This is a pretty thorough and descriptive article from The Sunday Times (linked in the header).
The Sarah Palin experience will create a ton of conversations, not the least of which has to do with her example as a political conservative -- no doubt her run for the WH will spur a lot of talk among politicians and pundits who call themselves "conservative."
If all of the chatter is even close to true, Palin seems to be the closest modern politician to the Reagan model: the people's conservative. No matter what side of this race you are on, the Palin experience will flesh out a lot of stereotyping, generalizations, posers, and ideologues.
If you identify with conservatives (and I realize that most of the folks on this site don't), you can hope for another Margaret Thatcher. If you identify with liberals, you could at least hope Palin turns out to be a Thatcher and not just another politician...after all, if we're going to get her as a political leader, why wouldn't you hope for the best?
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Mayor Ralph Becker To Speak at Convention Watch Party
MEDIA ADVISORY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 27, 2008
Contact: Rob Skraznas, Event Coordinator, 801-574-7686
Mayor Ralph Becker To Speak at Convention Watch Friends and Family Picnic in Millcreek
Salt Lake City – Ralph Becker invites friends and supporters to join him on Thursday, August 28 at a Friends and Family Picnic organized by the Utah for Obama campaign and to watch Obama’s historic acceptance speech live from Denver on a giant outdoor movie screen.
Who: Ralph Becker and other Obama supporters
When: Thursday, August 28, 2008
6:00 pm Picnic Begins
7 – 7:15 pm Mayor Becker speaks (depending on speeches in Denver)
8:00 pm Barack Obama’s acceptance speech
Where: Canyon Rim Park, 3100 East 3100 South
What: Watch Barack Obama’s historic acceptance speech live from Denver on giant outdoor movie screen. Supporters are invited to bring picnic baskets, coolers, blankets and games for a party under the stars at Canyon Rim Park. You will be able create you own signs to show your support. T-shirts, yard signs, bumperstickers, buttons, sodas and snacks will be available for small donations. Get to know other supporters.
For more information or to find an event in your area, go to www.barackobama.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 27, 2008
Contact: Rob Skraznas, Event Coordinator, 801-574-7686
Mayor Ralph Becker To Speak at Convention Watch Friends and Family Picnic in Millcreek
Salt Lake City – Ralph Becker invites friends and supporters to join him on Thursday, August 28 at a Friends and Family Picnic organized by the Utah for Obama campaign and to watch Obama’s historic acceptance speech live from Denver on a giant outdoor movie screen.
Who: Ralph Becker and other Obama supporters
When: Thursday, August 28, 2008
6:00 pm Picnic Begins
7 – 7:15 pm Mayor Becker speaks (depending on speeches in Denver)
8:00 pm Barack Obama’s acceptance speech
Where: Canyon Rim Park, 3100 East 3100 South
What: Watch Barack Obama’s historic acceptance speech live from Denver on giant outdoor movie screen. Supporters are invited to bring picnic baskets, coolers, blankets and games for a party under the stars at Canyon Rim Park. You will be able create you own signs to show your support. T-shirts, yard signs, bumperstickers, buttons, sodas and snacks will be available for small donations. Get to know other supporters.
For more information or to find an event in your area, go to www.barackobama.com.
will.i.am from the Black Eyed Peas gave me a hug
I've seen will.i.am a few times at the hotel but I didn't know he was staying two doors down from our room. When I stepped out of the elevator today will.i.am was sitting in a chair, I said, "hi", and he got up out of his chair and gave me a hug. Maybe he thought I was somebody else, or maybe he is just a great guy (my choice).
We spoke for a few minutes and he agreed to do a quick video for our viewers. After doing so Rep. Christine Johnson came up and asked he will.i.am if he would call her daughter, which he did without any hesitation, even though he was leaving to rehearse for tonight's event.
One of my favorite Black Eyed Peas' tunes is, "Where is the Love?"
After he called Christine's daughter I asked him about his name. He explained that he loved Dr. Seuss as a kid and one day he showed his mom that his name William spelled out Will-I-Am like Sam-I-Am. Later, his mother told him that if he was going to use will.i.am as his stage name he better do something substantial because the I Am had a deeper meaning.
Once again I have met a celebrity who was humble and kind, and I believe it's no coincidence that he is the gentleman that brought the world this song and video.
Utah's Divided Delegates
Today's Trib:
But even in Utah's delegation, some ill will remained, including several Obama delegates, galled at what they see as lukewarm support during the historic event and insistence on a televised roll call in the race decided months ago.Kudos to Mr. McCoy for asking the question. And to Jenny Wilson... perhaps you are not cut out for a delegate position, if in 2 and 1/2 months you are still unable to look beyond an emotional primary and see the importance the energy on display here at the DNCC contributes to the many races in play in Utah and across the country this year and Utah's downticket elections.
State Sen. Scott McCoy said he never saw the point in Clinton backers insisting on sticking with their candidate and supporting a public roll call.
"I don't understand what purpose it serves," he said. "Symbolically, to the rest of the world, what does it say?"
[...]Lisa Allcott, a Clinton delegate, said she is confident the Clinton supporters will warm to Obama, quoting Clinton, who said in a conference call that her supporters have much more in common with Obama than they ever will with Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain. But it might take time.
"It's only been since early June - 2 1/2 months - and it's hard when you're loyal to a candidate and you lose. You just need some time."
Jenny Wilson, a Clinton delegate and Salt Lake County councilwoman, said Clinton deserved the recognition from her delegates.
The answer to Scott's question is fairly straight forward.
It makes the delegates look petty and belligerent. And this same childish "battle" has played out in nearly every delegate circle I have come into contact with here at the convention. It is also punctuated by the few PUMA's I've seen around town, declaring their frustration with an irrational promise vote for McCain.
I was a very early Clinton supporter. I was (and still would be, had things played out differently) excited at the idea of her nomination, which seemed a shoe in at the time. But that changed, and so did her campaign. And she lost. Not because she was a woman, and not because of some grand conspiracy to cheat her out of the White House, but because of Mark Penn, and a very flawed campaign, poor strategy, and an inability to distinguish itself enough from the politics millions of voters hope to see come to a final and permanent end.
And while it is impossible to completely extract emotional decision making from our personal politics, as delegates, these people have a responsibility to remain aware of the larger goal of getting more Democrats elected in Utah, and nationally. If we wanted to send a symbolic message that it is time to address the problems of health care and economic inequality in our country, we would serve that purpose much more effectively by working for a unified vote of support for the nominee, and the Democratic Party, keeping in mind that excitement and cohesive energy do much more for down ticket races than threatening to skip acceptance speeches, and casting divisive votes with false nobility.
To the 9 votes cast for Hillary, I commend you for your dedication to the Senator who - despite her failed campaign - would have made an excellent President. But you could have done much more for Democrats in Utah as a delegate had you been able to see beyond that.
I've got my pass for "The Speech"
These passes are awesome! The seats are nosebleed, but I'm excited!
