The Fifth District

C'ville City Dems: Forum for City Council Candidates

2006-02-17T19:23:00.000-05:00

The two Democratic candidates running for City Council this spring will be at a forum tomorrow, Saturday Feb. 18, at 9:30 at the JABA building on Hillsdale.

Upcoming Democratic Events in C'Ville

2006-02-09T10:27:00.000-05:00

Don't forget...Second Fridays
Tomorrow - Friday, Feb. 10
6 - 8 p.m. at Rapture

City Councilor Kendra Hamilton will comment on:
School Board Elections: Building an Effective Board for
the Needs of the City Schools

And next week, join the University of Virginia "UDEMS" for

VIRGINIA U.S. SENATE CANDIDATE HARRIS MILLER
"Washington's Broke: How Do We Fix It?"
Wednesday February 15th 2006
Clark Hall, Room 108 @ 6:oo pm
A reception will follow in the Clark Hall Mural Room hors d'oeuvres and conversation. The event is free and open to the community

Early registration for the annual VAYD Convention

2006-02-06T21:35:00.000-05:00

The VAYD Annual Convention is where the organization votes on resolutions, constitutional amendments, and leadership for the upcoming year. This year VAYD is trying to spice up the convention with training sessions and guest speakers, so things should be pretty interesting.

Early registration for the annual VAYD Convention ends Wednesday February 15th. Register now and save as much as $20 per attendee and $20 per room. A club having 10 members at convention could save as much as $260.

You can register online at richmond2006.net. The website also has information on hotel reservations, dining, and things to see in Richmond.

If you have any questions please contact Tavarris or call 804-248-2229.

Accounting Fraud All Around

2006-02-06T00:16:00.000-05:00

Iraqi authorities have issued a warrant for a member of parliament and his son who have allegedly embezzled millions of dollars.

From ABC News:

Meshaan al-Jiburi and his son, Yazin, allegedly pocketed money earmarked for creating a paramilitary force to protect oil pipelines in the north against insurgent attacks, according to Judge Radhi al-Radhi, chairman of the High Commission of Integrity.[...]Al-Radhi told The Associated Press the two allegedly collected government funds after providing lists of fictional recruits and submitting bills for their expenses. He declined to give an exact figure.

"Each time pipelines in the area were attacked, they asked to recruit more guards as well as salary increases for the recruits," al-Radhi said. "It had become apparent that attacks were increasing rather than decreasing."

Gee, I wonder where they could have learned accounting practices like that?

From The Associated Press:

Eager to reduce spending, the Bush administration falsely claimed savings of more than $1.3 billion in the Department of Veterans Affairs to justify cuts to health care services, congressional investigators say.

The report by the Government Accountability Office is the latest to document funding woes at the VA, which currently offers health care to 7 million out of 24 million eligible veterans. It found that the agency used misleading accounting methods and lacked documentation to prove its claimed savings.

Interesting Podcast: Democracy in the Mid East

2006-02-03T14:36:00.000-05:00

You can listen to a speach by University of Virginia Politics professor David Waldner on the state of democracy in the Middle East. Professor Waldner paints a pessimistic portrait of the current state of Middle Eastern democracy that cuts through much of the media hype. Recorded on the day of the '06 Palestinian election, the speech is a few days old but definitely still worth a listen.

This MP3 is available from the UVa Podcast site.

5th CD Blog is Back

2006-02-02T19:54:00.000-05:00

Having finally recovered from the holidays and the death and resurrection of my computer, the VaYD 5th CD blog is finally back with a major facelift.

Here is a quick list of upcoming Democratic events in the 5th District:

In Charlottesville: On Friday, Feb 10, 6-8 pm -- Second Friday Democratic Social upstairs at Rapture Restaurant on the downtown Mall.
In Richmond: On Saturday, Feb 11, 2:00-4:00 pm -- 5th Congressional District Democratic Committee Meeting, at the Raleigh / Drake Rooms, Crowne Plaza Hotel, 555 East Canal Street
In Albenarke County: On Monday, February 13, 5:30-7:30 pm -- Albemarle County Democratic Party Steering Committee meeting at the Albemarle County Building, Room 235 (Totier Room).
In Franklin: On Friday, Feb 17, 7:00 PM -- Film: Chisholm '72 Free admission! The Gereau Center (Across from the YMCA), 150 Technology Drive
In Charlottesville: on Saturday, Feb 18, 9:30am -- Monthly Democratic Breakfast: Forum for City Council Candidates at JABA, 674 Hillsdale Drive
In Danville: On Saturday, Feb 25, 9:30AM -- Danville Democratic Committee Breakfast. Meet Al Weed and Bern Ewert - candidates for Congress, Ryan's Family Steakhouse 107 Executive Court

C'ville Dem Committee Reorganization Meeting

2006-01-03T14:22:00.000-05:00

Charlottesville Democratic Committee Reorganization Meeting

Saturday, Jan. 7, 2006
Buford Middle School Cafeteria

9:00 a.m. -- Registration
9:30 a.m. -- Meeting begins promptly

Agenda

Precinct caucuses to select Delegates and Alternates
Selection of Precinct Chairs/Co-Chairs
Coffee break
Election of Party Officers

For more information contact Party Co-Chairs:

Russ Linden: 978-7775, russlinden@earthlink.net
Sherry Kraft: 295-4453, sk6g@virginia.edu

or call the Democratic Party Office: 296-1865

Second Fridays

2005-12-05T21:22:00.000-05:00

Second Fridays is a monthly social gathering hosted by Charlottesville & Albemarle Democrats, and will be meeting in the downstairs back room of Rapture this Friday, Dec. 9 6 to 8 p.m. $6 for food; Cash bar.

Virgil Goode and MZM's Dirty Money

2005-12-02T20:04:00.000-05:00

Earlier this year I wrote about MZM's Dirty Money and its connection to the Fifth District. Now comes this report from the Richmond Times-Dispatch

WASHINGTON -- Rep. Virgil H. Goode Jr. of Virginia is facing political fallout from California Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham's acknowledgment of taking $2.4 million in bribes.

Cunningham, a Republican who resigned from Congress, implicated the former president of defense contractor MZM Inc. in his guilty plea.

MZM's political action committee, company employees and immediate family members have given more than $89,000 to Goode, R-5th, since 2003.

Now, as the true nature of MZM's political donations become apparent, any politician of note would stand up and give back this money. Luckily, Virgil Goode is prepared to do the right thing. Err... sort of.

He [Rep. Goode] would consider, he said, further suggestions about the money if Weed, Ewert or other citizens in his district wrote to him.

In other words, Virgils gonna do the honorable thing... but only if people are paying attention.

I say contact Rep. Goode to let him know that we *are* paying attention and that he should follow the lead of Republicans such as Elizabeth Dole, and give up MZM Inc's dirty money.

For more information on this story, I direct you to the blog of Waldo Jaquith, who has done a hellofa job chronicling the influence of MZM on the Fifth District.

JFK Club December Service Project

2005-12-01T19:53:00.000-05:00

The JFK Club will be working with "Operation Home Delivery", a local effort with Habitat for Humanity, to build wall panels for 6 homes on Sat. Dec. 3, 9:30-12:30. These will be transported to Mississippi to the Jackson County Habitat chapter. Volunteers will assemble the homes there. They are providing lunch, so if you plan to stay for lunch, you'll need to call the Habitat office at 293-9066.

NO BUILDING EXPERIENCE IS NEEDED! Volunteers are needed 9:30-3:30, but any amount of time is valuable.

LOCATION: The old UVA airfield near Stone Robinson school. Take 250 East
to Shadwell, turn right onto 729 towards Stone Robinson. Cross the Rivanna and bear left on 729 to the airfield.

For more information email address: charjfk@hotmail.com.

Public hearing Monday night

2005-11-20T21:38:00.000-05:00

From the Charlottesville Dems:

City Council is holding a public hearing Monday night (tomorrow), on whether we should go to a ward or mixed ward/at large system for school board elections, rather than using the at large system that we use for Council elections. There is concern that Republicans may be organizing a large turnout to advocate for a ward system, with the ultimate goal of changing to a ward system for City Council elections. A large turnout of interested Democrats at this meeting will be important. Please try to attend if at all possible.

