com/search/search?search_query=Duane+Kuehn

Media idiocracy

Raymond Springfield — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 10:42:23 EDT

The country borders on depression as banks fail, the dollar crumbles, oil and food skyrocket, and the Iraq war rages. The upper 1%, or Bush's base, reaps continued benefits from the no tax and spend policy of the most corrupt administration in USA history. ABC, FOX, MSNBC and CNN focus on lapel pins, Rev. Wright and the fact that you can't call unemployed homeless vets bitter.

It's disgusting. When did America have a lobotomy?

Change- 4 Decades Later Building A Future

Ron Booth Adams County Colorado — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 11:15:52 EDT

The year was 1968 and if you were serious about changing the direction of this country the place to be was in the streets of this nation whether it be Washington, Chicago, San Franscisco or a nearby university, marching and chanting, singing and being tear gassed it was a time full of frustration and full of the belief that somehow we could make a difference and we did.

Four decades later those of my generation and of a whole new generation have taken to the streets once again, but this time canvassing for votes and support for Barack Obama. This time the opportunity for change, the hope that we can set our nation back on course is to be found in the caucuses and primaries and ultimately in the voting booths in November.

This time instead of a new generation pitted against the old generation, generations have come together to build a brighter future for the generations to come.

YES WE CAN!

Clinton's negativity

Raymond Springfield — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:30:33 EST

The Clinton's negativity the last week strikes me as disappointing and nothing less than a smear campaign. She inappropriately questions Sen. Obama's judgment, and stokes the fire of bigotry by suggesting that to the best of her knowledge he is not a Muslim. Her tone clearly suggested that he might in fact be a Muslim. Frankly, we have freedom of religion in America and while Sen. Obama is a Christian, if Sen. Clinton truly believes in The Bill of Rights, she should avoid these desperate attempts which divide our nation. If Sen. Clinton remains this negative, then she will split the party and doom this country to 4 more years of disastrous policies.

Unstoppable

Raymond Springfield — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 02:40:18 EST

As an Anglo adopted and raised by an African-American I've seen the lines of race, class, and theology used to divide our people for at least a generation. It hardened me and made me callous to the thought of a united people working towards social justice.

As a sceptical realist, I've seldom found cause to let myself believe that our country can truly represent, and implement, policies which serve the people rather than the corporate interests of the military industrial complex. The overwhelming success of the Obama campaign has transformed my belief in America. While I have always felt fortunate to have been born American, I have not ever felt the deep pride and inspiration that I feel growing inside myself, and clearly the nation.

This campaign has already changed me. It has changed the nation. I believe that it will continue to rouse the people to demand the best of its' leaders' high idealism, and to demand that the freedoms in the Bill of Rights remain reality while fostering tolerance and opportunity for each individual.

Certainly President Carter and the Clintons have fought for these values. In my opinion, however, they haven't touched the American psyche in the same manner as Sen. Obama. The people involved in Colorado have played a part in the transformation of my perspective. I thank you all. I feel hope again. This movement created and eloquently lead by Sen. Obama, I realistically believe to be unstoppable.

The "Mission" in Iraq

Len & Jimmy — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 14:58:52 EST

This is actually a blog post I wrote in July of 2005. I was just looking over old posts and came across it again.

It's amazing how much we forget as time passes. I'm still surprised when I hear so many people, Republican and Democrats alike, talk about how our mission in Iraq is to establish a democratic government and ensure the safety of the region.

This is just another reason why I support Barack. I have another post I wrote prior to the invasion of Iraq stating almost exactly what he stated at the time. I have NEVER once even come close to supporting this war. Although I have had no choice but to support the brave military personnel who have trusted in us, and their commander-in-chief, to not put them in harm's way without a sound purpose.
______________________________________________

Blog post written July 1, 2005

President Bush's war rationale

Samples of the president's statements regarding the mission for the war against Iraq since just before the conflict began:

Tuesday (2005)

"Our mission in Iraq is clear. We are hunting down the terrorists. We are helping Iraqis build a free nation that is an ally in the war on terror. We are advancing freedom in the broader Middle East. We are removing a source of violence and instability and laying the foundation of peace for our children and our grandchildren."

Feb 2, 2005

"We are in Iraq to achieve a result: a country that is democratic, representative of all its people, at peace with its neighbors and able to defend itself."

