2007 newsletters
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2007Polk DemocratNewsletters
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Note: There are no July and August issues as the Polk Democrat went on summer hiatus. |
January 2007 newsletter
 Polk County Democrats P.O. Box 224 Independence, OR 97351 www.polkdems.org Wendy Brokaw, editor In This Issue.
Download the PDF versionWHAT'S HAPPENING?
Do you have an event or fund-raiser coming up? Let people know! Our We're on the Web!Link to Calendar |
The Polk County Democrat |
January 2007 Volume 1, Issue 1 |
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Iraq, Health Care Top Concerns at Wyden Town Hall meeting in Monmouth"Iraq,Iraq,Iraq."
Prolonged War?
Wyden fears a prolonged war, noting President Bush said last spring the Wyden's Healthy Americans ActEmployer-based health care "melting away"
Hands shot up most often about health care. The only handout at the meeting "Employer-based health care coverage is melting away," he said, due Employers who aren’t currently providing health benefits would be required to |
February 2007 newsletter
| Polk County Democrats P.O. Box 224 Independence, OR 97351 www.polkdems.org Wendy Brokaw, editor In This Issue.
Download the PDF versionWHAT'S HAPPENING?
Do you have an event or fund-raiser coming up? Let people know! Our We're on the Web!Link to Page 2 |
The Polk County Democrat |
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February 2007 |
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Polk Commissioners Delay Ending Advisory CommitteesPCD Hand-delivered Letter, Testimony Has Impact
"Citizen involvement is Oregon Planning Goal #1," the letter said in part. Green and others testified in favor of retaining the AACs, supporting potential |
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PCDCC Feb. 8 Meeting Highlights
* Citizen input into land use decisions is about to end, warned Pat Wheeler in * The CC also agreed to send a letter to Gov. Kulongoski supporting SB 505, * Polk County elections observer, Dennis McCaffrey’s report on the 2006 |
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A Lamp, A Lawmaker ... What Am I Bid?Polk Dems Boost Sales at Marion County Annual Auction & Dinner
At night’s end the affair netted over $9,400 dollars, almost twice as much as last |
March 2007 newsletter
| Polk County Democrats P.O. Box 224 Independence, OR 97351 www.polkdems.org Wendy Brokaw, editor In This Issue.
Download the PDF versionWHAT'S HAPPENING?
Do you have an event or fund-raiser coming up? Let people know! Our We're on the Web!Make A Note
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The Polk County Democrat |
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New DPO Chair Meredith Wood-Smith Vows to Extend BaseBuild on 50-State Strategy Success
“We need to get away from the ‘liberal’ label“, she told delegates. “We are the Meredith, 63, cited her own call to political activism, inspired by President John F. With competition from three exceptionally qualified candidates, Dan Carol, Mac (from top left) Polk County delegate, Jason Brown; PCD Chair, |
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Comments from the ChairAlan Holland, March 11, 2007
Polk Co. Dems have many reasons to feel political optimism in light of The SCC elected Jesse Corbett from a floor nomination to bring his great Polk Dems are part of a coalition of groups led by Loyd Henion (Albany) These exciting things are just some of what the DPO and Polk Dems |
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Democrats Practice What They PreachDPO votes for promising newcomer, renews impeachment callby PCD Vice-Chair, Suzanne Price
Late in the SCC meeting, John F. Bradach, Sr., a veteran who lost his Marine |
April 2007 newsletter
 Polk County Democrats P.O. Box 224 Independence, OR 97351 www.polkdems.org Wendy Brokaw, editor In This Issue.
Download the PDF versionWHAT'S HAPPENING?
Do you have an event or fund-raiser coming up? Let people know! Our We're on the Web!Make A Note
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The Polk County Democrat |
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4 years after Iraq invasion:Oregonians Observe Somber Vigils, Call for Troop Withdrawalby Wendy Brokaw, photographs by Abby Brokaw
In Salem, Steve Weiss, father of an 18-year-old headed for Iraq agonized Because of President Bush's troop "surge" plans, Weiss told FOR members, A retired Methodist minister and long-time peace activist, LaRue joined
"A collaborative process" It was a week-end of vigils and protests, capped by a Portland rally For more information contact Janet at (503) 585-5436 or email brown@open.org |
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Oregon House and Senate Vote an Iraq TimetableA Bush Veto Threatens Polk County Budget
Peace activists, military families and anti-war protestors packed Oregon's Iraq timetable tied to county payments Late last month the U.S. House narrowly voted for a timetable for troop Sen. Ron Wyden successfully attached an amendment extending the Secure The bill barely passed, in a 51-47 vote. Sen. Gordon Smith was one of two |
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The Legislature Mid-Term Results:Historic Wins, Time Left for More
Also signed into law: legislation to create a common health insurance pool Annual Sessions Next? With just three months left for action before the Legislature's June 29 |
May 2007 newsletter
| Polk County Democrats P.O. Box 224 Independence, OR 97351 www.polkdems.org Wendy Brokaw, editor In This Issue.
Download the PDF versionWHAT'S HAPPENING?
Do you have an event or fund-raiser coming up? Let people know! Our We're on the Web!Make A Note
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The Polk County Democrat |
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Riggs Endorsement
PCD Rich Riggs has secured a coveted endorsement by the Statesman-Journal "Riggs Would Bring New Perspective" Clem, a Republican currently serving as Salem City councilor, was passed over in The newspaper editorial board put both men vying for Zone 7 representing Polk Riggs has campaigned on his strengths: a 20-year Navy career, varied Polk Democrats Boost Success Riggs told the Polk Democrat the PCD played a major role in his success. Ballots went out April 28 and there is still time to canvass for Rich before the
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Measure 37 Update
Measure 37 Likely Back Before Voters After months of heated testimony in packed hearings before the Joint If passed, the issue would go before voters in a special election to be What Did Voters Intend? Measure 37, passed overwhelmingly by voters in 2004, Rally for Oregon |
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Democratic Party of Oregon TrainingDPO May 20 Training Sessions in Corvallis
Fundraising, Communications and Vote Targeting Editor's note: We encourage every elected or appointed From the Democratic Party of Oregon - Learn how to beat U.S. Senator The number one way to win elections in 2008 is to start working in 2007, The one-day trainings will include lessons on fundraising, Training Venues: May 20 - Benton County - Boys & Girls Club of Corvallis Hotel Accommodations For those of you making the trek to Corvallis the weekend of May 19th
For more information email Jesse Bontecou, at: jesse at dpo.org. |
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Stop Gordon SmithDPO Has New Strategy, Steve Novick Runs
Smith Responsible for War says Novick Novick is a veteran strategist, having played leading roles to defeat |
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Polk Dems Reach OutBy PCD Vice-Chair, Suzanne Price
Any organization as tight and hard-working as the Polk County Dems |
The Democratic Party of Oregon has made no secret of one of its top priorities:June 2007 newsletter
June 2007 Newsletter
Editor's note: We are "under construction", so pardon our look. We are
a work in progress. As we design our new website, we naturally want to
create a beautiful, easy to use (and download) newsletter. In the
meantime, here is the newsletter for June, 2007. Next month we hope to
unveil the new, improved version. As always, your comments and
suggestions are welcome!
Measure 37 Reform Headed for Senate Floor 
1000 Friends of Oregon Issue Plea: Tell Lawmakers to vote "Yes"
The Senate Environment and Natural Resources committee last week added
more amendments to HB3540, the M37 "fix" bill which will be referred to
voters. The measure was sent to Ways and Means, which voted it out of
committee Friday. It is now headed to the Senate floor with a vote
likely by Tuesday. If passed there, it will ead back to the House for
concurrence.
1000 Friends of Oregon sent an email to supporters Friday urging them
to contact lawmakers and urge them to vote "yes" on HB3540-C.
http://www.friends.org/issues/M37/index.html
Central Committee Meeting Highlight:
Guest Speaker, Dr. Todd Jarvis on Measure
37 and "Dueling Water Experts"
Polk County Democrats will get the benefit of two decades of experience
in dealing with water and development, especially as it relates to
Measure 37 reform. Dr. Todd Jarvis, Senior Researcher for Oregon State
University Institute for Water and Watersheds is the featured guest
speaker at the June 14 Central Committee meeting. (see Upcoming Events)
Dr. Jarvis' topic is "Measure 37 and Dueling Water Experts: Why the
future of groundwater use may look like nothing from the past."
