Posts with the tag Kentucky

UNITED AGAINST RACISM

WEBMASTER — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 12:46:34 EDT

Hi Friend

There is a new group that just started on Facebook that I thought Organizing for America members may be interested in joining. Please see United Against Racism -

http://apps.facebook.com/causes/354956/80588439?m=9dc74a6e

United Against Racism

posted by David Apperson

Kentucky Election Blog

WEBMASTER — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:24:42 EDT

As President Obama recently related to me regarding local service; "Now is our time to work together, reaffirm our enduring spirit, and choose our better history."

It is our responsibility as Americans to vote, and vote we must. And now is the time to prepare for the next election. I invite all citizens of Kentucky to post a message on the Kentucky Election Blog.

Kentucky Election Blog
kentucky-election.blogspot.com

BARACK OBAMA FIRST 100 DAYS

WEBMASTER — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:23:01 EDT

During the first 100 days of the Obama presidency we have seen outstanding leadership in tackling the many issues facing our great nation. And it seems that overwhelming poll numbers indicate that America agrees with President Obama. see THE WHITE HOUSE

The question remains; What can we as fellow Americans do to help our neighbors and countrymen? Included are nine things you can do to help the President celebrate his first 100 Days in office:

1. Donate unused suits to the Salvation Army
2. Donate time to Americorps
3. Donate toys for children at Toys for Tots
4. Donate blood at the Red Cross
5. Donate a can of food each week to a Local Shelter or Food Pantry
6. Donate money to Save the Children
7. Donate time at local a Veterans Hospital
8. Donate an hour a day to your Child
9. Donate to the Make a Wish Foundation

Participation is greatly appreciated. What you do for the least of our brethren, you do for yourself -
http://donate.barackobama.com/page/community/post/president/gGxWJh

Barack Obama First 100 Days posted by David Apperson

Kentucky Online Forum: State of the Union Address

J. Lowe — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:38:03 EST

On 2/24 at 9pm EST, watch the CNN.com live State of the Nation Address and join in the online forum here to discuss issues with fellow Kentucky Voters. All political affiliations are invited to join in the discussion.

RULES OF PLAY:
1. Pretend your 8 year old grand daughter is reading everything you type
2. Treat those who disagree with respect
3. Click 'report' on troll comments and ignore them. If you reply all attached conversations will be deleted by the system along with the offending comment.

Click on "COMMENT" at the top of the post to say something.

Clickon "REPLY" next to the person's post to say something about something someone said.

Sounds good? Enjoy, and thank you for participating in this creative volunteer project.

PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURAL SPEECH

WEBMASTER — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 13:39:36 EST

Presidential Inaugural Address Delivered by President Barack Obama on 20 Jan 2009

My fellow citizens -
I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition. Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents. So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.
That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.
These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land - a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.
Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.
In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted - for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things - some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.
For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.
For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.
For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.
Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.
This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions - that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.
For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act - not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.
Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions - who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.
What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them - that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works - whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account - to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day - because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.
Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control - and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart - not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.
As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.
Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.
We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort - even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.
For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.
To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West - know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.
To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.
As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment - a moment that will define a generation - it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.
For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.
Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends - hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism - these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility - a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.
This is the price and the promise of citizenship.
This is the source of our confidence - the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.
This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.
So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:
"Let it be told to the future world...that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet it."
America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.
President Barack Obama

Presidential Inaugural Speech - A message for all people
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/president/gGxHqT

source: David Apperson, webmaster

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

PRESIDENTIAL TRANSITION TEAM

WEBMASTER — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:06:01 EST

Obama-Biden PRESIDENTIAL TRANSITION TEAM is giving all people a voice in the administration -

The PRESIDENTIAL TRANSITION TEAM is doing a great job. Thank the Almighty Creator that this is a new day in the history of this great nation.

WEBMASTER - DESIGNERS AND DEVELOPERS

WEBMASTER — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 04:14:56 EST

President Barack Obama

Internet Webmasters, Designers and Developers

If you are an independent webmaster, designer or developer and have linked a business, personal, or political website or blog to your barack obama posts or other barackobama.com web pages and would like to be recognized for your efforts let me know.

Mail your contact and other pertinent information to:

David Apperson, Webmaster
10336 Loch Lomond Rd PMB 105
Middletown CA 95461

or email contact information to yofast@gmail.com

OBAMA FOR KENTUCKY [ 2 ]

WEBMASTER — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 22:51:35 EST

Saint Catharine * Saint Charles * Saint Francis * Saint Helens * Saint Mary * Saint Matthews * Saint Paul * Salem * Salt Lick * Salvisa * Salyersville * Sanders * Sandgap * Sandy Hook * Sardis * Sassafras * Saul * Scalf * Science Hill * Scottsville * Scuddy * Sebree * Seco * Sedalia * Sextons Creek * Sharon Grove * Sharpsburg * Shelbiana * Shelby Gap * Shelbyville * Shepherdsville * Shively * Sidney * Siler * Silver * Simpsonville * Sitka * Sizerock * Slade * Slaughters * Slemp * Sloans Valley * Smilax * Smith * Smith Mills * Smithfield * Smithland * Smiths Grove * Soldier * Somerset * Sonora * South Carrollton * South Portsmouth * South Shore * South Union * Southgate * Sparta * Spence * Spottsville * Springfield * Staffordsville * Stambaugh * Stamping Ground * Stanford * Stanley * Stanton * Stanville * Stearns * Steele * Stephensport * Stinnett * Stone * Stoney Fork * Stopover * Strunk * Sturgis * Subtle * Sullivan * Sulphur * Sulphur Well * Summer Shade * Summersville * Summit * Sweeden * Symsonia * Talbert * Tateville * Taylor Mill * Taylorsville * Teaberry * Temple Hill * Thelma * Thornton * Thousandsticks * Tiline * Toler * Tollesboro * Tolu * Tomahawk * Tompkinsville * Topmost * Totz * Tram * Trappist * Trenton * Trosper * Tutor Key * Tyner * Ulysses * Union * Uniontown * Upton * Utica * Valley Station * Van Lear * Vanceburg * Vancleve * Varney * Verona * Versailles * Vest * Vicco * Villa Hills * Vincent * Vine Grove * Viper * Virgie * Waco * Waddy * Walker * Wallingford * Wallins * Walton * Waneta * Warbranch * Warfield * Warsaw * Washington * Water Valley * Waterview * Waverly * Wayland * Waynesburg * Webbville * Webster * Weeksbury * Welchs Creek * Wellington * Wendover * West Liberty * West Louisville * West Paducah * West Point * West Prestonsburg * West Somerset

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

Kentucky Call Team: It's Not Too Late To Help

Kevin Flynn — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:20:03 EDT

The clock is running out on this historic presidential election, and the Kentucky Call Team has set a goal of making 4,000 phone calls to battlegrounds states by November 2nd. These calls are a crucial part of our field plan, and they free up organizers and volunteers on the ground in key battelground states to talk to voters face-to-face.

It only takes a few minutes to get start making calls from home, or you can find an organized phonebanking event near you.

Click here for an informational video that walks you through the Neighbor to Neighbor phonebanking tool.

Belicia, Alena and Ben, Morehead University students for Obama have been busy all year working for change, and are ready for the challenge to do their part during the homestretch.

These Chattanooga, Tennessee supporters are phoning North Carolina voters and are the perfect example of one state helping a neighboring state:

You can also host a Last Call for Change house party this Wednesday, October 29th. Invite everyone you know to watch Barack's 30-minute presentation and make important phone calls to voters in key battleground states.

Please donate to Barack today

Liz — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 19:14:57 EDT

Last week I sent out an email entitled,"Obama Leads in KY Donations." The article referred to how Barack is beating "that one" in donations received. We have fifteen days left before election day, but money is still needed because there will more ads and campaign stops. In fact, Bill Clinton is scheduled to come to Kentucky to campaign for Barack.

If you have not already donated to the campaign this month, please do so today on my fundraising page: http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/preview/main/Lizforobama

Let's make sure we do all we can to guarantee that Barack will be our next President. Thanks for all you've done so far.

Road Trip!!!

Steve — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:19:56 EDT

I'm excited! I will be flying down to Ft. Lauderdale FL, and driving back to Chicago! On my way I will have stops in Naples FL, Tampa FL, Lake City FL, Atlanta GA, Augusta GA, Charleston SC, Chattanooga TN, Kimball TN, Nashville TN, Louisville KY, and Indy IN. (Yes, I'm taking the LONG way back). It would be great to find anyone out there to help campaign with as I take this trip. I go to FL on Oct 28, and return to Chicago on Oct 3. Anyone out there have any ideas for me, as I make my own "Campaign Trail"?

Thanks!!

Steve

Laurel County Democratic Women's Club Meeting Write-up, October 13, 2008

Laurel County Democrats — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:47:02 EDT

On the second Monday of each month at 6:30 pm at the Laurel County Courthouse Community Room, the Democratic Women's Club of Laurel County hold their meetings. Men are welcome and encouraged to participate in these meetings also. At this time, it is the only regularly held Democrat's meetings in Laurel County. Members are asked to bring a dish to share (but okay if you don't-there is always lots & lots of good food, more than enough for everyone.) About 30 people attended the meeting and a good time was had by all. Obama Yard signs were given out. More may still be available, if interested, let me know & I will steer you to where they can be obtained. Next Month's meeting on Monday, November 10 will feature a Victory Party, business meeting and election of a new President and Secretary. Please consider attending & bring a friend!

This month's meeting featured two speakers, recognizing October is Breast Cancer Month, a representative from the Laurel County Health Department spoke about Breast Cancer, detection, treatment and how it affects both men and women and also Jim Holbert, an Independent candidate running for Hal Rogers' (R) 5th District Congressional seat.

More on Jim Holbert:

It is Time To Say, "Thanks, But No Thanks!" to Hal Rogers, Kentucky's own "Prince of Pork." and has the distinction of being named among the Top Ten Worst Congresspersons by Rolling Stone. Hal brings home the bacon rewarding his good ol' boy contributors. Road Builders LOVE Hal! He has pushed for his infamous "Road to Nowhere", I-66 to transverse his home district, even signing the route into law. Never mind that I-66 is not a true interstate, with no other states proposing construction. Hal has a "Field of Dreams" philosophy about I-66. But the sad truth is that I-66, if ever built across Laurel/Pulaski county will forever destroy the beautiful, rugged terrain through Daniel Boone National Forest, home to countless species' habitat (including endangered ones) and karst, caves and clear water. It will transverse the Rockcastle River, a designated Wild & Scenic River, home to killer Class I Rapids, some rugged terrain and archaeological treasures yet untold. Hal Rogers has brought home more pork for his district than Hormel has Hams! Not only do we need to Ditch Mitch, but it is also time to say, "Thanks, But No Thanks" to Hal Rogers. We can thank them both for helping to bankrupt our country, boot them both out and send them packing!

Jim Holbert is a resident of Laurel County, running as an Independent for Hal Rogers' 5th District Congressional Seat. He is very intelligent and well-spoken. Mr. Holbert has a lot of good ideas for moving Kentucky and America forward. He is running as an Independent candidate because he wants to help steer us in a new direction. Mr. Holbert has served our country admirably in the Army, Army National Guard and the Coast Guard and is also certified to teach Math and Science. He is currently serves as a MedEvac Helicopter Pilot out of Laurel County Airport.

From Jim Holbert's Website:

"Over the years Jim has lived and worked in Kentucky first while serving as an Army officer at Ft. Campbell, then as a helicopter pilot supporting oil, gas and coalfield work, and now as a Medical helicopter pilot in the southeast region. Jim understands the issues that are important to Kentuckians of the 5th District:

            -- Effective defense of America's sovereignty and freedoms

            -- Job creation and preservation

            -- Meaningful, affordable, available, and effective education

            -- Responsible resource development, conservation, protecting our homes, and preserving
                our beautiful hills, clear streams, and clean air

            Jim believes strongly in opportunity for all Americans through hard work, respect between people, and equal justice under the rule of law. As an Independent candidate for Congress, Jim Holbert offers Kentucky's 5th District voters a real alternative, new ideas, and plans for action to move Kentucky and America forward."

More information about Jim Holbert is available at his website (and please contribute if you can):

http://www.JimHolbert2008.com

We encourage all voters in the 5th Congressional District to not only DITCH MITCH by voting for Bruce Lunsford, Senate but also to say Thanks, But No Thanks, Hal! and vote for Jim Holbert, Independent candidate. Please note that you CANNOT vote the straight Democrat ticket, you must vote for Jim Holbert separately as an Independent candidate.

We are trying to organize the new group, tentatively named, the Laurel County Democrats. If we are to succeed, we will need your participation!

Respectfully Submitted By,
Sue Koplowitz
http://www.LaurelCountyDemocrats.org

Final Stop of the Day: Portsmouth and Southern Ohio Welcome Barack!

Michael in Ohio — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 21:24:43 EDT

Being an area that doesn't get much attention from the standard Democratic presidential candidate, Portsmouth was clearly overjoyed to have a first-hand look at Barack Obama. Here on the green at Shawnee State University, they were cheering back at him as he spoke more than the standard rally crowd. Of all ages, from all backgrounds, they're fired up, and ready to turn this red county blue.

Senator Sherrod Brown kicked it off by giving a shout-out to not just Portsmouth, but Ironton, Southern Ohio, and even Kentucky! He expressed confidence in the students here at Shawnee State University supporting Barack, but stressed the need to have "The Talk" with their parents.

But the event was especially momentous occasion for Governor Ted Strickland--although he's been to all three stops with Barack today, Portsmouth is just a few miles from where he grew up, and Shawnee State was where he was a teacher. These are his people, and he spoke to them frankly, as only he can:

We care about family, faith, and community. We also care about the Bill of Rights... and that includes the Second Amendment.
I'm here tonight to tell you, that through direct talks I've had with him, if you are a hunter or gunowner, you have nothing to fear from Barack Obama. You can tell 'em I told you so. Tell 'em, "Ted told me!"

Barack's speech was a deft mix of financial shop talk and soaring rhetoric that played on the crowd's potent enthusiasm. He told a funny story about the owner of the diner in Georgetown, Ohio (where he stopped on the way), who he heard from the workers was a devout Republican. When Barack finally met the man, he asked him "I heard you're a dyed in the wool Republican." The man said yes. Barack paused, then simply said:

"So... How's business?"

The crowd here in Portsmouth roared with laughter.

Most of all, Barack conveyed a common-sense approach to fixing the economy's problems. He mentioned changing bankruptcy laws so they favor people with one home, instead of those with multiple. He condemned the AIG executives who recently spent their bailout money on vacation getaways, saying that they should write a check back to the American people, and "be fired on the spot." After detailing his plans to invest in college education and green jobs, he broke down how he would handle the country's finances into basics:

I'm not just here to tell you how we're going to spend money, I'm here to tell you how we're going to save money.
I'll do what you do with your own family budget--cut out things that don't work.

A prolonged war in Iraq, and tax breaks for companies that ship jobs overseas are just a few of those money-saving budget cuts that Barack said Portsmouth, and Southern Ohio, and the Buckeye State as a whole could expect from his administration.

Barack is firing them up where ever he goes--from stadiums in Dayton, to parks in Cincy, to college quads in the southernmost tip of Ohio. And you can put your vote in for him today--so you can do your part to work to get him into office in the next few weeks.

Its Hard Work Being an Obama Supporter in Kentucky, Written By: Hilary Lambert

Laurel County Democrats — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 12:00:31 EDT

It’s hard work being an Obama supporter in Kentucky. According to Sue Koplowitz and the other folks organizing a rally for Saturday September 27 at the public library in London KY, they couldn’t find any campaign signs, buttons or stickers to hand out. None of the in-state Democratic Party offices they contacted had any to spare. Sue’s small group, Laurel County Democrats for Obama-Biden (www.BarackObama.com), knew they could order the items at substantial cost from the Obama Web site, but shipping time is 4 to 6 weeks, pointless when the election is 6 weeks away.

The group plowed ahead, printing full-color Obama sunrise logo signs and handouts at their own expense. They also invited Jim Holbert to speak. Holbert, a local emergency services helicopter pilot with a career in the US armed forces and as a commercial pilot, is running as an Independent against deeply-entrenched Congressman Hal Rogers. Rogers (Republican, 5th District), in office since 1981, has successfully brought home the bacon to his district – which stretches across southern and eastern Kentucky – in the form of schools, roads, community centers, task forces, roads, and more roads. Even so, not everyone likes him, maybe in part due to “King Hal’s” well-known arrogance. He has not acknowledged Jim Holbert’s existence, and did not show up for Kentucky Educational Television (KET)’s 2008 candidates forum, where Holbert alone spoke on behalf of the 5th District (www.ket.org/election: 5th District).

At 9 a.m. the library conference room was ready for Obama supporters, a table laden with good food and strong coffee. According to Sue, Laurel County Democrats for Obama-Biden was inspired to meet by the impromptu anti-Palin rally in Anchorage, Alaska on September 14 that drew an estimated 1000 passionate people out of the blue. But at 9:30 a.m. the final rally count in London, Kentucky rested at 9 including this intrepid reporter, who drove the 80 miles south on I-75 from Lexington to report on this rare event: people rallying on behalf of a Democratic Party African-American candidate in a Republican stronghold with a history of hostility to blacks.

The news is that the 9-person rally is only a partial indicator of what is going on in Laurel County and places like it. Here, too, change is taking place. The national Democratic Party and Obama’s team may have “written off” Kentucky as not worth their time and money, but based on what I saw yesterday in London, Barack Hussein Obama will get a lot more Kentucky votes than he may be expecting.