Some highlights of today's schedule, which you can watch all of on CSPAN or CSPAN.org:
*Pledge of Allegiance by Olympic Gymnast Shawn Johnson
*National Anthem by Oscar winner/singer Jennifer Hudson
*Tribute to Dr Martin Luther King with Rev. Bernice King and Martin Luther King III
*Governor Bill Richardson
*Singer will.i.am accompanied by John Legend
*Singer/Songwriter Cheryl Crow
*Recording artist Stevie Wonder
*Nobel Prize Winner Al Gore
*Wounded Iraq Veteran John Kuniholm
*Singer/Songwriter Michael McDonald
Oh, and there's some speech by some Senator from Illinois or something....
Utah Amicus Bloggers are going to Invesco Field tonight...
To listen to our next PRESIDENT
Thanks to Wayne and Todd!
Thanks to Wayne and Todd!
Steve Young for Congress
Steve Young is a Democrat running for California's 48th Congressional District. I met him on the shuttle going back to the Warwick and found out that he was raised in my hometown of Bountiful, Utah.
Check out Steve's website at steveyoungforcongress.com.
Payday Lenders: Another Failing Grade for Utah
Utah gets failing grade for loan protections
Published: August 28, 2008
Utah is failing consumers by not capping "abusive" interest rates on small-dollar loans that ultimately pull individuals into debt spirals and drag down the U.S. economy, according to a state-by-state scorecard released Wednesday by three national consumer groups.
The National Consumer Law Center, the Consumer Federation of America and Consumers Union listed Utah among 14 states receiving failing grades on four kinds of small-dollar loans: payday loans; auto-title loans; six-month, $500 unsecured installment loans; and one-year, $1,000 unsecured installment loans.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Not the Only Utahn's in Denver
What's ironic about the blogger access to the DNCC is that there is so much going on (and most of it is not happening inside the convention center) there is little time to blog. Panels, debates, presentations.
For now I'm just sending back a picture of the McCain supporters we ran into who traveled all the way from the University of Utah to stand on the streets of Denver and be wrong. Heh.
Joe Biden, "This is our time"
"Our greatest presidents—from Abraham Lincoln to Franklin Roosevelt to John Kennedy—they all challenged us to embrace change. Now, it’s our responsibility to meet that challenge.
Millions of Americans have been knocked down. And this is the time as Americans, together, we get back up. Our people are too good, our debt to our parents and grandparents too great, our obligation to our children is too sacred.
These are extraordinary times. This is an extraordinary election. The American people are ready. I’m ready. Barack Obama is ready. This is his time. This is our time. This is America’s time. "
Millions of Americans have been knocked down. And this is the time as Americans, together, we get back up. Our people are too good, our debt to our parents and grandparents too great, our obligation to our children is too sacred.
These are extraordinary times. This is an extraordinary election. The American people are ready. I’m ready. Barack Obama is ready. This is his time. This is our time. This is America’s time. "
Senator Joe Biden
Remarks from the 2008 Democratic National Convention
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Remarks from the 2008 Democratic National Convention
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Senator Biden is uniquely suited to serve as Barack Obama’s partner
This last Sunday night I attended an event where Robert Kennedy, Jr. told the story of how his father, Robert Kennedy Senior, took his then teenaged son overseas to several foreign nations three years after RFK’s brother, President John F. Kennedy, had been martyred. He explained how awe inspiring it was to see how the people of these nations were desperate for leadership from our American politicians, and he included his memory of giant crowds of Muslims, as well as people of other different faiths and cultures, lining their cities streets just to get a glimpse of his father while enthusiastically waving small American Flags.
For much of our Nation’s 232 years we have been the leaders of inspiration and opportunity for the rest of the world, but that hasn’t been the case for the last seven years, and that is just one of the many great reasons as too why Barack Obama has made a wise decision when he chose Delaware Senator Joe Biden to be his running mate.
Joe Biden is a rare breed. An expert in foreign policy whose international stature will help Barack Obama’s plans to restore the United States’ standing and reputation in the world. Biden has been to Iraq eight times, to the Middle East every year since 2002, and he led the first Senate delegation to Afghanistan after the fall of the Taliban.
Biden’s foreign policy expertise, grasp of the issues and common-sense approach will help our country deal with the 21st century threats and challenges we are facing in the world today.
As the Washington Post’s E.J. Dionne said, "Few Democrats know more about foreign policy, and few would so relish the fight against McCain on international affairs. Few are better placed to argue that withdrawal from Iraq will strengthen rather than weaken the United States.
Biden’s leadership has also been widely hailed for helping bring stability and peace to the Balkans, and he was the first member of Congress to go on a fact-finding mission to the Republic of Georgia at the invitation of Georgia ’s President Saakashvili.
Senator Biden’s foreign policy experience isn’t the only reason he will help Barack Obama’s candidacy. He hasn’t allowed the cynicism that permeates Washington to limit his drive and energy to fight.
Biden wrote and passed the ground-breaking Violence Against Women Act. He fought for passage of the Family and Medical Leave Act, cracked down on deadbeat dads, and is a dedicated family man who rides a train home every night to be with his family.
Senator Biden is uniquely suited to serve as Barack Obama’s partner in the urgent mission to bring about the change America needs to put our country back on track, and I grateful that Barack Obama values Senator Biden’s track record of bringing people together, to get things done.
For much of our Nation’s 232 years we have been the leaders of inspiration and opportunity for the rest of the world, but that hasn’t been the case for the last seven years, and that is just one of the many great reasons as too why Barack Obama has made a wise decision when he chose Delaware Senator Joe Biden to be his running mate.
Joe Biden is a rare breed. An expert in foreign policy whose international stature will help Barack Obama’s plans to restore the United States’ standing and reputation in the world. Biden has been to Iraq eight times, to the Middle East every year since 2002, and he led the first Senate delegation to Afghanistan after the fall of the Taliban.
Biden’s foreign policy expertise, grasp of the issues and common-sense approach will help our country deal with the 21st century threats and challenges we are facing in the world today.
As the Washington Post’s E.J. Dionne said, "Few Democrats know more about foreign policy, and few would so relish the fight against McCain on international affairs. Few are better placed to argue that withdrawal from Iraq will strengthen rather than weaken the United States.
Biden’s leadership has also been widely hailed for helping bring stability and peace to the Balkans, and he was the first member of Congress to go on a fact-finding mission to the Republic of Georgia at the invitation of Georgia ’s President Saakashvili.
Senator Biden’s foreign policy experience isn’t the only reason he will help Barack Obama’s candidacy. He hasn’t allowed the cynicism that permeates Washington to limit his drive and energy to fight.
Biden wrote and passed the ground-breaking Violence Against Women Act. He fought for passage of the Family and Medical Leave Act, cracked down on deadbeat dads, and is a dedicated family man who rides a train home every night to be with his family.
Senator Biden is uniquely suited to serve as Barack Obama’s partner in the urgent mission to bring about the change America needs to put our country back on track, and I grateful that Barack Obama values Senator Biden’s track record of bringing people together, to get things done.
Senator Pat Jones And Mitt Romney
State Senator Pat Jones (D-Bob's House) shaking hands with Mitt-Flop Romney outside the front door of Pepsi Center. Also in the picture: Former State Senators Karen Hale and Partice Arent.
