For the benefit of all voters in
Allen County, Indiana. .............. .
.
Grass Roots
Politics. . . . . . . . ..
This web site is
to share, inform and motivate citizens to vote
smarter. Allen County Democrats
So called liberals, middle of the roaders and conservatives all work together on this web site. We hope you can find information that is helpful to you. Vote Fort Wayne Democrats and candidates, vote New Haven Democrats and Candidates, Fort Wayne voting New Haven.
Early Voting - Anyone may go to the Election Board and vote an Absentee Ballot starting April7th. It is a program called early voting and you no longer need a "reason" to vote absentee. The deadline to vote by this method is Monday, May 5th, at noon. .
Apr. 26 - 3rd Dist Dem. Breakfast
Third District Democratic Breakfast Club - For those interested in what is going on in the Third Congressional District. Guest this month is Michael Montagano, our congressional candidate. Meetings are the 4th Saturday of the month. Meetings are held at Brevin's Restaurant, 200 S. Main Street, Churubusco. It is important that your RSVP to 3rd District Treasurer Randy Schmidt (260-432-8215). Cost is $10 and includes your breakfast.
May 3 - showing of "Sicko" @ 6:30 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation on Old Mill Road in Ft. Wayne
May 4 - State Democratic Jefferson / Jackson Day Dinner will be at the Convention Center in downtown Indianapolis. Both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama will be there. Contact Steve Haines (574) 269-4581 for details and reservations.
May 6 - E L E C T I O N. .D A Y
May 10th - ACDP Breakfast Club
8:30am at the Allen County Democratic Party Headquarters, 1920 Bluffton Road. Coffee and Doughnuts with fellow Democrats. Non-perishable food collected for local food bank.
This is the first breakfast after the primary election.
Cliff Kindy from
Christian Peacemaker Teams
Thursday, May 15 at 7:00 - 8:30
Cliff is back from his recent service in Iraq - his fourth time there in recent years. He will be sharing that experience on Thursday, May 15 at 7:00-8:30 pm at Beacon Heights Church of the Brethren in Fort Wayne. We are invited to hear Cliff's presentation, "Iraq in Perspective."
Many have heard Cliff speak previously and if you haven't, you'll find him engaging, informed, thought provoking and full of grace.
May 25 - showing of "Sicko" @ 11:30 am at First Presbyterian Church
May 28rd - ACDP Luncheon Club 11:30am at American Legion Post 82, Harris Road at Goshen, $5.00 annual membership fee. Attendees pay cost of own lunch order. Speaker: will announce soon.
May. 28 - Women's Club - 5:30 pm at the Allen County Democratic Party Headquarters, 1920 Bluffton Road. Pot Luck meeting with Rick Stevens, Wayne Township Trustee, as the speaker. The Woman's Club meets every two months on the last Wednesday.
June 21 - Democratic State Convention at the Indianapolis Downtown Marriot Hotel. Contact County Chair to be a delegate. This is where we will elect statewide Democratic Candidates for the November election and 4 delegates to the National Convention in Denver
July 31 - Aug. 3 IDEA Convention
This wonderful Democratic Party annual weekend of political events, food and fun at the French Lick Hotel complex.
.
People generally take up arms and fight only if they have strong reasons to do so.
If you want to deal with them successfully, you must first find out what their problems are.
It is only until you deal with those problems that you can expect them to lay down their arms.
To fight them does not solve the innitial problems - and it is always much more expensive.
You gotta love this. . .
John Edwards made a surprise appearance with Barack Obama in Grand Rapids, Mich., as the Illinois senator campaigns in a critical general election battleground state. Edwards, who received a thunderous ovation when Obama introduced him to a crowd of several thousand, said, "brothers and sisters, we must come together as Democrats" to defeat McCain. "We are here tonight because the Democratic voters have made their choice, and so have I."
Take a break from the elections and watch this till the end. You will be glad you did.
Dancing Queen
Visit Pangea Day - a global event bringing the world together through film.