Kentucky has a vicious segregationist past, and this area of the state has a particularly notorious history. One exit further south along I-75 is the small city of Corbin, probably best-known as the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken’s founder, Colonel Harlan Sanders. Less well-known perhaps is that in 1919 the white citizenry of Corbin embarked on a successful ethnic cleansing campaign to drive the black population out of town, recently documented in Elliott Jaspin’s 2007 book, Buried in the Bitter Waters: The Hidden History of Racial Cleansing in America. The 2000 Census lists Corbin’s African Americans at 0.08% of the total population.

Based on that vile history, plus recent remarks from several area residents that “this campaign has brought racism out in the open down here,” and reports of an Obama sign being shot up twice, the mailbox filled with filth and set on fire; verbal abuse hurled at a mixed-race couple; and near-fisticuffs between a black and a white truck driver arguing about Obama vs. McCain at a London truck stop, I was not expecting the public enthusiasm for Obama that I found on Saturday in London.

The 9 rally participants got acquainted, talked intensively for two solid hours, and resolved to work together to get Obama as many local votes as possible. They accepted the obvious limitations to their success, and agreed that theirs is a truly grass-roots campaign. The group solemnly agreed that “it is up to people like us to flip the 20 percent gap between Obama and McCain” in Kentucky. They then headed to the World Chicken Festival going on in downtown London, to help out at the Democratic Women’s Club booth. The usually quiet city streets were lined with hundreds of booths and carnival rides and packed with thousands of people, and a heady scent of chicken fried in peanut oil permeated the air.

Near the crest of the hill atop which sits the Laurel County Courthouse, the Republican Party booth faced off almost directly across the crowded street from the Democratic Women’s Club booth. Many among the steady flow of strollers wore Mitch McConnell re-election stickers on their shirts. Senator McConnell, the ultimate bacon-bringer of recent times, is also up for re-election in Kentucky. While Republicans are confident that he will prevail against Democratic challenger Bruce Lunsford, the Democrats across the street were putting up a good fight, their booth plastered with lurid “Ditch Mitch” signs.

Thanks solely to Sue Koplowitz and her small rally group, the booth also had a pile of colorful Obama signs and handouts explaining the Presidential candidate’s position on the issues. Sue stood next to the booth with signs and flyers, calling out to passers-by, “Vote for Obama! Come register to vote!” And this is where the quiet signs of change were visible. Local Democratic Party leader Roy Sizemore told me that at an event like this, they usually sign up “about 15 to 20 new voters,” presumably Democrats (the Republican booth across the street was doing the same thing.) This year, Roy said, they had signed up “about 45” by mid-afternoon on Saturday. As he spoke, I saw a young man at the booth bend down to fill out the form. Sue reported a trend of “older people bringing daughters” to register. All white folks.

Before heading back to Lexington I pulled Sue Koplowitz aside to ask her a few questions about the rally and the election. Did she think her group, Laurel County Democrats for Obama-Biden, could have an impact on the election? Yes, she replied, “We’ll get a few more Democrats voting in a place that for a long time has not offered any choices.” What has the group achieved so far? “Increasing awareness of Barack Obama and what he stands for.” To my final question, What do you hope to achieve in November? Sue replied with gusto, “We are shaking up the local status quo. We are introducing change to a place that is dead set against it. It’s soon going to be our kids’ world, and they have to get involved now.”

Late that same evening, Sue reported by email that the pace of change was continuing as Saturday faded into night at the World Chicken Festival: “People that hollered McCAIN! I hollered back MORE OF THE SAME! Two brave ladies from the crowd ended up joining me in waving our Obama signs! Lots of 18 yr old young folk saying they are already registered & going to vote! I went & printed up 150 more Obama signs & handed them out til they were gone, we ran out of almost all of the handouts when I left & they still had 2 hours to go. May be hope for this town yet! It’s been a long day but a good one.

Protecting American Voting Rights!

Omar Dyer — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:40:11 EDT

In America, your right to vote makes you an American. In America, your right to vote makes you a tax-payer. In AMerica, your right to vote gets you one step closer at being a citizen. All around the country, voter registration drives, have re-boasted the vibe of voting. Organizations like A.C.O.R.N. which means: Association of Community Organization for Reform Now, have been working too hard in order to get people registered. Yet, the House Republican Base, who's seats are endangered see this organization or any organization like A.C.O.R.N. as a problem. This problem is the same problem that helps people get registered to vote: more like Rock the Vote. In fact both of these two organizations fuel off the same information and ideas set down by the federal government.

What I can't understand is why two programs that do idnentical things, in terms of functioning and voter's rights -- are at the opposite side of the House/ Republican's table: here's an idea! A.C.O.R.N. brings in 90% of their voter drives to the Democratic Party, While Rock the vote brings in 45% of their drives to the Democratic Party. Rock the Vote turns in 55% for the Republican Party, and A.C.O.R.N. turns in 10% to the Republican party -- so this means the Republicans can't inspire their base so they want to pick which program works and what doesn't to favor them. Fact are: 55% of newly registered voters are Democrat, with 25% are independent -- with 20% Republican. Now they want to take away your rights.

The Repubs base wants to say this: These people are criminals, these people are illegally here; these people are not competent enough to vote. Listen, they ARE WRONG: During the primaries, you voted on the voter act initiative; which protects your rights unless you are mentally challenged -- and even then you still have the right to vote with assistance.
Here's you voting rights for 11/4/2008

1: To be registered by 10/4

2: U.S. Citizen that has a residence in the states county for more than 30 days on Election Day: Including a P.O. Box from the stats post office.

3: 18 years of age before Election Day.

4: If you are not in prison or on parole for a felony convicition on or two weeks before election day.

5: College students have a right to use the dormitory as a primary residence -- home or school: and they can oly vote ONCE.

6: Only a person with a misdemeanor conviction can still vote, and they have the right to vote from the jails: MISDEANORS ONLY.

7: A felony conviction can only register: after they have been cleared from: parole, probation, and their current charge.

8: A homeless person can vote if were they usually stay: they can use that place like: a park, a shelter, or a citizen sibling in good standing -- in which they reside in the county of the state they are registering in to vote.

These are the rights you have to vote and these are the rights that A.C.O.R.N. and Rock the Vote is using. One problem: Rock The Vote is an online company, and A.C.O.R.N. is a minority based community program: running under the cleanest rules in America, and just like Coaches! 101 they are under federal investiagtion. I get it when you are clean: you must be evil if you're not a Republican. When you are dirty, and create scandels -- like the financial crisis: you are good with the Republican base. Please be aware of your rights:

http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/voting/intro/intro_b.htm

It's time to end Hal Rogers's time in office

Halyn Roth — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 08:31:35 EDT

PLEASE - VOTE JIM HOLBERT FOR CONGRESS

COMMON SENSE SOLUTIONS FOR KENTUCKY

AND SUPPORTER OF BARACK OBAMA & BRUCE LUNSFORD.

WWW.JIMHOLBERT2008.COM

Help with our campaign efforts in Somerset!

Halyn Roth — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 17:43:05 EDT

The Pulaski County Democrats will be hosting two events in the next few weeks in support of our Obama/Biden/Lunsford ticket.

1. Please come out on Somernites Cruise (Sat, Sept. 27) begining at 12:30 and help spread the word about the Democratic ticket. We will be out all day talking to voters about the issues that MATTER. Also joining us will be Congressional Candidate Jim Holbert (Independent) who will also be out shaking hands and working the crowds.

2. Come out on October 9th at 6:30 for the Pulaski County for Change rally! To be at Pulaski County Park (West Hwy 80 in Nancy). Free admission-free food. Guest speakers Lt. Governor Dan Mongiardo and Congressional Candidate Jim Holbert. Come out and have a good time!

Both of these events are listed on the Obama website. Please sign up for them! Hope to see you there!

Looking in Louisville, KY

EMC — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 01:46:46 EDT

I'm trying to connect with Obama supporters in Louisville, KY and/or surrounding area. I'm particularly interested in finding "Debate Watch Parties" and Election Night Parties. Any info?? - Please email Ellen at animalemc@yahoo.com. Thanks!

US Senator Charles Schumer's Letter: Obama and Details on the 2008 Races in Battleground States, from Democrat Perspective

Stephen Fox, Contributing Editor New Mexico Sun News — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 14:22:51 EDT

Here is something I am absolutely certain of: The only reason we're poised to achieve once-in-a-lifetime change in the Senate is because our grassroots - people just like you - have done everything we've asked to give the DSCC all the campaign resources we need to execute our proven campaign plan.

For that, you have my deep, sincere thanks. And if we elect that filibuster-proof majority in November, you'll have the gratitude of an entire nation.

Let me tell you where we stand.

There are 11 battleground states. [OREGON, ALASKA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, MINNESOTA, KENTUCKY, NORTH CAROLINA, VIRIGNIA, MISSISSIPPI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, AND MAINE]

And that doesn't even count the five other states just on the horizon that we'll all be talking about on Election Day. Here are just a few examples of the success we're seeing this cycle.

Democrat Tom Udall holds a commanding lead in New Mexico. In fact, just a few days ago we learned that the NRSC canceled its entire $2.3 million television buy here, essentially conceding the race.

The nation's most vulnerable Republican incumbent, John Sununu, trails Democratic ex-Governor Jeanne Shaheen by 11 points.

Even in a Republican stronghold like North Carolina, two recent polls show Democratic State Senator Kay Hagan pulling even with incumbent Republican Elizabeth Dole.

I know that we can make the most of our opportunity this year because we're using the same proven strategy that took back the Senate in 2006. You're helping us frame the terms of each race, respond to every attack, and directly connect with millions of voters to drive them to the polls.

Thanks to your overwhelming support, the DSCC was able to launch TV ads in North Carolina that exposed Dole as the 93rd most effective senator, undercutting her hollow message of experience and results.

In Colorado, Democrat Mark Udall was under siege by $6 million worth of attack ads paid for by shadowy third-party Republican groups. The DSCC rushed to his defense with ads of our own and now Mark has an impressive lead.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, your contributions support a bigger and better version of the sophisticated voter contact strategy that took back the Senate two years ago. Already this year, we've made more 2.5 million phone calls and knocked on 650,000 doors in our battleground states nationwide.

That's just the tip of the iceberg. All told, the DSCC has already spent $28 million of your money to put us in position for a monster November.

Like I've said before: there is no doubt we are in such a strong position to deliver a filibuster-proof Senate majority entirely because we have you on our side.

Thank you so much.

Sincerely,

Chuck Schumer

P.S. We're ahead in 5 races for current Republican seats. But that's only halfway to a truly filibuster-proof majority. We can't get there without your continued support.

-----------

2008 Senate Battlegrounds

Alaska
Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich (D) vs. Sen. Ted Stevens (R)

The corruption scandal sweeping through the Alaska Republican Party has put Ted Stevens - a 7-term incumbent - on the brink of losing his seat in November.

Democrat Mark Begich has opened up a lead in the latest polling, but nobody is under any illusion that this race is over. Alaska has always been a Republican stronghold, and with Governor Sarah Palin on the presidential ticket, the party is sure to be energized to turn out in November.

Begich is doing everything necessary to hold on to his lead. He's raising money and reaching out to voters. Just this week he launched a new ad to drive home his commitment to repeal the disastrous No Child Left Behind law.

Stevens won't let a 40-year career end without a fight, so we won't let up for a second before Election Day. With your help, the DSCC will do everything possible to ensure that Mark Begich wins in November.

Colorado
Rep. Mark Udall (D) vs. Rep. Bob Schaffer (R)

Six months ago, this race was neck and neck. Now, Mark Udall leads by 10 points in the latest Denver Post poll.

What happened? First, Bob Schaffer was discovered to have been the recipient of an all-expense paid tropical vacation from a front group for convicted Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff. Then, it was revealed that when he was vice-president of Aspect Energy, he negotiated an oil deal in Iraq that the State Department officials specifically identified as detrimental to stability in Iraq.

Then there were two different DSCC TV ads paid for by grassroots supporters like you. Our investment here is another key reason Udall enjoys a strong position heading into the stretch run.

Colorado will be a battleground state in November, so we're not taking anything for granted in this race. In fact, Udall has already seen more third-party attack ads than any other Democratic candidate this cycle. It's our job to help him fight back.

Kentucky
Bruce Lunsford (D) vs. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R)

No matter how much money Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell spends, he can't shake the tough challenge posed by Democratic business leader Bruce Lunsford. McConnell is even getting hundreds of thousands of dollars in help from corporate Republican third-party organizations.

None of it is slowing Lunsford, who is on the air with a devastating straight-to-camera indictment of Republican failures in Washington.

Let's be blunt. It's always tough to beat an entrenched incumbent, but Mitch McConnell has been the man responsible for all of those Republican filibusters blocking progress on health care, energy costs, and the housing crisis. It's critical that he is held accountable in November.

Maine
Rep. Tom Allen (D) vs. Sen. Susan Collins (R)

Republican incumbent Susan Collins likes to portray herself as a voice of Republican moderation, but the truth is that she's been a reliable cheerleader for even the worst of George Bush's policies.

Democrat Tom Allen is ready to hold Collins accountable for her record. He has built a formidable campaign organization and has more than $3 million in the bank for the stretch run. He will have the resources to bring his message of change to Mainers.

Allen and the DSCC have both taken to the airwaves to push Allen's proven record of results. This race is poised for a strong finish.

Minnesota
Al Franken (D) vs. Sen. Norm Coleman (R)

The race between Al Franken and Norm Coleman is a dead heat, and the massive TV blitz has begun. Coleman has launched attack ads against Franken, and corporate special interests are blanketing the state against Franken.

That's why the DSCC has unleashed a striking new ad this week that apes a blockbuster movie trailer to make sure that every Minnesota voter knows Norm Coleman is a classic Bush Republican. We think it's pretty terrific and will break through the noise in this race to get a lot of attention from voters. Take a look and see for yourself.

Mississippi
Gov. Ronnie Musgrove (D) vs. Sen. Roger Wicker (R)

The polls in the race for Trent Lott's old seat are just about as close as they can get. Democrat Ronnie Musgrove and interim Senator Roger Wicker have been trading the lead for months.

Make no mistake. Mississippi is top territory for Democrats. But Republicans always do well in the Deep South, so Musgrove is working hard to persuade independent and even Republican voters. Both sides are blitzing the state with TV ads.

What's going to make the difference in this race? You are. Thanks to your support, the DSCC is already running ads in Mississippi to expose Wicker's sordid record. As long as we can count on you along the way, the DSCC will be able to make the investments necessary to win on Election Day.

This is going to be one of those races - like Montana and Virginia in 2006 - where we win by just a few thousand votes. You helped the DSCC make all the difference before and I know we will do it again.

New Hampshire
Gov. Jeanne Shaheen (D) vs. Sen. John Sununu (R)

Jeanne Shaheen is another big target for third-party attacks ads. By our count, seven different groups have spent more than $2.5 million trying to drag Shaheen through the mud.

These groups don't have to disclose their donors, so they can't be held accountable. Instead, the DSCC just has to fight back. With our new ad this week targeting John Sununu's dismal record on supporting funding for Medicare, that's exactly what we're doing.

The DSCC's job is to level the playing field when our candidates are under attack, and it's working in New Hampshire. Shaheen has sustained a strong lead in this race, and John Sununu remains the most vulnerable Republican incumbent in the country.

Still, New Hampshire is another presidential battleground state, and John Sununu has a history of taking advantage of dirty political tricks to win. We can't take a moment off if we're going to elect Jeanne Shaheen.

New Mexico
Rep. Tom Udall vs. Rep. Steve Pearce (R)

Democrat Tom Udall holds a solid lead in the latest polling and has more than five times as much campaign cash on-hand as Steve Pearce.

While Udall continues to connect with voters and run TV ads focused on the middle class squeeze, the NRSC has all but given up in this state. They cancelled a $2.3 million planned ad buy and have essentially told Pearce that he's on his own now.

The Washington Post has called a Udall victory a "done deal" and the venerable political handicapper Charlie Cook has declared that Pearce doesn't have a "fighting chance" in November. Very good news for Democrats.

However, the United States Chamber of Commerce - one of the most reliable Republican attack organizations - didn't get the memo and is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on ads against Udall. We haven't seen much movement in the polls as a result, but the DSCC watches this race every day. You know we'll be ready to support Udall whenever he needs it.

North Carolina
State Sen. Kay Hagan (D) vs. Sen. Elizabeth Dole (R)

Senator Dole is scared. We used to call this the sleeper race of the cycle. Now, it's just another terrific opportunity to pick-up a Republican held seat in one of the most closely-watched races in the country.

After trailing by as many as 12 points in recent months, two new polls give Democrat Kay Hagan a slim lead in this race.

The Republicans are launching a major counter-offensive. Dole fired back with her first negative attack against Hagan this cycle. Even the NRSC is spending some of their meager budget attacking our candidate. They will not go down without a fight.

At the DSCC, we always say we can level the playing field for our challengers facing well-financed incumbents. The race in North Carolina is a perfect example. We'll need your help along the way, but you better believe that we'll do everything in our power to defeat Elizabeth Dole in November.

Oregon
Speaker of the State House Jeff Merkley (D) vs. Sen. Gordon Smith (R)

Oregon remains one of the hottest Senate races in the country. Republican incumbent Gordon Smith is clinging to a single-digit lead despite outspending Democrat Jeff Merkley by a wide margin. In fact, in numbers released Wednesday, Smith scored the highest disapproval rating of his career in the Senate.