Source: AP via CNN.
Source: AP via CNN.
TODAY: Delegates fan out across Denver to participate in first-ever Democratic National Convention Delegate Service Day
DENVER – Demonstrating a commitment to service and active participation in the community, nearly 1,400 delegates from across the country will participate in various community service projects as part of the 2008 Democratic National Convention Delegate Service Day, TODAY, WEDNESDAY, August 27th beginning at 10:00 am MT.
Projects will range from serving meals to the homeless and park cleanup, to reading to children and aiding military families. Details on the projects, the corresponding state and territorial delegations and background information on the receiving organizations can be found at http://www.demconvention.com/delegate-projects.
WHO:
Delegates to the 2008 Democratic National Convention
Various Democratic Leaders and Elected Officials
WHAT:
More than thirty community service projects benefitting communities across the Denver Metro area.
WHEN:
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
10:00 am – 12:00 pm MT
WHERE:
For a complete list of locations click here: http://www.demconvention.com/delegate-projects
Projects will range from serving meals to the homeless and park cleanup, to reading to children and aiding military families. Details on the projects, the corresponding state and territorial delegations and background information on the receiving organizations can be found at http://www.demconvention.com/delegate-projects.
WHO:
Delegates to the 2008 Democratic National Convention
Various Democratic Leaders and Elected Officials
WHAT:
More than thirty community service projects benefitting communities across the Denver Metro area.
WHEN:
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
10:00 am – 12:00 pm MT
WHERE:
For a complete list of locations click here: http://www.demconvention.com/delegate-projects
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Hillary on John McSame
"Now John McCain is my colleague and my friend.
He has served our country with honor and courage.
But we don’t need four more years…of the last eight years.
More economic stagnation…and less alternative energy.
More job’s getting shipped overseas…and fewer jobs created here.
More skyrocketing debt…home foreclosures…and mounting bills that are crushing our middle class families.
More War…less diplomacy.
More of a government where the privileged come first…and every one else comes last.
John McCain says the economy is fundamentally sound. John McCain doesn’t think that 47 million people without health insurance is a crisis. John McCain wants to privatize Social Security. And in 2008, he still thinks it’s okay when women don’t earn equal pay for equal work.
With an agenda like that, it makes sense that George Bush and John McCain will be together next week in the Twin Cities. Because these days they’re awfully hard to tell apart."
He has served our country with honor and courage.
But we don’t need four more years…of the last eight years.
More economic stagnation…and less alternative energy.
More job’s getting shipped overseas…and fewer jobs created here.
More skyrocketing debt…home foreclosures…and mounting bills that are crushing our middle class families.
More War…less diplomacy.
More of a government where the privileged come first…and every one else comes last.
John McCain says the economy is fundamentally sound. John McCain doesn’t think that 47 million people without health insurance is a crisis. John McCain wants to privatize Social Security. And in 2008, he still thinks it’s okay when women don’t earn equal pay for equal work.
With an agenda like that, it makes sense that George Bush and John McCain will be together next week in the Twin Cities. Because these days they’re awfully hard to tell apart."
Hillary Rodham Clinton
From her remarks to the Democratic National Convention
August 26, 2008
From her remarks to the Democratic National Convention
August 26, 2008
Thank you Hillary
"I want you to ask yourselves: Were you in this campaign just for me? Or were you in it for that young Marine and others like him? Were you in it for that mom struggling for cancer while raising her kids? Were you in it for that boy and his mom surviving on the minimum wage? Were you in it for all the people who in this country who feel invisible?"
Hillary Rodham Clinton
From her remarks to the Democratic National Convention
August 26, 2008
From her remarks to the Democratic National Convention
August 26, 2008
From the Cheap Seats at Pepsi Center
I got a phone call asking me if I wanted a pass to get me into the Pepsi Center, but not in the hall itself. I took it, figuring I could find a way further in.
Well, by the time we got through security, someone else had a hall pass.
I'll post more, but I'm almost out of battery.
DNC Coverage on Utah Pulse: Senator Gene Davis
by Rob Miller from the Utah Amicus - Special to Utah Pulse
Rob Miller, from the Utah Amicus, speaks with Utah Senator Gene Davis at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado.
Editor's Note: Rob Miller, from The Utah Amicus, is the head of the only blogging group from Utah to get credentials to the Democratic National Convention. Rob and his team are filing reports for Utah Pulse throughout the convention.
Listen here!
Editor's Note: Rob Miller, from The Utah Amicus, is the head of the only blogging group from Utah to get credentials to the Democratic National Convention. Rob and his team are filing reports for Utah Pulse throughout the convention.
Listen here!
Rand.org Presentation: Alternative Strategies in the Middle East
Serendipity strikes.
Misty, Craig and I walked 3 million miles this morning to catch a presentation by David Sirota (author, The Uprising), at the Starz Green Room just outside the security checkpoint of the Pepsi Center. After a slight altercation with a man wearing mirror shades pretending to be secret service, we were able to use our press credential to get all three of us in. The event was shorter than expected, so we wandered down the hall into an unscheduled presentation by Rand Corporation's Edward O'Connell on middle east activists fighting radicalism.
One of the stories that resounded most with me was a conference Mr. O'Connell put together with varies grassroots media organizations from Bosnia, Lebanon, Afghanistan, and Iraq. In the three day conferences they found a consistent trend with local activists and independent media. Day one, very quiet. Day two, arguing and hostility. Day three, the attendees were running the conference, sharing stories, and finding common ground.
The largest message of the presentation can be paraphrased as one of seeing a larger picture, or as Mr. O'Connell put it, spreading the little d, rather than simply preaching the big D, as well as engaging those fighting for change in the middle east, rather than leaving a vacuum for extremist sympathizing. The presentation was punctuated by video of the recruitment, training, and final acts of a 16 year old suicide bomber, and graphic images of children in a war zone, barraged with images and messages glorifying Hezbollah and terrorism, countered not at all by American efforts.
What Mr. O'Connell is advocating is an opportunity for as to make an actual difference in the middle east through simple acts as supplying books for local libraries that offset those contributed by extremists, or interacting with the uprising of independent media groups who want to tell the real story of life in the middle east.
Very eye opening experience, to say the least. Our history in the middle east and our current occupation of Iraq are too often over simplified. It's undeniable that to achieve something more lasting and productive, we've got to be involved in ways other than am imposing military presence, and realize that there are social issues at play (with room for education and exposure to a "larger world" than traditionally made available to the people) not simply a polarized religious insurgency.
After the presentation, Mr. O'Connell also gave us the "hook up" with one of Iraq's most well known bloggers. More on that later.
Rob and Toby Ziegler, Lost in Denver
Everywhere I've been so far in Denver that hasn't been within a few blocks of the hotel I have had a driver. When I walked out of the Pepsi Center after Michelle Obama's speech I realized I had no idea how to get back to the hotel. I started talking to the guy in the video above who was also lost. It only took a moment for me to realize that I was speaking to actor Richard Schiff who played Tobias (Toby) Ziegler on The West Wing.