May 24, 2004

"Our coalition has a clear goal, understood by all: to see the Iraqi people in charge of Iraq for the first time in generations.

"America's task in Iraq is not only to defeat an enemy, it is to give strength to a friend -- a free, representative government that serves its people and fights on their behalf. And the sooner this goal is achieved, the sooner our job will be done."

May 8, 2004

"Our mission in Iraq will continue on July 1st, and beyond. We have no intention of leaving that nation at the mercy of thugs and murderers. We're determined to help build a free and stable Iraq, a nation at peace with its neighbors and with the world."

Nov 12, 2003

"The mission in Iraq is a free and peaceful and stable country.''

Nov. 11, 2003

"Our mission in Iraq and Afghanistan is clear to our service members -- and clear to our enemies. Our men and women are fighting to secure the freedom of more than 50 million people who recently lived under two of the cruelest dictatorships on earth. Our men and women are fighting to help democracy and peace and justice rise in a troubled and violent region. Our men and women are fighting terrorist enemies thousands of miles away in the heart and center of their power, so that we do not face those enemies in the heart of America."

Oct. 9, 2003

"Our goal in Iraq is to leave behind a stable, self-governing society, which will no longer be a threat to the Middle East or to the United States."

April 24, 2003

"Our mission -- besides removing the regime that threatened us, besides ending a place where the terrorists could find a friend, besides getting rid of weapons of mass destruction -- our mission has been to bring humanitarian aid and restore basic services and put this country, Iraq, on the road to self- government."

March 19, 2003

"We have no ambition in Iraq, except to remove a threat and restore control of that country to its own people.''

March 17, 2003

"The terrorist threat to America and the world will be diminished the moment that Saddam Hussein is disarmed. ... We choose to meet that threat now, where it arises, before it can appear suddenly in our skies and cities.''

March 6, 2003

"Should we have to go in, our mission is very clear: disarmament. And in order to disarm, it would mean regime change.''

Caucus Virgins

Len & Jimmy — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 04:20:22 EST

My partner and I attended our first caucus last night. Colorado replaced our primary with a caucus in 2000 and I'm sorry to say I wasn't motivated enough to caucus in 2004.

This year we both were motivated like we have never been. Despite snow on the ground and freezing temperatures, we joined several hundred or more of our neighbors at a local middle school for our first ever caucus. It was a first for many in attendance and despite some confusion I think by the time it was done we all felt satisfied. In fact, I think we felt closer as a community than we did when we started out. It was definitely an experience.

We were broken up by precincts and our precinct had 76 caucusers. We started out with our straw poll with 60 for Barack, 14 (yes...14) for Hillary and 2 independents. After the speeches on behalf of the candidates, we split the independents and ended up with a final vote of 61 for Barack and 15 for Hillary. I believe we were one of the only precincts with such a "large" Clinton contingent. Echoes of "Yes we can!" and "O-ba-ma!" echoed through the building so it sounded like a pretty sound victory for "Team O".

The icing on the cake was coming home and watching returns. An overwhelming victory here in Colorado(and MANY other states) for Obama. This is what elections are all about; the feeling that you made a difference. This year every person in every state gets to experience that feeling. While I would have loved to have Barack run away with it early on, I think this is better. Now the ENTIRE nation gets a voice. And I believe that voice will declare loud and clear.....WE WANT CHANGE!!!!

Len

Caucus night help!

Anne — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 11:24:50 EST

Are you a Republican, Independant, or Unaffiliated registered voter and unable to participate in caucus?
Did you miss the deadline to register as a Democrat?
Are you too young to vote?

Do you have friends or family who fit the above description and who are Obama supporters?

We need your help caucus night!
We need people who are unable to participate in the caucus to help out. Most caucus sites have multiple precints. We need people who can help caucus goers find the correct room or correct corner of the correct room for their precinct.

Please contact your local field office if you (or your friends and family) are able to help.

Thank you!
Anne

Fort Collins office:
419 W. Oak Street
Fort Collins
970.471.3788
(You might need to dial 1-970 before the phone number.)

Obama is coming to Denver Wednesday!

Anne — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 23:28:25 EST

I saw this on Denver's Fox affiliate. I saw some posts earlier, but it is official!

