Posts with the tag Denver

One Year Later… We’re Still Fired Up

Noah from Denver, CO — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:47:58 EST

On Tuesday November 4th, Neighborhood Teams from Longmont to Carbondale met to celebrate our work over the past year and plan next steps on organizing for health insurance reform. The event in Grand Junction had 90 attendees. At the Capitol Hill event in Denver, volunteer Venita Currie signed-in more than 80 people.

West Denver Regional Field Director, Alfredo Fletes, and Community Organizer Pat Salazar-Vine were very happy with how many people came to their event. Pat has been working for health insurance reform with Organizing for America for months, and this was a wonderful confirmation of her hard work.

Joesph Soto is an Organizing for America high school intern from Aurora. He had this to say:

I loved the event. It gave me a renewed sense of optimism about the President and being an advocate of his legislative agenda. It was great to connect with some folks from the Obama campaign, and even more so, to say that I'm an active and involved part of what will eventually change the country.

Neighborhood Team Leader Laura Avant helped attendees sign-up to volunteer for “Finish Line” phone banks. Everyone was eager to take part in these events because they will send a strong message to our members of Congress when they need to hear from us the most – right before the votes!

Volunteers also shared stories from election night 2008, remembering how wonderful it felt to see our hard work culminate in real change by electing President Barack Obama. Everyone agreed that these memories are an important source of motivation as we move forward and continue to fight for change. Send a quick e-mail to OFAColorado@dnc.org to join up with the Neighborhood Team active in your area.

Update: Health Insurance Reform passes the House of Representatives!

Join us for a thank you event this Thursday, November 9th.

Rally in Denver, Ironies

Nina — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 22:16:12 EDT

After having called up folks to try to boost attendance for Friday's rally in Denver, I must note with a certain irony that many of the people who couldn't come, couldn't do so because of health concerns, appointments, disabilities, etc. That's says a lot in and of itself. But lots of people were supportive!

An idea whose time has come: IRV

tinker.tc — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:22:32 EST

When elections are close the most important votes are always the ones that weren't counted and that includes especially all the votes that went to neither of the neck and neck runners, but to other candidates. Which of the top two would they have voted for?

Many folk are seeing the light in the two very tight Senate races. How would Instant Runoff Voting have made a difference? Then there are the controversial high profile appointments in Illinois and New York!

The editor of Denver Forgotten Communities Examiner says, "Instant-runoff voting has been tried in municipalities in the United States. It should be tried in statewide elections. The place to start would be in elections for U.S. Senate vacancies. Take the power away from the Governor to make an appointment and let the people vote in a single election with an instant runoff. We will end up with better senators." You can visit:

http://www.examiner.com/x-1173-Denver-Forgotten-Communities-Examiner~y2009m1d6-We-will-have-better-senators-with-instant-runoff-voting

to find out why he has come around to this opinion.

I have started a group: Obama Supporters for Instant Runoff Voting in Tompkins County, NY. Please feel welcome to visit us, help us, and see how we go about working on it locally.

Your Choice:...Food, Clothing or Shelter

Stephanie Sulger RN, MS — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 17:48:15 EST

Yesterday evening I moderated a community discussion group in Denver about Health Care Reform, the Environment and Education. The goal was to identify the biggest areas of concern within these topics and to plan service projects that would address the issues.

Needless to say those who attended became overwhelmed and quickly caught up in a haze of thoughts about where to start. Should we look for the person who started these problems? How intertwined is each issue with the next? How do ordinary citizens analyze where the corruption is and take ethical actions to help heal our country and then create new systems? It took a discussion that was sometimes very frustrating, but in the end rewarding, to realize that unless we address the basic needs of food, clothing and shelter in our communities that, among other things, medical care, the environment and education will take care of themselves – people might not survive long enough to need them.

Some of the concrete numbers of those ‘going without” are entirely frightening. An estimated 5 million seniors regularly sacrifice food to pay bills. At least 29% (almost 1/3) of Americans skip medical care to pay for basic food, clothing or shelter.

According to the US Department of Agriculture over 12 percent of Americans (36.2 million adults and children) did not have enough food to maintain active and healthy lives in 2007 and nearly two million US jobs have been lost.

The U.S. Energy Information Agency estimates that this year, heating a home with oil, will increase 33% from last year and is a 117% increase since 2004. The cost of heating a home with natural gas has gone up 30% since 2004. The cost of heating with propane, which heats homes in many rural areas across the nation, has increased 23% in the last year and 73% since 2004.

Foreclosures are up: 1.2 million. This number is a 42 percent increase from 2005. The percentage change in foreclosures is up a 700 percent from 2005 to 2006.

These numbers are not all about those you see living on the streets – they are also your neighbors. Some of them live in my nice, comfortable neighborhood in Denver – for now anyway, until they miss another mortgage payment and receive a foreclosure statement or lose their jobs and begin worrying about food and clothing and then can’t pay their mortgage or rent.

And does it really matter how it happened or who is responsible for fraudulent mortgages or overspending. Not really; not today anyway. The problem is way too big for blame.

What the community group decided last night was to begin a campaign of fund raising to help a family in danger of losing their home. One group, collecting money for one family – simple. Our goal – change. Another group we work with is doing a food drive in January - another action that doesn’t take weeks, months and years of planning, proposals, vetoes and votes. It’s just people helping people. Perhaps that’s where we went wrong way back – maybe we thought people were someone else’s responsibility.

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY

WEBMASTER — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 02:26:14 EST

The Pickens Plan: For those who would like to become an active participant in a solution for our nations energy needs I urge you to join with T.Boone Pickens in his quest for a cleaner planet through alternative energy.

Also see Green Wave Energy: Green Wave was founded by Mark Holmes and was formulated for viable alternative energy solutions. Green Wave Energy is promoting state-of-the-art energy-saving products and services throughout the country.

Green Wave Energy understands alternative energy technology will become “main stream” when

individuals and organizations understand that alternative energy technology exists and
when people see the economic benefits of using alternative energy technologies

Call 949.645.1701 for information on how Green Wave Energy can help you save the planet.

Alternative Energy
Source: David Apperson

url: http://veterans.barackobama.com/page/community/tag/alternative-energy

SE Metro Denver suburbs have new progressive website!

Nancy Cronk — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 20:04:47 EST

Hi,

I have created a new website for progressives in the southeast Denver area suburbs. I hope you will check it out, let me know what you think, make suggestions, bookmark it, and check back often! My vision for this site is to post announcements, share information, and keep us all connected in between elections.

http://pineycreekprogressives.homestead.com/index.html

YES WE CAN!

Nancy Cronk

OBAMA FOR KENTUCKY [ 1 ]

WEBMASTER — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 22:40:31 EST

Aberdeen * Adairville * Adolphus * Ages Brookside * Albany * Alexandria * Allegre * Allen * Allensville * Almo * Alpha * Alvaton * Anchorage * Annville * Argillite * Arjay * Arlington * Artemus * Ary * Ashcamp * Asher * Ashland * Athol * Auburn * Audobon Park * Augusta * Aurora * Austin * Auxier * Avawam * Bagdad * Bakerton * Bandana * Banner * Barbourville * Bardstown * Bardwell * Barlow * Baskett * Battletown * Baxter * Bays * Bear Branch * Beattyville * Beaumont * Beauty * Beaver * Beaver Dam * Bedford * Bee Spring * Beech Creek * Beech Grove * Beechmont * Belcher * Belfry * Bellefonte * Bellevue * Belton * Benham * Benton * Berea * Berry * Bethany * Bethelridge * Bethlehem * Betsy Layne * Beverly * Bevinsville * Big Clifty * Big Creek * Big Laurel * Big Sandy * Big Spring * Bighill * Bimble * Blackey * Blackford * Blaine * Bledsoe * Bloomfield * Blue River * Boaz * Bonnieville * Bonnyman * Booneville * Boons Camp * Boston * Bowen * Bowling Green * Bradfordsville * Brandenburg * Breeding * Bremen * Brodhead * Bromley * Bronston * Brooklyn * Brooks * Brooksville * Browder * Brownsville * Bruin * Bryants Store * Bryantsville * Buckhorn * Buckner * Buechel * Buffalo * Bulan * Burdine * Burgin * Burkesville * Burlington * Burna * Burnside * Bush * Busy * Butler * Bypro * Cadiz * Calhoun * California * Calvert City * Calvin * Camp Dix * Camp Springs * Campbellsburg * Campbellsville * Campton * Canada * Cane Valley * Caneyville * Canmer * Cannel City * Cannon * Carlisle * Carrie * Carrollton * Carter * Catlettsburg * Cave City * Cave Run Lake * Cawood * Cecilia * Center * Centertown * Central City * Cerulean * Chaplin * Chappell * Chavies * Cisco * Clarkson * Clay * Clay City * Clayhole * Clearfield * Cleaton * Clermont * Clifty * Clinton * Closplint * Cloverport

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McCain vs Obama Rallies

Rachael Nike — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 22:01:58 EDT

Today I was searching on YouTube to watch Barack's rally in PA. It was an awesome rally and once again I have been inspired that Barack brings hope back to the States. Maybe once again we can live in peace, not be a joke around the world, and live each day as we should...... happy, healthy, and loved. Now with that said... I clicked on a link to the McCain Palan Rally. The pictures of the "americans" in line for the rally truly disturbed me. They were yelling names, lies, and hatred all pointed at Barack. Why does the media not show the truth to what is really happening at these HATE fests...... It makes me ashamed of what our country has become and that we truly don't know how to love and respect each other. When I saw Barack in Denver on Saturday, I truly cried because I felt all the love in a crowd of 100,000. We all talked and laughed and spoke to each other with repect. I did not hear hate, or slander, or stupid comments about any one. I didn't feel race, color, or agenda except for a need to change. With that said. Please do some research on the internet, spread the news to any one that will listen. Grab a neighbors hand and help them vote. Go help out on TUesday and get everyone you know to vote that can!!!!!!!

Reflections on Denver's Early Voting Rally

Todd Parker — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 01:58:50 EDT

On Sunday, October 26th Barack Obama delivered a powerful speech to more than 100,000 people assembled in an Early Voting Rally held in Denver's Civic Center Park. It was his largest audience to date and I was fortunate enough to be a part of it. The following post provides my account of the event.

Volunteering in Colorado

Brenden Kendall — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 17:40:08 EDT

I had the pleasure of volunteering for the Obama campaign in Denver, CO, this weekend. I drove to Englewood, just south of Denver, Friday evening. Saturday and Sunday were full days - knocking on doors, talking to residents, attending training, facilitating the Denver rally. I met many active, energetic, hopeful people - each one of them working ardently to make change in our national political system. Sunday's rally, with near or more than 100,000 people gathered in downtown Denver, was exciting, energizing, and moving. Now back in Salt Lake City, I will continue knocking on doors, supporting local candidates. But, I will also return to the phones, calling the good people of Colorado, sharing my aspirations for our country. I encourage you, too, to give at least a few hours of your time. My trip to Denver was not a sacrifice; the community and movement I discovered there was a gift from those active friends and citizens making change near their home and across the nation.

Key quotes from Obama's Speech in Denver Civic Center Park

Todd Parker — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:36:41 EDT

On Sunday, Oct 26th Barack Obama held an Early Voting Rally in Denver's Civic Center Park, attracting an estimated 100,000 people, his largest audience to date. Obama delivering a powerful speech that lasted just under thirty minutes. Though many of the words have no doubt been heard before along the campaign trail, i was inspired to transcribe large sections of it.

New Video - Obama's Early Vote for Change Rally in Colorado

Fireside Production — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:22:40 EDT

Fireside Production is there as more than 100,000 people gather in Denver for Barack Obama's Early Vote for Change Rally.

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

Please check it out, rate it, comment on it and SHARE!

100,000 in Denver!

Scott S. — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:39:15 EDT

All I can say is WOW!

This was our first Obama rally that we ever attended. We could never attend the previous ones because of our work schedules (he was always here during the weekday in the past). Let me just say that my girlfriend and I were totally overwhelmed by the massive amount of people at this rally. It started at 11:30 so we figured we'd get there about 10am. We thought this would be early. Boy, were we wrong. Driving through Denver, we were astounded to see lines (sometimes 4 or 5 people deep) winding around the entire Civic Center Park and snaking in and out of every single surrounding block. It was a mix of young and old, black, white, rich, middle class and poor. But what they all had in common was the hope for change and to get a glimpse of the man who has jumpstarted the whole movement and has given it a voice.

It took about 15 minutes to find a parking spot about 5 blocks away but we managed. While walking to the event, we were again dumbfounded to see the line of people stretching for a mile in all directions. We had NO idea where the line started or where it ended! After circling around an entire block, we finally found the end and settled in to make our way to the park.

What was so amazing about this crowd was that there was nothing but positive energy! Some people had been there since 7 in the morning (and some even earlier, I'm sure), but the crisp fall temperatures and breeze didn't dampen anyone's spirit! We ended up making quick friends with a couple from Denver. She was a staunch Democrat while he had recently made up his mind to vote for and even volunteer for Barack. He had never voted Democratic in his life. This is the type of story that has been echoed hundreds of thousands of times across the country. Hope and change knows no party affiliation!

As we winded our way through to the park past vendors flaunting t-shirts, buttons and signs, it became apparent we wouldn't be able to get into the bowl of the park to get close to the stage, so we were redirected by DPD to take an alternate route to the outskirts of the bowl. As we approached the park, we were once again astounded. For as far as the eye could see, there was a sea of people stretching in all directions, from the City Courthouse all the way back to the state capital building steps! Unfreakinbelievalbe! People were standing on garbage cans and the marble walls surrounding the park, on the tops of surrounding builidings, clinging to light poles and trees, and some even ventured to climb up the forklifts holding the massive speakers lining the park area...all just to get a glimpse of Barack!

My girlfriend and I literally got stuck a few times trying to get closer, but we decided to move to the outer perimeter onto the road separating the park and the state capital building. This turned out to be a pretty good place to be. it was amazing, we looked toward the park....tens of thousand of people...we looked back toward the state capital building...tens of thousands of people...to the right thousands...to the left thousands.

It was simply awe-inspiring to be part of history like this. It was heartening to know that so many have awakened from the "slumber" we've been in the past 8 years.

We did run into a couple McCain/Palin supporters, but we both held our comments. We are here to make a positive difference and include everyone. Unlike many of the McCain rallys I've seen on TV, where those with opposing viewpoints where figuratively "tarred and feathered", this crowd was nothing but positive, even towards the couple of guys holding "We Don't Want the Kind of Change Obama Offers" signs. It's America, they're entitled to their views. That's what made this country great and what the forefathers envisioned.

Although we were never able to get a glimpse of "the man" we were able to hear every word crisply. A few dignitaries spoke and right at noon, Barack emerged. Even he was suprised by the throngs of people. "Goodness Gracious!" he said, "Does Denver do anything small?" The crowd rebutted with "Never!" Much of the speech repeated the talking points of his past speeches with many comments aimed at Coloradans, interspersed with chants of "Yes We Can" and "O-B-A-M-A".

After 40 minutes, our feet became weary and our stomachs started to growl for lunch, but it was DEFINITELY worth it! If and when this man becomes president in 9 days, we'll be able to look back and tell our kids we were there to witness a little bit of history and be part of the change we've been waiting for!

The Obama Bacon Man song and video, filmed in Denver, launched today

Bacon — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 22:21:33 EDT

Hi! This is our first single and music video, launched this morning while Obama was on his way to the rally in Denver: Obama Bacon Man... I was trying to find someone who could play the mp3 of this song once instead of those six songs that they played over and over and over at the rally, but that didn't happen.

You can't embed youtube videos on this site, so go here for the full Obama Bacon Man music video.

Note: That is Michelle Obama you hear talking at the 1:04 mark. That snippet is from the June 18, 2008 episode of ABC's The View, where they're talking about breakfast foods.

My First Post!

Bryan D. — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 09:54:32 EDT

Well this is my first blog post ever. Not just on Obama's page but ever...anywhere on the internet. Never really saw myself as the blogging type but I feel inspired lately.