Why? In a world where people are often divided by borders, difference, and conflict, it's easy to lose sight of what we all have in common. Pangea Day seeks to overcome that – to help people see themselves in others – through the power of film. This is one of the ways global change can happen. Click Here
Michael Montagano - Running for U.S. Representative - District 3
Goshen, IN – May 7, 2008, Yesterday’s election results look like those of a general election with more Indiana voters heading to the polls than ever before in a primary, strongly indicating that they are looking for change. Amidst the field of candidates, Mike Montagano stands as the democratic nominee for U.S. Congress in Indiana's 3rd District and will face the republican nominee in November.
On May 6, Montagano received approximately 76,000 votes in the democratic primary:
- Montagano’s primary vote total eclipses the general election results of several prior challengers and is nearly the number of votes received by Tom Hayhurst in the 2006 general election when he came within only 8% of unseating the incumbent
- District-wide, Montagano received over 30% more votes than both republican primary candidates combined – and received more votes in Allen County than the republican nominee by a margin of nearly 3 to 1
“Yesterday, we saw Indiana get out and vote,” said Montagano. “Many Northeast Hoosiers chose to make their voice heard, indicating their dissatisfaction with the direction of our country and our state. This year, voters see a clear need for new direction and a new generation of leadership.”
“If we have any hope to see relief in gas prices or solutions that allow Hoosier families to keep our homes and our jobs, then we need to change who we send to Washington to represent Northeast Indiana.” Montagano continued. "We cannot change the culture in Washington without changing who we send there."
Montagano and his wife Bethany live in Bristol, Indiana. Says Montagano, “I see potential in our region, and in our ability to give our children a great place to grow up and live. As yesterday indicates, it is apparent to Northeast Hoosiers that those in Washington are not acting on our priorities. In November, I will be a clear choice for a new voice and that we can change this region for the better.”
Go to the Mike Montagano For Congress web site
Barack Obama Wins Allen County
With 294 of 294 precincts reporting in Allen County, Barack Obama has 56% of the vote as compared to 44% for Hillary Clinton.
In 2004, there were a total of 8,657 votes cast in the Democratic primary in Allen County. The GOP posted 21,649 votes.
This year, the GOP posted 20,122 (1,527 less than in 2004). However, the Democratic vote increased by 53,877 to a whopping 62,534.
Hillary Clinton Wins Indiana by Just Under 2%
Clinton 50.9% vs. Obama 49.1% / - a much smaller victory than was anticipated.
This all reminds us that a person who does not know when to quit or change course may lack some of the executive ability to run the country. We certainly have seen that in "W". While we do like and would support Hillary, it might be better to change course in style than . . do what she is doing. Lots of women (and men) felt great pride in voting for a strong positive woman and we respect those feelings and their perceptions. At this time, however, "Letting go" would be a very positive thing to do.
Jill Long Thompson Narrowly Wins
The Democratic Vote For Governor
In the end, Long Thompson won by a fraction of one-percent of the vote over Indianapolis architect Jim Schellinger.
====== Other Winners ======
Michael Montagano - U.S. Representative for District 3
- In Allen County this Primary got 40213 votes. Hayhurst, two years ago got 41824 votes in the General Election. WOW ! ! ! Go Mike Congressman Mark Souder’s (R) only received 40139 and his two previous primary vote totals were: 2004 = 46,583 / 2006 = 39,449
Barry Welsh - U.S. Representative for District 6
Phil GiaQuinta - Indiana District 80, Winfield Moses - Indiana District 81, Mark Wehrle - Indiana District 84
Maria Parra - Allen County Treasurer
Susan Hoot - County Council at large
=======
Congratulations and our appreciation to candidates who ran but did not win.
We respect and appreciate you all. It takes courage to run for office.
=======
EACS - Alyssa Lewandowski - 4E, Janice Kelly - 5R, Richard Allgeier - 6R, Terry Jo Lightfoot - 7E Southwest Allen - John Bloom, Dist. 3, John Blum - Dist. 1, Mark Gilpin - Dist. 2
* We have just enrolled in the PERTS Program - the Post Election Recovery Ten Step Program - to help us come down from this election and the campaigns that went with it.
There is a feeling that we will backslide in a few months as November gets closer.
* * * *For Now, we suggest you check out the Obama page - more on Wednesday* * * *
Barack Obama was in Fort Wayne on Sunday At the Fort Wayne Family Picnic with the Obama Family
Barack Obama was at Headwaters Park Pavilion on Sunday, May 4 with Michelle and their girls for an old fashioned family potluck picnic. There were close to 3,000 people there for food and family fun. Dear Sweet Rachel shook hands with both Barack and Michelle Obama while I was penned in the press section. I am sure you will find great pictures on Left
of Centrist because Robert and family was up close and personal.