It really makes for a strong pick-up opportunity, which is why we've already seen the Republicans' third-party friends taking aim at Merkley. Remember, these organizations don't have to disclose their donors and therefore can't be held accountable for the mud they sling.

Again, one of the keys to Democratic victory in this state will be a strong and vibrant investment by the DSCC. We've known Oregon would be a strong pick-up opportunity months ago and we have been airing TV ads statewide week after week since May.

In our latest spot, we are directly responding to Smith's claims last week that he's a strong opponent of the war in Iraq. The DSCC immediately launched a new ad reminding Oregonians that no matter what he says now, Smith supported George Bush's failed Iraq policy for 1,518 days.

In 58 days, we can show Gordon Smith just what we think about that and send him packing. When you make a contribution, winning states like Oregon is exactly where your money goes.

Virginia
Gov. Mark Warner (D) vs. Gov. Jim Gilmore (R)

Mark Warner has maintained a strong, double-digit lead in the polling in this race, and it's easy to see why.

Warner has more than $5 million in campaign cash on hand. Gilmore is nearly broke. Warner has been running TV ads emphasizing his bipartisan record of accomplishment. Gilmore has been reduced to sleazy personal attacks.

A Tribute

cheli — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:32:51 EDT

The excitement in my community of the possibility of electing a POTUS that speaks to all people has been overwelming. I've met people who share my ideals and those who don't, but who realize that we all must work together to secure a future for our children and grandchildren. I've seen signage, t-shirts, buttons, all kinds of things that people have created/designed for our candidate. This morning, I received a YouTube video from one of my church members. Her mother-in-law has her own tribute to Sen. Obama. I've attached the link here for you to enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMU6d2T8Gls

Day One.

ZacHussein — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 07:19:33 EDT

A look at my home county.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T93egBMlvCo

I apologize if my blogs are not eloquently worded but this is an experiment in order for me to engage in this community. The primary purpose of this blog will be to inform, to receive feedback, and to provide inspiration (if that be possible) to fellow wannabe activists. Flowery prose comes from our flagbearer, not from me.

Please know that I am playing this all by ear. I am 18 years of age and democrats and campaign events are few and far between. Critique and feedback are essential if I am to be of any viability in this bottom-up structure.

So far neither my e-mails to the DNC or the Obama campaign have been returned. I waited past the customary 48 hours and it seems I must take action into my own hand. In order for you to understand the disparity of events in my area, know that the majority of events that Zac will be attending are located around 100 miles away.

Very short on friends right now (4 in fact). That itself will be worked on today after I get on my friend RBlake's profile and add multiple people. The more people I have reading this blog, the more I can learn.

My first event, an ice cream social in Lexington, KY. I am going to call the organizer tomorrow and enquire into him further what needs to be done. Hopefully this pans out and I can get acquainted with some fellow soldiers.

Thank you for reading.

Rendered Jobless by Senator, Feisty Mom Runs For Congress!

John From Cape Cod. Ma — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:33:01 EDT

Link:http://www.ryanforkentucky.com/AboutHeather.html

Link: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/1/17/12825/2861/28/438317

Link:http://bluegrassroots.org/showDiary.do?diaryId=892

The best way to describe the experience might be "exhilarating and terrifying all rolled into one moment of time". As I prepare for bed this 15th day of January, 2008, I look back and realize that I have just finished what truly has been the most bizarre political day of my life. Making this statement is no small feat, since I have been politically active since age 10, majored in Political Science and lived worked and played in both the nation's political hubs; Des Moines, IA and Washington, DC.

The day started out simple enough. I woke to the hungry cries of my four month old, prepared for work and got on the road. As I promised my 12 year old, Heaven, that she could join me on the day's adventures if she scored 100% on last week's spelling test, she was in tow for a day of work and a quick protest of Senator Mitch McConnell's re-election campaign swing through our fair city of Paducah. There's something about that kid, she just loves a good protest.

The protest went as expected. My daughter and I froze our collective asses off with about a dozen other "Ditch Mitch supporters" outside the Irvin Cobb hotel for an hour before Mitch's posse arrived and the thirty seconds it took for McConnell to sprint from his SUV into the hotel's side entrance. Amid the dozen of us were three of his pushing, shoving and overtly rude cronies who toted out "6 more years" signs about three minutes before Mitch pulled up in his Tennessee plated rental car. Sure, we got the whole event on video tape. Mitch pulling up, Mitch getting out, a few yells from the peanut gallery - you know, the annoying stuff like, "Mitch let us talk to you" - those damned demanding constituents! The party broke up pretty quickly after Mitch ducked into the Irvin Cobb, low income housing unit (he was giving a speech to the well off Lion's Club members in the meeting room, not making a photo op for the less fortunate living in the only housing they can afford).

After we thawed out our fingers, toes and butts during a fine Chinese fast food lunch, Heaven and I headed back to the grind at the Independent Movie Theater in which I'm the Executive Director, The Maiden Alley Cinema. Little did I know the turn of events that were about to unfold......

As we pulled up, we ran into fate - also known as the Executive Director of the River Heritage Museum, Julie Harris. The River Heritage Museum, The Maiden Alley Cinema and the Seaman's Church share a beautiful, historic building in downtown Paducah. We have a little collective use agreement which allows all of our non-profit organizations to use the lobby and movie theater during different times of the day/week/year. Julie then informs me that a certain Senator will be paying a visit to her fine establishment in just a little bit and that I should thank my lucky stars for such a fabulous Senator since his pork projects are what built the theater (gag - that's so not true!). This was a revelation to me. When did they schedule this visit and why was I not informed?

My mind was racing a mile a minute. What would I say to the Senate Minority Leader should the chance present itself? Should I remain in my professional capacity as an Executive Director most assuredly should? Or, should I speak my mind and find out why the hell he still backs this cluster f*ck war and president? So much to contemplate, with such little time. What to do, what to say, would I lose my job, would I look unprofessional, would his security people tackle me and torture me by sucking up spit streams from their mouths just to let them dangle millimeters from my lips and sucking them back up again? The possibilities were endless. Then, it dawned on me - I didn't have to do anything, I could simply put the kid up to the dirty work. Hell, that's why we have kids - to make them do all the crap to which we are too cowardly to own up. I could have her ask the Senator what was on her mind, then if he dogs her, not only is he an asshole for dissing a 12 year old, but I could get it on camera! SCORE!

So we waited. In my office, we watched as his security crew eyeballed us and checked all the entrances, exits and bathrooms. We waited and tried to play some 007 spy games with his crew to figure out how we could corner Mitch so Heaven could ask him her question. Then, the camera crew showed up. All the way from Nashville, a professional camera crew arrived, ready to shoot a campaign commercial - IN MY THEATER! They began setting up their lights, boom mikes and killer digital cameras in two places, the lobby of my theater and outside the front door of the River Heritage Museum. Unbelievable! Who was this prick who just barges into arguably one of Western Kentucky's most vocal Yellow Dog Democrat's place of employment and decides to shoot a campaign commercial by the concession stand where she, a Theater Manager and three part time employees eek out a meager existence by schlepping popcorn and soda on the weekends? What nerve, what balls, what incredible ignorance to put me in such a beneficial position! My God, could I ask for a better or more bizarre scenario? Hell No!

The minutes changed to hours and it was kicking 5:00 in the ass. No Mitch. We waited ever so impatiently with butterflies in our stomachs, sitting in my office, watching the entrance to the theater from the River Heritage Museum, waiting for him to emerge from his meetings with the Mayor and other politicos. Then, 5:00 comes along and the Museum closes the gate that leads to my theater lobby. Damn! I reason it out; He must not have been planning to film in my lobby - a bunch of other folks went in there and they must have done a "Mitch got me all this great crap" kind of "B-Real" for his commercial. So I tell Heaven, grab your stuff, we're going to stake him out in front of the Museum. We close and lock my office door. We run out to my total P.O.S. Plymouth Lazer and with the deafening squeal of a fan belt screeching, we sprint around the corner of Kentucky Avenue to the front of the River Heritage Museum. There it is, Mitch's white SUV with the Tennessee plates. The camera crew is packing up their gear as they have apparently finished their gig in front of the Museum. So we park the screeching beast and pile out of the car with our video camera in tow, determined to let Heaven ask Mitch her question as he leaves the museum

Seconds turn to minutes and our fingers are once again feeling the pain of the cold. McConnell's security team emerges from the museum, they look at us and I ask if Heaven can "have her picture made with the Senator when he comes out (I even adjusted my vocabulary for this one - having a "picture made" seems to be a very Western Kentucky thing to say, so I went for it!). They ignored us and went back inside. I figured they must have recognized me from earlier in the day or perhaps they had been briefed by the ED of the museum on my crazy Democratic antics. More time passed, then one of the part time employees appears from the door and asks why we are filming. Now I'm embedded, we've become entrenched in this guerilla operation so I utterred the dreaded phrase again, "We were hoping to have Heaven's picture made with the Senator as he leaves"; to whence the part time employee proclaims, "Oh, the Senator is Gone, he left". My head's spinning - gone - how the hell did he get out? He would have had to have walked past my office to get out of the building. Plus, his SUV and security detachment is still here. Hmmmm, I think she's lying to us! Damn my instincts - I was right! More minutes pass and I tell Heaven, they're lying to us girl, he wouldn't leave without his handlers, no freaking way. A few more minutes pass, now the pain of the cold is searing through my fingers as they freeze to my rolling video camera. The part timer peeks out of the window on occasion so we step back a few feet so she can't see us from her vantage point in the museum. Then, she opens the door, peeks out again and says some crap about, "I'm looking for a couple of photographers ..." Uh, right. Whatever. Obviously a ploy to stake out our position once again. By this time, I was determined that if the Senator had indeed left, we were going to follow his detachment to the fund-raiser to which he was scheduled to speak and confront him there; slippery bastard. Not two minutes after Ms. Part Timer staked us out, McConnell's driver emerges, ducks into the SUV and peels out like a mad man. We're on the move! Heaven and I jump into the beast, knowing that this guy is heading toward the BACK entrance of the museum, which just happens to be the FRONT entrance of my theater! With whom did this fool think he was toying? I knew the lay of the land far better than some Senator who only visits when it's election year and folks are paying $250.00 a couple to chit chat. Heaven and I drive the wrong way a half block up the one-way Broadway Avenue into the Maiden Alley and cut off his security staffer! SCORE! I ROCK! We swing a U-Turn into a parking spot in the alley and jump out of the squealing beast. Who would ever have believed it, McConnell is shooting his friggin political commercial in my lobby! Camera crews are rolling film, political donors are kissing ass, McConnell is pretending to care what these folks are saying while he smiles for the camera. Heaven and I make our way down the alley and begin filming him from outside the very theater at which I'm the Executive Director. Heaven waves to her Senator and sings, "Hi Mitch McConnell" which alerts his security team to our crazy shenanigans of filming our Senatorial Representative, at which time they decide that they are going to block my view of McConnell so I can no longer get a clear photo of him on my video camera. What the hell? We play this cat and mouse game for about five minutes, where I go from window to window and this big, burly man with a mobile phone in hand plays defensive line-backer in an attempt to obscure my view. Crazy!

Then, the magic happens. Mitch's party is breaking up. He's done schmoozing with his wealthy donors - 'er - filming his re-election commercial with his constituents - and he makes his way out the back way of my lobby, toward my office. Who does this guy think he's avoiding? I have the keys! I can let myself in to cut him off from going out the back door! What an amateur! My heart is pounding, my mind is racing, I run down the alley to the alternative entrance to my office to cut him off so he can't avoid me! Wham! He sees that I am playing these silly Tom Foolery games as I enter the exit he had planned to use. Kerblammo - he turns around, posse in tow and heads back toward the main entrance of my theater, back through the lobby. He's on the run, I feel so "Michael Moore", playing cat and mouse with an evasive elected official. Jezuz, what did this guy fear about me, for God's sake? Zip, I run back down the alley and cut him off again! This time, his people have prepped him, they'll detract the crazy woman and her annoying kid, just make your way to the running vehicle parked directly outside the door. All of a sudden, I felt like I was working for TMZ, chasing down Brittany Spears. The big goon who was obstructing my view earlier comes out and puts his beefy paw in front of my camera - who the hell is he - Sean Penn? Finally, our opportunity! "Senator, I want to talk to you about the war in Iraq. It will just take a minute of your time". Heaven's screaming, "Do you want my dad to die? Should I start training for war?" Holy crap, my heart is going to come out of my chest! The goon security man yells at my daughter, "We won't have any of that!" to which I replied, "What are you going to do? This is free speech!" Then we resume asking the Senator for a minute of his time. Vrrrrooooommm - his rented SUV halls ass out of my alley - presumably for the first and last time. I doubt he will frequent our fine independent movies after this encounter. Damn - I just lost the theater $6.50 for an adult admission! Oh wait, I also just pissed off Senator Mitch McConnell and his security goons because I wanted to talk about the war in Iraq. Although Heaven didn't get an answer to her question, "Would you care if my dad died in the war?" (her dad is active duty Navy, I'm a vet), and I never did get that one minute of the Senator's time (I don't have $250.00 for the fund-raiser to which he was rushing), it was a good damned day!

******************

(UPDATE!!!!)

this is her email from today, and it gets even worse. It looks like Mitch McConnell is trying EXTORT the city of Paducah over this 12-year old girl!! Disgusting!!! (crossposted at BlueGrassRoots)

******************

If you've received this e-mail it's because you received my previous e-mail entitled, "A Day in the Life of a Crazed KY Dem". The astonishing turn of events over the past 24 hours has forced me to write this follow-up. If you remember, my opening line from the previous e-mail was, "You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll wish you were me ..." Okay, belay my last (for you Navy folks). After reading this follow up, you may laugh, you may cry, but you most assuredly will NOT wish you were me!

After burning the midnight oil writing the story of my day, January 15, 2008, the clouds parted, the world seemed brighter and I felt as though I could never again sleep because of the excitement. Wow, what a day. Confronting arguably the most powerful Republican elected official in the world about the war in Iraq, being arrogantly blown off by him, being manhandled by his security detachment (one of whom scolded my child), and getting it all on tape. As a Political Scientist, it simply doesn't get any better than that. Well, perhaps it does, but politically speaking, I have never experienced anything better.

The elation from last night has since turned to trepidation and perhaps a tinge of outright fear. Little did I know the firestorm that was about to ensue. Apparently, yours truly, "The Little Vet Who Could", and her pre-teen daughter "The Little Girl Who Did", rattled the Senator to such a degree that we were the subject of great discussion during Senator McConnell's exclusive fund-raising event in Western Kentucky, towards which he laid rubber out of my theater's alley to attend. Yet, the fun didn't stop there. Little did I know, we were also the topic of discussion at many other emergency meetings throughout this tiny town of 25,000 on this cold, blustery Paducah day, January 16, 2008.

Within the past 24 hours, tens of millions of dollars in funding for all programs previously promised from the Federal Government to our fair city's River Front Revitalization Program have suddenly been moved into the "uncertain column"; at least until the city fathers can prove that crazy rabble rouser "Heather Ryan" is not associated with their programs/organizations. That's right ladies and gentlemen, in no uncertain terms, I've been informed that my little "escapade" in videotaping the Senate Minority Leader has suddenly put Paducah Pork on the chopping block in Mr. McConnell's book should me and my silly little girl remain in the forefront of Paducah Politics. Last night, at a dinner attended by my superior, myself, my husband, and my daughter Heaven, I was informed that if I did not cease my political activities in Paducah I would LOSE MY JOB.

I have to admit, it took me a while to process. I just didn't get it. What the hell did I do that was so vile, that was so horrid, that would make the Senator so angry that he would personally ensure that my job is in jeopardy? What would make him threaten the powers that be that projects aimed to benefit upwards of 50,000 constituents in the Western Kentucky area were two seconds away from dying a pathetic, undignified death in the waste basket of a Senate Committee yet to be determined? Then, a wise friend enlightened me. I had him on tape, ignoring a little girl who wanted to know if he wanted to kill her active duty dad in Iraq, ducking into his security guard’s waiting SUV and covering his face, as if I were some putrid, stinking piece of crap that didn't deserve a minute of his time. Is it possible that this amateur video, shot with my own shaking hand, could bring down the Senate Minority Leader? As unreal as the possibility may be, the thought of him losing his powerful job loomed large enough for him to put out the word that I need to lose mine. So, if you heard an enormous sucking sound coming from Western Kentucky this morning, it was the sound of the puckered lips of frightened people here as they inhaled deeply, held their breath and put distance between themselves and me and my crazy pink-haired daughter.

Chalk this up as the absolutely most bizarre experience of my relatively young life. On Monday morning I was but a mere Executive Director of an independent movie theater in Downtown Paducah. My husband, a full time student at the local law school and I rake in slightly more than the median Western Kentucky income of $25,000 a year. I am truly a nobody in the grand scheme of things. Yet, once my daughter and I put into practice our First Amendment right to question our senior Senator about his intentions in Iraq, I am deemed public enemy #1. What the hell is happening here? Is this still America or did I fall asleep and someone moved my family and our pathetic little two bedroom mobile dwelling to Nazi Germany? Since when in America can a Senator be frightened so much by a child and her mother that he threatens to ruin her life and/or the lives of 50,000 people in her community, should she continue saying whatever in the hell she desires?

I'm Speechless folks. A first for me, indeed. Speechless and sadly, most likely, soon to be Jobless. I hope you understand the gravity of this matter. The most powerful Republican in the world is effectively attempting to destroy the lives of a veteran mother and her family because she was bold enough to ask the question we all want to know, "What are you hiding Mitch?". I can tell you what I will be hiding, the original video tape. And I’ll tell you what I won’t be hiding. The copies.