The Council meeting begins at 7 pm, City Hall-second floor
The public hearing will start closer to 7:30.

Future of Democrats in the 5th

2005-11-17T21:26:00.000-05:00

Panel to discuss the future for Democrats in Virginia at breakfast November 19

The next regular monthly Charlottesville/Albemarle Democratic Breakfast will be held Saturday, November 19 at 9:30 a.m. at JABA, 674 Hillsdale Drive, Charlottesville (behind Fashion Square and adjacent to the Marriott Courtyard). A light breakfast is served, the event is free and the public is warmly invited.

A panel discussion will center on the future of the Democratic Party in our region. Retiring Delegate Mitch Van Yahres will moderate. Invited panelists include Tom Vandever, Meredith Richards, Lane Kneedler, Mike Signer, Connie Brennan, Steve Koleszar and Marshall Pryor.

Issues and events to be discussed will include the meaning of the results of the recent elections, Creigh Deeds and the recount, and a look ahead at the Fifth District Congressional race in 2006.

Edited November 18, 12:04 am

There's been a slight change of plans: Saturday's Charlottesville-Albemarle Democratic Breakfast "The Future of the Democratic Party in Virginia" will be moderated by Tom Vandever.

GOTV Matters: Charlottesville and winning the Attorney General's race

2005-11-12T22:25:00.000-05:00

If you want a clear demonstration on why GOTV (Get Out The Vote) measures such as phone banking and canvassing matter, look no further than the election for Attorney General in Charlottesville. Charlottesville has 22,850 registered voters, of whom 9,858 bothered to vote for an Attorney General candidate last Tuesday.

The city of Charlottesville voted overwhelmingly in favor of the Democratic ticket, with 79% voting for Kaine and with 78% and 77% voting for Byrnes and Deeds respectively. Currently, Creigh Deeds is 410 votes behind McDonnell. If instead of having 43.66% of the registered voters in Charlottesville vote in the AG race, we had had 46.9% vote, then Deeds would be the current front runner for the election.

A little over a 3% increase in voter turnout and instead of being 410 behind we would be 1 ahead. And then we could all be breathing a little easier right now.

Anyone have 620 513 410 votes to spare?

2005-11-11T21:57:00.000-05:00

With all 2,426 precincts reporting, Republican Attorney General candidate "Talliban Bob" McDonnell has 970,583 (49.97%) while Creigh Deeds has 969,963 (49.94%) votes. With only a 0.03% difference between the candidates, the result of this race is still very much up in the air.

What also remains to be seen is what impact, if any, the numerous reports of voting irregularities from electronic voting machines will have on the upcoming recount.

Updated Saturday, November 12, 1:44pm:

McDonnell's lead appears to have dwindled to a mere 513 votes.

Updated Saturday, November 12, 10:44pm:

McDonnell's lead is down to 410 votes.

Election Reactions

2005-11-10T14:37:00.000-05:00

From the Washington Times:

"We know that George Bush is just killing us," said Delegate David B. Albo, a Republican who narrowly defeated his Democratic challenger in Fairfax County. "His popularity just brought the ticket down. There's no other way to explain it."

From the White House:

Q: So he [Pres. Bush] will help Republicans next year, he won't hurt them?

MR. McCLELLAN: He looks forward to helping Republicans, and helping Republicans who are running for office, and talking about our hopeful agenda for the American people. We are a party that is a party of ideas and solutions.

Q: You're not in denial here? I mean, the President has got his lowest job approval ratings in his presidency. Do you not acknowledge that that's not, as Secretary Rumsfeld would say, not exactly helpful to Republicans?

MR. McCLELLAN: We have a proud record of accomplishment and a positive agenda for the future. And we look forward to continuing to talk about it.

Q: -- the public doesn't agree with --

MR. McCLELLAN: I mean, you can get caught up in polls; we don't. Polls are snapshots in time. The President is someone who is --

Q: It's quite a snapshot

From the Washington Post:

In a season of discontent for the White House, Tuesday's election results intensified Republican anxiety that next year's midterm contests could bring serious losses unless George W. Bush finds a way to turn around his presidency and shore up support among disaffected, moderate swing voters.

-- Election Day --

2005-11-08T00:04:00.000-05:00

Polls are open from 6am to 7pm.

You can find the address of your local polling place by consulting the Virginia State Board of Elections website.

Get Out the Vote

2005-11-07T21:27:00.000-05:00

The candidate who wins tomorrow will be the candidate with the best "get out the vote" effort. Please volunteer tomorrow at the closest campaign headquarters.

Fairfax
1575 Anderson Rd
Mclean, VA, 22102
703-720-2600

Prince William
4326 Dale Boulevard, Suite 6
Woodbridge, VA, 22193
703-730-1409

Richmond
6010 North ; Avenue, Suite B
Richmond, VA, 23230
804-673-2100

Virginia Beach
200 Golden Oak Court, Suite 410
Virginia Beach, VA, 23452
757-340-4905

Norfolk
Southern Office Building
7525 Tidewater Drive, Suite 200
Norfolk, VA, 23505
757-531-8496

Newport News
11817 Canon Boulevard, Suite 502
Newport News, VA, 23606
757-873-9209

Charlottesville
300 W Main Street, Suites 102-103
Charlottesville, VA, 22903
434-295-1405

Roanoke
308 South Jefferson Street
Roanoke, VA, 24011
540-344-1160

More misleading advertising

2005-11-07T12:52:00.000-05:00

Adam over at the Sixth Congressional District has a great post about the two-faced nature of the Republican ad campaign.

While the Republican made "Official Democrat and Progressive Voter Guide" tries to convince progressives that Kaine is conservative, a new Republican flyer says the exact opposite of the Voter Guide as it tries to convince conservatives that Kaine is liberal. Here is a sample:

Voter Guide: "[Tim Kaine] Opposes changing Virginia's law that currently bans gay and lesbian couples from adopting. Told the Associated Press that "the only couple that could adopt is a married couple."
Church Flier: "[Liberal Tim Kaine] Supports gay adoption."

I think Adam sums up the issue pretty well:

Isn't it obvious that Jerry Kilgore, whose campaign left these things at a CHURCH, has to be lying somewhere?

"Thou shalt not bear false witness." Did you miss the service that talked about that one, Jerry? Maybe you were leaving lies on car windshields while the preacher talked about it.

Republican Dirty Tricks Campaign -- Don't believe the lies

2005-11-07T00:02:00.000-05:00

With a clearly inferior candidate, the Republican smear machine has one strategy left: lie, lie, and lie some more. Following up on an outrageous "2005 Official Democrat and Progressive Voter Guide", they have started using a recorded phone message that begins with what sounds like Tim Kaine expressing his opposition to gay rights and abortion. In actually this message is the product of the "Honest Leadership for Virginia PAC" an organization that has donated 100% of its money ($2,852,603) towards Jerry Kilgore.

The purpose of this (possibly illegal) smear campaign is to discredit Tim Kaine among progressive voters and to suppress the vote by taking Tim Kaine's political views from their context. I would ignore anything that you hear from an automated dialer in the next 48 hours.

You can read more about this story at Raising Kaine and at Daily KOS

Updated, Monday November 7, 1:48am:

The PACs official website, www.honestleadershipforvirginia.com, seems to have been pulled offline, but a little research reveals that the Honest Leadership for Virginia PAC is not only Kilgore's #1 contributer, but was created and funded by the Republican Governor's Association. They also were responsible for the attack ad entitled “Another One” which showed clips of John Kerry and implied that Kaine raised property taxes as Mayor of Richmond (Kaine actually twice cut property taxes as mayor).

The excellent Raising Kaine site has more on the RGA front and its connections to the dirty money of Delay and Abramoff and the media's failure to follow up on it.

If you think this type of campaigning crosses the line, perhaps you could try contacting the “Honest Leadership” PAC (located at 1251 Dartmouth Ct. Alexandria , VA, 22314) by calling them at: 703-751-0612
(contact info taken from www.vpap.org)

Fake pre-recorded message from Kaine?