I figure I should start this off with a little general information about myself. I am a 25 year old professional living in Denver, CO. I recently moved here from Florida after graduating from Florida State University. Go Noles!!!

Back on topic. --> Barack Obama is a very captivating figure with ideas that really speak to my demographic. I can't wait for election day! Hopefully smooth sailing until then.

Editorial Page Victories Clarify: Obama will win 2-1 in Electoral College! 4 part compendium: Endorsements at OpEdNews: Washington Post, Houston, Detroit, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Chicago, Salt Lake,Philadelphia, Portland, Bangor, Sacram

Stephen Fox, Contributing Editor New Mexico Sun News — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 12:56:46 EDT

OpEdNews has been the site of choice to post the growing list of major and minor newspaper endorsements for Obama. The Editorials are quoted generally in full, with interspliced commentaries from major editors and commentators, explaining what is behind the Editorials.

Part I Obama's Editorial Endorsements: including Washington Post, Fidel Castro, Richard Lugar, Chuck Hagel, & more!

http://www.opednews.com/articles/Obama-s-Endorsements-The-by-Stephen-Fox-081016-633.html

*******

Part II Editorial Page Endorsements of Obama Denver Post, Chicago Tribune, San Francsico Chronicle, Los Angeles Times

http://www.opednews.com/articles/Editorial-Page-Endorsement-by-Stephen-Fox-081017-544.html

********

Part III New Endorsements: Salt Lake City Tribune, Bangor and Brunswick, Maine, Philadelphia, Miami, Portland, Kansas City

http://www.opednews.com/articles/Endorsements-Salt-Lake-Ci-by-Stephen-Fox-081018-476.html

********

More Obama Endorsements IV: Sacramento, Katie Couric, Malaysia, Houston Chronicle, Detroit, Waco Tx (sort of)

http://www.opednews.com/articles/More-Obama-Endorsements-IV-by-Stephen-Fox-081019-492.html

McCain hurting for Women

Math Princess — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 12:31:34 EDT

Just got off the phone with McCain's Centennial office. I asked about tickets for his Women ONLY Town Hall meeting, still available doors open in 4 hours and they still have tickets. I don't them that I'm already downtown and I didn't want to drive all the way down there for tickets... here's the kicker... "that's okay", "we'll have them at will call for you at 1:30". HAHAHAHAHHAH SAD!! 1,000 person venue and they can't even give them away! I didn't get the tickets because they asked for my name and I don't want to be on that list. Can't wait for the debate tonight! Hope you all enjoyed this as much as I did.

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

Looking Back and Forward

Henry M — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:58:24 EDT

Read the whole thing and pass it along!

Obama & the Conquest of DenverBy Michael Chabon, The New York Review of Books

...
The problem was not Obama; the problem was that at the instant when Hillary Clinton at last conceded, the nature of the campaign changed. It was, I considered (perhaps under the influence of the kind smile and exhortatory squeeze on the arm bestowed on me by Jimmy Carter, president of my darkest adolescence, as he passed me in the doorway of a LoDo Mexican restaurant), like the change that might occur between the first and second volumes of some spectacular science fiction fantasy epic. At the end of the first volume, after bitter struggle, Obama had claimed the presumptive nomination. We Fremen had done the impossible, against Sardaukar and imperial shock troops alike. We had brought water to Arrakis. Now the gathered tribes of the Democratic Party—hacks, Teamsters, hat ladies, New Mexicans, residents of those states most nearly resembling Canada, Jews of South Florida, dreadlocks, crewcuts, elderlies and goths, a cowboy or two, sons and daughters of interned Japanese-Americans—had assembled on the plains of Denver to attempt to vanquish old Saruman McCain.
Suddenly it was hard not to feel that we were, once again, teetering on the point of something momentous, but something different than the previous momentousness. It was time to get serious. It was time to put on a little Curtis Mayfield (whose “Move On Up” has been one of the campaign’s unofficial theme songs) and take stock of our forces, our resolve, and the odds against us. It was time to take the fight directly to the Padishah Emperor himself. Game on was the nerdy expression I kept hearing people use.
...

Henry M

Anti Palin and McCain Rally in Denver on Monday, Sept 22

Rita from Denver, CO — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 22:40:10 EDT

I hope everyone will be attending the Kiss McCain and Palin Goodbye Rally on Monday, Sept 22, 12pm at the Capital. Here is more information:

http://www.progressnowaction.org/page/s/KissGoodbye

We Have To Be Tougher Now--report from Boulder, CO

Madama Ambi — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 14:39:16 EDT

"They have misjudged us. Just because our political heroes were murdered does not mean that the dream does not still live, buried deep in our broken hearts." Joe Biden September 1993 New Jersey State Democratic Convention, Atlantic City

To My Friends and Family--some of whom are freaking out or undecided or worried

Lately I’ve been struggling to bear the turn things have taken in the presidential campaign. Every time someone wants to talk to me about how horrible it is, show me more evidence of the terror in the polls, the lies of all kinds, tricks to forestall young and minority voters, I feel like a nail is pounded deeper into my heart. It’s been a long haul. I’m tired and crabby, and I only started volunteering in January. There are people who have been giving their hearts for 19 months.

So I have something to say. We are only weeks away from election day. We still have a brilliant tough strategic unblinking candidate with a vice presidential partner who can hold his own with anyone. (Let me know if you want to hear my story of listening to Joe Biden at a women’s economic round table discussion in Denver or excerpts from his biography).

I wonder why we seem surprised at the turn things have taken.

read Marjorie Larner's full essay here

Marjorie Larner is a writer and educator and co-chairs a team of volunteers for Obama '08. She is also my oldest and dearest friend.

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

Obama-Biden buttons & 1960's embossed foil

Via Delia — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 02:56:44 EDT

I just got all the components together to start making Obama-Biden buttons, and will start working on those tomorrow. I got so busy yesterday that my husband convinced me to hire a temp staffer to help with bagging and cutting up super cool paper.

Speaking of paper, I bought ALL the remaining 1960's embossed foil booklets from a family company in Portland, Oregon. They are uniquely gorgeous, and I get to make buttons out of them - woo-hoo!! They are like a foil version of Chinese brocade, like shimmering jewels - each one a dazzling display of color and pattern. Each booklet is stamped with the year. I had been only able to get 5 booklets at a time for the last entire year. After much begging, I was able to purchase the rest - glorious. The company is still in business, and was started in 1919 by the grandfather. The father, 86 still comes in every day. The sons run the operation. Well... I have set aside a few booklets to NEVER cut. Who knows if I will ever get a chance to see anything like them again.

Finally time to write after getting back from Denver!

Via Delia — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:18:41 EDT

I have finally caught my breath after an amazing trip to Denver. My husband stayed up until 4:00 AM each night making more buttons to FedEx to me, and I still came back empty handed. These little buttons started so many conversations!

Barack Obama's DNC Acceptance Speech (08-28-08)

Stephanie Williams — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 10:09:21 EDT

To Chairman Dean and my great friend Dick Durbin, and to all my fellow citizens of this great nation: With profound gratitude and great humility, I accept your nomination for the presidency of the United States.

The Democratic National Convention 2008 –Highlights

Stephanie Williams — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 09:59:23 EDT

My previous blogs have VANISHED (apparently into thin "web" air)!! Oh well, I am not going to spend anytime crying about that. I am also not going backwards (i.e., trying to repost items lost) because the election is less than 60 days away! That being said, I have few exceptions: highlight speeches of the historical 2008 DNC, Obama's acceptance speech, Fact Checking Gov. Sarah Palin and Republican Pres. Nominee John McCain's RNC Acceptance Speeches. With respect to the highlights of the 2008 DNC, I have compiled a list of my favorite speeches with links to the video. The list is in reverse chronological order. If, for some reason, a link is broken, you can always Google the speech or search for it on YouTube.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION

Denver, CO (August 25-28, 2008)

Pres. Nominee Barack Obama’s Acceptance Speech:

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

Sen. Joe Biden’s VP Acceptance Speech:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVH58DeUThg

Beau Biden Introducing his father, Sen. Joe Biden:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFNdA6fxKpo

Sen. John Kerry’s Speech:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dO2PAm4iCtE

Fmr. President Bill Clinton’s Speech:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3r6xvwPGcY

Sen. Hillary Clinton’s Speech:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=268ncnoitEc

Congressman Dennis Kucinich “Wake-up America” Speech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pE_eKhUC9rI

Gov. Deval Patrick (D-Mass) Speech:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAwKHriAj5Q

Michelle Obama’s Speech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTFsB09KhqI

Ted & Caroline Kennedy’s Speech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pE_eKhUC9rI

Denver - Thursday: with Barack and 79,999 others

Carolyn Sauvage-Mar — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 23:26:47 EDT

Thursday, Invesco Field, Denver

I am here early to get through security and take in this day of history. As I step down to the floor, rows and rows of empty chairs, framed by state signs, await delegates. A bluegrass band is warming up. Hundreds of journalists prepare for the story and I walk in the Denver sun past familiar and famous broadcasters – Wolf Blitzer, Katie Couric, Charles Gibson, chain-smoking Ted Koppel, Tom Brokaw…. The Democrats Abroad delegation’s seats are directly up against the booths of ABC, NBC, CNN, to the right side of the stage. We are across from Louisiana, next to Alabama, behind California. Very cool to watch the journalists work. CNN works the hardest; they hardly have time to look into the crowd as they are always facing the cameras. The other network staff seem to have a lot of time to snap personal photos, watch the crowd, pose for pictures and wave to the fans who inevitably shout “I watch you every night!”

All through the afternoon, people stream into the stadium. Delegates gather on the floor. The nosebleed seats fill steadily; Jerome, my husband, got a pass and is somewhere up there surrounded by the native Colorado-ans. Even after three nights of perfect political theatre, tonight people are telling each other they feel the call of history in this huge stadium.

Two things really stand out for me about this night.

Al Gore. The crowd loves him; the planet owes him. My gut reaction to his coming on stage was to feel the tragedy of the 2000 loss/stolen election. Gore’s message articulated this clearly: a lot of people didn’t think the election mattered all that much back then. The economy was okay. We were not at war. That luxury of nonchalance, if we ever had it, is gone. Politics matters. This election matters. Voting matters. Voting from abroad matters.

Barack Obama. As he comes onto stage, the crowd jumps on its feet, roaring welcome, 80,000 people believing together that we can elect a black man president. I am surrounded, crowded, by people standing and cheering. Waving flags. Crying, hugging. I can’t quite get out of my chair. Overwhelmed by the moment.

Barack says he accepts the nomination. In that moment, I feel disbelief giving way to something else, months of fight and anticipation fading into the terrain of a more familiar political moment. Here is Barack Obama, giving an amazing acceptance speech. But he is here, inside Invesco, inside the political system, leading the Democratic Party. Not an outsider, as Martin Luther King was. Not a long shot, not someone denying someone else a candidacy, not an up-and-coming, hugely talented political contender with potential. Instead: the Democratic Party’s nominee for President of the United States.

I rise with the other thousands in the stadium, and look up behind me at Donna Brazile on the CNN stand. She is looking at the crowd, looking at the stage where Barack stands. She doesn’t give anything away. She is watching with a kind of discipline. I am surprised she does not even smile.

But then, I am not crying in the way I expected to.

I am thinking that we need to get this guy elected. Tonight is an amazing night. But we need to go the full mile. I’m thinking what we will need to do to bring this one home, truly make history, and take our country back.

Denver - Tuesday: Unity

Carolyn Sauvage-Mar — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 23:16:31 EDT

Tuesday

Unity

By now it is clear that I am an occasional blogger-wanna-be. My credential for “occasional” is that I seem to be a day behind, irrelevant before I even post! Here goes anyway:

Of the thousands of things that are happening here in Denver, the press has focused on the Clinton-Obama rivalry and a messy Democratic Party that cannot work together to defeat McCain in November. They just love this storyline. Press interviews with journalists from around the world proved this to me – all of them asked about the state of the problematic relationship between Hillary and Barack, and their supporters.

Like there’s nothing else in the world to be concerned about. The real story is about the issues that are being talked about by thousands of citizens here, convened by the top advocacy organizations, thinkers and elected officials this country has to offer. Foreign policy. Health care. Choice. Getting out the vote. The environment. Jobs. Education. Treatment of veterans and their families. To name a few.

Tuesday was Hillary’s day and our delegation joined with the rest of this huge gathering to celebrate her candidacy and all that it has meant to her followers and our country. The Democrats Abroad Global Primary on Super Tuesday came out roughly two-thirds for Obama, one-third for Clinton. Our delegation represents that proportionality.

Margo Miller (UK) and Jo Ann White (Italy), Clinton delegates in our delegation, showed us the way to unity. Dressed in full Hillary regalia, Margo and Jo Ann worked the crowds and the press. Interviewers who clearly were hoping for/expecting a tirade, instead got Margo’s and Jo Ann’s sense of history and pride, their solidarity with the millions of women who have and will break barriers…. Along with their full commitment to Barack Obama as our nominee.

The morning’s Women’s Caucus was a huge event. A gigantic ballroom was filled with women of every age, stripe, color and geographic persuasion. We beat on our plastic tambourines to show our support for the many amazing women who spoke. This included Donna Brazile, Ellen Malcolm (the founder of Emily’s List, an early funder of women candidates), and many others. Each of them spoke of our commitment to each other and to our country to continue to fight for women to earn equal pay for equal work, to have access to health care, and maintain the right to choose. Great to witness how much progress we have made (dating myself with this remark….), to see young women identify as feminists, and to see so many women of color in that room. It’s been a journey to get this far. And everywhere was the influence and inspiration of Hillary Clinton.

The best moment of the day was Chelsea’s introduction of her mother, and Hillary’s speech, when the hall erupted in cheers and a sea of white Hillary signs. She gave a speech that was a tour de force. This night gave us a chance to celebrate and acknowledge her contributions.

And the quote of the day is from the Women’s Caucus:

“Women voting for John McCain is like chickens voting for Colonel Sanders.”

-- Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood USA & daughter of Texan Ann Richards

Denver - Sunday, Gettin Ready

Carolyn Sauvage-Mar — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 23:08:09 EDT

Sunday night – Preview Day

A whole lot of Americans are here in Colorado…..so much of my time is spent trying to find Americans in India, that it is actually weird to be back in a citizen-rich environment. All of them! Are! Voters!

Our hotel also houses the Florida delegation. There are a lot more of them than us, obviously. What we lack in numbers, we make up for as Most Jet Lagged Delegation Ever. The DA delegation -plus volunteers- has members from Japan, Thailand, Turkey, Spain, UK, France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, South Africa, Dominican Republic, Norway, Canada, Mexico, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Italy and of course, India.

It is beautiful out, sunny, clear and hot. The streets are not as fully loaded as in India, but there is an outdoor mela of inventive environmental products, protestors who are graphically anti-abortion, hawkers of Obamastuff, lots and lots of policemen who seem to like riding bicycles.

The first official event is the Interfaith Gathering. As we entered, kids pass out flyers advocating for the separation of church and state and against any future faith-based initiatives.

Being a Sunday, being a religious event, I was ready for something peaceful, perhaps contemplative…..but nah, immediately a shouting protestor about abortion had to be drowned out by putting the volume of the musical performers higher, and then hauled out of the convention center. Then another protestor started yelling, and the crowd started chanting O-BA-MA to drown it out….So much for contemplative.

The service included readings by an imam, priest, rabbi, pastor from Christian, Jewish, Buddhist and Islamic texts. There were drum-beating Native Americans and gospel-singing choirs. Not a cross, star, or HANUMAN idol, in evidence – instead, a vaguely Native American –looking symbol that might be used to sell, say, fair trade products. I figure that no one can take offense at a symbol that is so unfamiliar as to not look particularly religious. I seriously appreciated being in a place where faith could be acknowledged as the basis for the values and sense of justice that underpins one’s politics.

My husband, Jerome, and I met up with Stephanie Farqhuar , former DA India volunteer, and here as a delegate from Maryland. At a Maryland reception, we saw Elijah Cummings and the Gov or Maryland, and later had our picture taken with Phil Gramm.