Unite for Change: Rural Kentucky

Christy — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:10:43 EDT

About 20 inspired people gathered in the small rural town of Tompkinsville, Kentucky -- old, young, children, teenagers, black and white, including three black republicans who have switched over to democrat after researching Obama for themselves. Eight of us traveled from surrounding Cumberland and Metcalf counties. Very inspiring. Several people got up and said why they wanted to vote for him, and others asked questions about his policies, there was much group discussion about how to respond to rumors (that he is not American, he is a musilm and so on).

The meeting at the High School cafeteria was spearheaded by a mother/ daughter team who are active in the democratic party the Obama campaign (Monroe and Warren counties respectively). The food was amazing, burgers catered by the local barbbque, and buckets and buckets of slaw, potato salad, salads, several deserts including homemade banana pudding.

A dvd supplied by the campaign was shown that focused on the community organizing aspects of the Obama campaign, the back bone of this strategy. In '94, after graduating from Harvard, instead of taking a high power attorney job, Obama launched a non profit initaitve called Project Vote where he amassed a team of folks who registered 100,000 voters in low inoe and minoirty neighbor hoods. The essential key is that corporations are well organized, thus they have the systems in place to lobby and influence government in ways that communities cannot. By creating a vast network of grassroots groups, communities will be empowered to affect change.

The best part of the message was when Obama emphasized that the community organizing efforts that are set in place as a result of this campaign will live on after the campaign, and it will be that much easier for communities to assemble and take action on future campaigns and issues.

Why we need to voice our concerns

Selena — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:33:12 EDT

I've been supporting Obama and found this site. It's been really helpful to me. I've received a lot of smear e-mails from the community, family and friends. Now I have a way to spread the truth! I found this video and I put it up on a blog/bulletin on Myspace. I didn't get much of a response because I think that people saw too much of themselves in it and didn't like what they saw. At the end of this video there is a voice of reason. I felt like he was about the only person in the video that I could relate to and I was relieved!!! My hope is that people who watched this video and thought they sounded more like all the negative biggots thought twice about it. I don't think that prejudice can be changed until we put a mirror in front of it so that people can see that it's really ugly. I am listening to the views of the candidates and looking at their track record NOT judging them based on their personal background.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CnJ6UuIJb4

Let the movement work for America

Will C Mars — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 13:14:28 EDT

The movement that has been created around Barack Obama isthe reason I put my support behind him. It is the reason I actively seek out those who aren't voting for him and talk to them about why I'm voting for him. Which aside from strongly agreeing with his positions, trusting Barack more than Mc Cain, and being inspired by the first canidate that seems beyond a party or like type cast for a new season of the West wing; ultimately comes down to 2 reasons.

Reason 1. The amount of money he's raised during a recession.

Reason 2. Us, the movement that supports him is capable of doing so much. Which is the point of this piece.

Barack Obama is quoted at the top of the site saying " I'm asking you to believe not just in my ability to change Washington...I'm asking you to believe in yours"

I believe we can make America better, which is why I'm putting forth the challenge to myself and to you to start orgainzing community service projects in Barack Obama's name. Lets go out into rural America and help out those who know Barack the least, and need him the most.

Two Men, Two Schools

Bill from BC, Obamican, Veteran, Husband, Father, Educator — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 22:16:54 EDT

Two Men, Two Schools

Think of two men and two schools. The men, the lives they lived, and the schools they attended speak eloquently as to how far we have to go to attain change that we can really believe in. The schools are less than 900 miles apart by car but their worlds are galaxies apart, as were the men.1

The first man was Gary Lee Hall. He was the only one of the three Marines left behind (see below) in the Mayaguez incident (see my post "Mayaguez Disaster: Another Look") to have completed high school. Gary lived with his parents and four siblings in a two bedroom flat in a working class neighborhood of Covington, KY, just across the Ohio river from Cincinnati. Gary’s father Sheldon, a carpenter, was a responsible but strict conservative Baptist. Gary never swore, smoked, drank alcohol, went to dances or movies, or had a girlfriend. He always wore a collared shirt and said "Yes, sir!" and "No, sir!" Tall, awkward, and gangly, Gary was frequently the victim of bullies and the butt of jokes. One such episode induced him to join the Marines and leave Covington, never to return.2

Gary attended Holmes High School, enrolling 1200 students. It has an AP, an International Baccalaureate, and a Marine ROTC program (the latter presumably was not there in Gary’s time as he enlisted in response to a visit by a Marine recruiter) but also has a Teen Parenting and Child Care Center. There were seven drug or weapon possession incidents in the 2006-07 school year. On marker after marker, students are at least a few points below the state average. Most tellingly, Holmes graduates are twice as likely not to attend college and twice as likely to be unsuccessful as other Kentucky students. Like their parents and grandparents, they will live out their lives in this working class poor community driving trucks, waiting tables, and doing carpentry work.3

How Obama can win Appalachia

Morgaine Swann — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 18:56:39 EDT

Appalachia knows the Clintons well, but they don't know Barack. They can be reached if he gets to know them, and talks about issues that are important to this area. There are a few issues that Democrats never seem to get right when they campaign here. Everybody knows we have problems with poverty and education, but there are other issues that never get addressed. People here care about:

Coal
Unions
Health care
Environment
Tobacco
Guns
Corruption
Christianity

I have a few ideas how Barack can make some friends in this area by addressing these issues.

obama/clinton dream ticket fraud

jonathan | cvg — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:42:19 EDT

With Obama officially clinching the nomination, we must unify behind him. Now's the time to remember that the differences between policies Clinton and Obama proposed are not nearly as significant than the policy differences between Obama and John McCain. This is now a Democrat versus Republican policy battle and we already know where the policies of the republican party have led under Bush. As Obama pointed out in his speech Tuesday night, we must remember that McCain is perceived as a maverick or moderate within his party. He continues to point to the one or two differences he has had with Bush in the last eight years. Yet, to become his party's nominee in 2008 where he failed many times before, John McCain bought into the Republican party with his heart and soul as he saw his chances faiding and has, in fact, voted over 90% of the time in agreement with George W. Bush. A vote against Obama is a vote for Bush's Third Term. While some dissappointed Clinton supporters will act and speak out of emotion, already many admit that they intend to vote the the selected Democrat.

There has been much speculation of a "dream ticket." Clinton, as I note in an earlier blog, breathed life into this idea because the time came when even she recognized she could not win in a general election without Obama. However, as I note in an earlier blog, this is not true when Obama is the nominee. There are many well suited candidates for a running mate that will benefit Obama greater with respects to the electoral map and reaching out to working class and potentially to woman as well.

The truth remains that Obama has won for many reasons and this end result astounds me, someone who strongly backed my candidate since researching him in December. He overtook the lead from the "establishment's candidate." Clinton is someone that as first lady was rumored to run for senate in a big state to help support her future bid as president. The Kerry campaign was so poorly executed that many were left believing that the Democrats were throwing the election for a Clinton run and a Clinton win in 2008. The Clinton branding was strong and it's longevity made is seemingly impossible to overcome... 20 years of market share domination and now a new little enterprise would fend for not some, but the majority of that share. Today, it hard to believe anyone could pick off Coke or P&G. But, that is exactly what Obama accomplished. Not only did he run one of the most brilliant marketing campaigns in my time, he succeed where no person of color has succeeded in a leading nation. While some leading nations have appointed women, what I recently realized is that Obama broke a barrier that extends long past the United States.

There are petitions and emotional claims to defend the "dream ticket" and most of which stems from Clinton circles. Let's not forget that Obama won as the "change candidate" and he has brilliantly represented "new politics." Many of Obama's supporters, and rightly so, believe that the addition of anyone who epitomizes "old politics" would jeapardize our mission and cloud the message, leaving a obvious weak point of attack for McCain like the small thermal exhaust port that left the Deathstar in Star Wars open to destruction. I can almost see McCain now, "Clinton on this ticket... that's not change we can believe in." * insert insidious smirk*

Among the emotional pleas I have read are these, and given that I label them as emotional, I assert that they lack logic:

"The only way that Obama is going to reach out to the working class, Hispanics, and win the swing states is with Clinton on the ticket (he ignored Kentucky and West Virginia, so those states he has already lost without her)."

FALSE

First of all, Puerto Rico is not a state and that is precisely the contest that made Clinton's popular vote neck and neck with Obama. Puerto Ricans don't vote in the presidential election. They voted against being a state a decade ago, as they have voted twice before that when given the chance to enter into the union. I am boggled why they are awarded more delegates in the primary than many real states that do vote in the general election. Richardson and Clinton can reach out to Hispanic voters even without being on the ticket.

There are four governors in key states that each would help reach out to such voters and bring along a needed swing state. Among these four easy picks are Governor Richardson who has served under Bill Clinton, yet he may be my least favorite of the four easy picks. Ted Strickland could help with rural working class as he helped Clinton in Ohio because he is from rural Ohio and has served in the church and military. Strickland may sit at the top of my list.

Clinton does not come with a key state. Arkansas can be won by the Clinton's campaigning on behalf of Obama without her being on the ticket... as can other communities. Clinton does not need to be on a ticket to endorse and campaign heavily for a candidate to unify her party... a party, some assert, she invoked much division.What Clinton does need to do is embrace Obama for America and throw as much heart and resilience into this campaign as she did when she remained in the running for reasons I point out in my earlier blog.

Pennsylvania voted for Kerry due to the strong campaigning by governor Ed Rendell who is the same governor that campaigned for Clinton. It is widely believed that with similar campaigning by Ed Rendell in his state, any democrat can pick up the winning numbers that Kerry picked up against Bush.

New York and California are key states democrats win by wide margins as did Kerry. Although it is true Clinton won in the primary it is illogical deduction to believe that any democrat, unless that democrat was running against Ronald Reagan, could fail at winning both states handedly.

A presidential race is not won with West Virginia or Kentucky. But, if Obama is able to turn the Carolinas which Kerry failed to do even with Edwards on his ticket, that would make a difference. Obama won more votes in North and South Carolina against Clinton than the number of votes cast for McCain and Huckabee combined. The states Obama wants to tun in addition to the Carolinas are the Western States of Colorada, etc. Obama polls better in the west than rural areas like West Virgina and Kentucky where inevitably some degree of fear applies. But as I mention above, Ted Strickland comes with a key swing state and could easily reach out to the working class and Christian voters... perhaps more effectively than Clinton.

Governor Bill Ritter, a popular, young democratic in a historically conservative state, would be a better choice to aid in the West and Governor Kathleen Sebelius would successfully reach out to the identical segments that were fascinated by Clinton without compromising the message of new politics: again working class and women. Most female voters in exit polls admitted that gender was a significant impact on their decision. No other voting segment admitted to gender or race affecting the vote. Add almost any woman to a republican or democratic ticket and you will likely lure a great percentage of those voters who responded this way in exit polls.

"It would be a guaranteed 18 million votes for the Democratic party, and there is no way John McCain would have a chance."

FALSE

With this logic, or lack thereof, Obama could win with almost any running mate. While it is true that Clinton won over 17 million votes, so did Obama. In many states, Obama won more votes than Huckabee and McCain combined. To suggest that all democrats that voted for Clinton will literally stay home or vote for McCain, is not plausible. Throughout history the results in the primary does not necessarily translate into similar results in the general. That is why at this point there is no guarantee that Obama can turn the Carolinas away from Republican grasps. But, based on the primary numbers, it is the best chance the Democrats have had in decades and decades. Already, Obama's grass-roots activity is kicking up to register new democrats. This is how he closed the gap in states that Clinton was leading by 20points or more and this is how Obama won the majority of contests and clinched the democratic nomination for president. A historical achievement not only for the United States, but something that many leading nations have never done before... appoint a person of color to lead their nation.

Am I against Clinton? Not entirely, but partially. She does represent everthing I dislike about Washington Politics as usual and I don't think her record of success outweighs her record of failure to follow through with promises made to the nation and later to New York. While putting her into a position of Vice President may realistically strip her of all power, I don't want her a heart beat away from seizing the most powerful position in the world.

Now it is your turn. I selected four easily identifiable candidates for a VP nomination: Strickland of Ohio, Ritter of Colorado, Sebelius of Kansas, and Richardson of New Mexico. As Governors, each brings executive leadership and management that no senator can honestly claim with the exeption of Obama who, as I note in an earlier blog, was the only senator among Clinton and McCain to exemplify extraordinary executive leadership by leading his multi-million dollar enterprise, Obama for America, to success. However, who do you think Obama should select? If it is Clinton, then please have better support than the emotional defenses I discount above.

Forging a New Future For America

N. Julio Barthson - E-Campaign Leader — Sun, 25 May 2008 04:11:08 EDT

Barack Obama delivers another memorable speech in Iowa after crossing pledged delegate threshold...

Is Hillary's RFK Comment a Secret Message?

Stephen — Fri, 23 May 2008 23:47:51 EDT

Once again, Hillary Clinton is at the center of sending out very inappropriate political and this time "threatening" messages about Senator Obama, this time saying that what happened to RFK (assassination) could also happen to Senator Obama. Could this be a threatening message to Obama? A coded message for a fanatic to target Obama? After all, this is how Osama Bin Laden gives his orders!

A few weeks ago, it was the slip up referring to "working class white people" not liking Obama, where after that comment Obama oddly received a very very low percentage of white working class votes in Kentucky. There's even a Clinton supporter in KY threatening to run a campaign to get KY democrats to vote for McCain should Obama be nominated. And oddly, this woman seems like a religious right surrigate than a democrat.

Last year, it was the rumors from Clinton's campaign saying Obama is a Muslim, with her very unconvincing answer in the debate that she knows Obama to be a Christian and not a Muslim.

In each case she appolized, but got a big boost from the dirty tactic. So - is this latest reference to RFK a direct threat to Obama or even a cue to an anti-Obama fanatic to take him out? Should the FBI be looking into this??

Word of Mouth Gets the Job Done:

Hidey — Wed, 21 May 2008 14:32:34 EDT

    Here’s my argument on why canvassing works and phone banking doesn’t.
   I’m a frequent haunt at the local 24 hour diner - it’s the only place to write and fight insomnia in this chunk of nowhere - and talk politics because I don’t understand why people keep politics locked up and quiet.
   Sure, you may offend someone by opening your mouth. Opening your mouth leads to discussion and discourse and by the end someone’s views will change, be it mine or theirs.

News Update: Obama Gets Ass Handed to Him In Kentucky. Here's Why -

Hidey — Wed, 21 May 2008 11:21:35 EDT

    If you haven’t heard the news yet, Obama got his ass handed to him in Kentucky last night.
   I’ll tell you why: It’s all his campaign’s fault. He signaled to Kentucky that we don't matter to his presidency or campaign.
   Now, before everyone goes nuts and gets mad, let me make this perfectly clear: I support Senator Obama for President. I think he’s the leader we need to lead us out of this American Depression of Honor and Civility.

From Billybobs to Hillbillies, Hicks to Bill-Hill-ies

Natsuki the Neko: GO OBAMA-BIDEN GO! ^_^ — Wed, 21 May 2008 09:55:27 EDT

West Virginia and Kentucky happen to be the most racist states in the union, and everyone knew that Hillary would win those. But, Hillary, the writing is on the wall--if you're over 200 delegates behind the nomination and Obama is only 72 delegates away from getting 2025, we all know what is going to happen. And with less that four states left (including Puerto Rico), that will not give someone 255 delegates to win the nomination.

Obama Less Than 100 Delegates Within The Nomination!

Natsuki the Neko: GO OBAMA-BIDEN GO! ^_^ — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:02:55 EDT

Obama has the nomination, no matter what. The writing is officially on the wall.

By DAVID ESPO and SARA KUGLER, Associated Press Writers

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Barack Obama stepped to the brink of victory in the Democratic presidential race Tuesday night, defeating Hillary Rodham Clinton in the Oregon primary and moving within 100 delegates of the total he needs to claim the prize at the party convention this summer.

"You have put us within reach of the Democratic nomination," he told cheering supporters in Iowa, the overwhelmingly white state that launched him, a black, first-term senator from Illinois, on his improbable path to victory last January.

Obama lavished praise on Clinton, his rival in a race unlike any other, and accused Republican John McCain of a campaign run by lobbyists.

"You are Democrats who are tired of being divided, Republicans who no longer recognize the party that runs Washington, independents who are hungry for change," he said, speaking to a crowd on the grounds of the Iowa Capitol in Des Moines as well as the millions around the country who will elect the nation's 44th president in November.

Clinton countered with a lopsided win in Kentucky, a victory with scant political value

Obama Less Than 100 Delegates Within The Nomination!

Natsuki the Neko: GO OBAMA-BIDEN GO! ^_^ — Wed, 21 May 2008 01:02:55 EDT

Obama has the nomination, no matter what. The writing is officially on the wall.

By DAVID ESPO and SARA KUGLER, Associated Press Writers

Obama lavished praise on Clinton, his rival in a race unlike any other, and accused Republican John McCain of a campaign run by lobbyists.

Clinton countered with a lopsided win in Kentucky, a victory with scant political value in a race moving inexorably in Obama's direction.

The former first lady vowed to remain in the race, telling supporters, "I'm more than determined than ever to see that every vote is cast and every ballot is counted."

But in a sign of confidence on the front-runner's part, party officials said discussions were under way to send Paul Tewes, a top Obama campaign aide, to the Democratic National Committee to oversee operations for the fall campaign.

And in a fresh indication that their race was coming to an end, Clinton and Obama praised one another and pledged a united party for the general election.