RSVP here:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/denver

University of Denver
Magness Arena
2201 E Asbury Avenue
Denver, CO 80210

Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Doors open: 8:30 a.m.

It will be worth enduring Denver's rush hour.

Cast a Vote for Obama NOW on Dailykos

Joe — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 16:05:00 EST

Go to http://www.dailykos.com/ and cast a vote for Obama as winning today's last Iowa debate.

Vote Today Online Poll for Obama

Joe — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:01:49 EST

Daily Kos has a poll put up today at 9:42 AM. Make sure to go there today and vote for Obama! It’s still early…Obama’s now in second place at 26% behind Edwards at 35% Let’s change these numbers to reflect the grassroots support we are seeing moving in his direction.

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/11/29/124013/18

To Iowa and Back Rockin' for Barack

Ron Booth Adams County Colorado — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 11:18:47 EST

Notes from Iowa;

If you were unable to make this past weekends trip to Iowa you missed a truly incredibe adventure! We knocked hundreds upon hundreds of doors, we got a whole slew of "Supporter Cards" signed and had a lot of great conversations with a lot of wonderful folks who are paying very close attention and giving this race a lot of careful thought and consideration.

I understand that for many of us the committment to go to Iowa at the end of December represents some major issues in terms of time, family and work, that being said, if there is any way that you can make it out there the rewards can prove to be tremendous!!

1- WHEN we win Iowa, it will go a long way towards insuring that we carry South Carolina, Nevada and New Hampshire

2- It will make for a virtual cake walk here in Colorado and all the other "Super Tuesday" states

3- We'll have one heck of a party on election night '08

During the 2000 elections I did little more than wear a button and have a bumper sticker on my car and afterwards I kicked myself in the butt for not being more active.

In 2004 I was equally lame and just assumed that my fellow Americans couldn't possibly vote to re-elect the monkey boy and again I kicked myself in the butt.

This time its all different for me, every spare moment, every ounce of energy I have available will go towards kicking butt for Barack Obama

In closing, I just want to express my heartfelt thanks to all of the my many fellow volunteers because even though it may not feel that way sometimes, YOU MAKE THE DIFFERECE in this campaign. And to the incredible staff, you guys are all doing an incredibly awesome job and always go way beyond what your actual job descriptions call for and are an inspiration to all.

Let's get out there and keep kicking butt, having great conversations and taking names!!!

Best to all,
Ron Booth
Adams County for Obama

Campaign Response to McClurkin concern

john ferguson — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 08:07:43 EDT

After I posted my concerns about Donnie McClurkin, I got a copy of the campaign statement on this issue:

"I have clearly stated my belief that gays and lesbians are our brothers and sisters and should be provided the respect, dignity, and rights of all other citizens. I have consistently spoken directly to African-American religious leaders about the need to overcome the homophobia that persists in some parts our community so that we can confront issues like HIV/AIDS and broaden the reach of equal rights in this country.

I strongly believe that African Americans and the LGBT community must stand together in the fight for equal rights. And so I strongly disagree with Reverend McClurkin¹s views and will continue to fight for these rights as President of the United States to ensure that America is a country that spreads tolerance instead of division."

This seems to be unequivocal in its support, especially the last part. It puts the Rev. McClurkin in the position of having to decide whether he still wants to support the campaign. The decision is his and we will see what happens now on the Embrace the Change tour in S.C. I hope that evangelicals do embrace the Obama change.

And, I do notice that the language is tempered in its support of GLBT people, calling for tolerance and not stating a strong belief that holding GLBT difference is OK, good or some other positive general affirmation. Barack Obama has gone further than any other candidate in support of the GLBT community, perhaps including Barney Frank, and this statement does seem to bold the line at the boundary of that support. That kind of limit on support will alienate some in our community.

I recognize that this campaign is about finding ways to build a coalition for change. I see that Obama tells his truth, saying the same truth to everyone. At least I can trust that the support he calls for is really what he will give. In the end I hope that other groups also see a truth that they will want to vote for.