Riggs Wins Chemeketa Board, 
Governor's
Office Internship
Oregon's Community colleges are poised for new infusions of money and
that's just fine with Chemeketa's newest board member, Rich Riggs,
elected last month by a slim 115 votes over challenger Dan Clem to the
college's Zone 7 representing Polk County. Governor Kulongoski has
pushed for greater funding for higher education, and the new community
college budget is likely to include the extra $9 million he sought.
It's the right direction for Oregon, according to Riggs, who campaigned
on a platform urging greater state funding of higher education. "I want
to improve state community college funding," he told us. "It is a
matter of getting together various board members, and talking to the
Oregon Department of Community Colleges Committee for Workforce
Development which oversees the state's 17 community colleges."
Oregon Community Colleges Association will hold summer workshop
training on the coast for new board members, who assume office in July.
It is a busy summer for Riggs, who started May 18 as an intern for the
governor's office, set to through August. He enjoys the variety of
duties. "It's always a different type every day", he said. A Willamette
University Law School student, he says he is considering a career as a
policy maker or even legislator in Oregon government. He says his first
campaign taught him valuable lessons about what it takes to win:
knocking on doors.
Canvassing the Key
"All the work people did canvassing, going door-to-door made a huge
difference," he told us. "Every politician, political staffer, every
person told me the same thing," he said. "People feel like they know
you," he said, "and just meeting the person makes a difference." He
said almost all of the 3.000 brochures were distributed, and he
personally handed out about 1,500. Additional factors included the
endorsement from the Polk County Democrats and the Statesman-Journal.
Interview with Melissa Chernaik
Education Key to Upholding 
Gay Rights Bills
BRO Activists Confident Despite Threat of Overturn
Basic Rights Oregon has already determined the petition
drive to overturn the two gay rights bills will likely get the required
55,179 signatures for each to put the issue on the November 2008
ballot.
"We think they probably may do it and get the
signatures," BRO communications director Melissa Chernaik told us May
31. "It's not a lot and it's not that hard, especially if they pay
petitioners, as they said they will do." In 2004, Basic Rights Oregon
led the fight against Ballot Measure 36, which voters approved,
amending Oregon's constitution to define marriage as between a man and
a woman.
The three Mid-Willamette activists of a group calling
itself Defense of Marriage and Family Again have until 90 days after
the close of the 2007 Legislative session to gather the required
signatures of registered voters in order to get the referendum on the
ballot. Success would effectively put the new laws on hold until the
outcome of the election. If upheld, the earliest they could go into
effect would be after the election is certified, likely December, 2008.
"That means another whole year that families aren't
protected from discrimination," says Cherniak. For her organization,
the key to seeing victory now is educating the public on the findings
of the 2006 Governor's Taskforce on Equality in Oregon.
Taskforce recommendations lead to bills
"They studied, did extensive research and analysis, and
held public hearings throughout state", Chernaik said. "The
recommendation to the governor from this non-partisan taskforce of
business and community leaders from across Oregon was that Oregon, in
order to end anti-gay discrimination needed two laws: one outlawing
discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and the
other to implement some kind of legal recognition of families who were
currently considered strangers under the law but were in fact
families...out of which came the domestic partnership law."
To learn more about Basic Rights Oregon, go to http://www.basicrights.org/.
To read about the Governor's Taskforce on Equality in Oregon go to http://www.oregon.gov/Gov/taskforce_on_equality/gtoe_index.shtml
DPO Regional Training Prepares Activists, Future Leaders
Early sign-up encouraged
The Democratic Party of Oregon and the DNC are holding three more regional trainings
across the state to train and prepare activists and future leaders with
the skills and knowledge to ensure Democratic victories throughout
Oregon.
There are more than a dozen classes available at each training. For a description of each class please go to http://active.dpo.org/ct/KdLBfpY1WPyj/
Training Venues:
June 9 - Union County - Eastern Oregon University in La Grande
Date TBD - Deschutes County - Central Oregon Community College in Bend
July 22 - Josephine County - Grants Pass High School Performing Arts Center
The one-day trainings will include lessons on fundraising,
communications, voter targeting technology, volunteer recruitment,
precinct organizing and coalition building.
Please attend one of the four remaining regional trainings for
democratic progressive activists this summer. These trainings are free
and will be held in a county near you. Registration is required so
please sign-up today at http://active.dpo.org/ct/K7LBfpY1WPym/
A Call for Letters to the Editor
In keeping with its announced strategy of targeting vulnerable Oregon
seats in 2008, the DPO is looking for people who will write letters to
the editor about Senator Gordon Smith, particularly about his voting
record on Iraq. Below is a sample letter from DPO Communications Chair,
Marc Siegel with links for those interested in learning more. DPO field
representative Jesse Bontecou encourages us to make it a priority to
get the word out that letters are needed, and soon. Marc Siegel, DPO
Communications Director, provided the following talking points:
Gordon Smith's votes don't match his quotes and we can't let him get away with it.
He says he opposes the Iraq War. But May 24 he voted to continue
funding it. That's his second vote in a month to continue funding the
war.
What can you do about it?
We need to make sure Oregonians hear the truth. Write a letter to your
local newspaper exposing the gap between Gordon Smith's public comments
opposing the war and his consistent votes to continue it.
Please use these talking points below to write a letter to the editor
to your local newspaper. Click here to find a newspaper near you - www.oregondemocrats.org/write_a_letter
And forward this email on to your friends and family. Invite them to visit http://www.stopgordonsmith.com/ and join our grassroots campaign for progressive leadership in the U.S. Senate.
Talking Points
- I can't believe Gordon Smith voted again to continue funding the Iraq War.
- He voted for this bill even though it contains no real timetable for
withdrawal and toothless benchmarks the president can waive at any
time.
- He voted for this bill even though it's a blank check for President
Bush and an endorsement of President Bush's failed policy.
- He voted for this bill even though the vote comes less than six
months after he famously said on the floor of the U.S. Senate that this
war may even be "criminal."
"I, for one, am at the end of my rope when it comes to supporting a
policy that has our soldiers patrolling the same streets in the same
way, being blown up by the same bombs day after day. That is absurd. It
may even be criminal. I cannot support that anymore."
(U.S. Sen. Gordon Smith (R-OR), December 7, 2006)
- He voted for this bill even though all four of Oregon's Democratic U.S. House members opposed it.
- He voted for this bill even though Oregon's Democratic U.S. Senator Ron Wyden opposed it.
- This is the second time this month Smith has voted to prolong our
troops' stay in Iraq. In mid May he voted against bringing to a vote an
amendment that would remove troops from Iraq.
"Sen. Gordon Smith, R-Ore., voted against bringing to a vote an
amendment that would remove most troops from Iraq by March 31. The
amendment, sponsored by Sen. Russ Feingold, D-Wisc., failed in a 29-67
vote. It needed 60 votes to be brought for an up-or-down vote. Sen. Ron
Wyden, D-Ore., voted for the amendment."
(The Oregonian, 5-16-07)
- Smith's consistent votes to continue the Iraq War should be no surprise to anyone who follows his record.
- He will say anything to please the public, but he votes to please one constituent, President Bush.
- Smith votes with President Bush 90 percent of the time.
- We can't trust what Gordon Smith tells us.
- No matter what he says, he votes to continue the Iraq War.
- No matter what he says, he votes to support President Bush's flawed policies.
Polk Democrats Celebrate Passage of Historic Gay
Rights Legislation
Vicki Berger attends Gloria Holland's Party 
Overturn Petition Casts Shadow Over Victory
Good food and high spirits greeted celebrants at a Gloria Holland's
outdoor party May 16, and with reason: basic human rights had just
taken a monumental step forward as Governor Kulongoski signed HR2007,
the domestic partnership bill, and SB2 the anti-discrimination bill,
the most significant gay rights legislation in more than 30 years. Also
in attendance was Vicki Berger (HD-20), the only Republican to side
with Democrats to get both bills out of committee.
Gloria,
newly elected Polk Democrats Recording Secretary and wife of Chair Alan
Holland, hosted the event at their West Salem home. It was one of
several such parties held throughout the state to honor gay rights
activist groups such as Basic Rights Oregon, whose leadership played a
prominent role in the bills' passage.
BRO Executive Director, John Hummel, cautioned party guests to continue
their fight, as victory is far from assured. Earlier that day three
Mid-Willamette activists filed papers to mount a petition drive to
overturn those bills (see related story).