2005-11-06T17:58:00.000-05:00

We have gotten reports of a fake "Robo Call" or pre-recorded message coming to Democratic areas (such as Charlottesville), which begin with something like "Hi. I'm [calling for] Tim Kaine...I want to let you know the truth." It sounds like Tim Kaine's voice and proceeds to paint a highly negative picture of Tim. It then encourages "progressive" voters to vote for Russ Potts.

We would like to document this message. To do that, we need a copy of it. If you have received this on your answering machine, please don't delete it. Call Aaron Ver at the Campaign office: 295-1405. Thanks!!

Virgil Goode on a Mexican Insurrection!

2005-11-06T17:40:00.000-05:00

The Fifth Districts time-traveling Representative, Virgil Goode, has been making headlines with his support of a fence along the US-Mexican border:

A House Republican wants to build a fence along the entire 2,000-mile U.S.-Mexico border, a plan that could cost billions of dollars and one that critics say would do little to stop illegal immigration.
...
A conservative group called Let Freedom Ring that is promoting a border fence estimates it would cost about $8 billion.

Perhaps Goode's support of this bill is less surprising given his delusional fears of some sort of Mexican Insurrection. The Congressman's webpage quotes him as saying we need English as an official language or else:

"I am fearful that we will have efforts in the country in a few years to split up part of the United States. There are some from Mexico who are already saying that the Mexican War was wrong and that the United States should be split in the Southwest."

The United States "should be split in the Southwest"? Good thing we have Virgil Goode, International Man of Mystery on the case, ready to stop this diabolical plot! Funny thing though, if Mexico was planning a war, you think someone else would have noticed by now...

The Washington Post on Kaine

2005-11-06T17:16:00.000-05:00

Sunday's Washington Post Editorial sums ups the Governor's race nicely:

This race isn't a hard call. Mr. Kilgore is a pleasant fellow, down to earth and politically shrewd. But the bottom line is what he represents: old-style, doctrinaire, unimaginative, cramped governance that would leave the state stalled in neutral, at best. Mr. Kaine -- forthright, proactive, inclusive, brimming with energy -- is a far better candidate possessed of much clearer vision. He alone has the potential for excellence.

Governor Mark Warner in Charlottesville

2005-11-05T13:41:00.000-05:00

This Sunday, November 6, Mark Warner is coming to Central Place on the Charlottesville Downtown Mall to deliver his message of support for the Democratic ticket.

Please join Governor Warner and fellow Democrats to show your support on Sunday. Keep the momentum going!

FINAL CITY-WIDE CANVASSING

2005-11-04T12:42:00.000-05:00

Our final get-out-the-vote push is Saturday, Nov 5. We will be dropping (different) literature at every "favorable" house in the city. We need lots of volunteers. Contact Jenny Hogan at the Campaign office: 295-1405

Volunteers are needed in the campaign office this week to help with mailings and phone calls. Call (295-1405) or just show up.

Volunteers are also needed to deliver our "midnight flyer" Monday at midnight and to make last minute voter phone calls on election day. Remember, voter turnout will determine the outcome of this very tight election. Charlottesville has the democratic voters. Please make every effort to help.

MEET AND GREET" WITH LESLIE BYRNE

2005-11-04T12:39:00.000-05:00

Leslie Byrne will be in Charlottesville today (Friday, Nov. 4) from 3 to 3:45 p.m. at the Tip Top Restaurant on 250-East at Pantops. This will be a great opportunity to speak with Leslie and hear about this final stage of the campaign in an informal setting.

Senator Max Cleland to join rally!

2005-11-02T12:30:00.000-05:00

I am excited to announce that Max Cleland, a former U.S. Senator from Georgia, Director of Veterans Affairs under President Clinton, and decorated Vietnam War Veteran will join Tim Kaine and Creigh Deeds at our Get Out The Vote Rally.

I've heard Cleland speak before, at the 2004 State Party Convention in Roanoke, and he is a phenomenal speaker -- witty, articulate, and highly entertaining -- you won't want to miss out on seeing Cleland, Kaine, or Deeds this Thursday.

Thursday, Nov. 3
4:30 p.m.
Student Activities Building at UVA-
Next to Scott Stadium

This is the last big rally in Charlottesville before next Tuesday's election, so don't miss it!

One Week Until the Election

2005-11-02T00:27:00.000-05:00

Seven days left until election day, and remember the deadline for absentee ballots is 5:00 p.m. on Saturday.

UDems: Senate candidate Paul Hackett

2005-10-31T21:29:00.000-05:00

The University Democrats at the University of Virginia are proud to host U.S. Senate candidate Paul Hackett as part of the 2005 Principles in Politics Speaker Series on Wednesday, November 2nd at 6:00 p.m. Hackett recently announced his Senate campaign on October 24th and will be joining UDems in 108 Clark Hall at U.Va; the meeting is open to the public.

A Marine major and former congressional candidate, Paul Hackett has arrived on the political scene as an outspoken opponent of President Bush. A veteran of the Iraq War, he would be the first Iraqi War veteran to serve in Congress. In July, Hackett lost the Ohio Second Congressional District special election to Rep. Jean Schmidt by a margin of less than 4 points in a 70% Republican district. He will face U.S. Representative Sherrod Brown (D-OH) in the Senate primary.

Then, following his speech...
Please Join University Democrats & Cavs for Kaine at a
VIP Buffet Reception in Honor of Paul Hackett
7:00PM @ O'Neill's Irish Pub (Upstairs)
1505 University Avenue, Charlottesville (on the UVA Corner)

And don't forget, Thursday is the date of the big, big, rally

Get Out The Vote Rally with Kaine & Deeds

2005-10-30T22:27:00.000-05:00

Get Out The Vote Rally for the Democratic Ticket!

University of Virginia
Student Activities Building
Adjacent to Scott Stadium
Thursday, November 3rd
4:30 pm

Please join Tim Kaine, Creigh Deeds and our local Democratic candidates as we send them to Victory on November 8th.

For more information call: 295-1405

Lewis "Scooter" Libby Indicted, Rove Still Under Investigation

2005-10-28T01:10:00.000-04:00

The New York Times is reporting that Fitzgerald is handing out an indictment on Lewis Libby, and extending the grand jury to continue investigations:

Lawyers in the C.I.A. leak case said Thursday that they expected I. Lewis Libby Jr., Vice President Dick Cheney's chief of staff, to be indicted on Friday, charged with making false statements to the grand jury.

Karl Rove, President Bush's senior adviser and deputy chief of staff, will not be charged on Friday, but will remain under investigation...

UDems: "Republican War on Science"

2005-10-25T15:29:00.000-04:00

THE REPUBLICAN WAR ON SCIENCE
A Book Discussion & Signing with Author Chris Mooney

Please join us to learn more, ask questions, and share your view!
Wednesday, October 26th @ 6:00pm
Clark Hall 108

"Chris Mooney's examination of the right-wing assault on science is masterful. THE REPUBLICAN WAR ON SCIENCE is a must-read for those concerned about both protecting America's heritage of free scientific inquiry and maintaining our global competitive advantage." — Rush Holt, U.S. Representative & former Princeton physicist

Two Weeks to Election

2005-10-25T14:42:00.000-04:00

With the clock ticking down to November 8th, this race is still within the margin of error. Hopefully endorsments from papers such as The Washington Post ("...the choice is easy. Mr. Kaine has the potential to be a remarkable governor -- a responsible, forward-thinking, unifying, principled politician with brains, guts and know-how.") and the advent of two new political ads will give him a boost.

But a Democratic victory in Virginia is going to take more than advertisements and endorsements. After all, the Kilgore camp is hitting back with ads of their own, like this one from the NRA. When elections are this close, it comes down to one thing: voter turn out.

Its not enough just to vote for the party ticket, if you want to make a difference, you need to volunteer. Tonight Tim Kaine is personally coming down to help phonebank at the coordinated campaign. But if you can't make it tonight, call or drop by the coordinated campaign at 300 West Main St. (434) 295-1405 to phonebank another night. If calling people on the phone isn't your thing, then you can also help out with one of the literature drops this weekend and next weekend.

Remeber, you still have 14 days left to help make a difference in Virginia.

Phonebanking on Tuesday

2005-10-24T20:06:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow I plan on driving down to the local coordinated campaign headquarters around 7:00 for phonebanking. The UDems will be there, as will Tim Kaine himself.