On our way out of the hotel, we passed through the Massachusetts party, where John Kerry was speaking.

It’s amazing! All Democrats, all the time!

Joe Ruwe Goes To Denver /Day 4 - the Seats, the Speech, A Night to Remember

joe ruwe — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 02:18:28 EDT

Well, the final day of the DNC. Still cannot believe that I am here. Still cannot believe the dramatic pandamonium of yesterday. Bill, Kucinich, Kerry, Biden, Obama - holy smokes. My voice is almost totally gone.

Met up with Meta for breakfast. Feeling quite haggard from the events of last night, the late commute home, the early rise for credentials. Felt hungover but wasn't.

Everyone in the restaurant was abuzz with anticipation - you could see it and feel it. The two ladies next to us had a laptop open and a layout of the Mile High Stadium, trying to see where their seats were. They were kind enough to let us see ours too, and a series of other eager supporter lining up behind us. Seats looked quite good... Breakfast and lots of coffee but still no energy. Feeling tired and crappy to say the least. I was going to have to double my efforts.

We wandered briefly downtown but presently made our way to the Stadium. We had a hunch that the lines would be long and we were right. Woah.

Surprisingly, we made it in around an hour - which was far less than the average wait that we heard about later, 3-4 hours. We got there before 2 in the afternoon and the already-long lines were growing fast.

Being inside unleashed a great wave of enthusiasm, not just for me but to all who entered. Passing through the gates meant the great making of history. Tonight was the night. I cannot believe that we are here. Obama won the primary and is soon accepting the party's nomination. It's official. Wow. Woops and yells were spontaneous throughout the day, but few moments compared to the public thrill of passing through the gates in the Stadium of History.

The seats, were, well - you wouldn't believe me. Suffice it to say - I had a great, great view. My luck surely must have played out after this. The long series of amazing good fortune had continued and followed me right to my seat at the Stadium. After sitting down, I decided to stop taking notes the rest of the day, though I took a few hear and there. It was like a rock concert. A Hopefest. Hot, sunny, hopeful. Serious. Historic.

Stevie Wonder, Cheryl Crow, John Legend and will.I.am (a total and complete highlight if ever there was one), the yonder Mountain String Band (!), Michael McDonald, and an incredible Star-Spanged Banner by this amazing lady:

YouTube - Jennifer Hudson Sings National Anthem at 2008 DNC

and this:

YouTube - Democratic National Convention-Will.I.AM & John Legend

So that was definitely cool.

Bill Richardson got the crowd fired up, Tim Kaine rocked it a little, but the crowd saved the love for Al Gore. It was cool to watch as he strode to the podium - we all went wild. For a brief moment, everyone paid their respects to this amazing man - an author, Noble prize winner, Vice President and environmental legend. For a brief moment, 84,000 of us imagined what life would have been like if the neocons hadn't stolen those elections, and this man would have been our President.

Here it is:

YouTube - Former Vice President Al Gore speaks to the DNC

The guy is a legend in my book. 2000 was one of the darkest years in the history of our great democracy, but I won't get started...

He nailed it, the crowd loved it and the audience was electrified. My vocal chords were likely shredded and completely ruined. We were ready.

A procession of military generals lined the stage, including Wes Clark and others, and proceeded to provide a powerful backdrop of military might through their strong endorsement. Senator Dick Durbin, Obama's close friend in the Senate, gave a generous and warm introduction. Then it was on.

I'm sure you have seen it:

YouTube - Barack Obama at the 2008 DNC

I don't have much to add. Everyone around me was crying. I'm not kidding. As the fireworks were shooting off, the crowd still cheering, confetti raining down - we all knew that something was happening. Something had just happened. Change was coming. Change is coming. Everyone could feel it. I was high-fiving people I had never met, hugging women I would never know - and witnessing the great turning point of our country. The whole incredible week had led us to this point. All the great statemen, speakers, and stars had spoken on behalf of this man. It seemed like the whole world was behind him, if only temporarily. I will never forget it and I can only think of my friend MaryanneAZ who I still have not met, who gave me her trip so that I could be here. Thank you Maryanne.

The night was a party, everyone was celebrating. But I was tired, and I knew the hardest part of the campaign was just beginning. Two months of brutal Washington War. Good versus evil. Sanity versus insanity. Smears, lies, spin, and the GOP - I knew it would be getting dirty and the media would not help us. I was tired and I needed to get back to work. I pledged then and there, even though I didn't need to, that I would do something to get Barack Obama and Joe Biden elected every single day until Nov. 4th. I will not take a day off. Raising money, registering voters, spreading the word, spreading the truth, making phone calls, convincing people - I will do something every single day until these guys are in the White House.

They are our last best hope. These past 8 years have been too catastrophic for our country, too profound, to gamble with anything other than Obama/Biden. The GOP has practically ruined us. Just look around. How do you feel? How could anyone in their right mind even think about entertaining the notion of voting Republican this year? I don't get it.

But I know it won't be a landslide, even though it should be. I know that it will take all of us, every day until the end, to win this election. Too many forces are working against us.

So I say more than ever - this is our time to do something great. This is our time to save our country from ruin. This is our time to save and protect our democracy, something we now see teetering on the brink of disaster. THIS IS OUR TIME.

Get involved, spread the word, wear your gear, make a donation, write a letter to the editor, call your friends and family, know the facts, stay positive and focus! We can't not win this time, that's all there is to it. The stakes are too high. The danger is too great. Every one of us should consider this the single most crucial and profound election of our lives.

You can count on me to do my part and more.

I was in Denver and I saw what was happening. Something really is stirring out there. The media isn't covering it, and the GOP doesn't get it. The little guy is rising up again. The average citizen is getting involved.

Only two months to go, my friends. We can rest on November 5th.

Let's do this.

Yes we can.

One Buckeye's Story Convinces an Undecided at the Convention

Michael in Ohio — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 22:32:28 EDT

If you watched Barack's acceptance speech last Thursday night, you may have already heard of Monica Early. She was one of a handful of ordinary Americans who prefaced his speech with her own story of why she supports Barack. She also happens to be a citizen of Cuyahoga Falls, in the great state of Ohio.

What you probably don't know is the special impact of Monica's story. It's hard to believe, but there were a couple undecided voters at Invesco Field--and what Monica said put one of them over the fence. This article in Newsweek has the story, about Malissa Garcia, a 23 year-old hairstylist who had heard some slanderous rumors about Barack:

She arrived a skeptic. Unlike the hyperinformed true believers who make the most noise online and on the air-- and, incidentally, like the vast majority of Americans-- Garcia "hasn't been paying much attention to politics this year." Before tonight, in fact, she'd never seen Obama speak... Saying she was "worried" by an email she'd received, Garcia, a "serious Christian," ran through an abridged list of familiar false Obama rumors: he "doesn't say the Pledge of Allegiance" [and] he was "sworn in [to the Senate] on an Iraq Bible"...
Garcia said she was hooked when Monica Early of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio... confessed that she too had received a "scary email," but had discovered, after checking the facts, that "Barack Obama is a man of faith, a man of values and a man of action."

This movement is fueled by supporters like Monica, who fought the smears in front of 37 million viewers.

Joe Ruwe Goes To Denver /Day 2 - Credentials, Hillary Paranoia, Schweitzer and Dennis Kucinich

joe ruwe — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:34:33 EDT

The first lines in my journal regarding Day 2: "Big improvement over yesterday already. Things happening. Credentials - check. Positive vibrations throughout the town."

Tuesday was really the first true day of my DNC experience. The DCCC tracked me down and gave me credentials. I had only a vague knowledge of credentials, but at the Convention, they are a cool thing to have. A pass to get you around and involved in the action. Not only that - but the DCCC had a private skybox just above stage left for all three nights of the events at the Pepsi Center. Needless to say - I was styling.

Despite my auspicious start to the 2nd day in Denver, thoughts kept returning to Hillary. Don't ask me why. Perhaps the oppressive heat was altering my normal thought processes. As I wandered through downtown, joyous about credentials and a skybox seat, an insidious and alarming nervousness began to spread. As I wandered by newspaper machines, headlines screamed of Tension Within the Party, or a Possible Revolt by Hillary - things that played into my already unfounded paranoia. The heat, mixed with the moronic chants of pockets of Hillary-supporters-turned-McCain-supporters steadily fed my skepticism and slowly started killing my natural buzz of HOPE and CHANGE. What would Hillary do? Would she blow it all, her reputation and her legacy - just because she lost the primary? I shuddered. The word on the street was unease about the role of the Clintons in Denver. Hmmmm.

I sought refuge in a coffee shop, where open newspapers haunted my free time and plagued my thoughts about tonight at the Convention. I decided to just dive in. I'm going to the Pepsi Center right now, and Hillary better not blow it. I made haste down the avenue....

The Pepsi Center is cool. Literally and figuritively. It was the first real AC I had felt iin Denver, and the energy inside was amazing. I got there several hours early, just as the gavel was coming down and Speaker Pelosi was calling the Convention to order. It is an understatement to say that my seats were awesome. Unbelieveable, actually, as in - you would not believe me if I told you. I will try to find a picture for proof.

I was pleasantly surprised by a great speech from Iowa's Governor, Chet Culver. The guy could talk and he was well-liked here. David Patterson from New York followed to a rousing ovation from the half-filled auditorium. He gave an extremely forceful speech. I sat right above the band, which was directly next to the podium, so we had a great view and sound of the action both during and in between the speeches. I noticed beach balls being knocked around on the delegate floor. The air was alive with a fierce, raw energy.

I checked the clock: 4:00 p.m. Wow - still so early.

The Congressional Black Caucus came out to a standing ovation and stirred into a moving tribute to Stephanie Tubbs-Jones. Congressman John Conyers launched into a blistering critique of those old war criminals Bush and Cheney to hearty applause. His speech touched on the stolen elections of '00 and '04. He kept coming back to the chant: "NEVER AGAIN!" which the crowd echoed angrily.

My long-time hero in the Senate, Patrick Leahy took the stage next and gave a much quieter, but quite excellent speech on Rural America that went over well. Leahy lacked some of the fire of the other speakers but the man can do no wrong in my book, for the many times he has stood up to the Bush/Cheney criminal cartel as Chairmen of the Senate Judiciary Committee. I personally gave him the loudest ovation of anyone in the entire room.

The crowd was growing steadily in size and intensity. People could tell that tonight was a big night.

At around 5:00 pm, Dennis Kucinich (though not scheduled to speak) took the stage and launched into one of the highlights of the entire week. If you didn't hear about this speech, you better watch it now. The crowd went absolutely insane and I practically lost my voice on the spot due to uncontrollable bursts of shouting, yelling and cheering.

The guy threw it down and said what needed to be said.

YouTube - Dennis Kucinich * WAKE UP AMERICA!!!* Dems Convention 2008

All I can say is, after this speech, the crowd was instantly FIRED UP and never calmed down again.

I'm getting chills just thinking about it. Definitely one of my personal highlights from Denver.

Barbara Boxer from my own great state tried to follow that and did well. The crowd was too loud to hear much of what she said, but I was close enough to read the podium teleprompter, so I followed along. Kucinich's words were still ringing in my ears.

Believe it or not, Ed Rendell opened up a little can of whoop-ass on Bush and Cheney and had nothing but praise for Obama. I was surprised to be impressed with his forceful and seemingly genuine speech.

Speakers followed in rapid succession, Johnn Sweeney from the AFLCIO, Rahm Emmanuel, Steny Hoyer, Jennifer Granholm, Jim Whitaker, and two of my favorites: Napolitano and Sebelius.

YouTube - Governor Janet Napolitano (D-AZ)

and Sebelius:

Dnc - Sebelius

I'm not sure if the crowd was still fired up from Kucinich or what (maybe that was just me) but these two ladies went over extremely well. Both received standing, prolonged ovations.

More speakers continued, singing the praises of Obama and slamming Bush, Cheney and McCain for their abysmal failures and horrible performance - Ted Strickland, Bob Casey Jr., Mark Warner, Duval Patrick (great speech), and others.

The highlight of the night for me came when Brian Schweitzer took the stage. Now, I didn't know him that well before and I can tell you - HE MADE AN IMPRESSION. The guy was off the hook! I had no idea....

YouTube - Governor Brian Schweitzer (D-MT)

He blew the roof off the Pepsi Center, that's all I can say. It suddenly was pandamonium in the audience. Raving jubilation swept over the crowd. I think I saw confetti. I couldn't even hear the band just below me. It was awesome. I doubt the country would be ready for him, but I remember thinking, this guy could be President someday. Except Kucinich (in my book), this was the greatest speech of the night.

And then a strange thing happened. I started seeing a sea of white Hillary signs all across the crowd. The house was packed and everyone was starting to wave these Hillary signs. Random chants of "Hillary! Hillary! Hillary!" broke out spontaneously across the venue. A video tribute came on with syrupy and gentle music, and silly naration. I feared for my safety and my sanity. My blood pressure started rising. Late primary nausea and shivers broke out across my body. Sweats. Chills. What was happening? The enthusiasmm in the crowd was getting uncontrollable. I wondered where I was - I had somehow gone back in time to a Hillary rally in PA or West Virginia! My notes in my journal read something like this: " WTF? What the hell is going on? OMG - is this a Hillary rally? Thinking about throwing up. Shudders and sweats. Weird, very weird. Fear and loathing in Denver. Totally over the top and worrisome. Skepticism rising. Rapidly."

I was @#$#ing nervous.

Hillary came out and got the old 5-minute standing ovation. A smug and annoying Bill looked on, proudly. It seemed like a bad dream. Ten minutes in, she started talking about Barack. Kind, forceful and to the point. I was expecting more. Maybe I was too shell-shocked at the introduction, the signs, the feel-good video and the crazy crowd, to think clearly. But I was unsatisfied. Something was still missing.

She ended with another 5-minute standing ovation but I was nervous. I didn't see her giving it her all. She never said "Obama is ready." I had to process. I exited the Pepsi Center with e few people from my skybox and scrambled for safety.

I found a joint called the Cheesecake Factory downtown and swaggered in. I had no need for cheesecake, but found solace in a pint of strong margarita, Don Julio. Sippin away, my brain swirled. I scanned my notes. Wow, I was here in Denver. I had just seen Senators, Governors, Congresspeople and the Speaker of the House from less than 100 feet away. A couple of days ago, I had been working hard in Santa Cruz, landscaping, thinking about the family and the Streak, and tonight I was pondering the incredible history being made before my very eyes. I could not get that oddball, amazing patriot Dennis Kucinich out of my mind. The guy was awesome. And Schweitzer! Holy @#$#. Leahy, Boxer, Warner - all stepping up to support our guy Obama and plead for change in this country. It all seemed so genuine. For some reason, my healthy skepticism and distrust of American politics (either party) faded temporarily, and it truly did seem like the Democrats were trying their hardest to unite this party and win this election. I was on cloud nine.

But I could not answer that pesky question. What about the Clintons? For some reason, her speech left me more uncertain than ever, and ever less satisfied that she was truly behind Barack 100%. I was puzzled, but the margarita was perfect.

I wasn't dissapointed. I can't explain it. I went to bed unsure. Tommorrow would have to be better, I was thinking. Something was missing from tonight, a nagging question, a mild let-down from the long series of fiery speeches that proceeded her. Was I just being biased? I would have to sleep on it. And slowly approaching 2 am, I fell asleep - questions swirling.

Wednesday - Bill's big night. I would have to prepare myself. Bill could do it. Bill could unite the party. If anyone can do it, old Bill can.

And the Streak was alive for the 98th day.

I smiled right before I nodded off...

Coming up: Day 3 - Meeting My Heros, Roll-Call, I Knew I Loved Bill and Obama Cameo......

My Mile-High Experience

Jane R. — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 09:50:20 EDT

I was one of the 80,000-plus supporters filling the Invesco “Mile-High” Stadium in Denver last Thursday. I felt more than a mile high in the vertigo-inspiring upper east section where I sat—one more example of moving beyond my comfort zone during this campaign! The event also marks the first time in my adult life that I have waved an American flag. And it didn’t even feel that odd—in fact, it felt downright joyful! It was an action of hope and belief and persistence. It was an acknowledgment of love of this country’s ideals and even love of the messy process we use to elect our leaders.