There is more information and a video on our Obama page.
Ron Paul favors Obama over McCain
In an interview on The Situation Room, Paul told Wolf Blitzer that endorsing Sen. John McCain, the Republican Party’s presumptive nominee, “would really confuse” his supporters “because they know we have a precise program and we have to defend that program.” Instead, Paul favors Sen. Barack Obama because of positions on foreign policy. Read More
* * Jim Schellinger Phone Calls - On Saturday afternoon we heard of a phone call from the Schellinger camp that started out saying all sorts of negative things about Jill Long Thompson. We thought he was going to play fair. Guess not. Too bad, the person he called had voted for Thompson earlier in the week and wasn't voting for Schellinger anyway . . .
Maybe the call had something to do with the surge of support for Jill Long Thompson for governor? We have heard both her and Mr. Schellinger several times and while they are both good, Mr. Schellinger seems to be buying votes and endorsements while Jill is just using her education, experience and wisdom to woo voters. Go figure ! ! !
Good report on Jill Long Thompson's high ratings on the Berry Street Beacon
George W. Bush - The president who cried "wolf" wonders why so few listen anymore.
Hillary Clinton was in Fort Wayne on Sunday
Canvass Kick-Off with Hillary Clinton on Sunday, May 4 at the Andorfer Commons at Indiana Tech, 1600 East Washington Boulevard. Doors opened at 11 a.m., and the event was scheduled for 12:30 p.m.
Clinton and Obama Respond to GLBT Questions
The LGBT press logged its most active week to date in terms of accessing the presidential candidates, as local outlets in North Carolina and Indiana published interviews with Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama ahead of the May 6 primaries. The interviews with Obama were his first with the local gay media. Click Here to read article in Reality Magazine
* The First AWESOME OBAMA Block Party Click Here to see pictures and video *
Click on the Picture * * * * And You Will Be There
Former DNC Chair Paul G. Kirk, Jr. Endorses Obama
Chicago, IL – May 2, Former Democratic National Committee Chair and Massachusetts supderdelegate Paul G. Kirk, Jr. endorsed Barack Obama. The endorsement brings the total number of superdelegates to endorse Barack Obama to 253. Read more
Why is Barack Obama the only candidate against recommending a suspension of the federal gas tax? - Gas Tax Gotcha
On November 8, Fmr. DNC Chair Joe Andrew, former Democratic National Committee Chairman,
endorsed Hillary Clinton. On Thursday he reconsidered and endorsed Barack Obama. More Here.
=========================================================================
* * * Barack Obama is almost without a doubt going to be the Democratic Candidate for president.
It is time to get the votes behind Obama to help bring the Democratic Party together to win in November.
Obama is logical, calm, has the right goals, works well with others and is totally focused on positive results. INDIANA CAN END THE DRAMA - - BY VOTING FOR BARACK OBAMA
Hillary Clinton In Fort Wayne
"Solutions for the American Economy" Saturday, April 26, 2008 at 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Hillary Clinton spoke to a Fort Wayne audience who stood in the cold at the Lincoln Pavilion in Headwaters Park.
She spoke her plan to help in the growing importance of green color jobs with the development of environmental and energy conservation to to reduce our dependence on traditional fuels.
April 25 - Michelle Obama as at North Side High School on Friday afternoon to a crowd of nearly 500 for more than an hour about her husband, Barack Obama. She spoke of his hopes, history and his sense of responsibility. Michelle said he was taught to treat others with decency and respect because you never know when you are going to need somebody.
Democrat gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson has been endorsed by five Northwest Indiana legislators. At a campaign rally in East Chicago this week, the following legislators threw their support to Long Thompson: Read More by Charlotte A. Weybright
What is it with all this new support of Jill Long Thompson for governor? We have heard both her and Mr. Schellinger many times and they are both good, but Mr. Schellinger seems to be buying votes and endorsements while Jill is just using her education, experience and wisdom to woo voters. Go figure ! ! !
"It's the economy, stupid."