On their website, http://www.basicrights.org/
is more information on steps to take to keep the hard-won victory a
reality. Another party guest, BRO field organizer Maceo Persson, is
also available to answer questions at: maceo@basicrights.org.
June 7 - Thursday, 8:00 am-3:00 pm: Emerging Leaders Day
is a biennial opportunity for aspiring Democratic legislators to spend
the day "serving" with current House Democratic lawmakers. Learn the
nuts and bolts of the legislative process and get a firsthand view of
democracy at work. Emerging Leaders from all 60 Oregon Legislative
districts are welcome.
For more information contact Michele Rossolo at 503-249-0457or michele@futurepac.org if you missed the May 29 deadline.
June 7 - Envision Oregon, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Mission Million Museum, Salem, 5:30 Registration begins, 6:00 pm welcome by Vicki Berger (R, HD-20). Sponsored by 1000 Friends of Oregon more info: http://www.envisionoregon.org/
June 9 - DPO Regional Activist Training, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Union County, 1 University Blvd. (Zabel Hall), La Grande, OR 97850
RSVP by: June 4, 2007 at 8:00 pm
This is the third of five regional training programs held throughout Oregon. Who should attend? County officers, precinct organizers, and any registered Democrats who want to help lead the 2008 election effort. What sessions are available?
There are many topics, covering a range of skills that people will need
to put to work in the election cycle. For a complete description of
each topic, visit http://www.oregondemocrats.org/training_programs.
Hosted by: DPO Field Organizers Jesse Bontecou jesse@dpo.org 503-239-8660 and Autumn Wilburn autumn@dpo.org 541-434-2189
June 14 - Monthly CC Meeting, 7:00pm Salem Electric, 633 7th St, NW, Salem Everyone is welcome! Refreshments:
6:30 pm, meeting 7:00 pm. Guest Speaker, Dr. Todd Jarvis on M37,
Dueling Water Experts. For questions/information: Email our Chairperson, Alan Holland, or him call 503-371-3920 or 503-551-0580 cell.
June 17 - 3:00 PM, Volunteer Recruitment & Support Committee This
committee is activating our precinct structure to build a strong
Democratic support network for voters, register new voters, and recruit
new precinct committee people and volunteers. Join us! We meet at the
home of Suzanne (Suzi) and Truman Price, 7210 Helmick Road, Monmouth,
503-838-5452. For more info, email Suzi at:
volunteerchairSP@polkdems.org.
July 1 - 5 Western Days, Independence Riverfront Park We need volunteers to help staff the booths. If you are interested, please contact Suzi Price at (503) 838-5452
July 12 - Monthly CC Meeting, 7:00 pm Christ's Church, 412 W. Clay St., Monmouth (at the corner of Whitman) Everyone is welcome! 6:30 pm refreshments, 7:00 pm meeting. For questions/information: Email our Chairperson, Alan Holland, or him call 503-371-3920 or 503-551-0580 cell.
July 14 - Second Annual Squantum Whiffle Bluegrass & Old Time Music Festival, Noon - 8:30 pm
Dancing Oaks Nursery, 17900 Priem Rd., Monmouth. We need volunteers to
assist with the Silent Auction! Call Fred Brown at (503) 510-4579 or
email him at brown2909@juno.com
July 19 - 21 - Dallas Summer Fest, Polk County Courthouse
Lawn .We need volunteers to help staff the booths. If you are
interested, please contact Suzi Price at (503) 838-5452
September 2007 newsletter
MoveOn.org Aug. 28 Monmouth Rally Big Success
"Imagine a small Oregon town of 9,125 people and a MoveOn turn-out of
over 75 folks! Phenomenal. We're ready for ACTION!" organizer Bonnie
Ross exulted. 
Ross (shown far left), a Polk County Democrat, joined MoveOn organizers
Joanne and Marianne Tinschel in hosting the August 28 event, a somber
candlelight vigil. Participants included members of The Monmouth Peace
Supporters group that meets each Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00 at Main
Street Park, across from Rick's Place. 
Now in its 18th week, this informal group, organized by
Armelle Hofer and Suzi and Truman Price is small but growing. "We have
each pledged one of us will always be there at the meetings," Suzi
Price told us. Last week she said they got 108 approving honks. "We
hope all the people who have been waving and honking will stop, park
their cars and come join us," Suzi told us, adding, "with just a few
more people we can talk about extending the hours."
Ross Heads to D.C. For War Protest Event
Will take local letters to Congresswoman Hooley's D.C. Office
Deadline to sumit letters Wednesday
Ross heads to Washington D.C. September 15 for her second peace rally,
organized by a coalition of anti-war and impeachment organizations. Her
trip includes a visit to Congress.
She told the Polk Democrat," I plan to reserve Friday, to visit with
our Oregon Congressional Delegation and Senators (probably their
staffers) and would love to take as many letters from folks in Polk
County as I can accumulate in a week's time, delivering them in
person."
To those who wish to write she said "I have extended the time to 3:00
PM on Wednesday the 12th in order to gather more emails (with or
without attachments) to take to my 10:00 AM meeting in Darlene Hooley's
office in Washington DC this Friday. I leave in the evening on the
10th.
I encourage you/your friends to prepare a paragraph or a page as to
your concerns about the war and/or impeachment issues that I will share
with Aaron Lande, a staffer with Darlene Hooley in Washington DC. This
is a chance to have presented first hand your thoughts and feelings
directly to staff in Washington. I am taking a former student and her
mother with me and then the following day we will participate in the
A.N.S.W.E.R. March on Washington. I will let those interested know of
the outcome of the meeting.
Please include in your letter your personal contact information (email and or address). Thanks for your support."
There is still time, she says, to have your thoughts go to Washington
with her. She is accepting letters via email through Wednesday at 3:00
p.m.
Rally Timed to Coincides With Patraeus Iraq Report
The D.C. rally is timed to coincide with the report by Gen. David
Petraeus about the progress of the Iraq war. The demonstration was
initiated by the ANSWER Coalition. Its web site claims responsibility
for organizing "most of the large-scale demonstrations in Washington
DC, San Francisco, Los Angeles and other cities since 2002." On the
same web site Veterans for Peace says the protest will include "a mass
civil-disobedience die-in around the Peace Monument...led by an Honor
Guard of Iraq Veterans."
"Stand Up and Be Counted"
About the Sept. 15 march, her second in D.C., she wrote, "I just think that it's
time to really stand up and be counted, even if it's only one of many at the
march. Last time (in January) I got a MoveOn scholarship, this time it's
from my pension pocket."
"I would love for the Democrats to step forward and be counted",
she said of Democratic leadership, "and have integrity in their choices
and the decisions they make."
Polk Democratic Central Committee Writes Hooley
Calling for Bush, Cheney Impeachment
The Polk County Democratic Central Committee at its August 9 monthly
meeting voted to write a letter to Congresswoman Darlene Hooley urging
her to pursue the impeachment of President Bush and Vice President
Chaney. The final letter, dated August 20, says the Bush Administration
"has plunged America into a crisis that can only be resolved by the
impeachment of President Bush and Vice President Cheney."
Administration "Violated the Rule of Law"
The letter notes the Bush-Cheney Administration had violated the rule of law by:
- "Claiming the power to exempt members of the Executive branch from Congressional investigation;
- Obstructing Congressional lawmaking through the misuse of signing statements;
- Obstructing the performance of the justice system;
- Repealing basic Constitutional Rights of Americans, including habeas corpus, through Executive Decree;
- Lying in order to fraudulently wage war."
(Read the entire letter here.)
Other County Central Committees Ponder, Send Similar Letters
The Polk Democrats are among those Central Committees responding to
impeachment calls from area voters. Benton County Democrats issued a
similar letter, and other county central committees are working on
their own, says Polk Dems CC Vice-Chair, Suzi Price. At the quarterly
State Central Committee meeting in Salem, March 10, members from
throughout the state formally voted to support impeachment proceedings.
Congresswoman Darlene Hooley Holds Salem Town Hall
5th
District Congresswoman Darlene Hooley met a lively, sometimes
contenteous crowd gathered Friday at Salem Library's Louck's
Auditorium.
"This administration has failed on the diplomatic and political fronts,
and no amount of military might can fix that," Hooley told the crowd of
about 75 people. In response to a question about continued war funding
from Peter Bergel she said "I want you to know I will not allow another
blank check for this war."