I drove out to Colorado on Wednesday with Susan, another precinct captain here in Des Moines whom I met walking in last year’s Iowa State Fair parade with the Obama contingent. Because I couldn’t fathom going all the way to Colorado and not being in the mountains, we drove straight to Estes Park. Thursday morning we arose early and entered Rocky Mountain National Park before 6:30 a.m. We bundled up and quickly hiked up to Dream Lake from the Bear Lake trailhead. Despite having hiked this trail many, many times, it never fails to inspire awe with its views of Longs Peak, sweet-smelling pine and aspen forest, cobalt sky, rushing stream, and today, gusty winds creating a white-capped lake below rugged Hallett Peak. We took a few photos, struggling at times to stay upright in the wind, then made our way back down. It was a brief mountain experience, but better than nothing, and was an excellent way to follow a long day of driving and to start what we hoped would be an exciting day in Denver. It was also a reminder of the need to elect someone who will protect such land from exploitation and short-sightedness!

From the road in Boulder, I called my sister-in-law, Carol, in Denver. She and my brother-in-law graciously agreed to put us up for the night in their Denver condo. Carol and her mom, Diane, were already on their way to the Iowa Democratic Party convention headquarters in the Marriott Courtyard downtown. After Susan and I had reached downtown Denver, Carol called and said she could pick up all four tickets and she just needed contact information from us to activate the tickets. After securing our credentials, they met us to lead us to the condo. I kind of regret that we didn’t stop at the Iowa HQ just to see it, but it was certainly more convenient to have Carol take care of it. I had hoped that Carol would also be able to attend that night (she insisted her mom take our fourth ticket), but her own request didn’t result in a ticket. Carol’s hospitality and support were so appreciated!

DNC -Denver- Adventure

Clarise Mason — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:21:48 EDT

Just back from the DNC in Denver. Lot's of great strategies. Great Obama Energy.

More details later. Local people were great ambassadors for their city!

DNC -Denver- Adventure

Clarise Mason — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:21:47 EDT

Just back from the DNC in Denver. Lot's of great strategies. Great Obama Energy.

More details later. Local people were great ambassadors for their city!

DNC Flush

Amber Garza — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 10:52:26 EDT

I'm back in DC after experiencing the awe and splendor that was the DNC. Details to come, but it was, quite simply, phenomenal. I didn't get into any of the convention stuff, but seeing the speech made it all worth it.

OBAMA IN DENVER

Lou — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 03:19:31 EDT

WELCOME OBAMA! We all are waiting for you. Not only in the USA, but all over the World...

http://it.youtube.com/watch?v=_PQiL4i54jM

Joe Ruwe Goes To Denver /Day 1 - Fear & Loathing by Bus, Plane and Light Rail - A Missed Meeting - and Meta

joe ruwe — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 23:54:29 EDT

Yep, I was there. I didn't plan to be, I didn't think I'd be, but I was. And man, was I surprised when I got there. A lady who I had never met had won a trip and then suddenly I was there, sent on her behalf. I knew I had stumbled into a miracle, with airfare and a hotel room, but beyond that - I was totally clueless. It fell in my lap, I only had a week to prepare, and I went and it was incredible. I went as a representative for the Joe Ruwe Fundraising Team, the Obama Blog, Santa Cruz, and Citizens For Change all throughout the world. I felt change and momentum and hope in the air every single day I was there. It would be my first time to see Barack speak in person. And many other legends of American politics.....

The biggest surprise, of course, was my email from MaryanneAZ the week before - telling me that she had won this all-expense paid trip to the DNC through the organization, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, and she wanted to transer it to me. Read this: Barack Obama | Joe Ruwe's Blog: MaryanneAZ That was the heart attack, fall-down, pass-out moment of the whole week. She had very little info for me, very few details, but it surely did not matter to me. Just get me to Denver and I'll see what I can do. Amazingly, the DCCC itself had virtually no information for me except my travel/lodging reservations. No problem. I felt a sudden and painful realization that I was totally underinformed when representing this historic democratic mechanism of nominating a President. I couldn't really even remember exactly what went on in a national convention. Speeches, confetti, a good band if you're lucky. ?Hmmmm... Woefully inadquate for a few moments, but it passed.

However - my world was about to be rocked.

I left for Denver Monday morning, scheduled to meet my DCCC contact at 5 pm at the downtown Hyatt Regency but due to flight delays in the beautiful, sweltering town of Phoenix AZ, I was late arriving. This was a nervous moment for me, since my 5 pm meeting would organize and essentially dictate the rest of my week. So, in the back of my mind, I started thinking - if I missed this meeting, which it looked like I would, the whole week would be reduced to mayhem and chaos. I had no DCCC contact info, no cell numbers, no nothing - just the adress and Mapquest of where to go to get to the Hyatt Regency. I am an idiot.

Needless to say, I missed the meeting. My plane had been too late for me to even have a chance. I found out later that I missed getting my credentials for the first night of the Convention. I missed getting into the Pepsi Center to see Michelle Obama and Teddy Kennedy, two historic and inspired speeches to say the least. We learned only that afternoon that Kennedy had made it to Denver and would be appearing onstage. Travelling by air sucks nowadays, that's all that can be said. You have to pay extra now to have the plane and its crew actually take your luggage with you on your trip. I paid 2 dollars for the very smallest bottle of water from a friendly flight attendant who seemed as embarassed as I was startled. A bottle of sunscreen was confiscated. I took off my flip-flops and walked through the X-ray barefoot, remembering travels by plane in my 20's with long hair and a huge beard. Official airline interactions always had suspicious and nervewracking undertones in the past, and my strange airline paranoia of yesteryear had subsided. As I watched the clock tick by that day, watched my flights delayed, my shuttle connections delayed - the eery sense of fear and loathing in a large, western city crept up on me, I fought to remain calm and hopeful. It was however, much like most things we worry about - no problem. Much greater things were in store.

As I ambled through the crowds in downtown, seeking strong drink to quench my thirst and soothe my nerves - I called meta, who had left me her cell phone number in case I made it to Denver. Well, I'm glad I missed my 5 pm meeting because I GOT TO MEET META!! Yes, it's true. And I can tell you that she is somehow even cooler and more amazing in person than she is on the blog. Incredible! We made our way to an overcrowed and overpriced, noisy joint and sat down outside to compare notes, talk about the blog and introduce ourselves. I skipped strong beverage in favor of a meal and a great meeting of the minds. With one eye on the convention that was visible on all the TVs around, we had a @#$%ing excellent few hours - eating drinking and being merry. We got to see Teddy on screen and shared the magic moment from Marlowe's - a classy little ripoff of a joint. Cheers meta! All my troubles from the previous hours vanished, all the dust from the trail from Santa Cruz to Denver somehow whisked away..... Ahh, the irony of worry! Everything always works out the way it should.

Among many other intriguing things, meta and I also agreed that despite a preponderance of sinister and depressing scandals and failures of the Bush administrations and the probable long-term, negative impact on the world because of these scoundrels - there was an underlying sense of seriousness, urgency and hope all throughout the town and quite possibly the whole country. People seem to be feeling that there is something going on in this country behind Obama. People are getting involved again. People are waking up. People are uniting and mobilizing. We realize that unless we stay engaged in our government, it can become hijacked and grotesquely distorted. 2008 will be a pivotal and crucial year for our great country. I gave meta an extra helping of Joe Ruwe Rants against the Machine for old times sake. I think Dick Cheney's name came up once or twice....

Hours later we parted, and I made it back to my Days Inn on the light rail and called it a night. Now, this needs to be a whole side-story on its own, because my Days Inn could not possibly have been any further away from Denver or the Downtown area and even remotely been still considered part of the Convention. We're talking a 10 to 15 minute walk to the light rail station, a 20,25-minute light rail to Downtown, and then footing it to reach the Hyatt or wherever else I needed to go. But Denver was packed to the gills, and I understood and I was happy to be there. In shock still, actually. Comical though, how many miles I walked and tickets I bought. Excellent light rail system in Denver, however. Clean city, on the outside at least.

The D.I. was not a bad little place - a free hotel is always a refreshing delight, so I hunkered down and watched CNN rebroadcast of the night's highlights, Michelle and Teddy's speeches. As I drifted off to la-la land, my wife called and told me that the DCCC had frantically been trying to reach me, had left multiple messages on my home phone instead of my cell phone (?) and were eager to meet me in the morning. Aha! Great news! Directions were given, instructions relayed, and critical cell phone numbers were recorded. Several days too late, but terrific news anyway. A great night had just gotten greater, and the next day promised to be even more incredible than this first Monday had been. I drifted off quickly with a smile on my face and an eageness to sleep through the night for only about the third time since my boy Desmond was born in December. Ah - the thrill of it all!

First day a success by almost all accounts. Though I had missed my meeting, I had met meta, Teddy had made it to the Convention and even delivered a speech(!), and although I missed Michelles speech, I would have opportunity to see her speak again... Plus, meta had told me that the Streak was still alive.

Incredibly, Day One was, highlighted by meeting up with the legendary meta - a great start to the week. Each day would get increasingly and exponentially more inspiring, moving and historic, as I would soon find out.

I thanked my lucky stars (MaryanneAZ) and slept like a rock for 6 hours. When you have an 8 month-old and a 3-year old, sleeping 6 hours is like hibernating for the winter.

I new that Denver and the Democratic Party hadn't even seen the beginning of Joe Ruwe yet.

Stay tuned for Day 2 and more highlights from Denver......

The Obamas Support Our Military at the DNC

Steph — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 15:22:47 EDT

Service in the military is community service.

I think many in the main stream media and even the public forget this. While we all laud the bravery of our service members, we frequently forget about the huge sacrifices military members (and their families) make. In some ways, most people can't even comprehend it. They sacrifice their homes, close relationships with their friends, family, and children. They sacrifice their lives. For us. To defend the Constitution of the United States.

We need to remember that the President is the commander-in-chief. Service members are not responsible for the decisions of the President. Participation in a war begun under false pretenses by our President does not make service in the military any less heroic. Of course, I should disclose that I cannot be a neutral observer on this issue. I am part of the national leadership for Blue Star Families for Obama a grassroots organization for those with family members who are serving or have served in the military. My father is an Air Force veteran. My husband is a Navy veteran (a "veteran" as of 2 weeks ago). My brother is currently serving in the Middle East and I want him to come home quickly and safely.

MaryanneAZ

joe ruwe — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:48:38 EDT

I'm not sure if you guys have heard this story, but it is certainly worth repeating. And all of it is true.

A couple weeks ago, I received a mysterious Omail that went something like this:

Sender: MaryanneAZ

Subject: URGENT message re. Trip to Convention

I have just been contacted by the DCCC that I have won an all-expense paid trip to the Denver Convention. I am unable to attend due to health issues and I immediately thought to ask if I could transfer my win to another supporter. The DCCC only does this in cases such as mine where I cannot go because of health reasons. The reason I am contacting you is that I am hoping to transfer my trip to you, or if you are already scheduled to attend, to another die-hard supporter. You don't know me beyond my posts on the blog, but I have noted your valuable contributions and I think it would be appropriate to pass on my good fortune to another die-hard supporter who has made a difference. Anyhow, I need to contact the DCCC immediately so please contact me.....

Maryanne

Can you believe that?

I almost had a heart attack. I almost fell down. I grew weak at the knees, I started to sweat and my hear rate increased.

Had I read that right? My name wasn't even in the message - surely this was some accident or mistake. I re-read the message a dozen times. Without consulting my wife or the Joe Ruwe Fundraising Team, I immediately replied that YES! I WOULD DEFINITELY GO!

So, when I finally spoke to sweet Maryanne in Arizona, later that day, it was all true. It was me she was talking about and yes - the DCCC would let her transfer her trip to me. It was all a dream. A whirling, unbelievable fantasy....

And so I went.

And it truly was extraordinary. And as soon as I can find the time, I will start posting the epic story of my week in Denver. Epic is the only word for it.

So I say thank you Maryanne, for this most extraordinary gift you have given me. When I saw Barack's speech from my incredible seat at Mile-High Stadium, I thought of you and what you had done for me. When I saw Bill and Hillary Clinton unite the party in historic and dramatic fashion, I thought of you. When I shook the hand of my hero in the Senate, Patrick Leahy, I thought of you and I told him about how I happened to be there. When I shook hands with the legendary Congressman John Conyers, I thought of you and how incredibly lucky I was and how unbelievably generous and inspiring you are in my book.

Being in Denver was truly historic. Beyond historic. And as I begin to tell my epic 5-day tale, you will understand why.

Thank you Maryanne. Thanks for thinking of me. I know many people who have done more for this campaign than I have, but I could never question why and how you chose me. I just went with it and made the most of it, like I told you I would.

I agree with you about many things, and our politics sound almost exactly alike! I also agree with you that nothing happens by accident, and I thought about that every day that I was there.

Your story, and mine, was quite legendary in Denver and within the DCCC, and now within the Obama/Biden community. You have inspired a lot of people, the least of which is obviously me, my wife and the JRFT.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart and I will never, ever forget last week or you - the person who made it all possible.

Now, I know in my heart, more than ever.......

Y E S W E C A N ! ! ! ! ! !

Your grateful friend in Santa Cruz,

joe ruwe

Danielle Was There

Madama Ambi — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 21:26:29 EDT

While she's waiting for her shuttle to get her back to D.C., Danielle phones it in: her excitement about being at Invesco Field on the night of Obama's acceptance speech, her deepening sense of what it means to be a Democrat, how her faith informs her politics, and where she's going next...

click here to listen...35:11 min.

Historic Faith Caucus Meetings Held In Denver

Rev. Chuck Currie — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 21:22:57 EDT

Two meetings of the “Faith Caucus” were held during the Democratic National Convention. These meetings were historic. It was the first time the Democratic Party had invited religious leaders to their conventions. Panels discussed issues of concern to America’s diverse religious community. I was there and you can read my reflections on the meetings here and here.

It was clearly evident from the gatherings that Barack Obama has developed a coalition of people who want deeply to end the divisions we face in this nation and to seek common ground in addressing our common challenges.

Being there to watch Barack Obama accept the nomination of his party to serve as the next president of the United States was simply awe inspiring. But I was also inspired each of the four days by meeting and hearing from people of faith from across our nation whose deepest beliefs have propelled them into action supporting Senator Obama's agenda of change for the future.

- Rev. Chuck Currie in Portland, Oregon

SPEECH/MCCAIN VP

Ethan — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 01:08:58 EDT

First of all the acceptance speech was incredible I went to my local Obama office to watch it and I was moved. The grace with which he was able to slam McCain was extraordinary. My favorite part was the section about how although government can help people still need to commit to things. In more recent news I am once again dismayed by the McCain campaign and there vp pick. The first time I heard this news on the radio I thought,"wow that is soooo smart they can win back hillary voters" but by the time I got to school I was thinking about just how stupid a move this was. 1. How can they think that Women, even independents are going to be swayed just because John McCain has a female vp? 2. They probably lost votes on the right and now they are probably lost for good. If he had picked Romney or someone like him McCain would have had a much easier going to get these voters. 3 This completely kills the Barack is inexperienced argument. McCain had a point and now he sounds hypocritical and in fact he is. If McCain wins and gets reelected he will be 80 when he leaves. Someone of McCains so called judgement should be able to understand that he is very likely to die in office and I wouldn't trust the country to her and I don't he would either. I could write more but its late so I'm gona sign off now.

We Are Fired UP!!!

Democratic National Convention Log - 22 August 2008

Gayle — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 23:15:03 EDT

The flight to Denver was a raucous 3 hour caucus. My newfound friends, Tim and Ellen shared reasons for volunteering, compared assignments and came to the conclusion Joe Biden would be the VP choice well ahead of the public announcement. We landed in Denver, resolved to stay in touch and of course I never saw either of them again during my weeklong stay. Denver International Airport was awash in red, white and blue bunting, American flags, and the DNCC . People were friendly, helpful and eager to please. I picked up my bags and headed to my hotel. My volunteer training session was scheduled to begin at 8:30am. and I needed a good night's sleep.