We walked down the street and received directions from a kind police officer. Before we parted I asked if he would say something into the camera for our Amicus viewers which he was more than willing to do.
I've met a lot of actors, and generally those experiences have been positive, but for me, Richard Schiff will stand out as one of those celebrities that truly comes off as a decent, genuine human being. While I was talking with Richard several fans came up to say hello and ask for his autograph which he did without hesitation and with a smile on his face.
I hope you enjoy Richard's hello as much as I enjoyed meeting the man who played Toby Ziegler.
BTW, the only DVD I brought to Denver was the Second Season of The West Wing, a series I am watching for the second time this year.
We walked down the street and received directions from a kind police officer. Before we parted I asked if he would say something into the camera for our Amicus viewers which he was more than willing to do.
I've met a lot of actors, and generally those experiences have been positive, but for me, Richard Schiff will stand out as one of those celebrities that truly comes off as a decent, genuine human being. While I was talking with Richard several fans came up to say hello and ask for his autograph which he did without hesitation and with a smile on his face.
I hope you enjoy Richard's hello as much as I enjoyed meeting the man who played Toby Ziegler.
BTW, the only DVD I brought to Denver was the Second Season of The West Wing, a series I am watching for the second time this year.
Anderson Cooper
Back when I was in Junior High, we had this news program on called Channel One. One of my favorite reporters on that show was a young man named Anderson Cooper. I distinctly remember him almost getting blown up on camera in Bosnia.
I have followed his career, from ABC to National Geographic to CNN, with a stint hosting a reality show ("The Mole"). His name was at the top of my list of people I wanted a picture with. While I wasn't quite able to get that picture, I got this one instead.
That's part of the fun of being here -- you never know who you will see. I know I'm sitting on some photos that I'll trow on here when I get a chance, and some others also have photos.
-Bob
Old Vs. New: Bloggers on the Inside
I haven't posted yet about my experience here in Denver for a couple of reasons. First, there has been so much going on I haven't had much time. Taking it in, so to speak. Second, I'm no good at forcing a post unless I have something to say.
It is amazing to see what the DNC has done with this convention, not only for the party, but for the process itself in allowing an unprecedented level of access to those of us that - save for our little blogs - are average voters, minor contributors, and on again off again volunteers. On the same hand - as with any transition from "old" to "new" - in doing so, they have exposed for the world the flaws in the system. Not the flaws in the Democratic Party (sorry to disappoint Rob's eager and insanely jealous Republican commentors) but in the political process itself.
What exists here in Denver this week is the fusion of political insiders and age old leadership with the very people who found recognition in exposing that process to the light of day, hoping - through critical and positive feedback alike - to make a better party and a better bloc of representation.
In the course of just a few days, I have seen bloggers sitting beside CNN film crews, and established media icons being scooped by soccer moms with Flickr accounts. I've seen stories reported more accurately in YouTube videos uploaded by college students, as well as bloggers embarrassed by getting a story wrong, when the traditional media dodged that bullet with a few simple phone calls to confirm the details. To me, it seems like a very constructive and progressive learning process that in the end benefits everyone concerned with a "watchdog" media in the political arenas.
But the "old" vs. "new" conflicts go beyond the coverage. I've been told of party leaders using press credentials granted to and intended for use by bloggers to get non-delegates on the convention floor and other "official" party business. One woman I met was coerced out of her press pass by her state leadership who then offered it to a "large donor" for the night. I've watched members of the traditional media sneer at these simple novices, as if their presence is somehow an affront to the access they have had exclusively, yet abused so frequently with shoddy journalism and half-assed follow up. Yet sometimes even in the same room, I have seen a blogger's eyes light up as they hold a microphone up for a comment from a well known Senator, and I've heard the excited talk and in-depth discussion from a group of college aged geeks just out of Q&A on healthcare or an interview with a candidate.
I'm reminding myself that this is a transitional period for the party, and the DNC deserves nothing short of two solid thumbs up for the effort they have made (and for being the first to make it). But without a doubt, there are many who still do not "get it." They will, but we've still got a long way to go.
Resistance is futile.
It is amazing to see what the DNC has done with this convention, not only for the party, but for the process itself in allowing an unprecedented level of access to those of us that - save for our little blogs - are average voters, minor contributors, and on again off again volunteers. On the same hand - as with any transition from "old" to "new" - in doing so, they have exposed for the world the flaws in the system. Not the flaws in the Democratic Party (sorry to disappoint Rob's eager and insanely jealous Republican commentors) but in the political process itself.
What exists here in Denver this week is the fusion of political insiders and age old leadership with the very people who found recognition in exposing that process to the light of day, hoping - through critical and positive feedback alike - to make a better party and a better bloc of representation.
In the course of just a few days, I have seen bloggers sitting beside CNN film crews, and established media icons being scooped by soccer moms with Flickr accounts. I've seen stories reported more accurately in YouTube videos uploaded by college students, as well as bloggers embarrassed by getting a story wrong, when the traditional media dodged that bullet with a few simple phone calls to confirm the details. To me, it seems like a very constructive and progressive learning process that in the end benefits everyone concerned with a "watchdog" media in the political arenas.
But the "old" vs. "new" conflicts go beyond the coverage. I've been told of party leaders using press credentials granted to and intended for use by bloggers to get non-delegates on the convention floor and other "official" party business. One woman I met was coerced out of her press pass by her state leadership who then offered it to a "large donor" for the night. I've watched members of the traditional media sneer at these simple novices, as if their presence is somehow an affront to the access they have had exclusively, yet abused so frequently with shoddy journalism and half-assed follow up. Yet sometimes even in the same room, I have seen a blogger's eyes light up as they hold a microphone up for a comment from a well known Senator, and I've heard the excited talk and in-depth discussion from a group of college aged geeks just out of Q&A on healthcare or an interview with a candidate.
I'm reminding myself that this is a transitional period for the party, and the DNC deserves nothing short of two solid thumbs up for the effort they have made (and for being the first to make it). But without a doubt, there are many who still do not "get it." They will, but we've still got a long way to go.
Resistance is futile.
Something Missing
I've had a feeling of ... an incomplete experience at the 2008 Convention so far and I couldn't, until a moment ago, figure out what it was.
I miss Senator Ed Mayne.
This is my first time at a National Convention, and I had a certain, subtle expectation of what happens and what to expect from my time here and at this morning's breakfast, aside from the happy faces and smiling Democrats, there was a blatant hole and that, i think, was Ed Mayne not being here.
Standing out on the street, out of the corner of my eye, I saw a giant of a man, with a laugh quite like Ed's and I felt his absence as fresh as the day of his funeral.
I hope you're watching, Ed.
More to come ...
JM Bell
[editor] I've deleted every post written by JM Bell on this website except for this one, because Karen Mayne left a comment.
Bob and Aaron on KUER
Aaron and I both sat down to talk to KUER on Sunday. His story was about all of us getting settled into the hotel.
I really felt like this interview did not go well, but I like the sound bite that came out of it.
Click here to listen.
I really felt like this interview did not go well, but I like the sound bite that came out of it.
Click here to listen.