More on her 5th District website here. Her prepared remarks here.
Cable access station CCTV (channels 21, 22, and 23) recorded the entire event. A rebroadcast schedule is available here.
Measure 49 Survives Legal Challenge 
Federal Judge Approves Ballot Title
Measure 49 opponents who mounted a summer legal effort to get it thrown
out as a virtual repeal of Measure 39 were defeated Sept. 6 in federal
court. According to the Oregonian,
Judge Ann Aiken of the U.S. District Court in Eugene essentially
dismissed the case brought by Oregonians in Action, who argued the
measure was unconstitutional. Aiken dismissed a motion for a temporary
restraining order that would have blocked certification of the ballot
title, which opponents said was misleading. Aiken ruled against those
objections, sending Measure 49 to the Nov. 6 ballot leaving its
language intact.
Polk Democrats To Hear Yes on 49
Presentation at Sept. 13 CC meeting
At its August monthly meeting the Polk County Democratic Central
Committee voted to endorse Measure 49, and at its Sept. 13 meeting at
Christ's church, Monmouth, will hear a presentation from Josh Balloch,
Field Organizer for Polk, Marion and Yamhill counties for the Yes of 49
campaign.
According to his biography, Josh was born and raised on the Oregon
Coast. After graduating from Oregon State University with B.S. in
Political Science, he started working on for a State Senate Race on the
Oregon Coast. Since then he has worked a myriad of high-profile State
Senate races throughout Oregon including Senate President Peter
Courtney's campaign in 2006. He has help elect three rural democrats to
the State Senate and two rural County Commissioners.
Josh also has experience working in the Oregon Legislature and with
different policy groups including "Hope for a Healthy Oregon," which pushed
for Universal Health Care for all Oregonians,and the Oregon chapter of the
National Alliance on Mental Illness or NAMI.
Make a Note: Upcoming Events
Sept. 13 - Central Committee meeting Christ's Church, Monmouth, 6:30 refreshments, meeting starts at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome!
Sept. 13 - alem Progressive Film Series begins
with Norman Solomon's "War Made Easy" 7 p.m. Grand Theater, 190 High
St. downtown Salem. Discussion afterwards. Guest speaker, Peter Bergel,
exec. Dir. Oregon Peaceworks. Tickets $3 at door. More info contact
Cindy Kimball, (503) 588-8713.
Sept 15 - Local Wineries to Hold M 49 Fundraiser
Three of Oregon' s premier family wineries have come together in common cause.
Ponzi Vineyards | Winter's Hill Vineyards | The Eyrie Vineyards
On Saturday, September 15th, all three will be opening their doors for
an exclusive fundraiser in support of Oregon's lands. 100% of the
ticket sales for the event will go to support the Yes on 49 Campaign.
Grape Escape Winery Tours will be your guide through Oregon's
spectacular wine country. At each stop, enjoy artisan wines and cuisine
while meeting members of Oregon's wine families. Find out more about
how you can help preserve the vitality of wine-growing in Oregon.
Date: Saturday, September 15, 2007
Time: 10 am - 5 pm
Donation: $100 per person, $150 per couple
Pick-up/Drop off: Sunset Transit Center park and ride - near Hwy
26, 217, & St. Vincent's hospital. It's a stand alone, linked to
MAX. Arrive by 9:45 am for 10:00 am departure.
RSVP/Details: contact Lori by telephone at (503) 497-1000 or by e-mail at mailto:lori@friends.org
Sept. 28 - Hop and Heritage Festival, Independence Volunteers welcome at Polk Democrats booth. Hop and Heritage Festival website: http://www.independencepolice.org/HOP/index.html
October 2 -7 PM Oregon Senate Candidate Steve Novick will speak at the Monmouth Library. Details to be announced.
Oct. 6 - Every Voter Counts Canvass
Oct. 11- Monthly CC meeting, Salem Electric, Salem.
October 2007 newsletter
CC Meeting Highlights: Polk County Clerk Val Unger to
Discuss Ballot Box Security, Healthy Kids Oregon Speaker
on Measure 50
A much-anticipated
presentation from Polk County Clerk, Val Unger highlights the monthly
Central Committee meeting October 11 at Salem Electric. Highly respected for her quick response to pre-2006 voting machine issues,
Unger will explain ballot security, the process for handling ballots
and other issues. This comes about through Dennis McCaffrey's work,
with committee, on the Elections. Unger will also address local concerns about ballot box security with time for questions afterwards.
Another
presentation follows urging a “yes” vote for Measure 50 as Healthy Kids
Oregon speaker defines what is at stake especially for Oregon’s at-risk
children.
DNC Trainer to Hold Tri-County Training Sessions in Salem Oct. 11
Marion, Polk and Linn County Democrats should sign up now for training with. Parag Mehta, DNC Director of Training who will be in Oregon conducting training with select County parties and DPO Caucuses. Parag
Mehta is the Director of Training for the Democratic National Committee
in Washington, DC. In that capacity, he is tasked with organizing
trainings for Democratic party’s staff, organizers and activists in all
50 states, four territories, the District of Columbia and for Democrats
Abroad. Prior to joining the DNC, Parag served as Deputy Political
Director for America Votes, a coalition of 32 of the largest
progressive groups in the country who joined forces to register,
educate, recruit, and mobilize voters for the 2004 elections. In
2003, Parag was a Deputy Political Director for Governor Howard Dean’s
presidential campaign, based in Burlington, Vermont. He also directed
the campaign’s Asian, Arab, Muslim and Pacific Islander outreach,
working with elected officials, community leaders, and grassroots
activists to build support for Governor Dean.
Date: Wednesday October 10th Where: Salem - Fresh Start Market Café, Center St NE When: 1 -4 What: How Democrats Will Win in 2008, Messaging, Targeting. Contact Autumn @ 541-434-2189 or autumn@dpo.org
Senate Candidates in Town
Steve Novick Wants Out of Iraq,
Universal Health Care
Jeff Merkley: "No Megabases in Iraq"
With the Oregon primary and
official endorsement months away, two U.S. Senate candidates are wooing
Polk and Marion County Democrats in person.
October 2 Steve Novick spoke at
Monmouth Public library, pledging continued resistance to the Iraq war
and urging support of universal health care. The event, sponsored by
Polk County Democrats, proved a useful forum for the 44-year-old
Novick, who has, since childhood, had a hook for a left hand. Quietly
campaigning around the state since April, Novick has amassed over
$196,000 in Q2 campaign contributions, announcing Oct. 1 an additional
$35,000 in on-line contributions. “It
was an interesting and informative presentation,” said PCD chair, Alan
Holland. “Steve Novick is a smart man, accomplished public servant, and
good speaker. He is a man held in high esteem within Oregon politics.
He has a stature much greater than his modest 4'9" height among those
on the Oregon political landscape. He was the principal litigator in
the notorious Love Canal case that gave a $129 million to citizens from
Occidental Chemical.” 
Merkley says "no Megabases left behind in Iraq."
In a well-attended Marion County DemoForum
Sept. 19 the other contender for Republican Gordon Smith’s U.S. Senate
seat announced his candidacy, telling his audience he opposes a
prolonged stay in Iraq, urging a swift withdrawal, leaving behind “no
megabases.” As Oregon House Speaker
Merkley led the Democratic-controlled
legislature, using his “Roadmap” to affect a Democratic agenda
including the historic establishment of a “Rainy Day” fund.
For more on Steve Novick's campaign: http://www.votehook.com
For more on Jeff Merkley’s campaign: www.jeffmerkley.com
Congresswoman Darlene Hooley
Calls For President Bush to Cooperate
with Investigations
Joined by original 54 co-sponsors of similar 1998 resolution
Congresswoman Darlene Hooley has introduced a resolution
designed to get President Bush , current and former Administration
officials to comply, not resist congressional oversight investigations.
Her resolution, introduced September 27, has the support of the 54
original cosponsors of a similar resolution which was passed
overwhelmingly by the House on May 21, 1998 during the Clinton
Administration. (H. Res. 433, passed by a vote of 342-69-12).