A newcomer braces for frenzy to come

Chip Roberson in Sonoma, CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 14:06:22 EDT

Sunday Evening, 24 Aug, 2008:

While attending the Democrat National Convention as an Obama delegate, I was blogging for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. Here is a link to my first blog post:

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080825/NEWS/808250393

A ticket to see history

Chip Roberson in Sonoma, CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:33:06 EDT

Friday Morning, Aug 28, 2008:

While attending the Democrat National Convention as an Obama delegate, I was blogging for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. Here is a link to my sixth blog post:

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080828/NEWS/808280239

A "Grand Slam" night

Chip Roberson in Sonoma, CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:27:02 EDT

Wednesday Evening, Aug 28, 2008:

While attending the Democrat National Convention as an Obama delegate, I was blogging for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. Here is a link to my fifth blog post:

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080827/NEWS/808270215

Unified, energized and embracing a new start

Chip Roberson in Sonoma, CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:19:16 EDT

Wednesday Morning, Aug 28, 2008:

While attending the Democrat National Convention as an Obama delegate, I was blogging for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. Here is a link to my fourth blog post:

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080827/NEWS/808270245

Putting party before candidate

Chip Roberson in Sonoma, CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:15:47 EDT

Tuesday Morning, Aug 26, 2008:

While attending the Democrat National Convention as an Obama delegate, I was blogging for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. Here is a link to my third blog post:

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080826/NEWS/808260270

"Illuminating" message from Denver

Chip Roberson in Sonoma, CA — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 13:09:06 EDT

Monday Morning, Aug 25, 2008:

While attending the Democrat National Convention as an Obama delegate, I was blogging for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. Here is a link to my second blog post:

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080825/NEWS/10250

Obama campaign buoyed by convention

John Cavanaugh — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 12:20:22 EDT

He sees an unusually strong jump in support after the carefully choreographed event in Denver.

By Peter Nicholas, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

DENVER -- Amy Pearl is the sort of Democrat who made the Barack Obama campaign nervous. A volunteer who ran Hillary Rodham Clinton's Palo Alto campaign office during the primary season, she had doubted Obama's experience and arrived at the Democratic convention here unsure how she would vote in November.

She left town Friday with her mind made up: She is for Obama.

For all the glitter of a convention that literally ended in fireworks, the Obama campaign's mission was a simple one: winning over the Amy Pearls. Obama entered the convention as the nominal head of a Democratic Party cleaved into factions -- one devoted to him, another to Clinton. The four-day convention was his best chance before election day to cement the two halves into a coalition that would serve as a durable and expanded political base.

Republican John McCain seemed eager to peel off aggrieved Clinton supporters with his choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate. But various women's groups and Clinton loyalists said Friday that the Palin pick wouldn't spur defections.

"Gov. Palin and John McCain are a good match because they both want to overturn Roe v. Wade, they both want to continue the failed economic policies of the Bush administration, and they both offer more of the same," said Ellen Malcolm, president of EMILY's List, which works to elect female Democratic candidates and endorsed Clinton in the primaries.

Buoyed by new poll results, Democrats wrapped up the convention feeling better about their prospects.

"We're going to beat the hell out of 'em in November!" exclaimed Don Fowler, a former Democratic National Committee chairman who backed Clinton during the primaries.

On the convention's most important night, Obama could not have asked for a bigger audience. Apart from the more than 84,000 spectators who watched him accept the nomination Thursday in a football stadium, the television audience smashed records. More than 38 million people saw him deliver his speech on TV, apparently a new high, according to Nielsen Media Research.

By the convention's end, the Gallup daily tracking poll showed Obama had taken a race that was dead even and built an 8-point lead. The margin could grow when the polling data account for everyone who saw the speech.

Obama's bounce exceeds that of his most recent predecessor. Democratic Sen. John F. Kerry lost a point after his nominating convention in 2004. The average post-convention bump for Democratic candidates since 1964 is 6.2 points, according to the nonpartisan publication National Journal.

Mending divisions in Denver was a feat of stagecraft, choreography and delicate ego-management. Crucial to the project was the Clinton family.

In the end, both Sen. Clinton and former President Bill Clinton cooperated with the Obama team. But former associates of Bill Clinton said he was initially unhappy with the speech assignment the campaign gave him. He was asked to talk about national security when he wanted the focus to be the economy. His wound up delivering a speech that touched on both.

One Clinton aide said Friday that the Obama campaign made no effort to force a single topic on the former president -- and that it would have been useless in any case. "People who understand him know he'll say whatever he wants to say," the aide said. "He will never give a speech on just one topic. Ever."

Despite his palpable disappointment over his wife's defeat, Clinton made it clear that he wanted Obama to win: "Last night Hillary told us in no uncertain terms she is going to do everything she can to elect Barack Obama," Clinton said Wednesday. "That makes two of us."

A convention meant to showcase Obama could have gotten wildly sidetracked by the roll call vote that played out Wednesday. Hillary Clinton had wanted her name entered into nomination. A roll call could have underscored the intra-party feuding. But Clinton aides said they yielded to the Obama campaign in the mechanics of the vote. It was cut off after 32 states and territories had weighed in, so as not to prolong the image of a party divided.

The capstone was when Clinton herself moved to end the voting and make Obama the nominee by acclamation. "Hillary moving for acclamation just put the Good Housekeeping stamp of approval on the whole thing," Fowler said.

Pearl, the Clinton volunteer from the Palo Alto area, said one consideration was especially important to her: Clinton's treatment at the convention. She didn't want to see Clinton disrespected.

On the final day of the convention, Pearl sent an e-mail to Democratic Party Chairman Howard Dean. She thanked him for working to give Clinton's "campaign and accomplishments full expression."

"It totally worked. I told you it would create more unity than trying to force unity by ignoring the divisions!" she wrote.

Dean wrote back in an e-mail: "I never had any doubt that Hillary would do what she did. She is a true star, putting the country ahead of herself."

Not all Clinton supporters are appeased. Reports are circulating that some state delegations browbeat Clinton delegates into voting for Obama. Asked if some delegates felt that kind of pressure, Olivia Anne Morris Fuchs, a Kentucky delegate who backed Clinton, said, "Absolutely."

But others are prepared to let the long fight end.

Lorraine Hariton, a Clinton delegate, said: "There are various stages in the grief process. I'm at a place where I've moved on and realized how important it is for us to win the White House and go on."

peter.nicholas@latimes.com

Obama and Vermont

MapleMama — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 05:42:30 EDT

I am SO thrilled that Obama WILL BE the next president of our nation. What an inspiring convention filled with brilliant speeches, party healing, our friend Joe Biden, and democratic action.

And to the Vermont delegation to the convention, I am so proud of you! I am sorry you didn't get to participate in the roll call, but I was thrilled to see your participation in the delegate service day (nice playground!), proud to see Senator Leahy speak about Rural America, and thankful for Philip Baruth's blogging!

Congrats one and all! Now, let's get working towards November!

Video of Barack Obama & The Historic DNC

Fireside Production — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 23:53:26 EDT

Fireside Production captures this historic week at the Democratic National Convention in Denver. It all culminates with Senator Barack Obama's acceptance speech. Supporters now reflect... and ready for the general election. We hope you'll check out this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aR5INDCaTBI

Acceptance Speech

Corey Vent — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 16:43:20 EDT

Great speech last night, got me all fired up. And wow, there were a LOT of people there. Over 80,000 people is what I heard. Who else could bring people together like that but Barack Obama? I am indescribably glad that have had the chance to witness this historic campaign, and also that I will be able to see Senator Obama in the White House. Its this kind of thing that makes me proud to call this country home.

Barack's speech watched across New Hampshire

Brian - NH HQ — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:56:55 EDT

Convention watch parties were held all across New Hampshire so people could share their experience listening to Senator Obama accept the Democratic Nomination for President of the United State. The message message was change and the message carried the need for action.

Below is a slideshow from many of them in New Hampshire. Join those in the photo in talking to New Hampshire voters about Barack Obama and Joe Biden. The hard work is worth the reward and we cannot change politics without you!

From Dave Choate at The Portsmouth Harold:

Brewery party a celebration of Dem nominee

PORTSMOUTH -- As Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama accepted his nomination in front of 84,000 in Denver, dozens of Seacoast supporters cheered him on from 2,000 miles away.

Those supporters packed the lower floor at The Portsmouth Brewery downtown late Thursday night to celebrate Obama's candidacy with drinks, food and conversation. Amid the chaos, nearly every person in the room sat or stood riveted to the big screen television during speeches by Democratic luminaries such as Al Gore, greeting his remarks with applause.

Obama staffer Ellen Whelan-Wuest told the crowd that volunteers would be needed for what she called the "weekend of action" over the next few days, with supporters pushing hard in the community for the candidate. She said Thursday night would go down as an important occurrence in American history.

"We want to stress that tonight is a celebration," she said.

Volunteer John Tackeff wasn't difficult to spot as he stood by the door to sign up interested supporters. He said he began volunteering with the Obama campaign about a year ago and he agrees with most of the candidate's policies on the economy and health care.

Supporters with Obama stickers and buttons said they favor him because of his policies and his personality. Monica Greenleaf of Portsmouth said she hopes Obama would be able to aid in improving the economic situation of the country.

"This country needs someone with his intelligence, honesty and values," Greenleaf said.

Joe and Adrianne Harrison said they were also out to hear Obama's speech and support the candidate. Joe Harrison said he isn't normally a very politically active person, but both spoke about volunteering.

"I feel more socially aligned with Obama," he said. "I feel strongly that this country needs to change direction."

For more information on volunteering for the campaign, visit

NH.barackobama.com.

From Adam Krauss at Foster's Daily Democrat:

On an historic night, locals listen and celebrate Obama's nomination

For the "proud Marine mom who's scared to death," Barack Obama's acceptance speech late Thursday night gave her hope.

For the former National Guardsman who reluctantly admitted he just turned 30, the moment reaffirmed his belief in the idea of a leader.

And for the 64-year-old man who never before now donated to a political campaign, the night brought the country closer to that "giant step forward."

Across the Seacoast, people representing some of the diversity that is the American electorate watched as Sen. Barack Obama, the first African-American to lead a major party ticket, accepted the Democratic nomination for the presidency of the United States.

At Central Wave in downtown Dover -- where the campaign organized one of 10,000 watch parties nationwide -- the crowd erupted in applause as Obama strode on the stage at Invesco Field in Denver.

Some of the 30 or so people there put down their drinks in favor of signs declaring "Change." When Obama declared "I accept your nomination," the crowd unleashed a short but thunderous roar.

Sue Monaghan, 48, had already left the scene. But she was likely watching the speech at the Rollinsford home she shares with her partner of 23 years, Brigit Ordway.

Her son, Jeffrey, 26, will leave with the Marines soon for a tour of duty in Iraq. Obama's step closer to winning the White House "gives me hope that he'll come home safer ... than if there was a commander in chief with the same mentality as what led us into this," she said. "I feel so much better."

Gordon Simmons, 30, said he, too, was drawn to Obama's judgment. Life will change in a world with a President Obama, he said.

"It's going to change for all of us," he said. "For me, it reaffirms my belief we can trust our leaders -- that a leader can make change happen."

It was not lost on supporters that Obama's speech fell on the 45th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech. Ann Fredette, who's in her 60s, said she remembers growing up in Boston when African-Americans weren't allowed to drink from the same public water fountain.

"I don't think" Obama's nomination "will close the door" on that history, "but I think we have made a lot of progress," she said.

"I just think the outlook in this country will change," said her husband, Bob. "He at least gives you a chance to change the direction of the country."

READ MORE.

From Kathy Ahern at Laconia Citizen:

Lakes Region Dems show support for Obama

New Hampshire Democrats of all ages met at the house of Jim and Judie Reever Thursday night to watch the end of the Democratic National Convention and see Barack Obama accept their party's nomination.

Judie Reever, a Laconia state representative and long-time political activist, provided a relaxing atmosphere with snacks and punch.

Young adults sat cross-legged on the floor, glued to the television screen, while adults placed themselves in chairs all over the living room.

The Democrats came from all over, including two girls here from Sweden. They all came to show their support for Senator Obama and watch his historical speech to accept the position of the Democratic presidential candidate.

All who attended complained about Republican Sen. John McCain. Judy Reever said she does not trust Republicans and feels that "they have screwed up bigtime." She added, "We're going to clean up the mess that you made!"

Serious Democrats Jim and Beth Arsenault agreed that Sen. Obama is the right person for the job. Jim likes the senator because he feels he has "the ability to inspire people."

Jim also said he thinks a candidate's policies are useless to him and said he votes for the person behind the candidate. He thinks Sen. Obama has the ability to "articulate a common ground for everyone to agree on."

Most of the Democrats who attended the party agreed that the senator will handle the war in Iraq gracefully and professionally.

But they also agree that no one has really defined what the "end" of this war would be. They feel the war could just keep going on forever if no one does anything about it. They also think McCain is just going to keep us there for as long as possible.

Some of the Democrats also said they were pleased when they found out that Joe Biden was chosen to be Obama's vice-presidential running mate.

Jon Arsenault, a young Democrat, said, "There could have been some others that I would have chosen, but he's pretty good; he's one of the top of my list."

Let's take all this excitement and bring change now! Join New Hampshire for Obama and make the change you need with friends or sign up to volunteer this most important weekend, the first for Democratic Nominee Barack Obama and his running mate Joe Biden. NH for OBAMA-BIDEN '08.

Website for Barack's Acceptance Speech

Al — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 12:35:39 EDT

To read and hear Barack's acceptance speech please go to my new website at...

http://www.obamasacceptancespeech.com/

-Al

A Line From My Family's First Home To Barack's Speech Last Night

Charley James — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 08:57:04 EDT

In Ken Burns’ landmark documentary The Civil War, the first episode opens with writer Shelby Foote saying, “You can’t understand America without understanding the Civil War and the role race has played throughout our history.”

In watching Barack Obama’s acceptance speech in Denver last night, my mind drifted back to my childhood when I first experienced the role race plays in America. In the summer of my fifth year, when my sister was a new-born infant, my parents set out to buy their first home. Every Sunday, Janice was left with Papa and Grandma while mother, dad and I climbed into our recently-purchased, green, two door, Nash and drove around Milwaukee, Wisconsin, going from one open house to another.

At the time, Milwaukee was a prosperous city, growing in size as the industrial might of Allis-Chalmers and Johnson Motors and Harley-Davidson had shifted back to consumer production, drawing tens of thousands of people from Midwestern towns and the rural South to well-paying jobs in the endless factories sprouting up and dotting the city’s south side.

As a result, the face of Milwaukee was changing.

Once dominated by the stern, round, white faces of Germans and Poles, the city was drawing a steady trickle of southern black faces – people who were called “Negro’s” – that came from the dirt poor counties of Alabama and Mississippi and Kentucky where they had no chance for a life to a city where they could find a real job, not have to fear every sound in the night and send their kids to a decent school.

A combination of the country’s post-war, Eisenhower prosperity coupled with the huge number of new families being formed and new people moving into the city meant sub-divisions were sprouting up everywhere, like tulips in the warm spring sun. So, we spent Sunday after Sunday going from one new suburb to another. Some developments mother dismissed because the houses were “cracker boxes,” whatever that meant; some turned out to be too expensive, even with dad’s GI mortgage requiring only 5% down and a 2% interest rate waiting to be signed. Some had tiny kitchens; some only had one bathroom; others just two bedrooms.

But on one such Sunday outing, we found the perfect house. It had four bedrooms, a big yard with a basement play area for Janice and me when it rained, a new school with a huge playground only three blocks away, and a Halen’s – the local grocery chain – within walking distance. I was very excited.

Suddenly and inexpicably, mother gave the real estate agent a curt “thank you” and hustled dad and me out to the car. As we drove away, I leaned on the back of the front seat with its sticky, green nylon upholstery and asked why we weren’t going to buy that neat house. Mother’s answer gave me my first introduction to the real world.