Monday was a busy day!
Where to start? It was go, go, go yesterday. When we went to the Pepsi Center we found out that the DNC had not given us the right credential to get into the blogger room to blog, so, as usual, I'm behind.
I did a few interviews for UtahPulse.com which we are trying to send and download now, and I have a few videos to share with you. I'm also sending some video a pics to Zannel'sPoliticsBlue.
The delegates are having a great time, but with so many events to choose from it's difficult to decide which events to attend.
On Sunday I went to Green Day at Red Rocks where I watched Sheryl Crow, Sugarland, and Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds. Dave started the set with Bartender, the song I posted on this blog when I heard that LeRoi Moore had passed away. Dave's voice was a bit raspy so I wasn't surprised when he cancelled his show at Usana.
Robert Kennedy, Jr. gave one of the best oratories I have ever heard on American politics, and the opportunities we have in this Country by developing a green economy, and how the world has looked to America for most of our 230+ year history for leadership, and how the current administration has messed that up.
So there's a quick update, and there's more to come today at The Utah Amicus.
I did a few interviews for UtahPulse.com which we are trying to send and download now, and I have a few videos to share with you. I'm also sending some video a pics to Zannel'sPoliticsBlue.
The delegates are having a great time, but with so many events to choose from it's difficult to decide which events to attend.
On Sunday I went to Green Day at Red Rocks where I watched Sheryl Crow, Sugarland, and Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds. Dave started the set with Bartender, the song I posted on this blog when I heard that LeRoi Moore had passed away. Dave's voice was a bit raspy so I wasn't surprised when he cancelled his show at Usana.
Robert Kennedy, Jr. gave one of the best oratories I have ever heard on American politics, and the opportunities we have in this Country by developing a green economy, and how the world has looked to America for most of our 230+ year history for leadership, and how the current administration has messed that up.
So there's a quick update, and there's more to come today at The Utah Amicus.
Surrogates Stump for a Hometown Win in 2012
Yes you read the title right. The message of the first day opener of the Democratic National Convention is if you are going to attack the Democrats,” you are going to need a bigger stick to win this and any other election right up through 2012.”
* Additionally The Utah Amicus atten
ded the Americans for Democratic Action luncheon with Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank deeply messaging for the 2012 success to behold.
Yesterday I attended a few openly Democrat surrogate events with key members of the Democratic Governor’s Association and many other heavy hitter leadership up and down the political ladder rankings.
Governor Joe Manchin of West Virginia took the lead out of any misgivings on what this event was about speaking frankly at the Democratic Governors Association (DGA) Media roundtable highlighting the fact that the leadership of Governors Brian Schweitzer of Montana, Governor Martin O’Malley of Maryland and with his additional leadership these three Governors are working for gains in 2012. Manchin made it clear that 2012 is about country-wide redistricting and a 36 Democratic gubernatorial gain. Manchin even threw in an overt thank you to the embattled Utah gubernatorial candidate Bob Springmeyer who was in attendance.
Governor Joe Manchin of West Virginia took the lead out of any misgivings on what this event was about speaking frankly at the Democratic Governors Association (DGA) Media roundtable highlighting the fact that the leadership of Governors Brian Schweitzer of Montana, Governor Martin O’Malley of Maryland and with his additional leadership these three Governors are working for gains in 2012. Manchin made it clear that 2012 is about country-wide redistricting and a 36 Democratic gubernatorial gain. Manchin even threw in an overt thank you to the embattled Utah gubernatorial candidate Bob Springmeyer who was in attendance.
Schweitzer who is known for his no holds barred home spun candor was additionally not at this event to mince words when he said, “if Ted Strickland had been elected four years ago in Ohio George W. Bush wouldn’t be President right now.”
These Governors are strategically planning for the future and are not overly concerned on how the McCain camp may or may not respond as they jump in front of the camera lights this week to answer to the Colorado Compact and general water rights issues in the west today as Schweitzer candidly responded to a reporter’s inquiry, “He can run his own dang campaign. I am not going to give him any help.” Schweitzer followed up to further the point if it wasn’t already clear that these Governors were not going to allow the Republicans to dictate Westerns issues on their dime, “When someone down the river wants to renegotiate your water rights, that’s the time to grab your rifle.”
These Governors are strategically planning for the future and are not overly concerned on how the McCain camp may or may not respond as they jump in front of the camera lights this week to answer to the Colorado Compact and general water rights issues in the west today as Schweitzer candidly responded to a reporter’s inquiry, “He can run his own dang campaign. I am not going to give him any help.” Schweitzer followed up to further the point if it wasn’t already clear that these Governors were not going to allow the Republicans to dictate Westerns issues on their dime, “When someone down the river wants to renegotiate your water rights, that’s the time to grab your rifle.”
Manchin when speaking about the Iraq war quipped, “How do you expect to win the war when your funding both sides of the campaign,” taking a serious jab at 
the Bush administration and the fact that his cronies are capitalizing on this war. He followed up to give a local flavor of the American struggles as the dinner table of West Virginia residents that have the less than noble rating as the poorest state in the nation, “in West Virginia you have to drive to survive because West Virginia has always been very rural in nature. Our workers have to drive long distances to keep their jobs.”
the Bush administration and the fact that his cronies are capitalizing on this war. He followed up to give a local flavor of the American struggles as the dinner table of West Virginia residents that have the less than noble rating as the poorest state in the nation, “in West Virginia you have to drive to survive because West Virginia has always been very rural in nature. Our workers have to drive long distances to keep their jobs.”When asked by the Utah Amicus, considering that the past National Conventions use to be a time that each party, Republican or Democrat would lay back and allow each other the time to have free press during convention week, and is now a bygone anomaly, would you consider the RNC setting up shop a mere mile from the stadium an underscore of the fear that the Democrats will gobble up all the media coverage?” Schweitzer tongue in check said, “you mean the Fox studios,” highlighting the egregious connection between supposed unbiased media and the bastion of Republican messaging Fox cable network.
Manchin set the tone and his remarks detailing the West Virginia state motto could encapsulate the conclusion on the largely understood fact that these rough by nature DGA body guards were not going to be walked over ever again stating, “Mountaineers are always fierce.” Machin being a former football player for the West Virginia Mountaineers would know something about having a strong defense line of humongous football players to push back the other team. Between Schweitzer and Manchin with O’Malley as Quarterback the Democrats are going to score big for the home team in 2012.
* Additionally The Utah Amicus atten
ded the Americans for Democratic Action luncheon with Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank deeply messaging for the 2012 success to behold. Monday, August 25, 2008
Give Denver and "A" For Developing an "A List" Nightlife
Shortly after arriving in Denver on the 22nd of this month Bob an I strolled the 16th street mall to see how Denver’s nightlife compares with Salt Lake City. Well as if it is not obvious, Salt Lake City you absolutely lose hands down to Denver.
Now I know that there is an exception to the rule because the DNC coordinated with organizations to help motivate the City and its residents to create "A List" events to entertain us out-of-towners. However, my gosh folks this town has the foundation of a city that is alive and well making Salt Lake one step short of the town in the movie "Footloose."