The time is ticking down until November 8th, and its not to late to start helping out with the campaign. You won't want to miss it.

Canvass with Tim Kaine

2005-10-19T11:01:00.000-04:00

Get-Out-The-Vote kicks into high gear, with a city-wide canvas on Saturday. Volunteers are needed to drop campaign literature in all precincts. Tim Kaine will be joining the Coordinated campaign for canvassing this Saturday, so you won't want to miss it. I'm currently signed up for helping with the literature drop from 10:00am until 1:00pm.

With the election in a statistical dead heat, get out the vote measures are critical this year. Do you part and help out the campaign by calling the Coordinated HQ at 295-1405 and enlisting today!

"Whats the Matter with Kansas?" author Thomas Frank

2005-10-18T11:47:00.000-04:00

Kansas used to be a hotbed of liberal populism. Now Kansas has swung to the right, and blue-collar Midwesterners unite with Wall Street business interests to consistently vote against their own economic self-interest. Thomas Franks asks, why? But he isn't the only Democratic speaker this Thursday.

Schedule of Events for this Thursday, October 20:

11 a.m.: Thomas Frank, UVA Alumnus and author of What's the Matter with Kansas? How Conservatives Won the Heart of America will speak at the Miller Center.

2 p.m.: Panel on personal experiences of women legislators in a male-dominated Virginia General Assembly. Featuring State Senators Mary Margaret Whipple, Patsy Ticer, Toddy Puller and Maime Locke. Moderated by Meredith Richards. Sponsored by the UVA Women's Center and the Center for Politics. Newcomb Hall, South Meeting Room.

6:30 p.m.: Thomas Frank discusses his book What's the Matter with Kansas? UVA Bookstore. Reception and book-signing to follow. To RSVP, contact Holly Hatcher at 434-243-3539 or cfp-events@virginia.edu.

7:00 p.m.: Debate between 57th District Congressional candidates David Toscano and Tom McCrystal. Burley Middle School cafeteria.

5 Events -- No excuse to stay home

2005-10-13T10:30:00.000-04:00

Today I present 5 different Democratic events, one for each day from today to Sunday.

First, tonight is the Young Voter Kickoff Event! Come out and learn what you and your peers can do to help get Tim Kaine elected. I'll be there, and so, I hear, will our delegate candidate, David Toscano. The election is in a dead heat, and Tim Kaine needs every vote he can get.

Second, come out tomorrow for "Second Fridays" which will be upstairs at Rapture on the downtown mall. On the second Friday of every month, the Charlottesville & Albemarle Democratic Parties sponsor a chance to greet & mingle with fellow democrats. "Second Fridays" is from 6 to 8 pm and costs $6 for light food and a cash bar.

Third, the Charlottesville-Albemarle Monthly Democratic breakfast will be held Saturday, Oct. 15, 9:30 a.m. at Jefferson Area Board of Aging (JABA), 674 Hillsdale Dr (behind Fashion Square Mall). The discussion topic is "the imminent elections in Virginia," with a presentation by Joshua Scott of UVa's Center for Politics followed by Q&A. A light breakfast will be offered, and everyone is warmly invited to attend.

Fourth, this weekend is the next VaYD campaign invasion. Here is the schedule for Saturday, October 15th:
10:00 am - Canvass
1:30 pm - Werktoberfest
4:00 pm - Go back out and Canvass
8:00 pm - After Canvass Social

Finally, a dialogue/lecture on Virginia Election Polling and Voter Fraud, led by Michael Signer, will be presented at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial Church’s Summit House, 717 Rugby Rd., on Sunday Oct. 16th at 11:15 a.m. This event is free and open to the public.

Washington Post calls Kilgore ad "beyond the pale"

2005-10-12T13:09:00.000-04:00

When Tim Kaine pledged that more than half of his campaign ads would be positive, Kilgore refused to follow suit. Sure enough, a Kilgore attack ad unveiled yesterday follows the established pattern of distortions, half-truths, and smears with a television spot featuring ominous music and references to Hitler -- exactly what you would expect from creator Scott Howell who has made a career out of vitriolic smears, such as labeling Democratic Senator, war hero, and tipple-amputee, Max Cleland as unpatriotic. (Yeah, that Scott Howell).

Today, a Washington Post editorial slammed Kilgore's attempt to "smear" Tim Kaine:

...their chosen method -- including a TV ad suggesting that Mr. Kaine, the lieutenant governor, is morally suspect for having served as a court-appointed attorney representing a death row inmate a decade ago -- is loathsome.

UDems: "Principles in Politics Speaker Series"

2005-10-11T17:42:00.000-04:00

UDEMS, the University of Virginia Democrats, invite you to their Fall 2005 "Principles in Politics" Speaker Series
An Evening with Congressman Robert C. "Bobby" Scott*
Wed. October 12 7:00 p.m.
Clark Hall, room 107

Parking available in the Emmet St. garage. $25 suggested donation for community members.
Light refreshments will be served

* Congressman Scott began his seventh term in Congress on Jan. 4, 2005. He serves on the House Judiciary Committee, where he is the lead democrat on the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security. In November, 1992, Congressman Scott became only the second African-American to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and the first since Reconstruction.

Young Voter Kickoff Event!

2005-10-11T11:14:00.000-04:00

This Thursday, October 13, Young Democrats of America is sponsoring a Voter Kickoff event to be held in Cabell 345 at 7:00pm.

In an effort to make sure young people come out to vote this November 8th, we’ve launched an aggressive Get Out The Youth Vote campaign here in Charlottesville. It’s aggressive because we’re not just making phone calls reminding people to vote or knocking on doors, we’re also going to places where we hang out (bars, concerts, theatres, etc… ) reminding young people to vote. To begin this aggressive young voter campaign, we have a fun kick-off event in Cabell 345 at 7pm on Thursday, October 13th.

As this is one of two statewide elections this year, the nation is turning to Virginia as a bellwether of the Bush administration. If we want to defeat Republicans nationally next year and in 2008 and put a stop to the Bush administration’s policies now, we must first defeat Republicans in Virginia.

Kaine-Kilgore: The Only Televised Debate

2005-10-08T02:21:00.000-04:00

Sunday, October 9th: (Live broadcast 7:00 - 8:00 pm) The University of Virginia Center for Politics (CFP) and NBC 12 (WWBT-Richmond), will host a televised debate featuring candidates for governor of Virginia in October. Mr. Kaine and Mr. Kilgore have agreed to participate in a debate to be moderated by Larry J. Sabato, Director of the U.Va. Center for Politics. The broadcast will be carried live on WVIR TV29 in Charlottesville. And what is a debate without....

a Debate Watching Party!

Victory 2005 is hosting a debate-watching party at the campaign office, 300 W. Main. Come by and watch Tim Kaine battle Jerry Kilgore in the only statewide televised debate. Meet the staff and cheer with other supporters of the next governor of Virginia, Tim Kaine.

When:
Sunday October 9, 6:30 p.m.

Where:
300 West Main, Suite 102 and 103
To RSVP call Lela (434) 295-1405
or just show up

UDEMS: "The Democratic Party & Rebuilding Iraq"

2005-10-04T22:21:00.000-04:00

UDems Present: Professor David Waldner:
"The Democratic Party & Rebuilding Iraq"

Tomorrow, 6pm in Clark 108, we will have the opportunity to discuss our policy towards Iraq with one of UVA's foremost experts on Iraq policy, Politics Prof. David Waldner. For those of you who haven't taken his classes or who weren't at his presentation to UDems two years ago, he is spectacular. So be sure to come out.

Please join us, ask questions, and share your view!
Wednesday, October 5th @ 6:00pm Clark Hall 108

Register to vote before it is too late!

2005-10-04T14:56:00.000-04:00

A quick reminder: there is one week left to register to vote in Virginia.