Referring to the real estate agent still staring at us from the front door in disbelief, she told me, “We left because the man said they won’t let Negroes buy houses there,” she explained, swivelling around to look at me. “That’s not right. Everyone should be able to live wherever they want.”

I said something like "Oh," and settled back as we drove to the next open house on the list. It didn't dawn on me to think about what a radical family I’d been born into five years earlier, or what a political activist my mother was en route to becoming. Yet a short 10 years later, I wasn’t surprised when she flew to Washington to be part of the march and to hear Dr. King’s speech. And 10 years after that, when she and father ended up on one of Nixon’s “enemies lists,” we all took it as a complement.

So, as Barack spoke at Mile High Stadium, tears welled up in my eyes as I remembered that Sunday afternoon and compared it to what was happening last night. When I was a child, there were neighbourhoods in Milwaukee, a northern city, where African-Americans were not allowed to live. I lived long enough to see an African-American accept the Democratic Party’s nomination to be President of the United States.

The skinny black kid with big ears and funny name – how Obama described himself four years ago when he keynoted the party’s convention – is one step away from becoming the leader of the free world. And America took one step away from putting its divisive past behind it.

We are a better people this morning than we were yesterday. And if Obama wins, we will be better nation when we go to sleep the night of Jan. 20 2009.

Yes We Will

gouko787 — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 05:21:03 EDT

Yes We Will

Today is a day Americans will revere for years to come. When they do, those not yet born will not understand why there was ever any doubt as to whether Barack Obama was going to defeat John McCain. They will be told how at that moment in Denver, Colorado one man changed the system by saying the era of lies and fear has come to an end, and a future of truth and hope has begun. The line was drawn at that moment, and even those who resisted and denied what they had been seeing over the last year and a half, let their doubt fall away, if even for just a moment. We all saw and understood at that time the perfect storm had arrived, and Washington D.C. was directly in its path.

Obama Challenges America at Massive Mile-High Party

Robert M. Blevins — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 03:03:05 EDT

If the 84,000-plus people who crowded into Mile High Stadium in Denver were expecting a celebration they were not disappointed. The lines to enter the huge venue stretched around the entire stadium and down the streets. Musicians Cheryl Crow and others performed to warm up the crowd. A few ordinary folks stood on the stage and spoke about Obama and their hopes for America.

It was the culmination of a building excitement within the Democratic convention, which began only a few days ago with fears of discord, disunion, and disharmony. Instead, the Democrats pulled off the biggest organized political event in recent history to a resounding success that John McCain has no hope to answer. Reports say that McCain is having trouble filling 10,000 seats up in Minnesota, while Barack Obama probably could have spoken to a million people had the space been available for him to do so.

View the remainder of this article (along with the pictures provided) at MSNBC/Newsvine HERE.

"The One": Why right wing "celebrity attack ads" won't work on Barack Obama

Alamantra — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:03:25 EDT

Please read and digg this article I just posted on why right-wing attacks painting Barack Obama as a superficial celebrity fail. Thank you for all that you do.

http://www.openleft.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=7797

Excerpt:

The recent line of right-wing attacks on Barack Obama have been to emphasize his popularity and turn it against him by painting him as nothing more than a celebrity -- "an empty suit" was the phrase I heard one pundit use. Right-wing trolls and bloggers have commonly taken to referring to Senator Obama online as "The One." This attempt at sarcasm is a reference to the character 'Neo' from the movie, The Matrix. As they do this, I have to wonder if they realize who this makes them in their self-created Matrix scenario: Agents? Sentinels? If, in a world of ones and zeros, Barack Obama is "The One," what is John McCain?

Last Chance to Attend a Convention Watch Party!

Michael in Ohio — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:25:39 EDT

Tonight, Barack Obama will make history and deliver his nomination acceptance speech in front of more than 70,000 people in Denver.

We've got over 300 watch parties planned across the state. Find a watch party in your area on the map below, or click HERE to search using your zip code.

50 reasons to donate to Barack Today ( I just gave $50)

progressive electorate — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:16:03 EDT

I'll match another $50. Well it's 30 now as I just got $20 about an hour ago.

You have to go to My Act Blue Page for me to give you Credit though.

1. I am a lifelong Democrat

2. My best friend from law school just had his second child - second baby girl this morning. He's also a big Barack supporter.

3. I saw Barack speak three times this election cycle:

4. I marched with Barack and the Clinton's across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma in 2007.

5. Beau Biden gave an emotional heartfelt speech last night that brought his father, Michelle Obama and myself and millions of others to tears.

6. John Kerry gave the best speech of his life last night including my favorite line - "Before McCain can debate Obama he needs to finish the debate with himself."

7. My Congressman Artur Davis from Alabama gave a phenomenal nominating speech yesterday.

8. Gov Sebilius gave us this gem - I'm sure you remember a girl from Kansas who said there's no place like home. Well, in John McCain's version, there's no place like home. And a home. And home. And home.

9. My mother in law cried yesterday when Barack won the nomination

10. Brian Schweitzer is great

11. I just read Kos's endorsement of electronic filing for the Senate FEC reports

12. I only own two houses. Well the bank really owns both of them.

13. Chris Van Hollen gave a good speech yesterday that nobody saw.

14. One of our Two For Tuesday Candidates took the Stage with Van Hollen - Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico 3

15. Another one of our Two for Tuesday Candidates took the stage yesterday - Jeff Merkley of Oregon

16. Hillary Clinton ended the roll call yesterday in support of Obama

17. Republicans like Jim Leach and some other guy I saw from Iowa support Obama

18. "No way, no how, no McCain!!!"

19. That's not Change, that's more of the same.

20. Did I saw that I like Joe Biden

21. Bill Richardson takes the stage today

22. I get to rub it in my wife's face that I was right and she is wrong.

23. I'm proud of my wife for being at the convention today

24. Because Left in Alabama <a href="http://www.leftinalabama.com">Left in Alabama</a> has provide great coverage throughout.

25. Because CSPAN has been great.

26. Dennis Kucinich gave an entertaining speech the other day

27. Because i only have to come up with 23 more reasons

28. That's not Change we can Believe in

29. Fire it up

30. I'm a big Dick Durbin fan. We met at the DuQuoin State Fair and he remember me two weeks later in Chicago and then four months later in the halls of Congress.

31. Dick Durbin still doesn't know I was the one that wrecked his campaign truck (it really wasn't that bad, but just wanted it to sound dramatic)

32. AlObama voted for Barack on super tuesday.

33. I have a picture of me with Hillary when i was 17 at a conference in DC. that I kept up the entire primary season

34. I endorsed Barack for President in 2008 4 years ago

35. Because John McCain was a POW - had to be in here somewhere right?

36. John McCain is not a maverick - he's a sidekick says Sen. Bob Casey

37. McCain will announce his awful VP choice sometime in the next 48 hours

38. Al Gore will give a great speech tonight

39. Ted Kennedy - enough said

40. We can't have 12 more years of Bush economics

41. McCain doesn't understand the economy by his own admission

42. Only 8 more to go and after 8 we are rid of W.

43. John Conyers said he will hold Rove in contempt

44. Michelle Obama gave a great speech

45. 45 years ago Martin Luther King had a dream on this very same day.

46. 4 more to go and only 4 more months of Bush

47. 3 more to go - 3 states to tour this weekend or Obama-Biden - Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio

48. 75,000 plus at Invesco field tonight

49 Obama- Biden supported the GI Bill

50 Change is something I can Believe in !!!

wow that was tough. it took about 50 minutes.

click the thermometer and join me

These Dreams

Alinda in NYC — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:00:32 EDT

I have been beset with calls and inquiries as to where and how I will be watching Senator Obama's acceptance speech tonight. Mainly because some know I did some work during the primary season and I guess figured I would have been in Denver by now.

Finances and a lack of available leave time have kept me here in NYC. As to how or where I will be watching, contrary to what many I guess are choosing to do, I am not going to a watch party although I am aware of there being several going on in the area.

No I am actually going to go home from aforementioned job, and call my mom, put her and my grandmother(her mom) on speakerphone, and watch/listen along with them.

My mom and grandmom live in South Carolina, for pretty much the same reasons I couldn't go to Denver, I can't get down to watch along with them in person. However the opportunity to include them in some way in what is going to be an incredible, moment in this country's history is too good to even think about passing up.

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology I won't have to miss out on what will be a very poignant moment as three generations sit and watch Senator Obama bring things full circle. You see my mother was actually present when Martin Luther King Jr. gave his "I Have a Dream" speech. My mother has always been whether out of necessity or choice - very progressive and active in the community. Not so much of late but I remember my mothers discourses on government and the way things being done and they stayed with me to this day. It is what motivated me to schlep down to SC for the primaries there and to volunteer what little time I could to the campaign and ultimately to set up a memorial fundraiser in my son's name.

So tonight we all will watch together - separated by distance but united in seeing a dream come to fruition.

Democratic National Convention 2008 in Denver...Our Story So Far

Jen on a Mission — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:00:46 EDT

Hi, all!

This has been a WHIRLWIND, and I thought I'd have a LOT more blogs up by now, so I apologize for my lack of communication.

Here is a brief synopsis of events so far.

Sunday, 8/24/08
8/24/08 at 2:12 PM Mountain Time:

I mentioned this briefly in my “video blog,” but I was really astounded by how beautiful the land around Kalispell is. Lakes that are actually turquoise around the shore, rolling tree-covered hills, the patchwork quilt of farms where humans have molded the land around them. And I silently went through the same process of discovery that the items dotted across one of the fields were not moving at all….and were therefore hay bales…and not sheep, as it sounds like many of us on the flight from Seattle first assumed. Who knew I had such strong stereotypes about Montana?

I must mention though (even though I’m sure I shouldn’t) that I’ve driven through Montana twice in a 15-passenger van on the way to conferences while I was in college, and both times slept through the “Welcome to Montana” sign. I did, however, wake up both times to see the “Next Exit: Rocky Mountain Oysters” sign both times, which has now become inextricably linked in my head with this bastion of western pride. Bull Testicles = Montana. At least it’s a strong connection, linked to the ranching heart of the people…. It could be worse….the Fish Eye State?

We finished the day off (after checking in at the hotel and unpacking the WAY too much stuff I brough) at the WA, OR, AZ Reception at the hotel. Met fantastic people, and saw my first example of the "toothpick rule"...that we can't be sitting down at meals, or it violates lobbying laws. I also decided that I was going to have everyone in the WA Delegation sign the delegation book, so that process began...and one delegate drew fake facial hair on another delegate's pic. They shall remain nameless, but are well aware that they are BUSTED.

Monday, 8/25/08
First day at Convention and navigating Denver (I'm chickening out on the whole Light Rail thing, and splitting cabs...MUCH more predictable).

Convention Center (NOT the Pepsi Center)
Youth Press Availablity...learned about the BUS Project, cheered on Planned Parenthood...and oh, yeah...SAW WILL.I.AM FROM THE BLACK EYED PEAS! He told the story of how he developed the "Yes We Can" video from Obama's speech, and how inspired he was at a down time in his life to live the dream that Obama inspires people to join. Fantastic! AND Qvisory.org was given a great mention....if you haven't checked it out yet, DO SO!!!!!!!!!

I also BRIEFLY checked out the Rural Caucus, and the National Jewish Democratic Caucus vote panel...I at least got signed up with them so I can continue this association in the future...

Lesson Learned You CANNOT go to everything you want unless you can simultaneously be 4 places at once...so don't wear yourself out trying!

Pepsi Center
The actual Pepsi Center is a pretty fascinating place! And TOTALLY surreal...I have a more complete list I'll post later, but on Monday Maria Shriver, Richard Schiff (TOBY FROM THE WEST WING!!!!), Susan Sarandon, Tim Daily, Gov. Bill Richardson, Keri Washington, Pick Boy from Nickeoldeon (I may be on...), Mo Rocca, Cyndi Lauper....all just bopping around, loving Democratic politics. Sweet.

More on speeches and actual convention business later...but remember...VIVA MICHELLE OBAMA! She brought down the house.

And BEWARE of sharp campaign signs. Oh, the carnage.

Couldn't even get in to the PPFA "Sex and Politics" Party...which is a great thing. The more support the better! We found a random little bar that was a BLAST and met CA and CO delegates who are huge proponents of electric cars. I hope I can check out their test drive site.

Tuesday, 8/26/08

More Caucus, Convention, and Celebrity love to follow, all! I'm fighting to get pictures up. Long story short before I edit and add more:

Women's Caucus and Cecile Richards, President of PPFA-FANTASTIC!PPFA President Cecile Richards

WE LOVE HER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hannity: sucks

NY Gov: GroovyNY Governor Patterson:NY Governor Patterson

Tatiana Ali: moves fast

Actress from Sabrina the Teenage Witch: Very nice...does anyone know her name? :-)

Hillary Clinton delivered on an ASTOUNDING level yesterday. I was in tears almost the entire time!

Wednesday, 8/27/08
I started the day with an accidental NPR/APB Interview, so we'll find out what airs. Awesome time though, and hooray for me being pushy!

Tonight's the BIG night. Nominations, speeches, and votes on President and VP. I'll have more later. For now, watch CNN and CSPAN, and SEND MONEY and VOLUNTEER for local campaigns! Make the difference we've been waiting for!

Love,

Jen on a Mission

Convention update from day 1-Sunday

Ebony for Obama in 2012 — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:20:38 EDT

So I'm here @the Democratic National Convention. My husband and I traveled by Amtrak from IA, left Sat. at 7CST. Got here at 9MST the next morn. It was a great trip. We met 2 delegates from IL one who is running for Mayor in Peoria. We also made friends w a co counsel for the FEC. Upon arriving we took free bus ride to hotel. Right in the heart of down town Denver. After a few probe checking in we got to out room,freshened up and started with the first "official" event. Friends of New Orleans hosted event in grand ballroom at Colorado convention center,where the minority caucus's meet during the day. It was open bar and food food and more food. We had gumbo, shrimp romuloude ( not spelled right) and much more. The real party started when a mini Mardi Gras parade passed through, complete with costumes and horns, bongos and other instruments. After staying there for 90 min or so we headed the 10 or so blocks to the Celtic Tavern where Sen. Harkin was hosting his welcome delegate reception. As before drinks and food flowed freely. Adam and I stayed for hr or so and then left to met up w my cousin a volunteer w the NY delegation. We hit the Coyote Ugly. True to form before even being offered a drink the female bartenders dancing on the bar singing and clogging shouted for me to join them, which I had to decline. We stayed for bit then made friends w a pedi cab driver (bicycle driving a bench seat) outside and got his # for a ride later in the week.

Youngest Delegate At DNC Is From Minnesota

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:33:19 EDT

WCCO has an interview from Denver with David Gilbert-Pederson, a Convention delegate from Minnesota. David is the youngest delegate at the Convention. You can watch the video interview here.

DENVER (WCCO) ― With 4400 delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, there's a range of faces and ages. The oldest is from Virginia and he is 90 years young. The youngest of all the delegates in the country, is only 17-years-old, and he's from the great state of Minnesota.

While he is still a teenager, he's no political newcomer. David Gilbert-Pederson started working inside campaigns when he was 12. He was making posters, stuffing envelopes and, as he says, standing there and looking cute for cameras.

The home-schooled south Minneapolis kid also feels the calling.

"Whatever decisions adult politicians make will effect my generation and generations to come. And I feel like it's my duty and responsibility to elect leaders that will make it a world I want to inhabit and that I would want my children and my grandchildren to inhabit," David said.

David stays in political touch with his cell phone and online. It's been an important new tool in this political campaign directly targeting the all-important youth vote.

"Senator Obama's coming and his campaign is coming directly to us in our medians -- Facebook, MySpace, YouTube, text messaging," he said. "If I see it on Facebook, cause that's where I'm at anyway, I'm like, ooh this is a cool event. Look, these seven of my friends said they were going to come. I feel like it's a cool thing to do now."

From the floor of the Democratic National Convention to casting a ballot, it's a truly memorable year for David.