Tonight I went to the "A List" of all events. There are many celebrities in town for the main event. I ran into a girl on the elevator that said Oprah is staying up in her neighborhood and had an “A List” party the other night. But tonight’s event was the shindig of my life. See the notice below.
Leader's Challenge Access and Engage Event
Monday, Aug 25 4:00p
at 1490 Delgany St., Denver, CO
Open to the public. VIP guests include Matt Damon and Ben Affleck* with performances by the Railbenders and Something Underground to benefit Leader's Challenge. Special guests scheduled to speak include Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Gov. Bill Ritter.
This was a fundraiser with music, celebrities and a great non-profit organization to become the benefactor of all the wealth walking through the gate. See the website for more information on the organization that engages and motivates our youth in become enthralled in public service: http://www.leaderschallenge.org/
Check out one of the two really great bands that played the event:
Something Underground at http://www.somethingunderground.com/
As well check out the really nice and friendly socialites I met tonight below including former Surgeon General Jocelyn Elders.
Tonight I went to the "A List" of all events. There are many celebrities in town for the main event. I ran into a girl on the elevator that said Oprah is staying up in her neighborhood and had an “A List” party the other night. But tonight’s event was the shindig of my life. See the notice below.
Leader's Challenge Access and Engage Event
Monday, Aug 25 4:00p
at 1490 Delgany St., Denver, CO
Open to the public. VIP guests include Matt Damon and Ben Affleck* with performances by the Railbenders and Something Underground to benefit Leader's Challenge. Special guests scheduled to speak include Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Gov. Bill Ritter.
This was a fundraiser with music, celebrities and a great non-profit organization to become the benefactor of all the wealth walking through the gate. See the website for more information on the organization that engages and motivates our youth in become enthralled in public service: http://www.leaderschallenge.org/
Check out one of the two really great bands that played the event:
Something Underground at http://www.somethingunderground.com/
As well check out the really nice and friendly socialites I met tonight below including former Surgeon General Jocelyn Elders.
*Matt Damon was unable to make it to the event because he is attending to his family and his new baby. Unfortunately as the night grooved along the sponsors announced, "Ben Affleck’s assistant called from his limousine and said that Mr. Affleck would be unable to make it tonight because he had been suddenly struck ill." The Utah Amicus' staff sends our regards for an ill Mr. Affleck hoping he gets feeling better and sincerely hopes he hadn’t really found a better party to attend in Denver.
I Got the Smackdown from WWE United States Champ Shelton Benjamin
I was walking around the floor of the Pepsi Center and saw I guy carrying a championship belt. I got a few pictures of him, then managed to get this one with him.
Benjamin is in town with a few other WWE superstars and Rock the Vote to promote registering to vote. They will be doing an appearance here in Denver tomorrow, which I am going to try to attend.
-Bob
DNC Event: LGBT Caucus
Today was my first official DNC event. I attended the LGBT Caucus at the Convention Center (not to be confused with the nearby Pepsi Center where the convention is).
The Convention Center did not require credentials to get into, nor did the LGBT Caucus. I did have a pass, and I got the impression that other Caucuses may have required a pass. This one, at least, was open to the public.
When DNC Secretary Alice Germond came onstage, the DNC Secretary received the first standing ovation. She pointed out that there were 41% more LGBT Delegates than in '04.
It was DNC LGBT Caucus Chair Rick Stafford's birthday, and the audience spontaneously sang "Happy Birthday" to him.
He pointed out that there were 275 Delegates that were "out" at the start of the Convention, and that 3 more had come out just during the first few minutes of the caucus, and more were continuing to identify themselves as LGBT.
Also, there were 31 with disabilities, 30 African American, 55 Hispanic, 16 Asian/Pacific Islanders and 11 Native Americans who were members of the LGBT Caucus. In all, about 40% of the LGBT Cuaucs are "people of color".
The Stonewall Democrats have started a "Pride in the Party" program to encourage more minorities to become active members of the caucus.
In 1972 there were only 5 members of the LGBT caucus, started by Tom Charleton, and they have had some ups and downs since then. In 1984, they received official recognition as a caucus, but then were decertified. It was not again until 1996 that the LGBT Caucus was again certified.
Since 1996, the LGBT Caucus has grown to the 3rd largest Caucus, behind only the states of New York and Califiornia.
Chris Porter, Washington state Delegate, was onstage for a moment, and said "When I get up here and say I'm a proud, black gay man, it's because of organizations like the Stonewall Democrats, and others, who did it before me."
Another standing ovation was given to the attending openly gay elected officials.
Alan McAffrey, Representative from Oklahoma, said the changes from being "the gay guy in the Legislature to having recognition for himself and his accomplishments and being seen as a "normal" person was overwhelming.
Melissa Sklare, a Delegate from New York, who identifies as transgender, was homeless years ago, and found her way to an LGBT center. Through that center, she put her life together, and eventually became involved with politics. She said the Democratic Party is where new ideas are born, come to fruition and eventually become law. She received a standing ovation when she talked about the LGBT community reciving basic civil rights in school, life, jobs and healthcare.
California State Representative John C Perez talked about the need to work together on issues, and that the battle for social justice and economic justice is inextricably linked. He said the progress seen in California has not just been from the gay community, but allies working together. He's a member of the Labor and Hispanic Caucuses, in addition to the LGBT, and when the Labor Caucus voted recently, Proposition A is the only unanimous vote in that entire state Caucus.
Perez is from the poorest district in the state, with the highest rates of poverty, uninsured and immigrants. Many were worried that a district like that would not elect an openly gay representative. However, they polled the district, and the Hispanic community there proved that they are more open and accepting than they are given credit for, and more concerned about the actual issues than whether their representative was gay.
Representative Perez then called on delegates to work with others, especially the Labor Caucus, and said that supporting each other was vital. He also pointed out that progress would not have been possible without allies from the straight community.
In 2004, the Stonewall Democrats had 40 chapters across the nation. Today there are 90.
The roll call of caucus members from each state was pretty amazing. Some members "came out" as their states were called, changing the numbers, as noted below by the strikeout:
There was a moment of silence for Stephanie Tubbs Jones.
Tim Gill came onstage and said "That roll call at the RNC will be much shorter".
He put out a call for us to support pro-gay legislators, and eliminate anti-gay legislators. The Republicans are controlled by a bunch of bigots, and that they only way they'll learn is if we take their power away.
Shannon Minter and State Rep. Kyrsten Sinema talked about marriage bans across the country. Right now the transition from "them to us" is happening, and this is the most difficult time. We need to stay on message and financially support that movement, to finish getting there.
Right now, Arkansas is facing an adoption ban for all unmarried persons, aimed at stopping gay adoptions. Maryland is fighting a restriction of rights and freedoms for transgendered persons. A call for help in these two states was put out.
The Convention Center did not require credentials to get into, nor did the LGBT Caucus. I did have a pass, and I got the impression that other Caucuses may have required a pass. This one, at least, was open to the public.
When DNC Secretary Alice Germond came onstage, the DNC Secretary received the first standing ovation. She pointed out that there were 41% more LGBT Delegates than in '04.