"Principles of openness"
The Hooley resolution would limit executive privilege
"to apply in only those instances where the Constitution provides that
the President alone must make a decision. In a Washington press release
dated September 27 she said President Bush declared March 20, 2007 that
he would oppose any attempts to subpoena White House officials for
congressional investigations. White House Counsel Fred F. Fielding has
repeatedly told Congress that the President will invoke executive
privilege for any oversight attempts by Congress. The White House also
announced that it would order the United States Attorney for the
District of Columbia not to present the contempt of Congress citation
for grand jury consideration.
"Stonewalling behind privilege"
"President Bush continues to stonewall Congress by
hiding behind a blanket claim of executive privilege," said Hooley. "As
an equal branch of government, Congress must pursue its oversight
responsibilities and hold the Bush Administration accountable for
providing testimony and documents crucial to on-going investigations."
Complete details, including the full resolution and list
of the original 54 co-sponsors of the 1998 resolution are available at
Congresswoman Hooley's website: http://hooley.house.gov/ .
Activist Bonnie Ross Meets Before D.C.
Anti-War Rally With Hooley Aide
Delivers Local Letters Urging Action
While in her District during the recess, Congresswoman Hooley heard
from anti-Iraq invasion constituents in no uncertain terms: end the war
now. During her Salem Town Hall she said she would not write "a blank
check" to continue war funding. But to activist Bonnie Ross, much more
is needed. She made an appointment to meet with Hooley aides in
Washington D.C. to deliver that message, along with dozens of local
emails and letters, in person.
Hooley aide urges: "Keep the Emails and Letter Coming In"
Ross made a self-paid trip to join pro-impeachment and peace activists
(see picture above of anti-war activist Cindy Sheehan with Vicki (left)
and Kelsey Jorgenson (right) for a September 15 Washington D.C. rally.
She met days prior at the Hooley office. She told the Democrat
"Aaron Lande with the office of Darlene Hooley graciously greeted me
and my friends, Kelsey and Vicki Jorgenson, on September 14th in
Washington D.C."
"Aaron, a young man who spent his high school years attending Lincoln
High School in Portland, listened," she said, "as we discussed our
concerns regarding our desire for ending our involvement in Iraq as
well as to have Representative Hooley pursue the impeachment process
through Congress. I presented him with a folder containing over 30
letters/emails that were gathered in five days from Oregonians
expressing the same concerns. He seemed impressed and appreciative of
our input. He also said, "KEEP THE EMAILS AND LETTERS COMING IN" as
this is a direct link with constituents. They are read and appreciated.
Before leaving I spent a few moments discussing the medical needs of
one of the constituents and requested any support from Darlene's office
from which the writer might benefit.
Activists in Action:
Polk Democrats Take to the 
Airwaves for Measure 49
PCD Lisanne Pearcy didn't let open-mike jitters stop her
from speaking up for what she believes. Someone uploaded her testimony
onto YouTube, the popular video upload and posting web site. As she put
it, "This clip is of my (very nervous) testimony a few months ago
regarding land-use issues arising from Measure 37, which was passed by
voters last November. I'm not sure who uploaded it. Over 350 people who
testified live in Salem as I did, and many more sent in written
testimony." Good for you, Lisanne! Hear what she said at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4eTq87oP2Ac
Dallas Canvass Oct. 6 for M49
Lisanne urges everyone to participate in the Oct. 6
Dallas Canvass for Measure 49. (see Make a Note for details ) 10am meet
at courthouse steps.
"We are looking for volunteers to phone bank in Monmouth and Dallas."
she says. "People can call me to find out more at (503) 838-2500. The
Farm Bureau is also looking for volunteers to call voters regarding
Measure 49 only. I can hook people up with the Farm Bureau if they want
to volunteer there."
For more info call Josh Balloch with the "Yes on 49" campaign:
503-508-5868. Canvassing in Dallas will continue on Saturday Oct. 13
and/or Sunday Oct. 14. Contact Jason Brown at 503-838-2500. Need a "Yes
on 49" sign or bumper sticker? Contact Lisanne or Jason at 503-838-2500
ASAP -- before they're all gone!
Successful Film Series to Tackle Urban Sprawl
Brian Clem is a guest speaker for the Salem Progressive Film Series Oct. 11 film, "End of Suburbia."
His talk will center on Measure 49. He and the other guest speakers,
Sid Friedman, director of 1000 Friends of Oregon, and Matthew Arnold,
urban planner of the Portland-based architecture firm, SERA can be seen
in a sneak preview CCTV show, produced by Wendy Brokaw. owner of
Shedlight Productions and featuring SPFS hosts Cindy Kimball and Ed
Taylor. Air times to be announced. This is the second of four films to
be shown by SPFS. The September 13 opening night for the first, Norman
Solomon's "War Made Easy" was a huge success. Theater-goers
packed the Grand Theatre to see the provacative film, and hear guest
speaker, Peter Bergel of Oregon Peaceworks. Cindy (shown above with
sponsor Wendy Brokaw (left), and SPFS board members Don Fries, and
Claudia Baum) has put in long hours since March creating this
progressive series, which she hopes will become a year-round event
every second Tuesday of the month.
Wendy also directed a CCTV production for Friends of Marion County Treasurer,
Susan Watkins entitled "Measure 49: Getting Growth Right." Susan
shot her own video (see right) for the 1-hour program. The forum
portion was taped at CCTV. Panelists include State Representative Brian
Clem, FMC Secretary Richard van Pelt and FMC Board Member Laurel Hines.
FMC Board Member Carla Mikkelson hosted. The program will be
re-broadcast a number of times. Go to http://www.cctvsalem.org/ for the schedule or call CCTV at (503) 588-2288.
Sue Lamb's Dallas Community Garden: from Beautiful
Dream to Bountiful HarvestPO Regional Training Prepares
PCD
Sue Lamb rocks her newest grandchild, Elizabeth "Elly" Lamb and savors
being a first-time grandparent. With the harvest of her community
garden almost complete, she has a little time to breathe before
thinking about next season's planting. It all started with an empty lot
off Miller Avenue and a dream.
"I had been looking for more ways to help our area's needy," she told the Polk Democrat
October 1, "not just at Christmas time." She and husband Warren run the
Dallas-area Christmas Cheer program that feeds the hungry a holiday
meal. Sue had a long-term vision of bringing a community garden to
Dallas. "These folks are hungry and many cannot afford to buy fresh
produce."
Helping her make it happen: Dallas Resource Center, Polk-Marion Food
Share, OSU Extension Service, Master Gardeners, Juvenile Community
Services and the City of Dallas, which was delivered a surprise "Thank
you" basket of fresh vegetables at a recent meeting.
"This garden has brought together people in so many ways, it's
amazing," she told us. As she had envisioned, young people worked
alongside seniors to help with the heavy lifting and planting.
The Dallas Area Community Garden needs volunteers to help with next
year's garden. Get involved! Donate time, Sue says, or a tractor with a
tiller. Give fertilizer, seeds, starts or compost. She will happily
accept your help through PJ Johnson at the Dallas Resource Center at
(503) 623-8429.
Glorious Weather Caps BBQ For Auction Winner Astrinsky
Jeane
Astrinsky knows how to throw a party: be high bidder at the Squantum
Whiffle Silent auction, win a BBQ with all the trimmings served at a
beautiful country home, and invite your friends.
On Sept. 16 Jeane graciously invited those who worked long hours with
her on the fundraising committee and as volunteers at the Squantum
Whiffle to share great food and celebrate a successful collaboration.
The second annual festival, with its months of planning and
preparation, four blue-grass, string and contemporary bands and silent
auction, was an outstanding success. 
Hosts Mike and Sharon Tebb (below, left )of Independence served an enormous repast featuring
home-grown tomatoes and corn followed by an elegant blueberry cobbler
(ace fundraisers Pennie Freeburg and Jackie Pierce, right, indulge).
Their ranch-style home offered comforting views of fields and flowers,
dappled by late summer sun. Conversation inevitably turned to next
year's Squantum Whiffle, however, given the choice between event
planning or savoring Mike's choice of outstanding local wines and
biting into sizzling burgers, no one needed a vote to let tomorrow take
care of itself.
Make a Note: Upcoming Events
Oct. 5-7 Oregon Summit, Sunriver Resort, Sunriver, Oregon Start: 12:00pm, End: Oct 7 2007 - 3:00pm
Oct. 6 Canvass Dallas for Measure 49. 10am meet at courthouse
steps. For more info call Josh Balloch with the "Yes on 49" campaign:
503-508-5868. Canvassing in Dallas will continue on Saturday Oct. 13
and/or Sunday Oct. 14. Contact Jason Brown at 503-838-2500. Need a "Yes
on 49" sign or bumper sticker? Contact Lisanne or Jason at 503-838-2500
ASAP -- before they're all gone!