"It'll be a great experience to be able to check off those boxes in November," he said.

David will turn 18-years-old in October just in time to vote. And according to people at the DNC, he's quite a celebrity in Denver with lots of media wanting to meet the title holder.

Delegates and Local Granite Staters Check-in from the Convention

Brian - NH HQ — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:57:12 EDT

There is so much going on out in Denver but we scour through it all to find our beloved friends from New Hampshire. Here is a piece from a blog posted on Blue Hampshire by contributor Mike Hoefer:

General bits from Tuesday

BlueHampshire.com

Convention Day 2

Renee — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 23:59:49 EDT

I'm sure a lot of people watching the news lately felt some trepidation for tonight. Sen. Hillary Clinton was to be the big speech.

Okay, so Warner was the keynote, but I'm betting most of us watched for Clinton...

Denver Convention: Hillary Supporters

Halford Fairchild, Ph.D. — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 18:50:31 EDT

An omnipresent fixture of the streets of Denver are Hillary supporters: marching, chanting, carrying signs, and calling for Hillary as President. They are a fairly disgruntled group.

I happened to hear a couple of them being interviewed by another omnipresent fixture about town: TV crews. The two women who were being interviewed, one white and one black and both middle-aged, were decrying the state of the Democratic party. One of them said, "I'm a lifelong Democrat, but I'll be voting Republican this year." It was astounding.

Their concerns are that Barack's campaign was so negative, and that he's unAmerican, and that his wife, the lovely Michelle, "hates" America.

Perplexing.

It is my sense that it was the negative Clinton campaign that so poisoned her supporters' view of Barack Obama. What a shame.

So, part of our task is to reach out to the Hillary supporters, hear them out, and then try to move them back to Hope, Optimism, and Change.

State Fair Update: Red, White, and Blue

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:20:14 EDT

Over the last five days, the Minnesota Campaign for Change has seen an overwhelmingly positive response from folks at the State Fair.

We're signing up volunteers, talking to undecided voters, and getting the word out about Barack's plan to bring real change we can believe in to Washington.

Late last night, in honor of the Democratic National Convention, hardworking staff members repainted the Campaign for Change booth in red, white, and blue.

If you're going to be at the fair over the next few days, be sure to stop by Campaign for Change booth on the corner of Cooper & Wright and check it out!

Here are some photos:

The final product!

Have some cool photos from the State Fair? Share them with us!

Michelle Hits It Out Of The Park!

Mark Ungemach (Democratic Committee Person, Franklin Township, Landenberg, PA) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 08:36:47 EDT

http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2008/08/26/michelle_obama/print.html

Isn't she lovely?

In her prime-time speech Monday, Michelle Obama foiled her harshest detractors and perhaps even won over Middle America.

By Rebecca Traister

Aug. 26, 2008 | Michelle Obama had one job on Monday night: to not be scary.

As the first black woman ever to make a beeline for the East Wing, Obama, a lawyer with degrees from Princeton and Harvard, has been dogged by an aura of suspicion: about her brains and politics and attitude and all sorts of things that stand in for both racial and gender discomfort. Early on, Maureen Dowd tagged her "emasculating"; she's been attacked over her patriotism; there were the insidious "whitey" whispers. The infamous New Yorker cover summed it up by caricaturing her as a slinky, Afro'd Angela Davis, saucily giving her man a so-called terrorist fist bump.

Here's my two cents...

Mark from Tacoma, WA — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 01:56:30 EDT

Thoreau reminds us we started with freedom.

It happened over 200 years ago by families; all looking for a better life, free from oppression and persecution, free to live their dreams and to pass those dreams onto their children. They braved hardship, they risked their own lives and the lives of their children just to get here, just to get to a land that offered no promises save for hope.

These brave pilgrims who dared to dream, who had the audacity to hope for a better tomorrow than they one that lay open to them at home. But what they accomplished far exceeded the goal. Their temerity did not cease once they arrived upon the vast wilderness that was America. That spirit to create opportunity rose from those first days.

Their daring did not die with them, but rather carried on to their children and their children’s children until the will to live on their own, to steer the course of their own destiny and to live as free men caused them to shake off the yoke of the most powerful imperial force of its time.

It was in that spirit that the founders of this nation resolved to face an uncertain future with the power of ideas, forged from the best minds who came before them. It was here that Jefferson, Adams, and Madison laid forth their idea for a new nation; governed not by kings or the elite, but by the people themselves, which to this day remains one of the most radical ideas ever to take shape and has become the model countries across the world seek to emulate centuries later.

This was the idea that men and women have sacrificed for, have laid down their very lives for. That we have a right to happiness, a right to live free from persecution, a right to live our private lives free from government intrusion. These first architects of freedom then laid the foundation for a government which would protect and preserve them; who would recognize that we have these rights because we exist, in spite of government, not because of it. That these rights must be preserved by maintaining the awareness of the common humanity that binds us all together in this village called America.

We have overcome many obstacles on our journey toward an egalitarian society. There is not a town in this country that hasn’t fiercely debated what it means for us to call ourselves a truly fair people, a truly just people.

400 years ago, men, women and children were brought forth on this continent, against their will, to plow the fields, sow the crops, and lay the tracks that connected the east to the west. It was ordinary people who stood up, who shouted out, and even fought one another to declare this is not how we treat our fellow man.

Finally it took a young man from Illinois, a simple self-educated prairie lawyer, to remember our common humanity, to recognize that we were always free, that we always mattered and were vital the success of our young nation.

It was just in this last century where african-americans and women could not be trusted with a vote to determine their own destiny. But people rose up, demanded their rights, through debate, through the courts, through action and again the government recognized that liberty cannot advance half-heartily. We must advance it together.

But our story is not over, our unfinished work has not so nearly reached its end. My friends, we have a difficult truth to face. We have not yet lived up to the promise of America. If we are to recover it, difficult questions need to asked and answered.

When did we say it was ok to send our children to war because of a lie?

When did we say that the torture of another human being is compatible with our collective morality?

When did we say it was ok to sanctify love between a man and woman, but desecrate all others?

When did we say it was ok to ignore our stewardship to the land?

When did we say it was ok break our word to our neighbor?

When did we say that it is acceptable for our schools to become so overrun with violence that we need metal detectors just to get our sons and daughters to class?

When did we say it’s ok to father a child, then walk away?

When did we say its ok to live in a culture that says I’m gonna get mine and I don’t care if you get yours?

When did we say it was ok to let my brothers and sisters freeze in the cold without shelter, without food, without hope?

Convention Day 1

Renee — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 23:27:17 EDT

Hello, Denver!

Four years ago we watched a nearly unknown junior senator from Illinois give a keynote speech for Sen. John Kerry's campaign. From that moment, many people knew that we would be hearing a lot from him.

How could we have known we'd ever get to this point?

RSVP for Convention Watch Pajama Party in Denver

Ojamas Sleepwear — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 20:01:21 EDT

This is a cordial reminder to RSVP for Ojama-Rama, the world's biggest pajama party this Thursday at Owsley's Golden Rd in Denver. Owsley's is located at 2151 Lawrence St downtown only 2 miles from Invesco Field at Mile High. Whether or not you're going to Invesco, be sure to stop by Ojama-Rama. Wear your pajamas or tell them you're there for "Ojama-Rama" for a discouted cover charge. The live entertainment is the phenomenal Granola Funk Express. The outdoor patio will be open and the convention broadcast will be on the tv sets. There's still time to order your Obama Pajamas, Ojamas, before the November election. Order yours today.

Help us get a head count for Ojama-Rama - RSVP here.

Democratic Platform Blues

Madama Ambi — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 19:45:58 EDT

Madama reads the Draft Democratic Platform. Part of Outside the Convention, Madama's "coverage" of the DNC from her home computer...

click here to listen...32:34 min.

An alternative acceptance speech for Obama

Mark from Tacoma, WA — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:35:45 EDT

You've heard of Fantasy Football? Introducing Fantasy Oratory.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thoreau reminds us we started with freedom.

When did we say it was ok to send our children to war because of a lie?

When did we say that the torture of another human being is compatible with our collective morality?

When did we say it was ok to sanctify love between a man and woman, but desecrate all others?

When did we say it was ok to ignore our stewardship to the land?

When did we say it was ok break our word to our neighbor?

When did we say that it is acceptable for our schools to become so overrun with violence that we need metal detectors just to get our sons and daughters to class?

When did we say it’s ok to father a child, then walk away?

When did we say its ok to live in a culture that says I’m gonna get mine and I don’t care if you get yours?

When did we say it was ok to let my brothers and sisters freeze in the cold without shelter, without food, without hope?

Because its not. It’s not right. It’s not ok. We’re better than this. I’ve traveled this country 100 times over for nearly two years and I can tell you with a certainty that I’ve seen it. I know what you’re capable of.

Denver PreConvention Notes

Halford Fairchild, Ph.D. — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 14:17:46 EDT

It is great to be in the Rocky Mountain City, taking in the sights and celebrating in the nomination of Barack Obama. If you wanted to collect memorabilia, say buttons, then you need two suitcases to bring them back. They are sellling EVERYTHING. I bought two Barack Obama dolls (15 each or 2 for 25). Cute.

Last night, we heard speeches from Danny Glover, Tavis Smiley, Maxine Waters, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson's son and daughter, and many others.

All in all, it has been great so far.

Hal

CSPAN: Ted Kennedy Live In Denver

Charley James — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:20:17 EDT

According to a report at http://www.vadimuspost.com/ted-kennedy-to-appear-live-at-democratic-convention/, CSPAN is saying that Sen. Ted Kennedy will make a surprise, dramatic appearance at the convention this evening. Originally, he was to appear in a video link during a tribute to him during the opening festivities.

Given the nature of his cancer, this may be the last time the party's conscience and the Senate's lion appears at a party convention.

South Carolina Brings It Home To Denver

Deborah Simmel — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 11:45:45 EDT

One could make a good argument that the road to this historic convention started, in earnest, with Senator Obama's outstanding victory in the South Carolina Democratic Primary. As a state, we should be proud to have recognized the unique combination of a candidate possessing an extaordinary vision of leadership and a country's overwhelming hunger for the opportunity to change.

Be sure to follow our local delegation from Lexington County and the 2nd Congressional District, and all their convention news, at www.scdpdashboard. Lexington County is proud to be represented by Kathy Hensley, Wilbur Lee Jeffcoat, Liz Brown, Inez Tenebaum, and Bridget Tripp. Anton Gunn, Deborah Breedlove, and Tieashia Odom complete the 2nd district's contingent of delegates. Columbia's own Anton Gunn is even featured in this week's issue of Time magazine. Check it out at http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1834670,00.html.

Way to go South Carolina! Let's lead the way to the White House!

In the News: Minnesota at the Democratic Convention

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 10:44:26 EDT

Today marks the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Denver! Minnesota's very own Amy Klobuchar will address the convention this evening, as will Michelle Obama.

On Thursday, Barack will accept the nomination in front of 75,000 people. Sign up to attend an Convention Watch Party and join your friends and neighbors in celebrating this historic movement.

The Minnesota delegation includes the youngest delegate, 17-year-old David Gilbert-Pederson of Minneapolis.

Here's some other ways Minnesota's delegates are making news:

A lifelong civil rights activist, Lucy Buckner-Watson, of Inver Grove Heights, is here to help fulfill her dying father's dream of seeing an African-American become president of the United States.
Iraq war veteran Sam Scott, of Andover, a sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves, came to express his opposition to the war.
Seventeen-year-old David Gilbert-Pederson, of Minneapolis, the youngest delegate to the Democratic National Convention that opens here today, made the trip to pick up campaign tips from his party's wiliest political pros and seek inspiration to work hard for candidates through Election Day.
Buckner-Watson, Scott and Gilbert-Pederson are three of the 88 Minnesota delegates who arrived here Saturday and Sunday for the convention that will wrap up Thursday with the nomination of Sen. Barack Obama as the Democratic candidate for president.
The convention may look like a four-day infomercial to folks watching it on television back home.
But to most delegates, it's the culmination of months or even years of hard work and a chance to play a meaningful role in the nation's political process.
Click here to read the profiles of these six delegates from The Pioneer Press...

Are you a Minnesota delegate to the Convention? Be sure to share your story!

Democratic National Convention SCHEDULE

Michael in Ohio — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 02:21:52 EDT

Tomorrow begins the four day Democratic National Convention in Denver, with everything leading to Barack's official nomination on Thursday!

In Ohio, supporters will be hosting Watch Parties all across the state--click here to find a watch party near you.

Below is the official schedule for the Convention. There are no set times for each speaker, but the speaking program begins every night at 8 PM Eastern Time.

MONDAY AUGUST 25th- "ONE NATION"

Monday's headline speaker will be Michelle Obama.

Other speakers include: Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi; Senator Claire McCaskill of Missouri; Barack Obama’s sister Maya Soetero-Ng and Craig Robinson, Michelle Obama’s older brother; Jerry Kellman, mentor and long-time friend of Barack Obama; Representative Jesse Jackson, Jr.; former Indiana Representative Lee Hamilton; Tom Balanoff, President of Illinois SEIU; Nancy Keenan, President of NARAL Pro-Choice America; NEA President Reg Weaver; AFT President Randi Weingarten; Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan; State Comptroller Dan Hynes; Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulis; Chicago City Clerk Miguel del Valle; and Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper.

Monday night will also feature a tribute to Senator Edward M. Kennedy.

TUESDAY AUGUST 26th - "RENEWING AMERICA'S PROMISE"

Senator Hillary Clinton will be the headline prime-time speaker and former Virginia Governor Mark Warner will deliver the keynote address on Tuesday night. Pay Equity pioneer Lilly Ledbetter will also address the Convention on Tuesday.

Other speakers include: Governor Brian Schweitzer of Montana; Governor Deval Patrick of Massachusetts; Governor Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas; Governor Janet Napolitano of Arizona; Governor Joe Manchin of West Virginia; Governor Jim Doyle of Wisconsin; Governor Ed Rendell of Pennsylvania; Governor Ted Strickland of Ohio; Governor David Paterson of New York; Governor Chet Culver of Iowa; Senator Bob Casey, Jr., of Pennsylvania; Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont; former Secretary of Energy and Transportation Federico Peña; House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer; House Democratic Caucus Chair Rahm Emanuel; Representative Xavier Becerra (D-CA), Assistant to the Speaker of the House; and Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) Chair Chris Van Hollen, who will use his time to showcase his top candidates for change.

Representatives Nydia Velazquez (D-NY), Linda Sanchez (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Mike Honda (D-CA), California Controller John Chiang, Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards, Change To Win’s Anna Burger, and AFL-CIO President John Sweeney will also speak.

CLICK HERE FOR THE REST OF THE SCHEDULE.

It's Convention Time!! Now turn off the MSM!

Andr�a- (You've called him everything else- now call him Mr. President!) — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 23:11:07 EDT

Finally! The Convention is here. I for one am totally excited. So excited that I decided to watch all of my convention coverage on C-SPAN.

That's right C-SPAN.

Think about it. You get to watch gavel to gavel coverage without hearing the voices of talking heads behind desks parsing every word uttered by the Obamas, Bidens, or Clintons.

You get to actually hear the stories of REAL people from our country as they speak about the issues that matter to them- to all of us.

You get to watch the convention without seeing a ticker scroll across the bottom announcing the latest results of some bogus "poll".

You get to see the "controversial" process of including Sen. Clinton's name on the first ballot, without hearing Chris Matthews slurp all over himself. The media really seems fixated on this one, like they are hoping for a convention coup.

Finally and most importantly, you get to hit the MSM right where it matters most- in the money gut. If more people decide that they have had it with the biased, sensationalized, bullchip reporting of the MSM, and actually switch to C-SPAN it might make the corporate owned media folks sweat a little. Maybe they would actually start REPORTING the news instead of trying to MAKE the news.

Either way, I'm still going to switch to C-SPAN for the next four days.

Have a Happy Convention People!

The Road to Denver

Matt S. — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 23:09:42 EDT

Well we have arrived in Denver! And what a neat trip it was to get here.