It was DNC LGBT Caucus Chair Rick Stafford's birthday, and the audience spontaneously sang "Happy Birthday" to him.
He pointed out that there were 275 Delegates that were "out" at the start of the Convention, and that 3 more had come out just during the first few minutes of the caucus, and more were continuing to identify themselves as LGBT.
Also, there were 31 with disabilities, 30 African American, 55 Hispanic, 16 Asian/Pacific Islanders and 11 Native Americans who were members of the LGBT Caucus. In all, about 40% of the LGBT Cuaucs are "people of color".
The Stonewall Democrats have started a "Pride in the Party" program to encourage more minorities to become active members of the caucus.
In 1972 there were only 5 members of the LGBT caucus, started by Tom Charleton, and they have had some ups and downs since then. In 1984, they received official recognition as a caucus, but then were decertified. It was not again until 1996 that the LGBT Caucus was again certified.
Since 1996, the LGBT Caucus has grown to the 3rd largest Caucus, behind only the states of New York and Califiornia.
Chris Porter, Washington state Delegate, was onstage for a moment, and said "When I get up here and say I'm a proud, black gay man, it's because of organizations like the Stonewall Democrats, and others, who did it before me."
Another standing ovation was given to the attending openly gay elected officials.
Alan McAffrey, Representative from Oklahoma, said the changes from being "the gay guy in the Legislature to having recognition for himself and his accomplishments and being seen as a "normal" person was overwhelming.
Melissa Sklare, a Delegate from New York, who identifies as transgender, was homeless years ago, and found her way to an LGBT center. Through that center, she put her life together, and eventually became involved with politics. She said the Democratic Party is where new ideas are born, come to fruition and eventually become law. She received a standing ovation when she talked about the LGBT community reciving basic civil rights in school, life, jobs and healthcare.
California State Representative John C Perez talked about the need to work together on issues, and that the battle for social justice and economic justice is inextricably linked. He said the progress seen in California has not just been from the gay community, but allies working together. He's a member of the Labor and Hispanic Caucuses, in addition to the LGBT, and when the Labor Caucus voted recently, Proposition A is the only unanimous vote in that entire state Caucus.
Perez is from the poorest district in the state, with the highest rates of poverty, uninsured and immigrants. Many were worried that a district like that would not elect an openly gay representative. However, they polled the district, and the Hispanic community there proved that they are more open and accepting than they are given credit for, and more concerned about the actual issues than whether their representative was gay.
Representative Perez then called on delegates to work with others, especially the Labor Caucus, and said that supporting each other was vital. He also pointed out that progress would not have been possible without allies from the straight community.
In 2004, the Stonewall Democrats had 40 chapters across the nation. Today there are 90.
The roll call of caucus members from each state was pretty amazing. Some members "came out" as their states were called, changing the numbers, as noted below by the strikeout:
- AL - 2
- AK - 1
- AZ - 12
- AR - 2
- CA - 63
- CO - 5
- CT - 1
- DE - 1
- Democrats Abroad - 1
- D.C. - 6
- FL - 25
- GA - 9
- HI - 1
- ID - 3
- IL - 10
- IN - 4
- IA - 2
- KS - 1
- KY - 2
- LA - 2
- ME - 3
- MD - 4
- MA - 13 14
- MI - 3
- MN - 9
- MS - 1
- MT - 3
- NE - 0 1
- MO - (sorry I couldn't hear this number)
- NV - 5
- NH - 2
- NJ - 8
- NM - 4
- NY - 34
- NC - 6
- ND - 0
- OH - 18
- OK - 3
- OR - 6
- PA - 11
- Puerto Rico - 6
- RI - 3 6
- SC - 2
- SD - 2 3
- TN - 2
- TX - 22
- UT - 4
- VT - 4
- Virgin Islands - 0
- VA - 5
- WA - 8
- WV - 2
- WI - 7
- WY - 1
There was a moment of silence for Stephanie Tubbs Jones.
Tim Gill came onstage and said "That roll call at the RNC will be much shorter".
He put out a call for us to support pro-gay legislators, and eliminate anti-gay legislators. The Republicans are controlled by a bunch of bigots, and that they only way they'll learn is if we take their power away.
Shannon Minter and State Rep. Kyrsten Sinema talked about marriage bans across the country. Right now the transition from "them to us" is happening, and this is the most difficult time. We need to stay on message and financially support that movement, to finish getting there.
Right now, Arkansas is facing an adoption ban for all unmarried persons, aimed at stopping gay adoptions. Maryland is fighting a restriction of rights and freedoms for transgendered persons. A call for help in these two states was put out.
Sitting with the Utah Delegation
I've decided that Monday must be when they dump all the boring speakers. However, I got several good pictures that I will be posting later, when I get out of here. Posting from inside of Pepsi Center is difficult. There is no wi-fi, and the press filing center inside the building doesn't have much room. I do have the luxury of having a cellular card, but I only have an hour of battery life. I'm about to head outside to pass our credential off the Misty Fowler. I hope I get to come back in soon.
-Bob
-Bob
Live, from inside the Pepsi Center
I'll be taking the afternoon coverage from the Pepsi Center today. It took some time to find where I was going to find a place to file the stories from. I'll be able to get some stories from inside the bowl itself. But first, some pictures.
Standing outside the Pepsi Center.
The view from near the middle of the arena.
UTAH!
The View From The Utah Seats
The Podium
Standing outside the Pepsi Center.
The view from near the middle of the arena.
UTAH!
The View From The Utah Seats
The Podium
The Utah Amicus on Zannel
ZANNEL LAUNCHES THE FIRST MOBILE POLITICAL COMMUNITY ON ITS INSTANT MEDIA NETWORK; 13 GRASSROOTS BLOGGERS WILL LIFECAST FROM THE FLOOR OF THE DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – AUGUST 25, 2008 - For the first time ever, grassroots bloggers will be broadcasting video, pictures and text updates straight from the floor of the Democratic National Convention using their mobile phones and Zannel (www.zannel.com), the instant media network that is used by millions of people for lifecasting, micro-blogging, and as a mobile social network.
The Democratic National Convention, being held in Denver, Colorado August 25-28, has accredited a select number of state-based bloggers with floor access during the entire convention. Fourteen of these bloggers, representing every region of the United States of America, are contributing to Zannel’s PoliticsBlue community channel (www.zannel.com/politicsblue or text DEM to 58888 to view on mobile) from the convention through Election Day.
Representing North, South, East, West, and even registered Democrats living abroad, these bloggers will broadcast their journeys to this historic event, their observations, on-the-fly interviews, interactions with delegates, and authentic captured moments with political figures on the national scene.
By leveraging Zannel’s award-winning mobile platform, they will be able to instantly share their convention coverage with their blog’s readers, the Zannel community, and to the blogging and social networks to which Zannel syndicates content.
“Sen. Obama and the Democratic Party have talked about breaking down the walls of the convention to really let people get involved in the process,” said South Carolina blogger Tim Kelly. “Zannel is providing a way for bloggers to do that in an engaging and immediate way, and I'm excited to be a part of PoliticsBlue.”