Creigh Deeds on "Evening Edition"

2005-10-04T14:42:00.000-04:00

Creigh and his opponent McDonnell will appear live on “Evening Edition with Bob Gibson” this evening from 7:30 – 8:30pm

If you have an internet connection, you can listen to the show live online, or else you can tune into:

Roanoke and Lynchburg: 98.1 FM
Charlottesville: 88.5 FM
Charlottesville, Waynesboro and Staunton: 89.3 FM
Marion, Wytheville and Galax: 91.9 FM
Abingdon, Bristol and Big Stone Gap: 90.1 FM
Clintwood: 90.3 FM
Wise and Coeburn: 90.5 FM
Norton: 91.7 FM
Pound: 91.3 FM

To ask Creigh about his vision for a safer and more secure Virginia, call 1-866-611-6397 anytime during the program.

Where Warner Stands

2005-10-03T14:18:00.000-04:00

Mark Warner is the most popular outgoing Governor in Virginia history, so it is no surprise that Jerry Kilgore would play down their differences. For example, in the debate he claimed:

We have worked with the governor on some very important issues. I disagreed with him from time to time, but we have worked with him. Now, my opponent has a history of having the governor disagree with him.

Tim Kaine of course set the record straight:

Jerry, where were you in 2004? Where were you when Governor Warner stood up to do the right thing with many of us in this room.

You first said that there was no budget problem. You next said that if there was a budget problem, maybe we should borrow a lot of money to fill the hole. You encouraged legislators to back away from the table of bipartisan compromise and throw the budget out to a public referendum for the first time since Jamestown.
...

You have stood against us in all of the reforms that we have made to turn Virginia around and be fiscally responsible, to be pro-business, and to move this state forward.

A new advertisement shows Mark Warner telling Virginia exactly where he stands -- and thats with Kaine, not Kilgore.

With the governor's popularity its no surprise that Kilgore would want a little of the Warner magic to rub off on him -- but, as is often the case with Jerry, what he says and what is reality don't often line up.

My email is working again

2005-10-03T14:07:00.000-04:00

My email address is now working again -- if you sent me anything important in the last few days and I haven't responded, you should probably send it again to make sure I recieved it.

2005-09-30T09:57:00.000-04:00

My VaYD email address (5thcdchair@vayd.org) appears to be down temporarily. Since I am going to be gone this weekend for the Campaign Invasion, anyone who wants to get in contact with me will just have to wait a few days, by which time I should have my email up and running again.

VaYD Invades Blacksburg

2005-09-29T15:55:00.000-04:00

The Virginia Young Democrats are sponsoring a campaign invasion, and YD's from across the state are invited to help out with the Coordinated Campaign there. Since I will be at the invasion, I won't be able to make it to "Drinking Liberally" at it's new time (Fridays at 5pm at South St. Brewery) but I will be there next week.

Friday, Sept. 30, 2005
7:30 pm – Training at the Coordinated office located on Draper Ave (note you should park in the lot at the corner of Otey and College – there will be signs in front of the office)
9:00 pm – Social Evening at Bogens on North Main Street

Saturday, Oct. 1, 2005
9:30 am – VAYD Executive Board Meeting
10:00 am – Meet at Coordinated office on Draper to begin canvassing
Lunch (not sure on exact time yet)
5:00 pm – end canvassing/go home

Breaking News -- DeLay Indicted, Steps Down

2005-09-28T13:39:00.000-04:00

A Texas grand jury today indicted House Majority Leader Tom DeLay on one count of criminal conspiracy. House Republican Caucus rules required DeLay, who had been admonished three times last year by the House ethics committee, to step down from his position as majority leader.

The accusations stem from funds that may have been illegally used during the election of the 2002 Texas Legislature. Republican success in the 2002 election allowed them to redraw Texas district lines without waiting for a new Census, a tactic which earned the Republican Party six U.S. House seats in the 2004 election.

Young Women & Virginia's 2005 Election

2005-09-26T21:16:00.000-04:00

Come celebrate Democratic Women's Day, Tuesday September 27th
with other young women at our discussion!
Learn how you can help get out the young women's vote!

Featuring Keynote Speaker: Lt. Governor Candidate, Leslie Byrne
begins at 5pm

Other Speakers:
Connie Brennan, Chair, Nelson County Board of Supervisors
Jessy Tolkan, Va Campaign Director, Young Democrats of America Campaign Alliance

WHEN: Tuesday, September 27, 5:00pm to 6:15pm
WHERE: University of Virginia, Cabell Hall, Room 222

Drinking Liberally Time Change

2005-09-26T20:29:00.000-04:00

Drinking Liberally is still at South Street, but has been moved to Friday at 5:00 where we will meet by the fireplace.

Two Quick Reminders

2005-09-26T16:12:00.000-04:00

Just a quick reminder, tomorrow is the fundraiser for Leslie Byrne from 5:30 to 7:30pm and afterwards, at 7:30pm is the next scheduled meeting for Drinking Liberally.

Party With the Coordinated Campaign

2005-09-21T10:34:00.000-04:00

The Charlottesville and Albemarle Democratic Committees are officially kicking-off their campaign with a party held at the local headquarters (300 W. Main St., Charlottesville Va) this Friday, September 23. Come and meet our candidate for Attorney General Creigh Deeds, 57th District Delegate candidate David Toscano, 58th House Delegate candidate Steve Koleszar, and Rio District supervisor candidate David Slutzky.

The party begins at 5pm.
Please call 434-295-1405 to RSVP or if you have any questions.

Buckingham County Democratic Meeting

2005-09-20T12:05:00.000-04:00

Buckingham Democrat are meeting tonight:

The Democratic Party of Buckingham County openly accepts new members regardless of race, creed, color, religious affiliation or nationality. The Democratic Party meets the third Tuesday of each month at the Buckingham County High School Vocational Building, beginning at 7:00 pm. Come and be a part of the Democratic process and have your voice heard.

UDems "Principles in Politics Speaker Series"

2005-09-20T12:01:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow, the UVa Democrats are starting their Principles in Politics Speaker Series

This Wednesday, Sept. 21st at 6pm in Clark Hall 108, UDems will kick off the 2005 Principles in Politics Speaker Series with a speech by Democratic State Chair Hon. C. Richard Cranwell. Cranwell, 62 served for 30 years in the House of Delegates, representing Virginia's 14th District. He led Democrats in the House from 1992-2002, and was chairman of the House's powerful Finance Committee for a decade. Cranwell was widely considered the House's most brilliant legislative strategist of the last three decades.

Drinking Liberally

2005-09-19T22:13:00.000-04:00

The Charlottesville chapter of Drinking Liberally meets on Tuesdays at the South Street Brewery (106 W. South Street) at 7:30pm.

"Raise your spirits while you raise your glass, and share ideas while you share a pitcher. Drinking Liberally gives like-minded, left-leaning individuals a place to talk politics. You don't need to be a policy expert and this isn't a book club - just come and learn from peers, trade jokes, vent frustration and hang out in an environment where it's not taboo to talk politics."

I will be there, and so should you.

Charlottesville Fundraiser for Leslie Byrne

2005-09-17T09:23:00.000-04:00

Help Leslie Byrne become the first Woman Lieutenant Governor

When: Tuesday, September 27
5:30 - 7:30pm

Where: Home of Sheriff Cornelia Johnson
1100 Hilltop Road (off Barracks Road)
in Charlottesville

Hosts: Hon. Meredith Richards & Sheriff Cornelia Johnson
Tickets: $100 Patron
$ 75 Friend
$ 50 Young Democrats
$ 50 Democratic Committee Members

QUESTIONS? CALL 434-984-1578

It has been pointed out to me that you can also go to the Byrne site to RSVP for the event

Barbra Bush on New Orleans refugees being housed in the Astrodome:

2005-09-16T20:13:00.000-04:00

"And so many of the people in the arena here, you know, were underprivileged anyway, so this, this is working very well for them."
-- Barbra Bush on an interview on NPR's Marketplace

Hurricane Katrina Relief Benefit

2005-09-16T15:41:00.000-04:00

Dinner on the Bayou

September 18th (Sunday) at the King Family Vineyard
Tickets are $100 and all proceeds benefits victims of Hurricane Katrina. Tickets on sale at these sponsoring businesses: La Taza Coffeehouse Mellow Mushroom La Cocina del Sol Digital Print Solutions

Music, Cajun Food, and Fun
Polo Match... 1:30 - 4:30
Dinner begins immediately after the match.
Crawfish Gumbo Catfish Prime Rib Red Beans & Rice Pralines Beignets Coffee and much more...