Joe Biden!

Jeff Blodgett — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 22:27:39 EDT

As you know, this morning, Barack Obama announced he has chosen Senator Joe Biden as his running mate. Take a few seconds to send Joe a message welcoming him to the campaign, we'll make sure he gets them.

Barack and Joe will appear for the first time as running mates this afternoon in Springfield, Illinois -- the same place this campaign for change began more than 19 months ago. You can watch a live stream of the entire event at http://www.BarackObama.com at 2 p.m. CST.

Here’s what Senator Hillary Clinton and others are saying about the choice:

Sen. Hillary Clinton – “In naming my colleague and friend Sen. Joe Biden to be the vice presidential nominee, Sen. Obama has continued in the best traditions for the vice presidency by selecting an exceptionally strong, experienced leader and devoted public servant. Sen. Biden will be a purposeful and dynamic vice president who will help Sen. Obama both win the presidency and govern this great country.”
Republican Sen. Chuck Hagel – “Joe Biden is the right partner for Barack Obama. His many years of distinguished service to America, his seasoned judgment and his vast experience in foreign policy and national security will match up well with the unique challenges of the 21st Century. An Obama-Biden ticket is a very impressive and strong team. Biden’s selection is good news for Obama and America.”
Republican Sen. Richard Lugar – "I congratulate Senator Barack Obama on his selection of my friend, Senator Joe Biden, to be his vice-presidential running mate. I have enjoyed for many years the opportunity to work with Joe Biden to bring strong bipartisan support to United States foreign policy…"
Republican Sen. Arlen Specter – "No one on the Democratic side knows more about foreign policy than Sen. Biden. He's been an articulate spokesman on the subject. He also knows about domestic policy. He's been a leader on crime control."

Be sure to watch Their First Campaign Appearance as Running Mates LIVE!

On August 28th, Barack Obama will accept the Democratic nomination in front of more than 75,000 supporters in Denver and millions of viewers at home.

I want to encourage you to attend or host a Convention Watch Party to share the moment with millions of fellow supporters across the country who helped Barack get here.

These watch parties are a great opportunity to gather with friends, family and colleagues and start planning how you will continue to build the movement in your area in the final months of the campaign.

To host a Convention Watch Party, or attend one in your area, visit http://mn.barackobama.com/organizeforchange.

There are 72 days until Election Day and it’s going to take the continued support of Minnesotans like you to help ensure Barack Obama and Joe Biden win Minnesota and bring about real change in Washington.

Sincerely,

Jeff Blodgett
Minnesota State Director
Obama for America

Biden Rocks Danielle to Denver

Madama Ambi — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:06:30 EDT

Meet Danielle, 20-something African American woman moving out of her apartment in DC, headed for New Jersey, where she will do her PhD at Rutgers. She got a call from the Obama campaign to come to Denver & volunteer for the campaign, so she raised money from family & friends to make it happen.

This morning, her flight to Denver hit a little bump in the road...but news of Biden for VP really gets her going...

click here to listen...15:16 min.

Hello At the Convention-Fanny Packs?

Jennifer — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 17:15:01 EDT

My little sister is volunteering at the convention. Hello Kier! We are keeping in touch using Twitter (My newest addiction). They gave my twenty something little sis a fanny pack! Perhaps they could have given them something a bit more hip (no pun intended). Who even knew they still make them.

Note to convention planners: You want the youth vote...stop buying fanny packs!

All kidding aside, I am so excited that she will be able to give me first hand accounts. I have her on a mission to find me the coolest onesie for my youngest.

P.S. New York delegates please take care of her and keep her safe.

OUTSIDE THE CONVENTION

Madama Ambi — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 15:14:10 EDT

Spieling, googling, interviewing, surfing and commenting will be how I "cover" being outside the convention with other outsiders.

Since February I've been inside the Obama online community, talking with other supporters, but now, as the action moves inside the Pepsi Center, I'm following a volunteer for the campaign, activists, listeners from home, and wherever else I can get from my computer.

Googling&Talking...click to listen...20:00

It's Obama-Biden

Dr. Mark Elrod — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 14:59:30 EDT

I got my text message at 1:40 this morning -- Joe Biden (D-DE) will be our nation's 47th vice-president come January.

They're undoubtedly dancing in the streets of Wilmington, my hometown. One of my claims to fame in Arkansas is that I am one of the few people I know who has actually voted for Joe Biden in the past.

I'm proud to say that he was my senator for a couple of years.

I'm going to be working my Delaware connection all weekend here in Denver, looking for interviews with the First State's delegation.

Now if you'll excuse ME, I have to go collect my winnings in the Washington Center VP poll.

I think I may have won at least $50.

Arkansas Business Weekly: Waiting on Hillary

Dr. Mark Elrod — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 14:54:43 EDT

I posted my first story from the convention with Arkansas Business Weekly yesterday.

t was an embellishment of a story I first posted here about the importance of HRC's speech at the convention on Tuesday night. You can read it here.

I guess the other big news is that I learned yesterday that I have been accepted to work at Invesco Field as a "community volunteer" on Thursday night for Senator Obama's acceptance speech here in Denver.

The good news is that I'll be there; the bad news is that it looks like I'll be there *all day* Thursday.

Depending on the wireless situation at Invesco, that may limit what I'm able to write on the biggest day of the convention.

Stay tuned.

Working Together

Marc R. Peters — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 11:06:59 EDT

Yesterday marked the official opening of the College Democrats of America’s convention. The convention, which runs until Wednesday, will be filled with prominent speakers, vital training sessions, and young student activists. More importantly it offers the opportunity for College Democrats and Students for Barack Obama to come together and conceive a united game plan for the fall that benefits both organizations. Working closely with SFBO is on the platform of all of the candidates for executive office within CDA. At SFBO we could not possibly agree more.

Candidates in local and statewide races all across the country are echoing Barack Obama’s message, our message: a message of new politics, cooperation, and change. CDA’s primary mission is to elect Democrats in all of these races. Our mission is to elect Senator Barack Obama as the next President of the United States. Thankfully the two are not mutually exclusive. In order to elect our candidate as well as make sure that the message of this campaign, this campaign that can change a country, we need to work together.

At a panel yesterday on youth politics we talked about shared areas of interest. We can register voters together. We can canvass together. We can hold joint meetings. We have a short amount of time left, but students identified with Barack Obama’s vision for our country and a coalesced with the campaign quickly in the primary. We are confident that if we work together, if we turn out, when we turn out, we will be the difference makers in the general election as well.

Tips from College Democrats for America and Obama for America Leadership:
Gather a group of your friends (or in this case maybe new friends from CDA or SFBO) to canvass all the dorms on your campus and get students registered and ready to turn out.
Don’t take anything for granted, don’t wake up the day after Election Day thinking to yourself you could have done more.
Talk to your family members, your classmates and your neighbors face-to-face.
Show with your hard work how important this election is to you, people will notice.
Speak to EVERYONE, just because you think that someone is not receptive to our message does not mean that you cannot convince them otherwise.

Click here are interested in getting more involved and don't know how.

New Video - Convention 101, The DNC

Fireside Production — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 23:34:02 EDT

Fireside Production hosts this QuickFire Round to get the answers to your top five questions about the DNC. This is Convention 101.

Check it out on our YouTube page:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oSTC8ilZvA

Oregon's Jeff Merkley to speak at the Democratic Convention

RhOrdway — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:21:55 EDT

Jeff Merkley has been chosen as one of four Senate challengers to speak at the Democratic Convention on Wednesday evening.

From http://www.jeffmerkley.com/trail/2008/08/jeff_merkley_speaking_at_the_d.php

Green Energy Investments: Portland investor to speak in Denver

RhOrdway — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:05:29 EDT

From The Oregonian 08.22.08:

A Portland venture capitalist who specializes in green energy investments has been given a coveted primetime speaking slot at next week's Democratic National Convention.

http://www.oregonlive.com/news/index.ssf/2008/08/portland_energy_entrepreneur_g.html

Waiting on Hillary

Dr. Mark Elrod — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 07:57:40 EDT

One year ago, Hillary Clinton was probably thinking that Denver 2008 was going to be her moment.

She was probably right, even in the absence of securing the right to lead the Democratic ticket in November.

It would appear by all accounts that the success of Barack Obama in November is going to hinge on what HRC says in the Pepsi Center in Denver on Tuesday night. In fact, it could be argued that until she makes that speech, Hillary Rodham Clinton is the most important person associated with the DNC right now.

Polling data bears this out.

This started out as a good week for John McCain. The Russia-Georgia crisis worked to his advantage, particularly in light of Barack Obama's Hawaiian vacation. His conversation with Rick Warren at Saddleback Church probably gave the Republican party's fundamentalist base enough information to assure them that Senator McCain supports the issues they are most concerned about. And there is some evidence of "Obama fatigue" in both the media and among undecided voters.

The good news (for Obama supporters) is that that many of of those undecided voters are Democrats who supported Hillary Clinton in the primaries and who have yet to be prodded by the Clintons to get behind Obama.

MSNBC's First Read reports:

Even after she ended her presidential bid back in June, perhaps we should have guessed that this presidential contest (or at least the convention) was still going to be about the Clintons. And our new NBC/WSJ poll is the latest evidence to back this up. In the survey, Obama leads McCain by three points, 45%-42%, which is down from his six-point advantage last month. Our pollsters identified a few factors behind the tightening race -- the Russia-Georgia conflict, McCain's negative ads, and lingering doubts about Obama -- but the biggest reason why this race remains close in this Dem-leaning political environment is because of Obama's inability to close the deal with some of Clinton's supporters. According to the poll, 52% of them say they will vote for the presumptive Democratic nominee, but 21% are backing McCain and an additional 27% are either undecided or want to vote for someone else. For that reason, NBC/WSJ co-pollster Peter Hart (D) says Clinton's convention speech on Tuesday, as well as when her name is put in nomination, will be significant. "The Democratic convention is more than a coronation," Hart explains. "It is an event where the words of Hillary Clinton are probably going to be exceptionally important."

The dilemma for HRC is that she has to sincerely and convincingly rally her troops to get behind Obama if she ever wants to run for president again. Anything less would be seen by the Democratic base (liberals and African-Americans) as a sell-out designed to promote her own interests of those of the party.

My guess is that she will make the speech and then hit the trail hard for Obama in swing states, particularly with white, working-class voters. I don't think it can be assumed that Bill Clinton will do the same thing.

There will inevitably come a time when Bill and Hillary Clinton don't suck the air out of a room when they step into it and will cease to be the center of the Democratic Party universe.

That time certainly won't come before Tuesday night but it has to come before Wednesday morning if Democrats hope to make victory in November a reality.

Boonieland and VP-ville

Gil Keith-Agaran — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 06:00:56 EDT

At a local nonprofit fundraiser tonight in Wailea, Maui, I ran into a friend who has attended a number of Democratic National Conventions. My wife is a delegate and I'm an alternate.

In Denver, the Hawaii delegation has been assigned to the Marriott South Park Meadows hotel in Littleton, Colorado. One Hawaii delegate figured out based on the light rail schedule that we'll be about 50 minutes away from the Pepsi Center where the Convention evening activities will take place.

My friend the DNC veteran commented that Hawaii is always in the "boonies." We might be the birthplace of the party's nominee but in the hierarchy of things political, the islands' delegation doesn't command center stage. She wonders, however, about the placement of Arkansas in the same quarters -- I suppose Kremlinologists speculate that the Razorbacks got favorable housing during the Clinton years but now end up in the same place as four electoral vote Hawaii. Delaware, the home of another possible Vice-Presidential nominee, is the third state in our billet so I would rather think it's just the luck of the draw. But then my buddies think I'm an idealist. . . .

If Hillary Rodham Clinton or Joe Biden is picked, the opening reception Sunday night at South Park Meadows may be a little more memorable than expected. Both HRC and JB are expected to speak to the HI, AK and DE delegations at one of the breakfast meetings next week.

I would guess that Hawaii's delegation includes the largest proportion of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, including our Senior U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye, who is heading up our delegation, junior U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka, U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono, former Governor John Waihee, Honolulu mayor Mufi Hannemann, State Senator Colleen Hanabusa, State Senator Donna Mercado Kim, Edmond Arquero, Donna Hoshide, Al Lewis, State Party Vice Chair Kari Luna, Dayton Nakanelua, Jadine Nielsen, Stephanie Ohigashi, Caroline Sinaivaiana, and Jennifer Tsuji. That's sixteen of the twenty-nine delegates. In addition, alternates Melody Aduja, Lono Lyman and me are also AAPIs.

We leave for Denver on Saturday night on a direct flight from Kahului with a couple of others from Maui.

If I could only Speak at the Convention in Denver

amadeusmax — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 01:21:43 EDT

What a great job it would be to be the speaker to Introduce the presidential candidate, at the Democratic Convention. I would love to give a speech something like this....

I stand before you today, a proud American. I am enriched with the wealth of Freedom, the strength of Liberty, and the Hope of the future. I am not a Presidential Candidate, nor am I Vice Presidential Candidate, nor do I sit upon any executive committee. I am not Senator or Representative in Congress, nor am I a governor of a state. I am that which is the most powerful part of the United States Political System. I am a citizen. I hold the priviledge and the responsibility to guide the United States, to Protect her, and to allow her to grow. In trusted in me is the Voice of this Nation, and the responsibility of getting that voice heard. I must protect the truth as an innoncent child by using Justice as a sword. The Constitution must be my honor code, and the Freedom of speech as my sheild. For these are the days when the United States of America will fullfill it's legacy, will truly be the nation of equality. It is in my charge that I seek only the best to lead this great nation, and the world. For it is my duty to find the one in which I will follow. For it must be the one who is the greatest of we the citizens we choose, so he will be humbled to whom he represents.

It is with great honor and priviledge I introduce to you the next President of the United States.

BARACK OBAMA

BLOGGING FROM DENVER CONVENTION STARTS FRIDAY

Nevada County For Obama-Curtis Walker — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 19:23:37 EDT

Great news this morning!

Channel 10 in Sacramento AND THE UNION NEWSPAPER has asked Curtis, an Obama Delegate, to blog from Denver during the Democratic National Convention.

Curtis will be in Denver starting August 22nd thru August 30th and chose to blog about his experience in order to bring the CONVENTION back to Nevada County and Northern California residents in a more personal way than traditional coverage.

Curtis has also been asked to BLOG for THE HUFFINGTON POST!

Curtis, prior to becoming a volunteer for the Obama campaign, had never blogged before and has learned by trial and error.

Curtis' main blog is here: INTEGRITYNOWCA.BLOGSPOT.COM (and will likely be the most freewheeling of the blogs).

Curtis and wife, Sherri (NEVADA COUNTY FOR OBAMA TEAM LEADER) will be featured tonight at 6 PM on NEWS 10 in Sacramento. Curtis was interviewed about being a delegate headed for Denver for about an hour today. Will put up the video, which focused on why Curtis became involved in the Obama campaign in the first place--A HINT--It as to do with the care and treatment of VETERANS.

NEXT POST FROM DENVER.....

A Very Clinton Convention

Aaron G — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 01:53:00 EDT

When I heard of the prominent role to be played by both Hillary and Bill Clinton at the upcoming convention, I got a bit anxious. Can they be trusted to not try to hijack the convention with a lot of wistful "what ifs", with winks and nods to Hillary holdouts to divide the party in the hopes of a 2012 return? Did Obama give in too easily, offer too much to Sen. Clinton and the former president, who many think have been quite ungracious in their primary defeat?

Today I was thinking, perhaps Obama's decision to give the Clinton's such a prominant role in the convention is not so foolish after all. Risky, perhaps, but not foolish.

Denver & Protests

Paul Zickler — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 02:51:43 EDT

I heard Alex Jones on the radio last night talking about how the Denver police & the feds were planning on arresting thousands of protesters at the convention. This is distressing, to say the least.

I think the populist approach of this candidate needs to extend to welcoming non-violent dissent. We can't afford another '68 Chicago. Barack needs to come out early and often in support of free expression. There are a lot of dissatisfied people in this country, and they have the right to be heard.