"While we continue to go toe-to-toe for this nomination, we do see eye-to-eye when it comes to uniting our party to elect a Democratic president this fall," said Clinton, whose supporters Obama will need if he is to end eight years of Republican rule in the White House.

Clinton won at least 47 delegates in the two states and Obama won at least 32, according to an analysis of election returns by The Associated Press. All the Kentucky delegates were awarded, but there were still 24 to be allocated in Oregon, and Obama was in line for many of them.

He had 1,949 delegates overall, out of 2026 needed for the nomination. Clinton had 1,769 according the latest tally by the AP.

Obama's total includes more than a majority of the delegates picked in the 56 primaries and caucuses on the calendar, a group that excludes nearly 800 superdelegates, the party leaders who hold the balance of power at the convention.

With about 50 percent of the votes counted in Oregon's unique mail-in primary, Obama was gaining a 58 percent share to 42 percent for Clinton.

The former first lady's victory in Kentucky was bigger yet — 65 percent to 30 percent — and the exit polls underscored once more the work Obama has ahead if he is to win over her voters.

Almost nine in 10 ballots were cast by whites, and the former first lady was winning their support overwhelmingly. She defeated him among voters of all age groups and incomes, the college educated and non-college educated, self-described liberals, moderates and conservatives.

"We have had our disagreements during this campaign, but we all admire her courage, her commitment and her perseverance," Obama said of his rival and partner in a marathon race through the primaries. "No matter how this primary ends, Senator Clinton has shattered myths and broken barriers and changed the America in which my daughters and yours will come of age."

As for McCain, he said he would leave it up to the Arizona senator "to explain whether his policies and positions represent long-held convictions or Washington calculations, but the one thing they don't represent is change."

McCain's spokesman countered quickly.

"This election is fundamentally about who Americans can trust to secure peace and prosperity for the next generation of Americans. Without a doubt, Barack Obama is a talented political orator, but his naive plans for unconditional summits with rogue leaders and support for big tax hikes on hardworking families expose his bad judgment that Americans can ill-afford in our next president," said Tucker Bounds in a statement.

In the fundraising chase, Obama reported cash on hand of $46.5 million, all of which can be used for the general election. Unless he takes federal funds, he is permitted to raise as much as he can.

Unlike Obama, McCain is expected to take federal funds, which total about $85 million and bar him from raising other donations for his campaign's use.

"We still have work to do to in the remaining states, where we will compete for every delegate available," Obama said in an e-mail sent to supporters. "But tonight, I want to thank you for everything you have done to take us this far — farther than anyone predicted, expected or even believed possible."

Both candidates paused during the day to express best wishes to Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, the Massachusetts Democrat suffering from a brain tumor.

"So many of us here have benefited in some way or another because of the battles he's waged, and some of us are here because of them," Obama said.

Said Clinton: "As a lifelong champion for social justice and equality, his work has made the path easier for me, for Senator Obama and for countless others. He's been with us for our fights and we're now with him in his."

The Clinton campaign expressed irritation at Obama's decision to return to Iowa and mark his success in amassing a majority of delegates won in primaries and caucuses.

But he paid no attention. "The question then becomes how do we complete the nomination process so that we have the majority of the total number of delegates, including superdelegates, to be able to say this thing's over," Obama told The Associated Press in an interview.

Clinton looked for a consolation for the strongest presidential campaign of any woman in history. She hoped to finish with more votes than her rival in all the contests combined, including Florida and Michigan, two states that were stripped of their delegates by the national party for moving their primary dates too early. A Democratic convention committee is to meet on May 31 in Washington to decide how — and whether — to seat delegates from the two states.

Not counting the results in Kentucky and Oregon, Obama was ahead of Clinton by slightly more than 618,000 votes out of 32.2 million cast in primaries and caucuses where both candidates competed.

The numbers do not include Iowa, Maine, or Nevada caucuses, nor do they count — as Clinton does in her totals — Florida and Michigan.

The only primaries remaining are Puerto Rico, on June 1, followed two days later by South Dakota and Montana.

Kentucky - another anomaly?

jp — Tue, 20 May 2008 22:56:55 EDT

Kentucky appears to be a beautiful state, visually. The demographics are interesting and somewhat telling.

It breaks my heart that there are such disparate experiences that preclude any sense of hope.

As goes...you fill in the blank

Tracy — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:57:12 EDT

After Senator Clinton won Ohio, she told America "As goes Ohio goes the country." Then, she said "as goes W. Virginia goes the country." And guess what's next... Kentucky took that blank. This is an overt effort of Clinton to manipulate the stats and invent expressions that never existed before.Let's think about it... what could this expression be but another possible metric after having forfitted the possibility of all of the others?

Hillary's Begging...The Poor?

Tracy — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:41:47 EDT

Senator Hillary Clinton should be ashamed. She told a story of a boy who sold his bike, what he really loved, so Hillary could "keep going" because she represented this eleven year old boy's values. He did not come from a wealthy family. She knows, at the deepest of her heart, that she will not win the nomination. She thus stays in the race to pay her personal loan back. It is disgusting to me to take so much from a boy who has so little to pay herself back.
Moreover, she claims that her voters and who support her are poor and have little. When she is a millionaire, why does she still ask them for contributions? Why would she stoop so low as to take the bread and butter from her so called constituency? This disgusts me, and it should disgust you, too. Fight for those who cannot put dinner on the table, and then take their money? Hypocrisy rules the day for Clinton.

Kentucky calls

Corey — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:34:26 EDT

I've finally been able to make some calls. Kentucky, 40 minutes before polls close. Of the people I reached I got 2 for B, 1 for McCain and one who refused to tell me who she was going to vote for. Also got one hang up and a slew of machines.

One of the Barackers, a lovely woman, told me she and her husband (a career military man) were voting for the first time in their lives (they're in their 40s) because B offers change. She also told me they had gotten 4 calls from the Clinton campaign today. 3 were automated recordings. The one live call got "nasty" when told they were for B. She said, "Why vote for Obama? Hillary is going to smash him."

I really hope that after today we can move on as one united movement for Barack Obama.

Yes, we certainly can!

Video: Join Michelle Obama and Make GOTV Calls Tonight

Kate Albright-Hanna — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:44:07 EDT

Michelle Obama phonebanked with volunteers to get out the vote in Louisville, Kentucky yesterday. Here's a video of one her calls:

UPDATED: Polls have now closed in Kentucky, but you can still make calls to Oregon until 8:00 PM PDT tonight.

Is tonight the night the Reubenesque Diva Warbles?

jp — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:04:28 EDT

With all due respect to Puerto Rico, Montana, and South Dakota, would love to hear the yeys/yays or nays if this will be the momentous moment in time..

Today We Vote for Barack, and Pray for Ted.

Patch — Tue, 20 May 2008 13:37:09 EDT

As we in the States of Oregon and Kentucky vote for Change, I hope all will also keep Senator Ted Kennedy, his family and friends in mind as news of his diagnosis reaches across the nation.

The "Lion of the Senate" was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor today after suffering a siezure that hospitalized him Saturday.

The New York Times reports that a malignant glioma (diagnosed after biopsy) was the cause of the siezure and that treatment options are currently being discussed.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to one of Senator Obama's biggest supporters as well as his friends loved ones.

2 MORE SUPERDELEGATES

ObamaBob NSB — Tue, 20 May 2008 12:01:26 EDT

Two more Superdelegates just this morning, the day of the Kentucky and Oregon primaries!

Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo Endorses Barack Obama; Delegate Countdown - 107 To Goby Sam Graham-FelsenTuesday, May 20, 2008 at 11:10 AMCHICAGO, IL – Guam Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo endorsed Barack Obama today, saying she believes he is the right candidate to move our nation forward.

“Today I have pledged my support as a superdelegate to Senator Barack Obama. Senator Obama offers us the leadership needed to address the challenges Guam and our nation will face in the coming years.

Senator Obama is working very closely with Senator Patrick Leahy, Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, and other Senate leaders to secure more support for H.R. 1595, the Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act. Senator Obama fully understands and supports the efforts to seek full recognition for the patriotism and suffering endured by the people of Guam during enemy occupation in World War II.

Senator Obama has also pledged to help improve Guam's economy, including through opportunities with the military build-up—an issue I have worked very hard on since taking office—and I believe he is the right candidate to help move Guam and our nation forward given the challenges we face in our world today.”

Iowa Democratic Chairman Scott Brennan for Obama; Delegate Countdown - 108 To Goby Sam Graham-FelsenTuesday, May 20, 2008 at 11:07 AM

The Quad City Times reports...

DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa Democratic Chairman Scott Brennan will announce on Tuesday his endorsement of Barack Obama for the Democratic presidential nomination, The Associated Press has learned.

The decision adds more momentum for Obama in an important swing state likely to be hard fought in November.

On the Road to Paducah, KY

Clark — Tue, 20 May 2008 11:50:07 EDT

Crossposted at Show Me Progress .

Early on Sunday morning, two unmarked vans headed east out of a Target parking lot in St. Louis, bound for Western Kentucky with 12 passengers. No, we weren't being abducted, nor were we on some top-secret surveillance mission. We were a motley group of volunteers trying to seal the deal for Senator Obama by spending the only rain-free Sunday in recent memory canvassing in Paducah, KY. I had made several of these trips to Iowa on behalf of John Edwards in the summer, fall, and winter (diaried here, here, and here), but this would be my first, and hopefully last, trip out of the state for Obama.

The story, along with a few pics, is below the fold.

Welcome back Barack and Michelle

IowaDemocrat — Mon, 19 May 2008 23:54:04 EDT

I have been posting comments and diaries on Daily Kos for this whole election cycle. Today was the first time one of my comments was picked out of the thousands posted each day as a Top Comment. It was written in response to questions from some Oregonians why Barack would speak from Iowa tomorrow night instead of Oregon, or even Kentucky - one of which will give him the majority of elected delegates to the convention. I realized I knew the answer. What I wrote follows below:

The Oregon, Kentucky Primaries

CorpusMama — Mon, 19 May 2008 22:46:38 EDT

Once again we are facing another costly couple of primaries in which Hillary will tout her landslide win in Kentucky as a last ditch effort to convince Superdelegates she is the more viable candidate come this fall.

I have joined the Oregon and Kentucky groups for Obama and once again been amazed and delighted by the hard work and dedication these states have put in because we know the urgency of now is upon us.

Whatever the numbers are in these states and we all know the Limbaugh Loser Goonies will take a few points away from Obama, the fact remains that Barack Obama is our nominee for the Democratic Presidential Candidate this fall.

All of our grassroots efforts have made the difference in this campaign and frankly Hillary thought none of the powers that exist in Washington are more powerful than the Clinton war Machine. Nothing. She thought she was the candidate by coronation and divine right. She still does.

Nobody thought that we could ever join together at the grassroots level to build this alliance of the people of the United States telling Washington, "We're mad as hell and we aren't going to take it anymore!"

Although my state of Texas has long ago voted and caucused, we know are groups must remain together and continue our efforts. there are many of us that believe we can win Texas for Obama in November.

So Kentucky, and Oregon you are in our thoughts and prayers tonight.
Let the excitement continue...

Yes We Can!

Meandering around Kentucky

Michael McNicholas — Mon, 19 May 2008 19:48:42 EDT

Spent the weekend wandering around Kentucky, stopping to talk to folks here and there about coming out to support Barack this Tuesday. Tried to shy away from the major metro areas, since I figured the campaign would have that covered. I ventured into what many people let me know was "Clinton Country" except for the few who claimed it was McCain Country and the very few indeed who were downright rude. Mostly I was in South Central and Southeastern Kentucky, although on the way home to Chicago I stopped briefly in a town called Mount Sterling and a few Northern Kentucky suburbs of Cincinnati.

I can't rightly say I convinced anyone to change his or her vote to Obama for this Tuesday, but that wasn't exactly my aim. Barack is going to need those votes in November, not Tuesday, so it is important to start working on getting them now before McCain snaps em up or they decide to stay home entirely.

I didn't see an Obama sticker, poster, billboard or T-shirt anywhere outside Louisville except for one in Marion County, which is in the central part of the commonwealth. Then again, there weren't many Clinton signs either and no McCain signs at all. [In fact, Ron Paul had more signs up than McCain.]

The thing about this part of this country that anyone in a car will quickly notice is the monopoly the right wing has on communicating with the residents. If Rush Limbaugh wasn't on their radio stations, Hannity or Michael Savage were. Or if not them, then it was a religious broadcaster teaching about Christianity in the old-time hellfire and damnation mode. Even the NPR section of the dial was given over to all-classical or gospel music. The papers I saw tended to be supporting Hillary if anyone, and she was all over the television because she was campaigning up in Louisville while Barack was out in Oregon.

So I talked to people, perhaps 200 or 300 people over the weekend, in small towns and hamlets, in cafes and bars, gas stations and grocery stores. Here's what I learned: many of these people will vote for Barack in November if he comes and asks them properly. Despite being fed a bunch of lies and misinformation about him [he's a Muslim was the one I heard the most, as if being a Muslim was a disqualification to run for office], many of the people I spoke with know that things are not going right with this country and they are looking for someone who will put things right. They are looking for someone who is not going to piss on their shoes and tell them it's raining. They are ready for someone who will bring about real change and not continue down the sorry path George Bush has led us down.

I was in Harlan County, Kentucky, which in many ways is about as 1957 as you can get. In other ways it's about as 1929 as you can get, because the War on Poverty LBJ waged has been lost here. Forty percent of the population is beneath the poverty line and if Hope were an apartment building, many of these people couldn't even get into the sub-sub-basement of it.

Now some of the older folks in Harlan County remember the wars against the coal companies and maybe, just maybe, some of the hope engendered by those struggles could be relit. The younger folks have been thoroughly bamboozled by Fox News and the rest of the right-wing media into voting against their own self-interests. It's like the Republicans have said to them in order for them to continue to exist they have to cut off their toes by voting against the Democrat, and so they do this. Then they are told they have to cut off their feet and so they do. About now they're being asked to chop off their shins and if someone doesn't go down there and convince them it's a pretty stupid idea, a lot of them will chop off their shins.

Barack can break the cycle, I'm convinced. If he would go into areas like Harlan County and make it clear how the policies and promises of the other side are just not in the best interests of rural Americans, and show them what would be in their interests, I think a good percent of them would come over to support Obama in the general election.

The other thing I noticed, and I couldn't find anyone who could explain it to me last Saturday, is that every bridge in nearby Letcher County seems to have been named for some fallen local soldier who died in Iraq. Harlan County is a mountainous county with many streams and creeks, and therefore many many bridges. That means many dead lance corporals or staff sergeants now have their own memorial bridge in Letcher County now thanks to George W. Bush's stupid war. What we need is less bridges named after dead soldiers and more money going to take care of live soldiers. If we got out of Iraq, some of Letcher County's bridges may have to go unnamed but at least that would mean less senseless deaths to prop up a failed policy.Maybe they could change the policy to have the bridges named after something else.

Finally, I noticed this especially talking with older white women, and I think it confirms some astute analysis I heard on TV but unfortunately can't remember who said it. These women told me they are voting for Hillary, that they've been waiting since at least 1992 to vote for Hillary and nothing I could say could convince them not to vote for Hillary. Which is fine. Hillary is going to win the battle in Kentucky tomorrow, but it's pretty likely she will lose the war nationally as well. Some of these women I talked to said they never could vote for Obama, but some left the door open. These are voters Obama could win in November. But they are like shy girls at the junior high dance. They want to dance but the etiquette says they ought to wait until they are asked to dance. So let's ask them! Let's get Obama to specifically reach out to women, especially women of a certain age, and say how he's appreciative of the run Hillary gave him, say that if it weren't for her schooling, he might not be as good of a candidate as he has become, and say that she has taught him other valuable lessons throughout the primary. Then let him sincerely ask for the support of these women now supporting Hillary. If it means adding a woman to the ticket, OK. If it means moving certain issues higher up on the agenda of importance, do it. The point is, some people who aren't currently supporting Obama will back him. They just have to be asked, and they have to be asked in a way that they can perceive as sincere, honest and without a hint of cynical opportunism. So, to quote a comic much in vogue in Southeast Tennessee, let's "get 'er done."

Big KO Primaries

Khaidji — Mon, 19 May 2008 17:52:25 EDT

KO, Knock Out . KO Kentucky Oregon. KO King Obama, may be that’s carrying it a bit too far but when I think of these KOs I think of these.

Many supporters would wish that this Tuesday was the final KO punch to yield yet another KO and Keep Out Hillary. We would like to see Barack with a clear path to the Republicans and as John McCain warms up, he enjoys some fame. Anyway, it’s all short lived because we KO Know Our candidate and his abilities, especially his unquestionable skills to organize people. So KO – Kudos Obama

Big KO Primaries

Barack still needs to deliver that Knock Out punch

It’s more needed now since Hillary doesn’t take a hunch

Got false hopes and she is still staying in

Kentucky may be hers but the nomination she can’t win

Oregon turned yesterday like a human sea

Packing over 75,000 in a ¼ mile with expectancy

Rallying behind Barack cause he’s their choice

It’s clear the unison of Oregon’s voice

May be if the folk in Kentucky had met

Amicable Barack on their turf he’d get

Rivers of supporters from the unexpected Diaspora

It is infectious when you listen to the promises of Obama

Even though these KO primaries are Kentucky and Oregon

Some wish it was the Knock Out and Hillary all gone

See other Acrostic Poetry here on Barack Obama
By Khaidji

Who will be going to Obama's victory speech?

Chris "Moose" Forbes — Mon, 19 May 2008 14:27:39 EDT

I'd like a ride, and will help with gas.