Call 434-296-8292 for more information

Help out in your community!

2005-09-13T23:51:00.000-04:00

The Democratic Service Coalition is sponsoring the third "Dem Day" where Democrats from around the country get together to serve their community.

The weekend of September 17th & 18th, join fellow Democrats and perform service in your neighborhood. Together we can make our communities stronger and better places to live.

Let us know about your event. Tell us when and where you are going to do it. Then let us know how it went. Let us know how well your event went, email service@demdays.org. Tell us how you helped your community, how many people were there, and if possible send us pictures of your event, so we can put them up on the site.

In Charlottesville, the The JFK Club is registering voters.

Saturday, September 17th, 3-5 pm
The local campaign office will help us organize a voter registration effort. We'll set up tables at various locations around town, and we'll need 2-3 people per table. If we get many JFK members to commit to this service event, we'll obviously be able to put out more tables and thus achieve greater visibility/success.

According to the local campaign office, our priority areas are the Carver and Tonsler neighborhoods. If we have many available JFK members, we can also "table" on the downtown mall and around UVA.

Please feel free to share your thoughts, and let Lori know if you can make it (lorishinseki@hotmail.com).

I think the caption gets it right

2005-09-11T12:23:00.000-04:00

VAYD Invades Harrisonburg

2005-09-07T20:21:00.000-04:00

This Saturday, Virginia Young Democrats is sponsering a campaign invasion of Harrisonburg to help out Lowell Fulk in his campaign for the 26th District Delegate seat. This seat, currently held by retiring Del. Glenn Weatherholtz, has traditionally been a Republican stronghold, but so far Fulk has been out campaigning, out fundraising, and out debating his opponent.

The UDems are providing rides for students, just meet at Bonnycastle Circle at 8:30am this Saturday, and be ready to be back by 8:30pm. Lunch will be provided, but please bring some extra cash for the group dinner afterwards. No campaign experience is necessary. If you are interested in traveling with UDems contact Adam Justus to RSVP and let him know whether you can drive.

Creigh Deeds Film Opportunity

2005-09-04T20:37:00.000-04:00

A film crew will be in Charlottesville on Friday, Sept. 9 to shoot footage of Creigh. People are needed to be "extras" for several scenes, such as a courthouse scene and a playground scene (with kids, not adults). If you are willing to participate, please contact Tom Vandever: 971-9629 or 466-9502 or tvandever@ntelos.net

Include your contact information and the time you are available on Friday.

Next Friday is "Second Friday"

2005-09-02T20:28:00.000-04:00

"Second Fridays," the Charlottesville Democratic Party sponsored drinking club will be held next on September 9 from 6-8 p.m. at Rapture on the downtown mall. The cost is $5 for light hor d'oevres and cash bar.

Bush's war on reality

2005-09-02T14:37:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I said the current administration had "declared war on science." In actuality they have launched a all out war on reality itself. In the latest example of cognitive dissonance, GW declared "I don't think anybody anticipated the breach of the levees." When of course, the potential failure of the Levees had been predicted by local news papers, Louisiana State University computer models, and FEMA reports.

The new mantra of the Right seems to be, "say it loud enough and often enough and maybe it will be true."

Bush administration's war against science continues

2005-09-01T16:11:00.000-04:00

From global warming to the basic facts of evolution, the Bush administration has made it clear that when science contradicts a Republican talking point, they cave to political expediency every time.

Now the Radical Right's paranoid obsession about what goes on in the bedroom between consenting adults has resulted in the FDA overruling their own scientific advisors recommendations. A decision which prompted the director of the FDA's office of Women's Health to resign, stating:

"I have spent the last 15 years working to ensure that science informs good health-policy decisions... I can no longer serve as staff when scientific and clinical evidence, fully evaluated and recommended by the professional staff here, has been overruled

Isn't it funny that the current administration can profess to be anti-abortion even as they fight tooth and nail any legislation that would give men and women knowledge of or access to the basic contraceptives that would actually reduce abortions in America?

UDems are back!

2005-08-30T11:28:00.000-04:00

The University of Virginia is back in session, and the University Democrats are kicking off the year with their first meeting of the semester which is being held tomorrow, August 31 at 6pm in Clark 108. UDems is a great organization, and all progressive minded UVa students should attend.

Also, remember tonight is the night of the Radio debate between David Toscano and Tom McCrystal hosted by Bob Gibson on WVPT 88.5 public radio from 7:30pm - 8:30pm.

Debate between Toscano & McCrystal

2005-08-25T12:40:00.000-04:00

Radio Debate between David Toscano (Democrat) & Tom McCrystal (Republican) the candidates for the 57th District House of Delegates (Charlottesville and the urban ring of Albemarle) seat.

Tuesday, August 30, 7:30-8:30
WVPT (88.5)
Hosted by Bob Gibson
Call-in number: 1-800-856-8900

Have some questions ready & call in! Or, just be sure to tune in.

Kaine "Sign Blitz"

2005-08-24T16:21:00.000-04:00

The Coordinated Campaign is conducting a "sign blitz" over the next couple of weeks with a goal of 1,000 signs in visible locations in the city and county. You can request a Tim Kaine yard sign today:

It’s Quick:
Simply send an email to bennett.blodgett@vavictory2005.org, stating that you want a yard sign, making sure to include your name and address. You can also make your request via telephone by calling Virginia Victory 2005 at 434.295.1405.

It’s Easy:
After requesting a sign, sit back and wait for it to arrive. Your sign will be delivered to your doorstep in a matter of weeks.

Albemarle County Democrats Fundraiser & BBQ

2005-08-24T16:19:00.000-04:00

The Albemarle County Democrats are having their 17th Annual Fundraiser & Bar-B-Q on Saturday Aug. 27, 5-8 p.m. at Claudius Crozet Park.

Tickets are $15 in advance (call Democratic headquarters at 296-1865 or stop by Coordinated Campaign office, located 300 W. Main St.), and $20 at the door.

JFK Service Club Westhaven Community Day

2005-08-24T16:14:00.000-04:00

Assist the JFK Service Club with various activities and events
Saturday, August 27, 10:30 - 1:30
Meet at Lori Shinseki's house: 2028 Barrack's Rd. phone: 244-3322
For further details, contact Lori at: lorishinseki@hotmail.com

Precinct Canvassing

2005-08-21T11:34:00.000-04:00

Door-to-door canvassing in city precincts starts today, and the Coordinated Campaign needs volunteers. Here is the schedule for the next two weeks:

Aug. 21-27:
Clark: Team Leaders TBA
JPA: Team Leaders--David Lee & Liz Courain (dlee@cstone.net)

Aug. 28-Sept. 3:
Walker: Team Leader--Todd Divers (tdivers@yahoo.com)

To volunteer, you can either contact the precinct team leader or the Volunteer Coordinator, Lela Graham at 295-1405 or by e-mail: lela.graham@vavictory2005.org

Upcoming Events

2005-08-09T10:34:00.000-04:00

Senior Statesmen's Candidates Forum:
Wed. August 10 -- 1:30 - 3:00 at the Senior Center
David Toscano and Steve Koleszar will be participating. Come out and support them!

Second Fridays:
Friday, Aug. 12 6-8 p.m. in the upstairs pool mezzanine at Rapture Restaurant on the Downtown Mall (note room change)
On the second Friday of every month, Charlottesville and Albemarle-area Democrats are invited to gather for an informal social. It's a chance to talk some politics and meet people with similar views. Call Cheryl Oliver at 296-1865 for more info.
$5.00 for hor d'oevres; cash bar
Sponsored this month by JPA Precinct

Albemarle Democrats' Annual Barbecue and Fundraiser:
August 27th at Crozet Park, 5 pm.
$15 in advance, $20 day of.
Rumor has it that Tim Kaine will be present!

Novak folds under pressure

2005-08-05T08:44:00.000-04:00

Looks like conservative columnist Bob Novak can't take what he dishes out. Watch as he curse and then storms off the set before James Carville gets a chance to grill him over his involvement in the CIA leak scandal. Apparently his theatrics have earned him an indefinite suspension from CNN.