Donnie McClurkin concern

john ferguson — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:51:40 EDT

I am concerned about this Donnie McClurkin dust-up. It came to me via the WFF news list with an email about The Huffington Post. Also an entry on America Blog by John Aravosis. He is the same gay-supremacist who wrote the article on Salon recently, “Who put the T in GLBT?" advocating that it is a good thing to dump transgender people in the ENDA battle. And, as I read the comments on America Blog, they are clearly gay bigots who are not interested in moving forward to improve relationships between the black and gay communities. I am a gay man AND I am interested in creating change on these fronts. AND this is going to make my life difficult in the gay community in Denver. I suggest at least a clear STRONG statement that while Black evangelicals are welcome with open arms to the Obama campaign and movement, their homophobic attitudes will not be comfortable here. B.O. has said he stands for full equality and a full place in society for GLBT people -- e.g. on LOGO. He needs to say that to them too so that my community hears him say it to them. We do not all need to agree on everything, but Obama can not collaborate with, and can not be seen as collaborating with those ideas. Otherwise GLBT people will bail enmass.

Turn the page- Lakewood

Ron Booth Adams County Colorado — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 11:23:58 EDT

In Lakewood and throughout the Front Range the weather looked questionable at best as we set out on our quest Saturday morning. There was certainly no lack of energy and enthusiasim as we headed out to the streets.

To a large degree we found that our constituents weren't home but where we did make contact, its was a positive and uplifting experience, een on those rare occasions when we accidently encountered Republicans.

The high point of the day was right at the very start, when as we were still gathered in the park, we were approached by a mother and her young son who she had been carrying in her womb several years earlier when she had been out canvassing for John Kerry. We had a most excited discusion with her and certainly Alexis will be following up with her in the very near future.

Thanks to all who got out there yesterday and got fired up!

To those who missed out this time around, we hope to see you next time.

Best to all,

Ron

Obama's Going to call LIVE; Will you be there?

*Aubree*Boulder County Resource Coordinator, & Precinct Captain #196 Longmont — Sat, 08 Sep 2007 03:11:07 EDT

Colorado Caucus Convention

(*Barack will be speaking via conference call live at this event! See details below*)

Where: Manual High School
1700 E 28th Ave
Denver, CO 80205
Essentially the school is off 28th St & Williams St by Fuller Park.
Please map quest this address as it is sort of tricky to find if you are not familiar with the area.

Below I will overview the day's schedule; this is a casual & high energy event. Feel free to bring your rally signs or homemade signs & be sure to wear your Obama gear!

Agenda!
8:00-9:15- Registration (Sign in)
Time to find seats & check out the Obama Store!
T-Shirts & Stickers will be on sale! (Store should be cash & credit)

9:15-9:45- Speakers (Manual High School ROTC, politicians, & Denver county coordinators etc.

9:45-10:00- LIVE conference call with BARACK!
**If you have never heard him speak be sure your here for this, this is a huge honor!**

10:15-10:45- Caucus training presentation

10:45-11:15-(Break) Join small groups

11:15-12:15- Mock caucus breakout sessions
(learn by example how the caucus really works)
Light Refreshments: Fruit, water, coffee, etc.

12:15-1:15- Speakers (Closing)

From here you have a "lunch break" 1:00-2:00

A reception will follow this at a restaurant:
Where: WALNUT ROOM
3131 Walnut St.
Denver, CO 80205
303*292*0529
The reception is from (1:30ish) 2:00-5:00pm
Food is available here, there will be speakers & supporter meet & greet time.

*Take this opportunity to meet people from your city, county or just other supporters in the state. You can bounce events ideas off of each other & learn how you can be involved.
**If you want to be more involved please go to the 'Commitment Table' and see Dr.Bob.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Obama Volunteer's Unite!

*Aubree*Boulder County Resource Coordinator, & Precinct Captain #196 Longmont — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 09:03:44 EDT

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING PLEASE RSVP FOR ANY OF THE
OPPORTUNITIES BELOW TO: COLORADO@BARACKOBAMA.COM

Volunteer Opportunities:
(*******For all of these opportunities, RSVP first and then we will
send you details by e-mail******)

Tuesday, September 4th: Flyering neighborhood around Manual noon-4.

Wednesday, September 5th: Flyering neighborhood around Manual noon-4

Wednesday, September 5th; Evening phone bank (most likely a virtual
phone bank) 5:30-8:30. A virtual phone bank is where you log in from
home and we send numbers through your computer. You record the
results of your call right there from home. If we do not have a
virtual phone bank set up in time (this would be the first time we try
this), we will pick a location in Denver.
******When you RSVP please indicate if you would only be able to do a
virtual phone bank or if you could also do an in-person phone bank in
Denver

Thursday, September 6th: Evening phone bank (most likely a virtual
phone bank). Same as above.