Oct. 7 1pm. Adopt a Road Clean-up. We will meet by the Rickreall
Fire Station on the west side of the highway. We need to watch a short
safety briefing DVD. If you are planning to come, would you e-mail or
call me so I can get a rough count. There is no plan for an after-event
event but perhaps we could go to Abby's Pizza or some other friendly
place. We'll decide that on Sunday. Contact Fred Brown.
Oct. 10 1-4 p.m. DNC Leadership Training with Parag Mehta, DNC Director of Training, Salem at Fresh Start Market Café, Center St NE. Contact Autumn @ 541-434-2189 or autumn@dpo.org Caucus Questions? Contact Andrea @ 503-239-8633 or andrea@dpo.org
Oct. 11 7 PM, Monthly CC Meeting Val Unger Polk Co. Clerk,
Voting security issues, and 7:30 PM Measure 50 "Healthy Kids" Salem
Electric Building, 633 7th St. NW, West Salem. Everyone is welcome!
Oct. 17 12 - 1 PM State Senator Kate Brown Candidate
for Secretary of State Wednesday, October 17 Noon to 1 PM Kwan's
Cuisine 835 Commercial St SE, Salem. Reservations required. Cost: $11
(includes a buffet lunch, tea & gratuity) To make your reservation:
e-mail mariondemoforum@yahoo.com
Or call - 503-363-8392. In your message, give your name, phone number,
any special dietary needs, and the number of people who will attend.
Please indicate that you are making a DemoForum reservation.
Nov. 4 4-6 PM. (ed. Updated Oct. 30) Dawn Reynolds is giving a
house party for new Dems in Dallas and all who would like to welcome
them. Please call 503-623-5685 if you can help with phoning.
Nov. 8 7 PM "Alternative Energy" PCD CC November program -
solar energy "How to go Solar in Oregon"James Reismiller of Abundant
Solar LLC Christ Church, 412 Clay, Monmouth.
November 2007 newsletter
Polk County voters easily pass
Measure 49
Yes on 49 spokesman tells PCD
Wide Margin Suggests Bi-partisan
Support for Measure
An election night party at the Grand Theatre in downtown
Salem had Measure 49 supporters cheering and clapping. "Tears came to
my eyes as I saw the returns," said Salem resident, Cindy Kimball,
whose fear farmland would be lost forever in a blizzard of subdivisions
turned her into a Measure 49 activist. She joined 1000 Friends of
Oregon, Yes on 49 and others dedicated to addressing the unforeseen
results of Measure 37, the land-use ballot measure passed
overwhelmingly by voters in 2004.
M37 Confusion
Meant to bring fairness to victims of its provisions who
could not pass on their land nor develop it, Measure 37 lead to more
than 7,500 land use claims governing over 750,000 acres of farmland,
most affecting the mid-Willamette Valley, forcing state and local
government agencies to either waive stricter regulations or pay those
landowners now unable to develop. With no consensus on how best to
follow the law, and with pressure mounting to meet deadlines to either
"pay or waive' on claims, the bulk of which were
from large timber companies and developers, lawmakers held hearings. By
June they crafted Measure 49 which the Democratic-controlled
legislature passed. Aftr a failed legal attempt to overturn the ballot
measure as containing biased language, Measure 49 went before voters
November 4.
Polk County voters high turnout
Final figures won't be available until December,
according to Josh Balloch, Yes t 49 regional director. "By the sheer
margin of victory," he told the Democrat, a large percentage of Republicans had to have voted for this measure."
At the PCD monthly meeting November 8 Balloch reported
Democrats turned out in higher numbers than Republicans across most of
Polk County. Overall, voter turnout was just over 61%% in Polk County.
67.4% of Democrats voted and 65.0% of Republicans voted. Significantly,
non-affiliated voters had far lower turnout than either major party.
Democratic turnout in Polk was highest in the rural
precincts 118 and 152 and in East Dallas precinct 154. Overall
Democratic turnout in rural areas was about 4-5% higher than in most
urban areas. Dallas was actually an exception, with some of the highest
Democratic turnout in the county. In Monmouth, Democratic turnout was
fair, but Republican turnout was even lower. Figures Balloch had
indicated the worst Democratic turnout was in Independence. Even though
there are more Democrats than Republicans registered in Independence,
more of the Republicans voted. (see Polk County Clerk election results
below)
|
SUMMARY REPORT Special Election November 6, 2007 |
||
|
Polk County Clerk |
VOTES |
PERCENT |
|
PRECINCTS COUNTED (14 OF 14) |
100.00 |
|
|
REGISTERED VOTERS - TOTAL |
39,184 |
|
|
BALLOTS CAST - TOTAL |
24,045 |
|
|
VOTER TURNOUT - TOTAL |
61.36 |
|
|
Measure 49 VOTE |
||
|
Yes |
15,549 |
65.00 |
|
No |
8,374 |
35.00 |
|
Measure 50 VOTE |
||
|
Yes |
8,710 |
36.36 |
|
No |
15,246 |
63.64 |
1000 Friends of Oregon posted the results of its survey of counties passing Measure 49:
53% in Umatilla County
54% in Deschutes County
55% in Wheeler County
59% in Jefferson County
63% in Yamhill County
65% in Hood River County
Measure 49 passed in 22 of Oregon's 36 counties. Even
without the results in the five most urban counties - Multnomah,
Clackamas, Washington, Lane and Marion, 1000 Friends noted - Measure 49
still won.
"Vested Rights" the new issue
The Dept of Land Conservation and Development will send
a letter to all the claimants Dec. 6, Measure 49's effective date. It
will ask which path they wish to take for their claim: the "express
route", allowing for the immediate building of 3 homes, or
"conditional", allowing 4-10 homes if they have a loss of value
appraisal. A third route is to continue on their
M37 claim with certainty their claim has vested right. Those would
include those claims approved by state and county. But
where is the line drawn? How much do they need to spend and how much do
they need to have spent in order to have a vested right?
"The bill didn't make that clear," says Roger Kaye of
Friends of Marion County. It involves factors such as whether the
claimant acted in good faith, the proportion of development costs
spent, and whether or not the claim is irreversably comitted to the
original design. Any one claimant cannot have more than 20 parcels for
home development statewide.
That's a concern to Kaye. "I'm afraid that 4 months
after the letter goes out", he said, "we'll have 5 months of building
in place."
Vested Rights, Future of Land Use Law Topic of Dec. 12 lecture
Ralph Bloemers of the CRAG Law Center, (http://www.crag.org/) will speak
to Friends of Marion County about M37/M49, vesting and the future of
land use law in Oregon. The talk is scheduled for Wed., December 12,
7:00 PM, West Salem Library. The event is free and open to the public.
Come early for refreshments. Doors open at 6:30. For more information
contact: Roger Kaye rkaye@oregonVOS.net or visit http://www.friendsofmarion.org/
Monmouth Peace Vigils Going Strongby PCD Arnelle Hofer
Peace vigils are still going! We're still meeting in the
same place (Monmouth Main Street Park), and on the same day (every
Wednesday), but a little earlier: we now meet from 4:30 until 5:30.
Our vigils are a success in a lot of ways: we see
tremendous public support (up to 200 positive responses each time, a
total of almost 3000 since we started 6 months ago!) Also, Suzi and
Truman Price have been sending regular reports to Darlene Hooley and,
we believe, affecting her position concerning impeachment (at least she
is now accepting to put it on the table for discussion). Unfortunately,
with the beginning of winter, night falling earlier and cold damp
darkness, attendance has somewhat decreased...
We would love to have more people showing up. In fact, we need
more people to show up to publicly express their beliefs, and send a
call for action. It's been one full year since the Democratic Party
regained control of Congress, and we are no closer to bringing the
troops back home from Iraq. In fact, now there's rumblings about
attacking Iran... Time to speak up!
People can stop and stand with us for as little as 5
minutes or for a full hour. There is always someone, and we have extra
signs. Do bring extra layers, gloves, hats and mufflers etc. No
long-term commitment necessary. We love the company, conversation and
community!