New Tim Kaine Website

2005-08-03T19:56:00.000-04:00

Tim Kaine's website has been updated. Some of the multimedia content is especially good, such as this podcast about Kilgore's inability to give a straight answer when asked whether he would support a bill criminalizing a woman's right to choose in the event that Roe V. Wade was overturned. (Kaine's response? "If it criminalizes the healthcare decisions of women and doctors I am going to definitely veto it.")

There is also an excellent section about how you can get involved in the campaign. Check it out when you have a chance.

News Roundup

2005-07-29T15:45:00.000-04:00

If you have been following the Virginia gubernatorial contest, you have probably heard about the Mason-Dixon Poll which found Kaine had closed the gap between himself and Kilgore leaving the two candidates in a dead heat. What you may have missed however, is that Mason-Dixon Polling and Research also found that Warner, with his unprecedented 74% approval rating for his job as Governor polled better than Senator Allen in a hypothetical matchup. The Poll also found that 55% of Virginians would consider voting for Mark Warner for President if he decides to run, thus offering the possibility for a Democratic Presidential candidate to carry Virginia for the first time since Johnson in 1964.

The Augusta Free Press has an interesting opinion column on the Republican Message in Virginia

It is ... well ... a little schizophrenic. It goes something like this: We want smaller government, we want the government off your backs - but we want the government hiding under your bed, and peeping in your windows, and looking over your shoulders, when you're in our libraries, and we want the government poking its nose into your family business when you're making private life-and-death decisions in our hospital rooms.

Also, as a Quick reminder, the Democrat-Republican Softball game is this Sunday at McIntire Park. If you'd like to play and haven't yet signed up for the team, contact Tim Heaphy at 244-3322 or shinheaphy@earthlink.net. They could use a few more women on the team.

Finally, if you haven't heard it yet, you should listen to the the Kaine / Kilgore debate mp3. Just don't blame me if you get an overwhelming urge to break your computer speakers around the seventh time that Kilgore drones out his incessant mantra of "I always have. I always will."

The Young Democrats Virginia Alliance is in Charlottesville and is looking for your help this fall!

2005-07-28T20:20:00.000-04:00

The Young Democrats Virginia Alliance is targeting young voters for this years Election and they are in the process of hiring paid canvassers while recruiting for volunteer canvassers. For a little extra spending money on the weekends, work a few hours during the week going door-to-door and talking to other young people about Tim Kaine and the rest of the Democratic ticket.

Opportunities begin on Monday, August 1st and continue through Election Day, Nov. 8th. To get involved on a winning campaign and continue moving Virginia forward, email Doug Palmer at doug@yda.org or call him at (317) 385-1473 or (434) 295-1405.

This Wednesday is Transportation Phone Bank Night

2005-07-25T19:35:00.000-04:00

This Wednesday, July 27, is transportation Phone Bank night at the Charlottesville Coordinated Campaign, from 5-9 at 300 W. Main St. If you are interested in attending, please call 295-1405.

The campaign is open from 9am to 9pm Mondays through Thursdays, 9am to 6pm on Friday, and from 11am to 6pm on Sundays. Saturday openings are dependent upon canvassing.

Upcoming Democratic Events

2005-07-21T18:30:00.000-04:00

JFK Service Club: Sat. July 23. 9-11 a.m. "Security Landscaping" at Planned Parenthood
We will be clearing an area of overgrown bushes and weeds adjacent to the Planned Parenthood Building. The security landscaping involves removing a lot of poison ivy vines which have been sprayed to kill them and radically reduce the opportunities for poison ivy, and we’re asking our volunteers to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and gloves as an added precaution. Volunteers should bring lopping shears and pruning equipment of the hand-held variety—weed-whackers are not a good idea in this setting. We’ll work in teams of 3-4 to further minimize poison ivy risks, primarily cutting and pulling vines and other detritus from the area. There will also be opportunities to help which are not near the poison ivy. Snacks will be provided. Helen Plaisance will be supervising this activity. She can be contacted by e-mail at hjp4q@virginia.edu (work); hplaisance@earthlink.net (home), or by phone (before 10 pm) at 971-1555 for contact/questions/sign-up etc. Further details can be found at the JFK Club website:
http://www.jfkclub.squarespace.com

Democrat vs. Republican Softball Game Details

Thanks to all of you who expressed interest in playing softball with us this year vs. the Republicans. I'm confident we'll have ample numbers and a good team. Here's the latest on preparations for the game:

Practice - Sunday, 7/24 at 2:00 p.m., Darden Towe Park. Since so many of our players are a bit out of practice, we'll gather this Sunday to play catch, take some batting practice, and see who can play what position. I will be at one of the softball fields at Darden Towe Park (just off Rte 20, 1/2 mile N of 250) this Sunday, 7/24 at 2:00 p.m. I'll have bats and balls, will stay and play until everyone feels thoroughly prepared for the big game. No need to RSVP for this - just come if you can.

Game - Sunday, 7/31 at 3:00 p.m., McIntire Park. Region 10 is the beneficiary of this annual softball extravaganza. They've already started publicizing the event, which should generate some interest in the local media (there's a game for media types right before the Dem/Repub showdown). Two umpires will officiate; City League rules apply. The folks at Region 10 will supply an announcer, and they expect plenty of spectators.

Uniforms - the Kaine for Governor campaign will give us approximately 30 t-shirts to use as uniforms for the game. I won't get them until a day or so before we play, so they'll be distributed right before the game.

Special Guests - we're still working on securing the attendance of as many Democratic office-holders as possible. No word yet on the names, but we're hopeful we'll have some heavy hitters there.

Even with the strong level of interest I've received so far, we're still taking all players who want to contribute. Please pass this information along to anyone who you think might be interested. If you have any questions, please reply to this e-mail or call me at 434-244-3322.
Looking forward to seeing everyone on Sunday,

John Robert nominated to Supreme Court

2005-07-19T20:56:00.000-04:00

"The court's conclusion in Roe that there is a fundamental right to an abortion ... finds no support in the text, structure or history of the Constitution" -- Nominee Roberts in a 1990 Supreme Court Brief

President Bush offered the Supreme Court position to Roberts at 12:35pm today, and announced his choice publicly later today. A few facts:

126 members of the District of Columbia Bar, including officials of the Clinton administration, have signed a letter urging his confirmation.

Opposes the Roe v. Wade court decision protecting the right to choose, but claims "There is nothing in my personal views that would prevent me from fully and faithfully applying that precedent [Roe v. Wade]."

Argued in Lujan v. National Wildlife Federation that private citizens could not sue the federal government for violations of environmental regulations.

Recently he successfully argued that the practice of extract coal by blasting the tops off of mountains and depositing the debris in nearby valleys and streams did not violate the 1977 Federal Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act.

Co-wrote an amicus brief arguing that public high schools can include religious ceremonies in their graduation programs, a view the Supreme Court rejected.

Educators for Kaine

2005-07-17T16:02:00.000-04:00

"When I was Mayor of Richmond, I took a vow to visit a school in our city every Tuesday morning. I knew the public schools that my three children attended but I wanted to see the real condition of children’s education throughout the city." -- Tim Kaine

This Thursday is "Educators for Kaine" phone bank night. If you want to support a candidate who cares about making an investment in education, call the coordinated campaign in Charlottesville at 295-1405. The office is open from 11-6 on Sundays, and from 9-9 Monday through Friday and is located at 300 W. Main Street

2005-07-17T15:53:00.000-04:00

According to their website, the Buckingham County Democratic Committee meet every third Tuesday. If you are in Buckingham County and want to get involved in Democratic politics, take a drive out to the Buckingham County High School Vocational building at 7:00 pm, for one of the monthly meetings.

MZM Scandal: the facts so far...

2005-07-17T13:44:00.000-04:00

If you follow the news regularly, you have probably heard about the corruption scandal involving MZM and Randy "Duke" Cunningham. What you may not have heard are the numerous connections between MZM, Virgil Goode, and Virginia's Fifth Congressional District. And with so many allegations of corruption and bribery, it can be hard to keep them all organized. So, I've outlined a brief timeline of the MZM scandal bellow:

• In Spring of 2002 MZM founder Mitchell Wade allegedly forced employees to donate to his MZM PAC. The main recipients of the PAC are Republican Representatives Randy "Duke" Cunningham, Virgil Goode, and Katherine Harris. A former employee qouted wades as stating "The only people I want to work with are people I give checks to. I own them."