Friday, September 7th: Volunteer training and/or sign making party:
6:00-8:00 Manual HS. If you are able to volunteer on Saturday, this
will serve as a walk-through and training. If not, still come help
decorate the auditorium

Saturday, September 8th: We need at least 20 volunteers to help with
sign-in, parking lot management, and usher duties. Please also plan
on coming to the 6:00-8:00 training Friday at Manual

REMEMBER IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING PLEASE RSVP FOR ANY OF
THESE OPPORTUNITIES TO: COLORADO@BARACKOBAMA.COM

Sign-up for Colorado Caucus Convention on Sept. 8th at Maual HS

john ferguson — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 13:18:33 EDT

There is a sign-up page available for the Colorado Caucus Convention on Sept 8th at Manual HS, and I have pasted in the link to it below:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/coConvention

So, if you are inerested in attending this event, go to that page an sign-up.

Videographers needed in CO!

Suzanne Gelderman — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 12:55:17 EDT

Hi! I'm writing from Chicago HQ and we're planning some great events to rally support for Obama in CO. If you could help us out from time to time with videographing, that would be fantastic! Send me a note if you might be interested... Thanks for your help - with your help, we can win the CO caucus!!

Veritas

Dr. Bob — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 11:41:33 EDT

"Veritas" Another Latin word. It means truth. And this time the intellectual writers, joined by quite a few arrogant politicians trying to sound smart, essentially say that Barack Obama has too much of this one. Go figure.

If there is any one quality which stands out as unique in Obama it is his ability to hone in on and commmunicate to any subgroup of people the truths they need to hear as opposed to the platitudes they want to hear. There have been countless examples of this on many levels seen in his campaign statements thus far. He has exhorted dads to be real fathers, mothers and fathers to be real parents, rap singers to be real, period. The guy tells it like it is, as it should be heard, the truth.

Recently the most powerful and critical examples of Barack's knack at this veritas thing have emerged. His cloud-busting, myth-shattering, guess what-there's-a man-behind-the curtain statements on matters of American foreign policy. Specifically, his statements on Peace, Security and Strength, areas in which he has extensive knowledge and proven vision, given his statements and predictions about the Iraq war before it was authorized, as we all know. Now he has offered to meet with our adversaries to get at the truth, pursue our sworn enemies once we know the truth, and when discussing the world's most lethal weapons, just tell the truth.

The reaction: What? How could He? Doesn't he know the rules? Sure it's true, the politicians moan, but you just don't say it. Huh? Well this guy does. As ears are covered, mouths blocked and eyes hidden, cries of "irresponsible," "confused" even "embryonic" emerge from muffled shouts trying to drown out this veritas. His opponents suggest he has "poor judgement" implying a deficit of IQ, then throw in "naive" as if he were not an extremely well-informed man, but instead, merely a boy. If he knew better, he wouldn't dare say such things, this lower IQ boy. Unfortunately prejudice does not have to be conscious to be real.

Despite all of this, Barack Obama, the new brown-faced kid on the block, continues to speak up and with a whole lot of veritas lately, despite the not so pure or subtle patronizing suggestions from entrenched power brokers to hush up, remember his place, and get back to it right away. And unlike the good little wide-eyed and wide-smiled Washington neophyte, the simply TV cute boy they want him to be, he is not about to be just seen and just heard when and where he's put. Barack Obama does know his place, and someone else is standing in it, she had better get out of the way.

Barack Obama has made it clear that there are too many problems to be solved in too little time, with too few opportunities and resources to squander by simply sticking to the same old club house rules out of fear of change. People know this is true in their heads, hearts, and guts, and will rally around the changes when they hear them, which is why his opponents so desperately seek to distort the message and disparage the messenger. The traditional methods of Washington DC insiders and lobbyists, operating by obscuring the truth to gain the upper hand as if playing some low-bet high-machismo poker game, have made quite a mess of things. Besides, Barack Obama simply does not operate that way. "Veritas" is the motto of Harvard University, his alma mater. Truth has set him free, and I think he knows it's the only way to liberate us too.