Feel free to email me for more info --hopefully we'll see you there one of these days? Armelle.Hofer@oregonstate.edu
Norman Solomon, author
"War Made Easy",
to speak
November 17 in Salem
Norman Solomon, author of "War Made Easy" which was made
into a movie shown Sept. 13 at the Salem Progressive Film Series will
speak Nov. 17 at Salem Public Library's Anderson Room from 3-5 pm. The
event is free and open to the public.
Norman Soloman is a nationally syndicated columnist on
media and politics. He has been writing the weekly "Media Beat" column
since 1982 (www.normansoloman.com). Soloman is the founder and
Executive Director of the Institute for Public Accuracy, a national
consortium of policy researchers and analysts.
His books include"Target Iraq-What the News Media Didn't
Tell You" (2003), "War Made Easy-How Presidents and Pundits Keep
Spinning Us to Death" (2005), and his recent book "Made Love, Got
War-Close Encounters with America's Warfare State" (2007).
Soloman's op-ed articles have appeared in a wide range
of newspapers and he has been a guest on CNN more than a dozen times,
on CSPAN, PBS and MSNBC.
Norman will be touring Oregon and visiting Salem on
Saturday, November 17th at the Salem Public Library. The library is
located at 585 Liberty St. SE. From 3 to 5. FREE. This event is
sponsored by Oregon Peaceworks and Silveton People for Peace. He will
have books for sale and signing.
Attorney General Candidates Kroger and Macpherson to Debate at Marion County Democrats meeting 
Polk, Marion and Linn County Democrats invited to potluck before forum
Democrats from Marion, Polk and Linn Counties are
invited to the monthly Marion County Democratic Central Committee
meeting Nov. 19 for a potluck dinner followed by a debate between John
Kroger and Greg Macpherson, the two Democratic candidates running for
Oregon Attorney General. The meeting will be held at Salem Heights
Hall, corner Madrona and Liberty. The potluck is from 6:30 to 7:15.
Meeting business will follow from 7:15 to 8 pm., followed by the
candidate's forum.
About the Candidates
Greg Macpherson
Greg Macpherson is a three-term State Representative
from Oregon's House District 38. Born in Corvallis, and raised on a
dairy farm in rural Linn County, Greg is a third-generation Oregonian.
A Democrat, Greg was first elected to the Oregon House
of Representatives in 2002, and is currently Chair of the House
Judiciary Committee, which is responsible for legislation protecting
public safety, civil liberties, and consumer rights in Oregon. More at http://www.votemac.com/
John Kroger 
John Kroger is an award-winning criminal prosecutor and
law professor. He has devoted his entire life to public service as a
United States Marine, federal prosecutor, public policy expert, and
teacher.
Prosecuting criminals
As a federal prosecutor, John convicted 97% of the criminals he
charged, winning major cases against mafia killer Gregory Scarpa Jr.,
drug kingpin Juan "The Puma" Rodriguez, and hundreds of other drug
traffickers and corrupt government officials. John helped prosecute
crooked Enron executives and served on the emergency response team to
the 9/11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. More at http://www.johnkroger.com/
"Reel Bad Arabs" explores Movie Stereotypes 
Special Salem Progressive Film Series showing
Thursday, November 29th, 7 PM, doors open at 6:15
Grand Theater- 191 High Street NE (corner of court & high streets)
$5.00, students in free
Film: "Reel Bad Arabs"
Explores Hollywood's degrading images of Arabs from the
earliest days of Silent Films to today's blockbusters. From Bedouin
Bandits to gun wielding "terrorists", these images over time serve to
naturalize prejudicial attitudes towards Arabs and Arab Culture and
reinforces specific US Policies.
Special Guest Speaker:
Reese Erlich, a 30 year veteran journalist,
investigative reporter for NPR, ABC (Australia), CBC, as well as,
several newspapers. Reese co-authored the book "Target Iraq-What the
News Media Didn't Tell You" with Norman Soloman in 2005. He will be
touring Oregon.
His new book "The Iran Agenda-The Real Story of the US Policy and the Middle East Crisis" takes a look at this looming crisis.
Will the Bush Administration bomb Iran? Half the warships in the US Navy currently sit within striking distance of Iran.
"A vital read for anyone concerned about the US foreign policy"....Walter Cronkite. For more information go to: http://www.salemprogressivefilms.net
Make a Note: Calendar Events
Monmouth Peace Vigils - every Wednesday We're still meeting in
the same place (Monmouth Main Street Park), and on the same day (every
Wednesday), but a little earlier: we now meet from 4:30 until 5:30.
Contact Armelle Hofer: Armelle.Hofer@oregonstate.edu.
Nov. 17 "War Made Easy" author Normon Solomon lecture at Salem Public Library Anderson Room. 3-5 PM. Free.
Nov. 19 Marion County Dems Potluck and Debate
Bring a dish! Hear debatre between Democratic Attorney General
Candidates Greg Macpherson and John Kroger. Salem Heights Hall, Liberty
and Madrona, potluck from 6:30 -7:15, meeting until debate starts at 8
PM
Nov. 20 French Film Festival Western Oregon University will
host the last in its series of of French films as part of the third
annual Tournées Festival. Each film is free and open to the public, and
will be shown at 7 p.m. in room 211 of the Instructional Technology
Center. For more information on this film please contact film studies
and geography professor Shaun Huston at 503-838-8296 or
hustons@wou.edu.
Nov. 26 Global Migration and Education Teacher Conference 8:30
a.m. - 6:30 pm Columbia Room, Werner Center Western Oregon University.
A collaborative project from the WOU College of Education and the
Departments of Geography,Social Sciences, Sociology and Student's
Multi-Cultural Services. Plus the Salem-Keizer Public Schools and
Representatives of the Hispanic and Russian/Ukrainian Communities in
the area. More information: Dr.Patricio Ortiz (503) 838-8414 ortizp@wou.edu
Nov.29 "Reel Bad Arabs" Grand Theater, 191 High St.
(corner Court and High) Sponsored by the Salem Progressive Film Series.
Explores Hollywood's degrading images of Arabs from the earliest days
of Silent Films to today's blockbustersSpecial Guest Speaker:Reese
Erlich, a 30 year veteran journalist, investigative reporter for NPR,
ABC (Australia), CBC, as well as, several newspapers. Fee: $5.00
December 3 Holiday Party - 4th Quarter SCC Meeting
Dec. 12 - Vested Rights, Future of Land Use Law. Ralph Bloemers of the CRAG Law Center, (http://www.crag.org/)
will speak to Friends of Marion County about M37/M49, vesting and the
future of land use law in Oregon. The talk is scheduled for Wed.,
December 12, 7:00 PM, West Salem Library. The event is free and open to
the public. Come early for refreshments. Doors open at 6:30. For more
information contact: Roger Kaye rkaye@oregonVOS.net or visit http://www.friendsofmarion.org/
Dec. 13 Polk County Democratic Central Committee monthly meeting Time: 7-9 p.m. 6:30 pm refreshments Salem Electric, 633 7th St. NW, Salem
From Dallas/Rickreall: Head east on Hwy 22. Take the West Salem exit.
This will put you on Edgewater Street heading east. Four blocks past
the Safeway, turn left on Patterson. Continue six blocks. Turn right on
7th Street. Go one block to Murlark Ave. Take the left fork. Salem
Electric will be immediately on your left. Take your first left into
the main parking lot and proceed to the side patio entrance. From the
North or East: Take Wallace Road (aka Salem-Dayton Hwy 221) to the
intersection with 7th Street. Turn south onto 7th Street. Salem
Electric will be in the first block on your right. Proceed to the side
patio entrance. For questions/information: Email our Chairperson, Alan
Holland, or call him: 503-371-3920 or 503-551-0580 cell.
Dec. 13 Salem Progressive Film Series audits America's debt with "Maxed Out."
The Salem Progressive Film Series will present its monthly film and
community discussion event, featuring Maxed Out at Salem's Grand Theater
(191 N High St.) on Thursday, Dec 13th starting at 7:05 PM. More information at www.salemprogressivefilms.net
December 2007 newsletter
Candidates Forum Highlights December PCD Meeting
 |
 |
| Kate Brown | Vicki Walker |
Polk, Marion, Linn and Benton County Democrats Invited to Hear Secretary of State Candidates
Democrats from Marion, Linn, and Benton Counties are
invited to attend a Candidates Forum sponsored by Polk County Democrats
at its December 13 monthly meeting in West Salem at the Salem Electric
Community Room. PCD Chair Alan Holland says a welcome and refreshments
time will begin at 6:30, followed by necessary business until 7:30, at
which time the candidates will speak.