• In September of 2002, MZM signed a five year "blanket purchase agreement" with the Pentagon, allowing them to secure over $160 million dollars in government contracts.

• In October of 2003 Wade bought Republican Rep. "Duke" Cunningham's house for $1.68 million -- far above the normal market value for other properties of similar size and location. Wade later sells the house for $700,000 less than he paid for it.

• Having sold his house, Cunningham moved into a 42-foot yacht named the "Duke-stir" owned by Wade, where he lives rent free.

• Virgil Goode successfully pushed for MZM to move its database and information technology operation into Martinsville.

• In 2004 MZM Inc became the largest donor to Virgil Goode's re-elction campaign -- giving more than three times the amount given by Goode's next largest contributor. The same year, Cunningham served as the keynote speaker for MZM's Christmas

• Cunningham served on the committee for Charlottesville's Foxfield Races, a horse racing event that raises money for the charitable Sure Foundation. The Sure Foundation, created by a loan from MZM, lists Mrs. Christiane Wade as its president and Mr. Mitchell Wade as its Treasurer. The Sure Fondation's advisory board includes Cunningham's wife Nancy and his daughter April.

• As pressure builds for "Duke" Cunningham to come clean about his shady dealings with MZM, the Congressman admits "poor judgment" in selling his home to Wade.

• July 2nd, FBI officials raided the "Dukes" Yacht and MZM offices for evidence. Faced with the increasingly public evidence of his own corruption, Cunningham declares that he will not run for re-election.

Charlottesville Democratic Events

2005-07-12T21:29:00.000-04:00

The Virginia Coordinated Campaign's office is now open, at 300 W. Main St. (Al Weed's former campaign office): 295-1405. The Coordinated Campaign will be organizing the campaign efforts for the three statewide candidates in Charlottesville and Albemarle: Tim Kaine (Governor), Leslie Byrne (Lt. Governor), and Creigh Deeds (Attorney General). Volunteers are needed. Call or stop by the office.

JFK Club July Service Activity: Saturday, July 23 at Planned Parenthood, 2964 Hydraulic Rd. We'll be doing some "security landscaping" -- clearing out a large area of overgrown bushes, weeds and vines. Dangerous people and dangerous objects could hide in this thicket which sits very close to the Planned Parenthood office building. For more details, contact JFK Club leader Lori Shinseki, at lorishinseki@hotmail.com. or see the JFK Club website: http://www.jfkclub.squarespace.com

Charlottesville Democratic Meetup

2005-07-04T13:17:00.000-04:00

This Wednesday, July 6, the Charlottesville Democratic Party and the local Democracy for America group are having a meet up at 7:00pm in the New Albemarle County Office, at 1600 Fifth Street in Charlottesville. Sign up at meetup.com for more details.

Virgile Goode's Time Machine!

2005-07-02T17:44:00.000-04:00

According to a newsletter on his webpage, labeled "for release July 6th", Virgil announced this about the upcoming fourth of July:

The United States celebrated its 229th birthday this past Monday, and I enjoyed visiting several Independence Day celebrations in the Fifth District. Many persons turned out for the parades and community get-togethers. The spirit of patriotism was alive at each place I visited.

Wow! The spirit of patriotism is going to be alive this Monday -- isn't that nice to know? And I am certainly glad to hear how much Virgil enjoyed visiting the fifth district. I guess this means that Virgil must have some sort of time machine. Why, otherwise that would mean that this newsletter was a bold faced lie about events that haven't even happened yet.

Either that, or else he is so cynical about the Fifth District, and cares so little about celebrating our nation's birthday, that he didn't bother to write down one or two actual experiences from this Fourth of July.

Tim Kaine's PodCast

2005-07-02T17:00:00.000-04:00

The Bush Drinking Game

2005-06-28T21:28:00.001-04:00

This comic I drew seemed appropriate tonight.

Bush Iraq Speech: By The Numbers
References to “September 11″: 5
References to “weapons of mass destruction”: 0
References to “freedom”: 21
References to “exit strategy”: 0
References to “Saddam Hussein”: 2
References to “Osama Bin Laden”: 2
References to “a mistake”: 1 (setting a timetable for withdrawal)
References to “mission”: 11

References to “mission accomplished”? Priceless. Wait -- I mean 0. Figures taken from http://www.thinkprogress.org

Followup to "that hypocrisy thing again"

2005-06-24T08:54:00.000-04:00

In the face of overwhelming protest, the radical conservatives backed-down in their efforts to destroy Public Broadcasting.

According to the Associated Press:

Big Bird and National Public Radio won a reprieve Thursday as the House restored $100 million that had been proposed as a budget cut for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
The 284-140 vote demonstrated the enduring political strength of public broadcasting, whose supporters rallied behind popular programs such as "Sesame Street," "Postcards From Buster" and "The NewsHour With Jim Lehrer.

Congrats people -- you won this one.

Serve your community this Saturday

2005-06-21T20:15:00.001-04:00

This Saturday, Dem Days, the democratic service coalition, is sponsoring community service events across Virginia and Maryland.

If you are in the Charlottesville area, you can help out the JFK Club which will be paint ing the Monticello Area Community Action Agency’s Head Start preschool building. If you want to help out sometime from 10am to 2pm this Saturday, June 25, head to 1025 Park Street in Charlottesville, and bring a paintbrush or a roller. For details and directions, visit the JFK Club’s website.

This is a great opportunity to help your community – please pitch in if you have a chance.

That hypocrisy thing again

2005-06-21T03:37:00.000-04:00

Can anyone explain why the party that claims to be voice of “family values” is attacking the network that brought us “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood” and Sesame Street, while heaping praise on the network that brought us “When Animals Attack” and “Temptation Island 3”?

Oh, I get it. It’s the same reason that the radical red staters who care sooooo much about what I do in my bedroom can’t be bothered by wave after wave of scandal that follow in the wake of their majority leader.

If you think its screwed up for our congress to be spending more time attacking Elmo and Big Bird than Osama Bin Laden, you can let them know by emailing them or, better yet, by looking up their phone number and giving them a call.

VAYD Chartering Information

2005-06-20T23:16:00.000-04:00

Well, the new Virginia Young Democrat site is up. It is looking pretty good, but some vital info for chartering still isn't up yet, so I am going to link to them from here.

First, everything that you need to know about chartering your club with VAYD can be found in this Word document: Charter Guide.doc

Membership in the VAYD gives clubs an official voice in Virginia Democratic politics, access to newsletters and other official correspondence, and eligibility for substantial discounts at certain Democratic events. Finally, only chartered clubs receive voting power at annual VAYD conventions. The convention elects officers (of whom six sit on the governing body of the state party), passes resolutions and constitutional amendments, and conducts other business for the VAYD. Here is a brief summery of what you need to charter (download the file for the details)

A list of all club officers
The charter fee ($1 per member)
A copy of the club's constitution and/ or bylaws
For each member, an official membership form
Each member's first and last names, mailing address, and date of birth;
A copy of the club's Affirmative Action and Outreach Plan (normally between are between half a page and one page)

Finally, how many votes in VAYD a club receives is partially determined by the clubs membership, so it makes sense to start filling out membership forms early. You can download a sheet of membership forms here: VYD Member 05-06.pdf

2005-06-20T19:55:00.000-04:00

Today Bush defended his war, stating "I think about Iraq every day. Every single day, because I understand we have kids in harm's way." If Bush is so worried about our "kids in harm's way" then how come he is still making our soldiers pick up the tab for vital military equipment including flak jackets, water pouches, special ballistic goggles, and knee and elbow pads?

History of Counterterrorism

2005-06-18T10:07:00.000-04:00

Anyone interested in the history of American counterterrorism should listen to this MP3 of a talk given by Timothy Naftali, a UVa professor and author of Blind Spot: The Secret History of American Counterterrorism. Naftali offers some interesting insights into the “War on Terror” (Surprise! Iraq has nothing to do with it…), including how congress undermined Clinton’s counterterrorism efforts, and how Nixon created the first cabinet level committee on terrorism because of his secretary’s astrologer.