You can email me at:

christopher DASH forbes AT uiowa DOT edu

The potential for America

Marie — Mon, 19 May 2008 00:44:57 EDT

Share this video with your friends in Kentucky and Oregon:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCZkZf6TmdE

A Plea To The Obama Campaign In Kentucky

Jason from Louisville, KY — Sun, 18 May 2008 20:18:58 EDT

I know we have an important vote on Tuesday. Indications are that Senator Clinton should win Kentucky and we'd all like for that to change.

However, I have to say that, even as an Obama supporter, there's a tactical problem occurring. My wife and I have been called at least twice and two different door-to-door individuals have approached our house, all four in the last 48 hours. My wife said to me tonight, "Barak Obama is starting to piss me off."

We have told all four individuals that Barak Obama has our support and we are voting for him. But I fear that not only we, but others who might be undecided and have been approached as frequently may change their minds to vote for someone else. No one likes being markted to these days (and I'm a marketer). Volunteers and record keepers need to be apprised more often of who is being contacted, when and by whom.

My wife and I haven't changed our minds ... that's not a good reason to do so. But the rest of the voters may not be as tolerant.

Please double-check your records and stop duplicating efforts. It could hurt the campaign and we don't need that happening this late in the game.

Appalachia's problem

Steven — Sat, 17 May 2008 10:38:36 EDT

There is a really interesting op-ed by Charles Blow in today's NYT:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/17/opinion/17blow.html?ref=opinion

What it suggests to me is that Obama does not have that much of a problem with "white blue-collar workers" as such--he actually did fairly well even in Indiana, and very well in Wisconsin and, of course, Illinois. In the general he will also do well, I suspect, in Michigan, New York, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania (where he leads McCain handily in current polls). But there is a problem for him in appealing to "white blue-collar workers", or "poor, uneducated whites" more generally, in Appalachia. This raises two questions:

1) Given Blow's point that Obama only has to win the states at the fringes of Appalachia in the general (Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, perhaps Virginia and North Carolina), without the votes of Appalachia, and can discount states such as West Virginia and Kentucky, how much effort should the Obama campaign put into such states and regions of states, compared, for instance, to the Midwest states where he does fairly well among "white blue-collar workers"?

2) Is Obama's apparent problem with "white blue-collar workers" more a problem with Appalachia and its particular political culture (see Karl Rove's recent--outrageously Know-Nothingist--remarks about what are and are not "American" values--completely identifying "Appalachian" guns'n'religion/us v. them values with "America"). And if so, given 1), is it not then more a problem, a tragically ever-recurring problem, for Appalachia than for Obama?

Kentucky

Sara Jane — Sat, 17 May 2008 08:47:11 EDT

Can anyone explain to me why Barack has no campagin stops in Kentucky?

Are "we" giving up on the blue-collar voter? Won't that hurt us in November?

I understood the need to head to Oregon with their mail-in ballots only election.

Why are Barack's next stop in Montana -- their contest isn't until June 3rd?

Does anyone know why "we" are campagining this way?

Using MSNBC's number - 27 superdelegates to shut out Clinton

Thatcher — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:17:25 EDT

On March 28, over at Chris Weigant's blog, Chris asked his readers to place their bets (in quatloos) when Clinton would drop out of the Presidential race. Well, I've done pretty well so far. I predicted that Obama would surpass Clinton in Superdelegates before the West Virginia primary (got it right) and several of my delegate totals from the primaries were darn close (I didn't do so well on my original delegate estimate for Indiana). Also, I was only 1 day off for the John Edwards endorsement of Obama. My final prediction is Clinton drops out on June 16, just 31 days from now.

27. This is the magic number.

The blog editor won't allow tables ... so the rest of the post is over at The Dead Guy

Analysis: Obama's is an Appalachia problem, not a white problem

Inspired in Florida - a Recovering Republican — Fri, 16 May 2008 10:32:47 EDT

Interesting...

Excerpt from Cleveland.com

Enter the silky, smooth-faced and super-smart Obama. With his Harvard pedigree, mellifluous voice and high-minded talk of moving beyond the politics of confrontation, he is totally out of place in Appalachia.
It's like casting Hugh Grant instead of Mel Gibson as William Wallace in "Braveheart."
"What people don't understand about Appalachia is that we've heard all this 'hope' and 'change' stuff since the English kicked the Scotch-Irish out in the 1700s. We're 'hoped' out. Nothing ever changes out here," Dave "Mudcat" Saunders, a Virginia political strategist who worked on John Edwards' campaign, told The Politico on the eve of the West Virginia vote.
For those keeping score, seven of the 10 whitest states in the nation have held their primaries or caucuses. The Illinois senator has won five and the New York senator two -- New Hampshire by an inch and now West Virginia by a country mile.
Stretch it to the 20 whitest states and the tally is 12 for Obama and five for Clinton, with three to go. If you limit it to primary and not caucus states, of the 20 whitest states, Obama has won four -- Vermont, Wisconsin, Utah and Missouri -- and Clinton has won five -- New Hampshire, West Virginia, Indiana, Pennsylvania and Ohio.
Appalachia reaches from western New York and Pennsylvania down through eastern Ohio, all of West Virginia, stretches of western Virginia and the Carolinas, eastern Kentucky and Tennessee and on into north Georgia and Alabama and northeastern Mississippi. As Josh Marshall noted in posting on Talking Points Memo after the West Virginia results were in, the map of Appalachia lines up pretty well with a map of counties where Clinton has won more than 60 percent of the vote.
"She's won the Appalachian region of every state contested," wrote Dana Houle, who in his postings on Daily Kos has dissected how Obama's difficulty in Appalachia does not necessarily translate into a broader or more permanent problem with white voters.
"No, Obama doesn't have a racial problem," Houle concluded. "It appears that Appalachia has an Obama problem."
Whole article here

Kentucky good people

George W. Heath, R.N. — Fri, 16 May 2008 06:40:08 EDT

I have made only 25 calls to KY but not one person slamming the phone in my ear. Nowm some might not to talk politics but they were polite about it, as opposed th WV which "to hell to that "N...r" slam! Ratio of Clinton/Obama supporters was acceptable from the mean. Every Clinton supporter is ready to support Obama if he gets the nomination. Frankly, I will be behind Clinton if she takes it. The altternative is Bush III.

George

Be The Change--Pamela

Madama Ambi — Thu, 15 May 2008 19:24:31 EDT

If you don't understand this Obama campaign slogan, don't worry: Pamela explains the micro & macro of it all. She gets what it means at the molecular level, the sociopolitical level, and the global, sustainable level. Pamela is gearing up for a seat at the Obanomics table. Caution: Listening to this podcast could make you the 100th monkey.

Listen to this episode of Interview4Obama...44:16 min.

In VOTERS We Trust

Larry — Wed, 14 May 2008 20:54:41 EDT

From CBN's David Brody:

"Remember Mike Huckabee’s supposed subliminal cross in his Christmas campaign ad? Well, the Obama campaign ditches the subliminal and goes for the in your face cross."

You can view the ad that he is referring to here.

I thought we were leaving the pandering to others?

Besides that ... What about sepeartion of church and state? An image like that on a political ad certainly scares the hell out of non-christians! Especially after 7 years of George W Bush! Is that kind of GOP'esque ad really worth doing with the delegate math wrapped up anyway?

What happened to talking to people about the economy, healthcare, iraq, etc. Or do we think they are too stupid in Kentucky to listen without a cross in their face?

Edwards Endorses Obama

Luke from Chesterton — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:34:02 EDT

Hoorah! John Edwards endorsed Barack Obama. Unfortunately, he did it after West Virginia. A little too much too late? Maybe it'll have an impact on Kentucky. And Superdelegates.

Well

Louis — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:30:46 EDT

Well we lost West Virginia to Clinton yesterday. Like everybody didn't already see that coming. Did anyone else hear Clinton's snippet of speech where she was saying how she was the best person for the campaign and she is the one to be President? Implying that she was better than Obama and McCain? I just think that that is such bullshit. Do you think Obama will be able to win Kentucky and Oregon in their Primary? Tell me your thoughts

WAKE UP CALL - 270K TO 90K IN W.V.

Lee — Wed, 14 May 2008 01:51:11 EDT

CAN WE PLEASE GET THIS GOING AGAIN OBAMA CAMPAIGN. JUST "RUNNING OUT THE CLOCK" IS NOT GOING TO WORK. 3 WEEKS TO GO, DONT BE TIRED NOW!!!!!

As a man, 38 years old, growing up in a solidly Republican family. From my dad who has been involved with Politics in Connecticut his entire life, to my large Italian family all Republican.

Personally, I always stayed nuetral and hated Politics with a passion. Then, I saw a short clip of Obama about 16 months ago and he caught my attention. Since, I have become intensely involved. I have learned all of the background of Obama, what he believes, how he manages his campaign, the Inspiration and Hope he brings to our country and the Change that is so dearly needed.

Against all odds I broke the mold of my family and came out and said, No. I am not just going to support and vote for someone because he has a R next to his name. Since, my parents, my extended family, friends and others have joked at me stating so many things. Saying, Just watch, you wont win, that I am a traitor, among other comments I dont even want to mention.

As time has gone by and we have built Obama Nation throughout the country and the world, I have remained humbled and just let the results speak for themselves. After NC and IN many have stated the nomination is ours. But, like in baseball, until my Yankees reach the magic number I know that the Red Sox can always try and catch us and many times do catch us. There has been the attitude in WV and Kentucky and Oregon that now we are "running out the clock" to our win against the Clinton Machine. But on their sideline they are scheming a way to steal this from us. Trick plays, among other schemes to win. Then, we just continue this running out the clock theory, staying quietly on our sideline and watching the clock.

THIS IS NOT THE WAY TO FINISH OFF THE "BRAND NAME" OF THE CLINTONS. CAN ANYONE GET THE MESSAGE TO OBAMA AND THE EXECUTIVES MAKING DECISIONS HERE. WE NEED TO TURN ON THE ELECTRICITY AGAIN. WHAT MADE US WIN 12 IN A ROW, ROCK STAR STATUS, THE OBAMA NATION TAKING OVER, FUND RAISING EVERYWHERE, RALLY'S EVERY NIGHT. THE LAST 5 CONTESTS, LETS SHOW WHAT WE ARE ALL ABOUT, NOT BE SEEN JUST PLAYING "PREVENT DEFENSE".

LETS REACH 2 MILLION SUPPORTERS BY MAY 20TH, LETS SET BROAD GOALS FOR CALLS. WHERE HAS IT ALL GONE?.

Instead, I want us to finish strong. Keep pushing for every vote, keep building the excitement, be doing what we did when we won 12 straight primaries. Large rallies, phone banks, goals to reach, money goals to reach, etc. Instead of Obama being in Florida and Michigan and Missouri, we need to get in Oregon and Kentucky right now. After we lock up the nomination, then go to these General Election states. Before we win, all hands on deck, all focus on the 2 states voting in 6 days. Ads up and running, rallys scheduled everyday in OR and KY, agressively close this otherwise the Clintons can sneak up and snatch it. We can put this away and put a end to this election process with Hillary. We need to close out with agressiveness in the last 5 primaries, not by simply trying to run out the clock. We cant have the attitude that a state is Hillary's or Obama's. We never said that in previous states where we had a 20-30-40 point deficit to make up in the polls, which at times we have reversed, why are we doing it now? WE MUST, FINISH THIS OUT IN EVERY REMAINING CONTEST WITH PASSION AND AGGRESSIVENESS, THEN WORRY ABOUT THE GENERAL. Last year, before the Yankees were eliminated from the AL EAST Title the Red Sox already were acting like they were going to the World Series. It was a turn off, even to the die hard Red Sox fans. One Step at a time and we havent completed the first step yet. Stand with me if you agree and comment with me here. To be AGGRESSIVE and close out Hillary with a bang instead of just running out the clock. LETS DO THIS. I expect us to come out aggressive and WIN Kentucky and Oregon, close out Hillary once and for all and THEN start the General election campaign. But first things first.

Do you agree?, stand with me and get this message to Barack. Bring back the electricity, Now! REPOST THIS, OR COMMENT OR GET THE MESSAGE TO OBAMA.

LETS FINISH THIS LIKE UNBEATABLE CHAMPIONS NOT PUTTERING TO THE FINISH LINE!!!!

YES WE CAN! OBAMA 2008

LOVE YOU ALL,

LEE WILCOX FROM CONNECTICUT

Beware Complacency

Missouri Geographer — Wed, 14 May 2008 01:27:21 EDT

I should start with the disclaimer that I am now an unwavering Obama supporter like most others here.

Maybe it’s merely because I remember emotions around the elections in 2000 and 2004 very well (!), but I’m a little concerned about complacency I sense in the Obama campaign. It’s too early.

With the run-up to West Virginia, Obama seems to have begun looking toward the tough race he will surely fight against McCain, rather than campaign in the states with upcoming primaries, namely WV, OR, and KY. I saw his speech in Missouri earlier today on CNN and thought that it would have played brilliantly in WV. WV was a lost cause and he may have been correct in not bothering in a state where the demographics are so hugely stacked against him and where so few delegates are at stake.

However, I think the combination of the media, the well-established Clinton machine, and the fickle nature of the voting public in these information-intensive times could lead things astray for us Obama supporters very quickly. Now that the polls seem to be settling at around a 41-point lead and a net gain of nine delegates, of course Clinton is making another rallying cry and the media is shrilly crying that Clinton has knocked around all of Obama’s important demographics . Especially given the superdelegate situation, which seems to ebb and flow in accordance with the national mood, I think that Obama must appear fully on task with beating Clinton before he can focus on the contest against the GOP.

I hope that Obama (and we) focuses attention on Oregon and Kentucky over the next week so that he can get every pledged delegate that he can out of those contests. Hopefully that will produce another run of superdelegates to the Obama column…

This Post is Directly from the Heart

Lee — Wed, 14 May 2008 00:34:00 EDT

As a man, 38 years old, growing up in a solidly Republican family. From my dad who has been involved with Politics in Connecticut his entire life, to my large Italian family all.

Personally, I always stayed nuetral and hated Politics with a passion. Then, I saw a short clip of Obama about 16 months ago and he caught my attention. Since, I have become intensely involved. I have learned all of the backgrounds of Obama, what he believes, how he manages his campaign, the Inspiration and Hope he brings to our country and the Change that is so dearly needed.

After NC and IN many have stated the nomination is ours. But, like in baseball, until my Yankees reach the magic number I know that the Red Sox can always try and catch us. There has been the attitude in WV and Kentucky and Oregon that now we are "running out the clock" to our win against the Clinton Machine. But on their sideline they are scheming and way to steal this from us. Trick plays, among other schemes to win. Then, we just continue this running out the clock theory.

We can put this away and put a end to this election process with Hillary. We need to close out with agressiveness in the last 5 primaries, not by simply trying to run out the clock. We cant have the attitude that a state is Hillary's or Obama's. We never said that in previous states where we had a 20-30-40 point deficit to make up in the polls, which at times we have reversed, why are we doing it now? WE MUST, FINISH THIS OUT IN EVERY REMAINING CONTEST WITH PASSION AND AGGRESSIVENESS, THEN WORRY ABOUT THE GENERAL.

Last year, before the Yankees were eliminated from the AL EAST Title the Red Sox already were acting like they were going to the World Series. It was a turn off, even to the die hard Red Sox fans. One Step at a time and we havent completed the first step yet.

Stand with me if you agree and comment with me here. To be AGGRESSIVE and close out Hillary with a bang instead of just running out the clock. LETS DO THIS. I expect us to come out aggressive and WIN Kentucky and Oregon, close out Hillary once and for all and THEN start the General election campaign. But first things first.

Do you agree?, stand with me and get this message to Barack. Bring back the electricity, Now!

YES WE CAN! OBAMA 2008

Printable Kentucky for Obama Signs

Dan — Wed, 14 May 2008 00:11:34 EDT

I've put together some ready-to-print 8½ by 11 inch signs made just for Kentucky. Print them out and tape them up in the windows of your house, tape some up in your car, give them to other supporters or use them as signs! Email your friends and family asking them to do the same!

I also have a growing collection of other signs, wallpapers, etc. at obamamedia.wordpress.com.

If you like the work I'm doing please consider helping Barack by making a donation and help me reach my personal fundraising goal (all donations go directly to the campaign).

Sikh American sings a beautiful Punjabi poem about Obama with subtitles!

Neil — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:37:23 EDT

So it seems the Democratic nominee may finally be set. After what a most astute commentator has called “The LONG FLAT SEEMINGLY ENDLESS BATAAN DEATH MARCH to THE WHITE HOUSE,” the end is finally within sight. It seems that Obama has numerically emerged the victor.

Members of this community have obviously been very active in campaigning for Senator Obama. I am sure they are pleased.

However, within the Sikh community, I believe a false dichotomy has often been presented. Some have stated that while many young Sikhs have been far more engaged with the Obama campaign, older members of our community have fundraised for the Clinton campaign. I believe that this age-difference distinction has always been grossly exaggerated.

Using Occam’s razor, a simpler thesis may suffice. While Hillary Clinton was the favorite at the beginning of the campaign, as the winds changed others were slower to jump on Obama’s bandwagon. I am sure we will see many ‘older’ Sikhs fundraising for Obama as we get nearer to the fall.

In fact, here is one voice that defies such characterization. Here is one Punjabi poet’s dedication to Obama (yes , you get subtitles too!).