"The format will be for each candidate to address the group for 5 minutes," he told the Democrat.
"Each County Party Chair will ask a question and each candidate will
respond for 2 minutes to each question then the floor is opened for
questions until the 8:00pm closing."
"So far we expect Senators Vicki Walker and Kate Brown
to be in attendance," Holland added, "and will also be inviting other
announced candidates for the office. " State Sen. Rick Metsger of Welches announced his bid for the office November
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| Rick Metsger |
20. Senator Brad Avakian of Beaverton rounds out the crowded candidates
roster set for the May 20 primary (Dec. 6 editor's update: all four
candidates have accepted the invitation and are expected to attend).
Holland says the forum will allow candidates to share
their views on the issues of note and provide an opportunity for four
county parties to become more acquainted with their campaigns. Learn
more about each by clicking on their names.
DPO Plans Retreat for County Chairs, ViceChairs 
"Knowing who you are, knowing each other and knowing
what we are going to do when we get home. "That is the theme of the
Democratic Party of Oregon's Chairs and ViceChairs Retreat planned for
December 7-9 in Tualatin.
According to the Draft agenda outcomes include working
with the DPO leadership team to develop and implement a long term
strategic plan with a focus on victory in 2008. The plan will include
programs for neighbor to neighbor, fundraising, events volunteer
recruitment and maintenance, technical and building bridges to
diversity.
Land Use Lawyer in West Salem Dec 12
Talk Centers on Measure 49 and Vested Rights
Roger Kaye of Friends of Marion County invites all
interested in the wake of Measure 49's passage to attend an upcoming
meeting at West Salem Public Library. One of Oregon's premiere public
interest attorneys will be in Salem December 12 to discuss the
aftermath of Measure 49 and Oregon's failed experiment with regulatory
takings.
Ralph Bloemers, Co-Executive Director of the CRAG Law
Center will focus his talk on how the Measure 37 election cost all
Oregonians far more money and encouraged vulnerable people to pursue
outrageous claims and how misunderstandings of the law as part of
campaign slogans, without due regard to good governance and an informed
populous, were perpetuated. Ralph will also discuss how the transition
to Measure 49 is going and explore whether the valuation approach under
Measure 49 is any different from Measure 37.
Bloemers was born in Rotterdam, Holland and grew up on a cheese farm in
the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. After high school, he went to the
University of Colorado in Boulder where he studied Political Science.
He then left the US and worked abroad in Munich, Germany for an
international reinsurance company. Thereafter, he returned to Salem,
Oregon to attend law school at Willamette. Ralph went to law school
with the goal of using the law to serve the public interest. In his
third year he studied international environmental law in Leiden Holland
and graduated Cum Laude in 1998.
During law school, he worked for the Nature Conservancy's Western
Regional Office in Boulder and on the farmlands program for 1000
Friends of Oregon. He also worked a summer at Stoel Rives in Portland
and then after school took an offer from the firm to practice
Intellectual Property, Corporate Securities and Finance law. Ralph
always remained committed to pro bono service to various organizations
such as 1000 Friends of Oregon and the Northwest Resistance Against
Genetic Engineering. After three years Ralph left private practice to
found the Crag Law Center along with a friend and colleague Chris
Winter. Crag is a non-profit public interest law firm that empowers
grass roots organizations working to protect our shared natural
resources. Crag provides legal representation to those in the community
who are working to effect positive change on environmental,
sustainability and social justice issues in the Pacific Northwest.
The CRAG Law Center link: http://www.crag.org/
For further info contact:
Roger Kaye, Pres., Friends of Marion County, 503-743-4567
PolitiCorps offers Summer "Bootcamp" for Activists 
They call it a "political bootcamp for the
college-and-recent grad-aged superhero. And they want you to fill out
an application to attend its 2008 Summer Camp. (Click here for details)
PolitiCorps
is the Bus Project's 10-week political immersion program. PolitiCorps
Fellows register voters, take classes, organize communities, vet public
policy white papers, launch media campaigns, and, at the end of the
day, make a real impact. It's a summer boot camp for politics, and a
life-changing experience for college juniors, seniors, and recent
graduates.
Highlights of PolitiCorps Summer:
- A cleared path towards a career in serving the public interest
- Close friendships with some of the brightest, most dedicated young people in the country
- Introductions to progressive leaders, professionals, and change agents
- Experiential
trainings in communications, community organizing, public policy
analysis, networking, information systems, data management,
fundraising, and project development. - Innovative policy intensives with regional and national policy experts
- Mentored development of new ideas, project models, and campaign plans
- $1000 stipend, plus housing in Portland throughout the program
Read about the Bus Project here.
Polk Dems Really Clean Up
PCD Chair, ViceChair Stoop to Conquer Debris 
Article, pictures by PCD Jim Roten
The Dems have the job of roadside cleanup at the
intersection of 99W and 22 (Rickeral Dallas-Coast interchange). Last
monthly meeting it was decided that since the cleanup had not been done
and was not likely to be done unless we just did it, a handful of
democratic stalwarts - lead by Alan and Suzanne - showed up in wind and
rain and the sturm and drang of holiday passing traffic and picked up a
ton o' trash.
Thank you, all who showed up!
A Year in Picture
s
Image Galleries Added to
Polk Dems Website
Some moments, like this one captured as Paul Evans saw
friends arriving at a well-kept secret surprise party in January, are
memorable. That's the idea behind the new Image Galleries, just added
to the Polk Democrats web site. The year in pictures is waiting there
for you to peruse and savor those moments we shared in 2007. Click on
Paul's picture, above, to take you there. Thank you, all of you who
took wonderful pictures and sent them along to me. I haven't finished
uploading them all, yet. Just pop back, every so often. Click on "Image
Galleries" under "News" on the main link. Happy Holidays! --Wendy
Make a Note: Upcoming Events 
Monmouth Peace Vigils - every Wednesday We're still meeting in
the same place (Monmouth Main Street Park), and on the same day (every
Wednesday), but a little earlier: we now meet from 4:30 until 5:30.
Contact Armelle Hofer: Armelle.Hofer@oregonstate.edu.
December 3 Holiday Party - SCC 4th quarterly meeting
Dec. 12 - Vested Rights, Future of Land Use Law. Ralph Bloemers of the CRAG Law Center, (http://www.crag.org/)
will speak to Friends of Marion County about M37/M49, vesting and the
future of land use law in Oregon. The talk is scheduled for Wed.,
December 12, 7:00 PM, West Salem Library. The event is free and open to
the public. Come early for refreshments. Doors open at 6:30. For more
information contact: Roger Kaye rkaye@oregonVOS.net or visit http://www.friendsofmarion.org/
Dec. 13 PCDC monthly meeting and Secretary of State Candidate's Forum Time: 7-9 p.m. Forum at 8 pm. 6:30 pm refreshments Salem Electric, 633 7th St. NW, Salem (see newsletter for details)
From Dallas/Rickreall: Head east on Hwy 22. Take the
West Salem exit. This will put you on Edgewater Street heading east.
Four blocks past the Safeway, turn left on Patterson. Continue six
blocks. Turn right on 7th Street. Go one block to Murlark Ave. Take the
left fork. Salem Electric will be immediately on your left. Take your
first left into the main parking lot and proceed to the side patio
entrance. From the North or East: Take Wallace Road (aka Salem-Dayton
Hwy 221) to the intersection with 7th Street. Turn south onto 7th
Street. Salem Electric will be in the first block on your right.
Proceed to the side patio entrance. For questions/information: Email
our Chairperson, Alan Holland, or call him: 503-371-3920 or
503-551-0580 cell.
Dec. 13 Salem Progressive Film Series audits America's debt with "Maxed Out."
The Salem Progressive Film Series will present its monthly film and
community discussion event, featuring Maxed Out at Salem's Grand Theater
(191 N High St.) on Thursday, Dec 13th starting at 7:05 PM. More information at http://www.salemprogressivefilms.net/
Dec. 15 - Holiday Party Alan and Gloria Holland's house, 530 Riverview Dr. NW., Salem. From 6 pm until ? Call Alan for directions cell(503) 551-0580 or (503) 371-3920.