“Blogging is not just great therapy it has allowed me the opportunity to truly connect with my community and beyond. To be the first credentialed blogger from Utah to attend the convention is pretty amazing,” said Utah blogger Rob Miller. “To have Zannel allow me this opportunity to reach out to an even greater audience is beyond my wildest dreams.”
“We’re excited to enable our nation’s political discourse to be instantly seen and discussed by people on their mobile or PC,” said Adam Zbar, CEO of Zannel, “and we will continue to work hard to develop mobile features that help keep the civic conversation up-to-date, vibrant, and accessible.”
According to Zbar, Zannel will soon launch a PoliticsRed community channel, and welcomes bloggers of all stripes to follow and discuss the latest Red and Blue updates, or to create their own mobile political channel at zannel.com.
Winner of the 2008 Webby AwardTM for Best Mobile Social Network, Zannel’s Instant Media Messaging™ service allows users to instantly and visually communicate with their friends anytime and anywhere by posting video, picture, and text updates from their phone in order to start real time conversations.
About Zannel
Zannel makes the mobile industry’s first Instant Media Network™. Millions of people use Zannel to instantly and visually communicate with their friends across mobile and the web, for lifecasting, micro-blogging, and as a mobile social network. Founded by the team that built the first large-scale mobile media storefronts in the US, Zannel has combines the best of mobile messaging, media sharing, and social networking into a simple, compelling user experience.
About The Bloggers:
Participating grassroots blogs in Zannel’s PoliticsBlue community (www.zannel.com/politicsblue) are:
Florida: Florida Progressive Coalition - http://flaprogressives.org
Georgia: Georgia Women Vote – http://georgiawomenvote.blogspot.com
Kentucky: Blue Grass Roots - www.bluegrassroots.com
Massachusetts: Blue Mass Group – www.bluemassgroup.com
Mississippi: The Natchez Blog - www.natchezblog.com
New Hampshire: Blue Hampshire - www.bluehampshire.com
New Mexico: Democracy for New Mexico - www.DemocracyForNewMexico.com
South Carolina: Crack the Bell - www.crackthebell.com
Texas: Burnt Orange Report - www.burntorangereport.com
Utah: The Utah Amicus - http://utahamicus.blogspot.com
Vermont: Green Mountain Daily - www.greenmountaindaily.com
Wisconsin: Uppity Wisconsin - www.uppitywis.org
Democrats Living Abroad: Yanqui Mike - www.yanquimike.com.ar
CONTACT
For press inquiries, or if you’re a blogger that would like to join or create a mobile community, please contact: Monique Maestas at (408) 382-1972.
A Little Reminder of Why We're in Denver
The goal of the convention is, of course, to get Obama elected in November. Part of Obama's and the Democratic Party's platform is renewable energy, and green collar jobs. To keep things in perspective, here's a bit of McCain's renewable energy record (h/t Wonk Room).
Just a reminder of what we're fighting for.
McCain’s record: The renewable energy production tax credit has been key to the growth of the domestic renewable industry by supporting power companies, businesses, and individuals who employ wind, geothermal, solar, and other types of renewable energy. However, the tax credit has been allowed to expire three times in the past decade — in 2004, McCain introduced an amendment that would have eliminated the tax credit entirely. McCain’s continued opposition to the tax credit is putting the renewable electricity industry at risk again:
– March 2006 (Vote 42): Voted against extension of tax credits.
– March 2007 (Vote 98): Skipped vote to extend tax credits.
– June 2007 (Vote 223): Skipped vote to extend tax credits.
– December 2007 (Vote 416): Skipped vote to extend tax credits — extension failed by one vote.
– February 2008 (Vote 8): Skipped vote to extend tax credits — extension failed by one vote.
Just a reminder of what we're fighting for.
I interviewed KSL's Doug Wright
Yesterday I found KSL radio host Doug Wright in the lobby of the Warwick Hotel. We spoke for a few moments, and then did a quick and unprofessional (on my part) interview. Although I appreciated the interview I am even more appreciative of the conversation we had afterwards. Although Doug is a dedicated Republican he also understand that we are all Americans first, and that we need not demonize each other because we may have different political ideologies. After speaking with Doug I thought, "we agree on more than we disagree."
Doug has promised that he will update our audience again this week, and for that, and for his honest candor and friendship I am appreciative.
Enjoy!
Doug has promised that he will update our audience again this week, and for that, and for his honest candor and friendship I am appreciative.
Enjoy!
I got interviewed by Rich Piatt
I sat down this morning and was interviewed by Rich Piatt of KSL-TV in Salt Lake City. He wasn't sure when the piece would air, but it won't be tonight. We'll let you know when it's on.
-Bob
Delegate Breakfast and Random Stuff
Here are some photos from this morning's Utah State Delegate breakfast.
Sign-in with Tika Beard, with "Life Elevated" t-shirts and copies of "The Practical Progressive" by Ericka Payne.
Wayne Holland briefing delegates with today's plan.
Karen Hale talking about a One-Man show she attended last night, and inviting delegates to attend this evening.
Your Utah State Delegates. (Notice that Jim Matheson is NOT in the photo. Please let us know if you find him)
And here are a few random photos of what we're doing when we're not at super-cool elite events.
I wish I could have gotten a photo of this gorgeous church without the street signs in the way.
We got several gift baskets delivered yesterday, though we have no idea where they came from. Being poor bloggers, who get excited over these sorts of things, the baskets were raided prior to getting any photos of them. One of the more exciting items was a can of spray oxygen. Jason, Craig and Jeff had to try it out to see what happened. I think it was gone before anyone pointed out that it was probably meant for use if we get out of breath when walking or riding one of the free bikes.
None of these cars contained Utah Congressman and Delegate Jim Matheson.
Here are the fabulous sleeping arrangements of the 5 of us in one room.
Glad I brought an air mattress.
Somehow Craig and Jason manage to get shut-eye in their sleeping bags amidst the luggage.
Sign-in with Tika Beard, with "Life Elevated" t-shirts and copies of "The Practical Progressive" by Ericka Payne.
Wayne Holland briefing delegates with today's plan.
Karen Hale talking about a One-Man show she attended last night, and inviting delegates to attend this evening.
Your Utah State Delegates. (Notice that Jim Matheson is NOT in the photo. Please let us know if you find him)
And here are a few random photos of what we're doing when we're not at super-cool elite events.
I wish I could have gotten a photo of this gorgeous church without the street signs in the way.
We got several gift baskets delivered yesterday, though we have no idea where they came from. Being poor bloggers, who get excited over these sorts of things, the baskets were raided prior to getting any photos of them. One of the more exciting items was a can of spray oxygen. Jason, Craig and Jeff had to try it out to see what happened. I think it was gone before anyone pointed out that it was probably meant for use if we get out of breath when walking or riding one of the free bikes.
None of these cars contained Utah Congressman and Delegate Jim Matheson.
Here are the fabulous sleeping arrangements of the 5 of us in one room.
Glad I brought an air mattress.
Somehow Craig and Jason manage to get shut-eye in their sleeping bags amidst the luggage.
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