CHECK IT OUT: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dryC1vlBCys

In California, Pashaura Singh Dhillon is a well-known voice. Whether at the Gurdwara, a mela, or even at a poetry reading, his appearance is calming and radiating. He is a kind man and a delight. He is also active in helping promote the events within the Sikh community.

Here is a bit of biography from his website: www.pashaurasinghdhillon.com:

Actively involved in community matters, along with other members, I have helped in forming the Sikh Council of Central California Fresno, the Punjabi Sahit Sabha California, and the Indo-US Heritage Association in Fresno, California. I take great interest to help organize events such as Interfaith Alliance functions, Nagar Kirtan in Selma, Literary Meetings, as well as events close to my heart such as commemorating functions in the fond memory of the Gadhri Babas and other freedom fighters who laid down their lives to free India. As General Secretary for the Sikh Council of Central California, we helped raise over $50,000 during the 9/11 Disaster Relief fundraisers. Representing the Sikh Council of Central California, I am currently helping to coordinate a Punjabi language course fundraising event at the Guru Nanak Heritage Institute for Punjabi Studies where the local community there has established a Punjabi language course for the past ten years at the San Jose State University. A similar effort is also in the process to start up a Punjabi language course in the Central Valley at the California State University, Fresno. [link]

Any thoughts on the poem? Or the election news and coverage?

Is West Virginia Welcome in Your Democratic Party?

Dawn in Superstition Springs — Mon, 12 May 2008 18:54:00 EDT

Cross-posted at DailyKos.

It will take more than hope for West Virginia. It will take hard work and understanding. It will take urban city liberals [edited because this hick didn't realize urban meant black, sorry!] getting off of their high horses and coming down to our level -- the level of ordinary folk who are ignorant, misinformed, maybe even, shall we say the word, bigoted. That's right I said our level. I'm an agnostic Democrat who votes on economic and social justice issues, but I'm still more like them than I am like you.

Over the last week or so, I've heard a lot of kossacks writing off West Virginia, making fun of West Virginia, and even saying West Virginia doesn't matter. Some have painted all of Appalachia as racist homophobes who will never change. Some even said that Obama is in mortal danger there. Some have suggested that we revert to Clinton-style "states that matter" campaigning, leaving West Virginia and Kentucky behind altogether.

Well, progress hasn't left us behind, and I hope that progressives won't either. If you think progress is impossible in my neck of the woods, follow me after the jump...

Obama in the Derby City!!!!!

Haven — Mon, 12 May 2008 14:24:24 EDT

i can't wait to hear my man Obama tonight. This primary fight is almost done and I can't wait! I want to get the general campaign going. McCain has had long enough to push himself to the center. Now it's time to show the country for what he really is. Bush 3. We are so close. Yet so far away!

Go OBAMA!

YES WE CAN!!!!

Say "NO" TO COAL-TO-LIQUID

Esther Buddenhagen — Mon, 12 May 2008 11:29:54 EDT

Andrew Sullivan yesterday reported that Obama has an ad in Kentucky touting the fact that he cosponsored a bill with Senator Jim Bunning to promote coal-to-liquid legislation. Obama needs to take the same firm stand AGAINST coal-to-liquid research and development funding. This is NOT a viable fuel alternative technically, economically, environmentally or in terms of jobs. There is no reputable scientist without a corporate interest who would support this idea. You can start by checking the blog Climate Progress which I mention because I have the link handy.

If Obama knows this, then advertising his efforts with Bunning which I hope he undertook when he didn't kow better is sheer pandering. And for what? Better to assume people can hear the truth and probably know it anyway and would like to hear some proposals for honest-to-goodness job development in green industries.

As a very strong Obama supporter, this disappoints me a great deal.

Barack Obama: Come to Eastern Kentucky!

Morgaine Swann — Sat, 10 May 2008 06:29:55 EDT

For the first time in a long time, the Kentucky primary matters. People in Eastern Kentucky often don't have cable, and many of the local systems lack news channels like MSNBC. The local news here is just repeating misrepresentations and lies about Barack's words, and the Right Wing whispering campaign is going full steam. From the way Hillary Clinton is talking, people are going to think that he doesn't think our votes are important. I know that isn't true, and I want my neighbors to know it, too.

Bobby Kennedy came to Eastern Kentucky to begin his campaign to end poverty. Last year, John Edwards stood in front of the Old Courthouse in Prestonsburg and made a simliar pledge to fight for the rights of the people instead of the special interests that control Washington. It's time for Barack to come here and meet us, to let people see that he's a good and decent man who cares about all Americans, regardless of their creed or color. He shouldn't just hand the state over to Hillary - we're better than that, and we're not as backwards or racist as she wants the country to think we are.

NOW - what do we have to do to make this happen?

Get Out The Vote In West Virginia And Kentucky

supportobama2008 — Fri, 09 May 2008 22:03:51 EDT

I Recieved A Call From Sen. Obama Asking To Organize Around Him To get Out The Vote In Kentucky, And West Virginia. My Family and I Did Just This In Gates, North Carolina By Making Calls and Door Knocking. Because of Our Efforts We brought Gates, North Carolina Home With A Win 1329 to 1209 Obama, A Difference Of 120 votes On the First Day We Registered 142 Obamamaniacs Who also Early Voted.

We May Not Win West Virginia , Or Kentucky But We Can Show How United And Devoted We Are By Calling These two States To Motivate Them Now To Do There Best.

Can I Count On You Just As Sen. Obama Is Counting On Me?

Lets Get Out The VOTE!

Please add Credence Clearwater Revival's "Up Around The Bend" as a new campaign song for WV and KY!

David D — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:46:55 EDT

It's a very anthemic sounding, upbeat song:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=BnRsaHXHznQ

Check out how the lyrics begin:
There's a place up ahead and I'm goin' just as fast as my feet can fly
Come away, come away if you're goin', leave the sinkin' ship behind.
CHORUS:
Come on the risin' wind, we're goin' up around the bend.
Ooh!

Watch great add Barack is running in Kentucky!

LuAnn in Indiana — Thu, 08 May 2008 11:29:47 EDT

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1386357098/bctid1522775495

Let's all focus on beating Hillary in Kentucky & West V

LuAnn in Indiana — Thu, 08 May 2008 04:12:38 EDT

Everyone knows Hillary is suppose to win Kentucky and West V . Why don't we all work extra hard to help Barack put those 2 states in his column. Maybe more Super D's might jump then.

Any ideas???

Let me know!

LuAnn Terre Haute

It's Time..

Julie Hensley — Wed, 07 May 2008 07:53:32 EDT

Last night was, well, in a word, GREAT!!!! Whoo hoo!!!

Now the MSM are proclaiming that the race is over (would someone please tell that 60ish blond woman in the blue pantsuit... she's looking a bit hysterical) and Obama is the nominee. FINALLY.

Now though, we have to focus on Kentucky and West Virginia. Neither of which are exactly the demographics of our candidate. West Virginia has already been conceded by Axelrod BUT that doesn't mean we don't scrabble for every vote we can get now. It's one less vote in theory, we would have to fight for in the Fall. So going there and canvassing or phone banking have to be among the first priorities. Please do something TODAY to assist the Obama campaign in both of those states - make a donation, make a call, canvas, blog/comment on sites in WV and KY and post a link to your fundraising page when you do.

Send your Obama gear to Kentucky and/or West Virginia using www.obamacycle.com to find out where it is most needed.

Things look good but there is alot to be done. Time to dig in, again.

Thank you, North Carolina. Thank you, Indiana. Who would have thought it would have taken this long?

Tragic and Ironic

Obamanizer — Sat, 03 May 2008 20:56:15 EDT

According to the Huffington Post, this was Clinton's bet for the Kentucky Derby.

Let me summarize:

Clinton's horse, the only female contestant came in second
It was beaten by a horse called "Big Brown" which appeared to have been the crowd's favorite.
After Clinton's horse lost the race, it had damaged itself so badly, it had to be put to sleep - causing an ultimate loss*

(*For everybody to clarify, I'm talking about Senator Clinton's campaign in association with the fact that the horse had to be put to sleep)

Converting Clintonites

Wayne — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 22:28:36 EDT

Obama can't close because voters DON'T want change. Not all voters, of course. He has attracted and inspired those of us who yearn for change. But who are we? And who are the Democrats that support Hillary? And why do they resist his clear clarion call for change?

Strategy for Obama in Rural areas...

MusicallyMotivatedMama — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 11:18:01 EDT

I know Obama says this will be OUR government. I was just thinking maybe he could open a board where people could go to offer ideas for campaign talking points. Hillary is being credited with being more in touch concerning the meat and potatoes issues. Here are some of my thoughts for connecting with these people of which I am one.

1) Draw a comparison between the price of gas per gal. and milk per gal. Let people know you're aware of the detalis, not just that the cost of food is going up, be specific. Flash a Kroger card. Work Hamburger Helper in there somehow. Perhaps mention that people aren't quite sure of the wisdom of mowing their yards with $4.00 per gal. gas. Things like that. Details. Colorful description.

2) Emphasize the role of parenting as you have before with that wonderful down to earth humor. The rural whites will appreciate hearing you discuss the video games, tv and mostly discipline!

3) Emphasize your plan for social security and prescription drugs.

4) Explain in detail why the gas tax holiday is not a good idea. The "average" person won't see beyond the short term advantage. You have to find a way to convince blue collar workers that this is a bad thing.

5) Emphasize the importance of church attendance now, before you get to Ky. so it won't appear pandering. Don't shy away from the issue because of the Rev. Wright. Southern Baptists have NO room to talk and they know it! Could possibly even draw comparisons and elicit a chuckle. Who knows? Many Baptists here felt 9/11 may have been Gods wrath. Statistics show church attendance spiked right after nation wide.

6) Succinctly address that new commercial concerning gang violence. I know how you look at all aspects before casting a vote and I know you have a very good reason for this one. Let the people know!

7) Find a female supporter to speak at rallies that Hillary's older female demographic can relate to. I think Michelle is absolutely wonderful! It seems to me such a strong, sassy woman should be able to woo Hillary's Fem. base.

8) On the Bin Laden/Iran front? Emphasize fighting smart as compared to Hillary's hawkish notions. Perhaps point out the realities of engaging Iran with nukes.

9) Only address Hillary's attacks. Do not initiate. Try to use that humor to point out the ridiculousness of her claims. That smile wins people over!

I think I'll stop here. I know Obama has whole teams and statistics to draw on to help him devise his strategy but I really think a homegrown perspective can help.

If anyone has any additional ideas feel free to respond. The perspective of supporters in the south esp. welcome! Perhaps we could compile them and get them to someone close to Obama.
Yes We Can!!!

Strategy Shift

Disabled Vet 2000 — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:33:05 EDT

We need to stop going on about how she can't win - it's bolstering her support. We need to get back to our Change and Hope message - we need to highlight how amazing what we've done so far is. Let the pundits spin the numbers - we need to get back to bucking the political machine that keeps power in the hands of Washington elites like Hillary.

I think it's also time that the press realizes that for Barack you have to go after people he knows - why is it that no one is mentioning all of Hillary's financial scandals while attacking Obama for knowing people? It's time that people realized that Hillary will motivate the GOP to the polls in November and will alienate our independent and crossover voters.

We also need to stay on the offensive. We can't allow Hillary to manufacture stories and then make them more valid by apologizing for things that don't deserve our time and energy.

Bring the focus back to grassroots action and stop harping on the money - again the press will do that for us (and frankly it ends up motivating people to donate). We need to change our game in order to cut into her support in WV and Kentucky. Especially be careful about rolling out too many Super Delegates before Illinois - we can't have the appearance of stealing the election when Obama has earned it. Hillary can't be given that argument, or again it will spike her fundraising and we could potentially lose some support. We have to wait to roll out Super Delegates until after a win.

OBAMA IS WINNING - STILL!

V, aka VCubed/Virginia V — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 03:16:51 EDT

Check out Slate.com:

POLITICS: WHO'S WINNING, WHO'S LOSING, AND WHY.
Slate's Delegate Calculator
THE MATH ONLY GETS GLOOMIER FOR CLINTON—EVEN AFTER A BIG PENNSYLVANIA WIN.
By Chris Wilson and Chadwick Matlin
Updated Wednesday, April 23, 2008, at 1:03 AM ET

Hillary Clinton's 10-point victory in Pennsylvania awards her a net gain of about 16 pledged delegates, based on projections from the popular vote. Because Pennsylvania awards about two-thirds of its delegates by district, we won't have a precise figure until later this week.

Coming into today, the odds that Clinton would catch Obama in pledged delegates were very small. Now they're zero. Before Pennsylvania, Clinton needed to win each remaining primary with 65 percent of the vote to close the gap. Even though she won Pennsylvania, that figure is now just over 68 percent. (Try it on the calculator below by dragging the red bar at the top to the right.) Furthermore, the state with the most remaining delegates is North Carolina, where Obama leads in the polls by about 20 points. Assuming he nets at least 20 more of the state's 115 delegates, Clinton needs 80 percent of the vote in each of the other eight remaining primaries to catch up.

One Week to Win 2 States ~ This is It!

V, aka VCubed/Virginia V — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 02:15:30 EDT

Now is the time to give your all. Indiana and North Carolina must and will be blowouts, if you and I give our all.

Let no one say Hillary got more steam out of this than Obama - we overcame a 20+ lead after every smear thrown at Obama, in less than one month, after 55 minutes of organized attack at the final so-called "debate" - so for all practical purposes, she lost! She needed a 15 point win, she only got 10, if that. She only got 10 more delegates than Obama, 75-65, with 18 to be determined. There are just as many delegates up for grabs in IN and NC, so let's go get them!

If you've never pushed an undecided or Clinton-leaning voter to reconsider, do it now, in one of those upcoming elections. It is so easy. Over 10% of voters still believe Obama is a practicing or undercover Muslim, and/or doesn't salute the flag. You can change that! Just say, nicely and firmly, why you want Jan. 2009 to usher in the Obama Administration.
Phonebank

If you've never donated or have 5, 10, 20 to spare, do it now.
Donate

If you've never written a newspaper, or in news sites online, write now. Start with Indiana and NC. If you get into a groove, keep on going. Just say, nicely and firmly, why you want Jan. 2009 to usher in the Obama Administration.
Rapid Response

If you're bilingual and write nicely in Spanish, write Puerto Rico's media outlets, at least online.
Latino Rapid Response

If you can travel to one of the last states, from Kentucky to Oregon, or West Virginia or Puerto Rico, get set and go now!
Hit the road!

If you ever wanted Obama campaign gear, get it now, only at
BO Store

Remember, as future President Barack Obama reminds us:

Help Barack Win Kentucky

Shawn from London, KY — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:03:42 EDT

With the Kentucky primary coming up on Tuesday, May 20, now is the time to get involved in the campaign.

Sign up to become a leader for Barack -- reach out to potential voters, organize your community, and make sure as many supporters as possible are ready and excited for Primary Day.You can do it if you try.Shawn Gannon

Barack needs your help in Kentucky

Shawn from London, KY — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:53:47 EDT

http://ky.barackobama.com/precinctleader

You can play a major role in winning Kentucky for Barack.

Our primary is coming up on May 20th, and one of the most important ways you can help make sure Barack has a strong showing is to become a Precinct Team Leader.

Becoming a Precinct Team Leader means taking the next step and making a personal commitment to the campaign. But along with that commitment comes the opportunity to be a major part of our strategy in Kentucky.

Here's what Kentucky Precinct Team Leaders need to do:

Spread the word in your precinct about Barack and our movement for change by calling and canvassing your neighborhood
Volunteer on Election Day to help Get Out The Vote in Kentucky

Below are the undecided super delegates.

! ! ! ! ! Matthew McGovern !!!!! — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 01:23:04 EDT

Saturday April 12, 2008

Comments or suggestions for inclusion can be sent to The.McGovern.Minute@gmail.com

Here we go wonderful Obama supporters!

Below are the undecided super delegates.

We need to send them a quick email, or letter, expressing our desire for them to support Sen. Obama.

It is imperative that we show as much support for Obama to these super delegates. Just 15 minutes is all it will take, but the effects of everybody writing to show our support will be great.

It really can take only 15 minutes too - probably even less assuming
you use email... simply a brief courteous note is all it takes. There
are a number of online sources for super delegate contact info. I
think the best single source is:

www.democratsfordemocracy.org

It has an easy to use search tool and it has more actual contact info
than any of the other sites I've checked out. Plus it looks like they
are actually working on improving it as they go. It also has links to
background info and news for many of the superdelegates. (and unlike
some sites out there it is totally free and doesn't require any user
account info - no strings attached)

Check it out and, more importantly, take action and use it. Let the
superdelegates know we appreciate their commitment to the party, but
that in the end it is the voice of the collective people who need to
decide this nomination process.

Pass this along to any of your contacts in other states.

Right on! Write On! GO OBAMA!!!

Steve Beshear

State: Kentucky
Affiliation: Democratic Governor
Pledged: Undeclared
Back to Top

Jennifer Moore

State: Kentucky
Affiliation: DNC Member
Pledged: Undeclared
Back to Top

Moretta Bosley

State: Kentucky
Affiliation: DNC Member
Pledged: Undeclared
Back to Top

Nathan Smith

State: Kentucky
Affiliation: DNC Member
Pledged: Undeclared
Back to Top

Ben Chandler

State: Kentucky
Affiliation: U.S. Representative
Pledged: Undeclared
Back to Top

Obama in Kentucky

Susan Weston — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 20:08:18 EDT

There's a new poll out showing 56% for Clinton to 25% for Obama. It's at http://polwatchers.typepad.com/pol_watchers/2008/04/poll-shows-clin.html .