New Forum for LGBT Issues

Megan — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 13:53:42 EDT

Hi everyone!

I wanted to let you know that on August 9th Senator Obama will be participating in a live televised forum with the other Democratic Presidential Candidates. The forum will focus on issues of importance to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community and will be broadcast on the LOGO channel. We’d like to ask you if you’d be willing to host a forum watching party in your home and invite your family, neighbors, and friends. The campaign would supply resources such as literature or suggested activities to encourage discussion. If this is something you’d be interested in, or if you just want to attend a house party, please message me as soon as possible. Can’t wait to hear from you!

Megan Liaboe
Assistant to the Deputy Illinois Political Director

Being with Obama campaigners is inspiring

john ferguson — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 19:29:33 EDT

Being with the other members of Denver4Obama is so inspiring. Especially moms who do this on top of all that it takes to be a mom. They don't do it instead of being mom's to their kids but by bringing their kids along and being moms while they campaign, or campaigning while they are being moms. Katherine and Nichole, you were both so great to be with, and to see with your children!

Dr. Bob and his partner Joe were great too. Their enthusiasm for the campaign bursting out in smiles was infectous and FUN. Thanks to you both.

I just looked at the video of the Barak dinner with the four grassroots campaigners. I was touched by the mixure of the four of them. A converted Republican who lost his job to outsourcing. the wife of a soldier in Iraq, a college student in a Red state, and an immigrant who just became a citizen from NYC. This is the America that is coming together to support Barak Obama just like us folks at Denver4Obama are. We are Obama America!

Obama? Bringing us all together

john ferguson — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 19:02:52 EDT

Last Saturday when Denver4Obama walked in the Boogaloo Parade I saw an single instance of what Obama's campaign is all about. It was a great FUN afternoon even though it was sooo hot. Even the sun cooperated by going behind some cloulds and giving us a sprinkling.

We passed out a pamplet and Obama stickers that folks really wanted to have -- reaching out to get them. It felt so good to see the enthusiasm they expressed in response to our expression. We were all high on Obama!

Its going to be a long campaign -- but it really looks like it will be a fun Campaign!

Opportunity for Pride Month

Megan — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 18:08:35 EDT

Dear Friend,

Thank you for taking an interest in the Obama campaign and joining my.barackobama.com. As you all know, June is Pride Month and that means events and parades around the country. If you are interested in helping organize Obama supporters at your local event, please send an email to Alex Okrent (aokrent@barackobama.com) with your location and how you are interested in helping. The campaign will put you in touch with other local organizers and the regional field desk so that all of your actions can be coordinated.

To find a list of events near you, please visit Link target="_blank" title="http://30boxes.com/widget/315871/AlexOkrent/5946472320b7f3bce64f60ef0b28d7c9/0/">Link . If you know of an event that isn't listed or if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch with Alex Okrent.

Thanks for your help!

An Important Message

Megan — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 18:05:50 EDT

Obama Statement on Pride Month | June 01, 2007

CHICAGO , IL-- U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) today released the following statement to commemorate Pride Month.

"Pride Month is a reminder that while we have come a long way since the Stonewall riots in 1969, we still have a lot of work to do."

"Too often, the issue of LGBT rights is exploited by those seeking to divide us. But at its core, this issue is about who we are as Americans. It's about whether this nation is going to live up to its founding promise of equality by treating all its citizens with dignity and respect."

"It's time to turn the page on the bitterness and bigotry that fill so much of today's LGBT rights debate. The rights of all Americans should be protected -- whether it's at work or anyplace else. "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" needs to be repealed because patriotism and a sense of duty should be the key tests for military service, not sexual orientation. Civil unions should give gay couples full rights. And those who commit hate crimes should be punished no matter whether those crimes are committed on account of race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation."

"This Pride Month, let's make our founding promise of equality a reality for every American."

Tough

MrsD2006 — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 02:17:27 EDT

So I have to tell you that the next few weeks and months are going to be hard. First of all, I am quitting smoking tomorrow....I am smoking my last one right now.

Secondly, I have been raised a very conservative Baptist and a Republican for 23 years. Just recently, I got fed up and started researching candidates on my own. That is why I'm voting for Barack in 08. But it will basically get me shunned from my family. Funny how standing up for your beliefs does that to a person.