I write to offer two words of hope after seeing those numbers.

First, if Obama gets 35% of the vote in Kentucky, that can be 18 delegates, and 18 delegates will be 5% of what he needs to lock up the nomination. We can make 35% happen with good work in the coming weeks.

Second, working for Obama can change us and change Kentucky for the long haul. Our beautiful state needs a General Assembly that can make important decisions in the coming years, and changing our U.S. Senate delegation would be a mighty service to the nation. Working for Obama will give us neighbors, contacts, and skills that will matter in that later work as well as in the coming primary.

Yes, we can!

Obamamania comes to Lexington!

Jamilah — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 20:41:43 EDT

I could scarcely believe it when I received an email inviting me to the open house for the new Obama headquarters here in Lexington, Kentucky. The office is less than a mile from my house--walking distance (mostly uphill) if I feel up to it. High gas prices couldn't keep me away!

The event was at 5:30 tonight. The place was packed--it took me a while to find a parking spot. I finally parked, signed in, took a sign, and cheered. The place was packed. Black, white, young, old, male, female. Forget the experts' demographic studies. All sectors support Obama here in Lexington.

Before we left, my three youngest sons and I had all signed up to volunteer. This is just the beginnning for us. Super Tuesday may be a distant memory for much of the nation, but here in Kentucky we are just getting started. Fired up and ready to go!

it's like this....

BRGHTSD1 HOPE & COURAGE — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:57:07 EDT

I will not Fail nor Falter I shall Succeed
My Perception is Altered I do Believe
Faith is so Strong Now Nothing shall Bar my way
Firm Conviction is no Fiction This is my Day

I can Move Move Move Any Mountain
I can Move Move Move Any Mountain
I can Move Move Move Any Mountain

I Walk so Tall Ascending I Stand so High
Earth Below me Revolving Above the Sky
I Feel no Fear To be here is oh so fine
Shining Brightly Like Sunlight Inside my Mind

Well You Know that any Mountain Is Capable of Moving
The Shamen and The New Generation they Are Proving
You can be what You want to be
Let your soul and your body and your mind Be Free
Ain't nothing in the world that can hold us back
Write down a lyric put it down on wax
We can rock and take it straight to the top
With an attitude that's right and can't be stopped
Set your mind on what you want and you can go higher
Put detailed thought into every desire
Believe in yourself you know what you'll find
There is no 'can't' in a trouble-free mind
One of a kind, We all are that
And going all the way is where I'm at
With delivery smooth like water from a fountain
That's why I can move Any Mountain Move Any Mountain

I can Move Move Move Any Mountain
I can Move Move Move Any Mountain
I can Move Move Move Any Mountain
I can Move Move Move Any Mountain
Move Any Mountain
Move Any Mountain
Move Any Mountain

Future Feeling new sensation
Body is rockin and the mind is reeling
And Rolling racing changing motion
Flowing like a river into the Ocean
Better get yourself ready For the next transition
'Cos the time is right for a new vibration
My Vision one nation one Tribe
One day'll come the might to Move Any Mountain
Move Any Mountain
Move Any Mountain
I can Move Move Move Any Mountain

I Walk so Tall Ascending I Stand so High
Earth Below me Revolving Above the Sky
I Feel no Fear To be here is oh so fine
Shining Brightly Like Sunlight Inside my Mind

I can Move Move Move Any Mountain

going to the top 'cause the sky is the limit
and movin' any mountain 'cause we got faith in it
and won't be held back because we're on track with the rap
you know you got it like that
relax, feel good, and tell yourself 'be free'
the self expression is the whole of the key
to feel good inside, to gain full success
and only you can be sure, for yourself, what's best
to have faith that what you're doing is right
two steps forward and you know that you might
progress to a point where you will succeed
move any mountain if you only believe
so now you know why we're gonna go all the way
and everything will get better with every word that i say
a delivery smooth like water from a fountain
that's why we're gonna move any mountain

BARACK OBAMA - ROAD TO THE WHITE HOUSE

WEBMASTER — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 11:23:04 EST

BARACK IS A UNIVERSAL WORD MEANING TO BRING A BLESSING.

ACCORDING TO HOSEA 4:6 WITH A VISION WE HAVE THE ETERNAL RIGHT TO SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP, GUIDANCE and HOPE FOR A BETTER FUTURE.

In 1999, the Federal Communications Law Journal revealed how Bill and Hillary Clinton were put in a compromising position. see PLAYING THE NAME GAME - A GLIMPSE AT THE FUTURE / page 411

In this digital age we need courage, leadership and true vision. Obama has shown such in the proper use of political blogging. It is my belief that the message of HOPE spoken by Obama is a God given word and that the vision must not slip from the grasp of the American people or the other nations, peoples and tongues that support Barack Obama around the world.

This is a day the Lord has made. Barak Obama is on his way to the THE WHITE HOUSE . . . .

and I am humbly honored to finish this message with the closing remarks of the world famous CIVIL RIGHTS leader, DR MARTIN LUTHER KING, born 15 JAN 1929, who proclaimed to the world at the LINCOLN MEMORIAL on 28 AUG 1963 in his famous freedom speech:

I HAVE A DREAM

And so let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire.
Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York.
Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania.
Let freedom ring from the snow-capped Rockies of Colorado.
Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California.
But not only that: Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia.
Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee.
Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi.
From every mountainside, let freedom ring.
And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual:
Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!

THAT DAY IS HERE - YOU ARE FREE

UPDATE: OBAMA MAKES HISTORY as FIRST BLACK PRESIDENT and YES HE DID

HONOR PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN 1861-1865

can you all help me??

kelly from Georgetown, IN — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 15:43:22 EST

woot wooooo

"All aboard for the Obama train!!
Next stops Ohio, Texas, Vermont and Rhode Island!!"

Please help me in my quest to reach my $2000 goal. Just copy and paste this link and it will take you straight to my donations site. I am trying to get enough money together for Obama on March 2nd....will you help me???

yes
we
can!!

my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/message/main/obama08indiana

>hugs< to you all!!!

Obama wins force changes in Clinton strategy

Annika from Madison, CT — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 18:42:56 EST

Came across this link, which highlights the need for greater vigilance, and especially the fact that now would not be a good time to start celebrating. It's not over yet. There is still everything to fight for. And even when it looks like we are stacking up delegates, remember to make it clear that the remaining states matter as much as the ones that have already been won!

The Clinton campaign has decided not to ignore the states they had deemed to be unimportant, and will instead be trying to tap into the base that has been supporting the Obama campaign, especially among younger prospective voters (volunteers). NOW is the time to start recruiting volunteers/staff in ALL remaining states. TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED:

http://www.newsday.com/news/local/politics/ny-uscamp0214,0,4643978.story

"From our perspective, we expect change to begin on March 4," said Mark Penn, Clinton's chief strategist.

As evidence that race for the Democratic nomination might be an extended one, Clinton's campaign officials said they'll be opening campaign offices and hiring staff in Wyoming, Montana, Kentucky and Mississippi. which hold primaries in March, April and May.

They're also opening an office in Puerto Rico, which votes on June 6 – the last day of the Democratic primary calendar, a sign of just how far the Clinton camp believes the race might go.

I believe that the quicker this is wrapped up, the better it will be for the Obama campaign. There is no room for complacency. I can sense that there will be huge tides of negativity coming in the next few days. It is best to be prepared and meet it head on, with dignity and integrity. NEVER take the bait. Meet slurs and slimy insinuations with facts, but never lose your cool. Copy Barrack's poise, smile in the face of opposition, if necessary. It disarms them more quickly than anything else. Good luck!

We need to ensure that people are in place in all those coming states PRONTO. I know that the campaign has been good at organisation, but it is important to seize the momentum and not wait until the last minute. People have heard about Barrack's wins this past week, they want to see him now. Remember that the only thing many have going for them still, is Clinton's name recognition. The objective should be to change that and capitalise on it. Good luck!

pray KY doesn't matter; OH and TX win it

jonathan | cvg — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 23:57:24 EST

this may very well work out that barack takes each of the february primaries. on march 4, obama needs to capture a decisive win in texas and ohio... wrapping up this nomination. if ohio and texas split like several of the super tuesday wins, this will drag out and the republicans get stronger. not only would it be fair, but i think it should be expected that the democratic party call for clinton to suspend her nomination after obama dominates february and the next two big states.

although the obama camp has reportedly done very well mobilizing in other states, i don't see that in northern ky/southern ohio. i've tried contacting the group administers from the Action KY and Action OH teams on this community site, but they aren't logging in... presumably busy with last minute pushes in other states... but ohio and texas are too big for a last minute effort and small victory or even worse, a defeat.

no one responds... accept martha who manages the official myspace, but her only response instructed me to refer to this site for more information. duh! my question asked how do i get in touch with the field leader in ohio sense no one is mobilizing through the community site like the news claims they have done in other states.

i might also add that i am told that the hillary myspace releases bulletins that elaborate on her positions and help supporters debate and persuade obama supporters and undecided voters. that is not happening on the obama side, accept from the email campaign originating from here. but, rest assured, there's thousands of myspacers that added him that did not join here.

i'm not sure if you are familiar with "so goes the nation" but it is a blunt documentary about how kerry failed in his messaging and field mobilization... especially in ohio which lead, in part, to his defeat by bush (who should have been an easy opponent by all logic).

believe me, we want this wrapped up on the evening of march 4. this is one election that we don't want kentucky to matter.

~ j

BARACK, Tell me what to do for you!!! I DUMPED HILLARY!!!

Lance Gayhart — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 15:12:47 EST

Senator Obama,

After a week of blatant, less than truthful radio ads from Hillary Clinton, I waited for an apology. I waited for a Clinton to own a mistake.

That was mine. That's all it would have taken: an apology. After supporting the Clintons for 16 years, I've lost hope. This time "Hope, Arkansas" won't sell it to me. And apparently my quiet frustration was being heard by others; including the Kennedys. Ted and Caroline are right. It is the same old deception in Washington: deceit, lies, and manipulation of the truth.

I did hope. And I did listen. And I wanted her to win. But not anymore. Our country is messed up seemingly beyond repair, and we can't blame it on a White House intern.

What would it take today, to bring an impeachment to an untouchable dictator, and his (would-be) heir to the throne. Apparently not even justice for the lives that were lost, because of a lie.

Even so, I'd die for my country. But as many of you know, I don't have the right. Tomorrow is a new day. We MUST bring peace, respect, and unity back to our country.

Climate change, global warming, and melting ice caps are more than fact. It is a 21st century metaphor; telling us to change, before it's too late.

Senator, tell me what to do. We are running out of time for the nomination! I am currently unemployed. You have my undivided attention (besides my job-hunting). I can volunteer at any Lexington function in Kentucky. I currently am wiling to put in as many hours as I can for your nomination! PLEASE! I want to help! Someone tell me how to get the Barack Obama nomination for President of the United States.

Sincerly,
Lance Gayhart

Help Obama Win Big on Super Tuesday!!

Shawn M. Reilly — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 19:38:48 EST

With Obama's blow-out victory in South Carolina on Satureday now is the time more than ever to give to his campaign so that he can fight off Hillary Clinton's negative attacks. The Clintons threw everything including the kitchen sink a Barack over the past week in South Carolina and he proved she could not bring him down.

As Americans, we dream of a President who is honest, personable, intelligent, and wise. We want a leader with courage and integrity who has known the struggles of an everyday American. A lot of people have stopped believing that may even be possible. I haven't stopped believing.

I support Barack Obama because he is that leader. Join me in supporting Barack by making a donation to my personal fundraising page: http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/ShawnReilly

This campaign for the presidency is unparalleled in history. Our need for an honest, fresh-thinking leader could not be more urgent. Americans are hungry for change and Barack Obama will bring that change when he is elected. We have less than 10 days before the start of the Super Duper Tuesday primaries and caucuses, we need to act now. Please take a minute to check out my page and make a donation of any size: http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/ShawnReilly Thanks.

Reminder Campaign Update Next Tuesday

Shawn M. Reilly — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 12:59:58 EST

My name is Shawn Reilly and I am committed to making Barack Obama the next President of the United State and that is why I am helping to raise money and support for Barack Obama here in Kentucky. I want to invite you to a campaign briefing with Matthew Barzun a member of Obama's finance committee.

What: an Obama campaign briefing & working session/discussion between Kentuckians for Obama and Sen. Obama's top economic advisor, Austan Goolsbee, focused on a. the state of the race: updates on Iowa , New Hampshire , Nevada , South Carolina (the early states) up through Feb. 5th “national primary” b. a discussion of Economic issues and opportunities (energy independence, healthcare, jobs, trade, etc.) and for how Kentucky can thrive in the new 21st century economy. c. Obama gear (t-shirts, hats, water bottles, bumperstickers, key chains, lapel pins, etc. all available for purchase)

When: Tuesday December 4, 2007. 5pm to 6:30pm

Where: Glassworks building on 815 West Market St. (at 8th St. ) in downtown Louisville . Main level reception area. Who: Hosted by Matthew Barzun (member of Obama’s National Finance Committee and chair for Kentucky) and featuring special guests Austan Goolsbee (Sen. Barack Obama's top Economic Advisor), and Michael O’Neil (head of MidWest region for Obama). Please see attached article for background on Professor Goolsbee -- who was just featured on front page of the New York Times business section. How you can participate: there are three ways you can participate:

i) Table Captain – raise/contribute $500 for 10 seats

ii) Table Co-Captain: raise/contribute $250 for 5 seats

iii) Other: _____ seats at $50 per seat for a total of $ seats

iv) NOTE: if you are busy that day but want to invest more we can use your contribution to “underwrite” seats for Students for Obama for example, if you are out of town that day but want to support the event you can contribute $500 and we will use your $$ to let others attend at a lower rate or for free as you guests. Or even if you are in town and can contribute more than $50 suggested minimum, that’s great too. Make your $50 contribution to attend! you can RSVP and make contribution at this website: http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/ShawnReilly

Obama Campaign update w/ Matthew Barzun

Shawn M. Reilly — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:26:50 EST

My name is Shawn Reilly and I am committed to making Barack Obama the next President of the United State and that is why I am helping to raise money and support for Barack Obama here in Kentucky.

I want to invite you to a campaign briefing with Matthew Barzun a member of Obama's finance committee.

When: Tuesday December 4, 2007. 5pm to 6:30pm Where: Glassworks building on 815 West Market St. (at 8th St. ) in downtown Louisville . Main level reception area. Who: Hosted by Matthew Barzun (member of Obama’s National Finance Committee and chair for Kentucky) and featuring special guests Austan Goolsbee (Sen. Barack Obama's top Economic Advisor), and Michael O’Neil (head of MidWest region for Obama). Please see attached article for background on Professor Goolsbee -- who was just featured on front page of the New York Times business section.

How you can participate: there are three ways you can participate:

i) Table Captain – raise/contribute $500 for 10 seats

ii) Table Co-Captain: raise/contribute $250 for 5 seats

iii) Other: _____ seats at $50 per seat for a total of $ seats

Make your $50 contribution to attend! you can RSVP and make contribution at this website: http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/ShawnReilly

Brain Storming: Helping From Kentucky

Shawn M. Reilly — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 11:17:21 EST

I have been thinking about how we in Kentucky can help the Obama campaign and someone from the Iowa and New Hampshire office emailed me that there is a program to make phone calls into Iowa and New Hampshire there are details on the Get Involved page. I know that I am going to do this and want people from Kentucky to do it as well, if you give one hour of your week to doing this it can impact the Iowa race because on 5%-7% of their population goes to the caucus, so we can reach alot of people.

Also I would like to try and get a group of Obama suppporters together in the near future for a meeting or some kind of Obama Campaign update. I would like anyone intrested too email me their thoughts, this should be a fun event.

Helping from Kentucky

Shawn M. Reilly — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 15:57:17 EST

I live in Kentucky were our primary is in May so I will not be able to have a voice in the selection of our nominee. I will however be able to contribute and raise money for the person that I think will be the next president, Barack Obama. So I want to hear from the Obama online community ways that I can help from Kentucky.

EVERY City and State for Barack Obama!!

Homeboy — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 18:12:13 EDT

It's been a crazy month for me. I've spent countless all nighters trying to improve my grassroots Barack Obama website that I hope will make a difference in the younger voters out there. There are still a few glitches to fix, but for the most part, the new site is online and ready to help promote Obama as best as it can.

Probably the biggest difference is that there is now a page for every US city and state where people can leave comments and quickly interact. I chose the simple comment system because I know that many younger voters won't take the time to sign up for Barackobama.com but still want their voices to be heard, so this is their chance to be heard.

The most time consuming part of the whole website redesign was the creation and upload of over 30,000 images people can get on t-shirts. Like I mentioned earlier, there are a few problems with a few cities and states, but basically, EVERY CITY has its own Barack Obama t-shirt.

Let me say that again... EVERY US CITY has it's own t-shirt design!

I'm an artist and web designer, and this is how I'm supporting Obama. It doesn't matter what you're good at.. there's definitely something you can do to help him get noticed.

Goodluck!

-Homeboy

PS... here's links to the state pages...

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

School Integregation plan reconsidered by Supreme Court

J. Lowe — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 22:45:39 EDT

Here is a critical issue that has been flying under the radar: Recently, the US Supreme Court heard arguments concerning the integration of public schools here in Louisville Kentucky, and Seattle Washington.

I hope you can appreciate, as I do, the importance of diversity in the education and socialization of our children. We have one of the most integrated public schools in the nation. Research has proven that integration has yielded a better workforce and a healthier community.

Please click on the links listed below to read more about this issue before the Supreme Court issues its decision.