Voters in all 50 states see a link between the war and our sinking economy. Folks across the country think getting out of Iraq is one of the best ways to help fix our deepening economic crisis.
This message is political dynamite. If the link between Iraq war spending and the recession was in the headlines, John McCain and other pro-war politicians wouldn't get away with their endless war strategy.
Every day, Sen. McCain and other pro-war politicians are promoting more of the same failed Bush policies—an endless occupation of Iraq, more preemptive wars—and pretty much getting a free pass from the media. Don't let that happen and keep talking to your friends about this military and financial folly.
Advisors to Senator Obama host
Economic Policy Town Hall in Fort Wayne
As part of the effort to reach out to the concerns of the citizens of Allen County, Senator Barack Obama’s Economic Advisors hosted a Town Hall at the Local 213 Union Hall this Sunday, April 20 at 3:45. Well over 100 people came to hear policy ideas that Barack Obama plans to put in place when he becomes President. For the whole report go to the Obama page.
The Allen County Democratic Lunch Meeting Was THE Place To Be
At the Wednesday, April 23rd noon meeting, former Allen County Democratic Chairman, Kevin Knuth announced that he will be a candidate for Allen County Council At-Large. This was a great surprise to those present and while Kevin will not be on the primary ballot, he will be appointed to run for that office by the current Democratic Chairman, Mike Bynum.
Knuth kicked off his campaign by reviewing the issues surrounding the proposed Maplecrest extension, a 1.5 mile stretch of road that is expected to cost $55 Million to build. Kevin pointed out that even with the proposed bond issue there is an $8 Million gap in funding. He stated, “The $8 Million shortage does not account for any cost overruns, which would be a further burden to taxpayers”. “To sum up this project - It could have a negative impact on the neighborhoods around Maplecrest Road, it us underfunded, and there is no economic impact study to show the benefits. You can learn more at Kevin's web site.
Jim Schellinger, running against Jill Long Thompson to be the Democratic candidate for Indiana governor was the main speaker. He was dynamic, determined and definite in how he wants to help grow Indiana in a positive direction. He believes that Indiana deserves better leadership and the failed directions of our current governor are holding us back and have not been positive. By taking away the right of workers to collective bargaining Mitch Danials has hurt workers and polarized the state - especially in public education. One of the first things Schellinger would do as governor is work to help our schools. He has workable plans that would make college more affordable.
Indiana is fifth in the nation in personal bankruptcy and tenth in foreclosures. This does not fit Hoosier values and must be changed along with the health care of Hoosiers. Health care should be a right and not a privities. He also stated that as governor, unlike Danials, he would live in the governor's mansion because he cares about Indiana traditions and listens to the people. Indiana can and should do better. This election is and election of choice. A choice between exclusion or partnership. A choice between negativism or vision with a plan. A choice of more of the same or positive change.
There were many questions and some concerned the privatization that he would do. Schellinger is opposed, from a business man's perspective to privatization. Why do you sell off revenue generating thing and end up losing money for the state. If something is wrong you fix it - you don't sell it. Government is different than business, but some business practices can work in government. The state of Indiana should not be for sale.
The final surprise at the meeting was a visit from Michael Montagano who is running for congress in the Third District. Mike, as always was up beat and awesome in his ideas of positive direction for the United States and how Indiana can benefit from progressive policies in Washington D.C.
The dinner meeting was well attended and everyone we heard from appreciated all three guests. This will be a good year for Democrats.
Advisors to Senator Obama host Economic Policy Town Hall in Fort Wayne
The group included leaders in American Economic Policy such as the former Secretary and COO of the U.S. Department of Labor, Ed Montgomery, the Senior Fellow at the Center of American Progress, Bracken Hendricks and Senator Obama’s own Deputy National Policy Director Carlos Monje. Another guest was Bob Wisbord (sp?) and former Fort Wayne mayor, Graham Richards joined the panel. For the whole report go to the Obama page.
Ted Danson Was at The Green Frog For Hillary Clinton
On Saturday, April 19 at 4:30 Ted Danson showed up to tell why he thinks Hillary Clinton would be a great president. Why Ted Danson? Danson’s wife, grew up in Arkansas, and became friends with the Clintons many years ago. Bill Clinton gave Steenburgen away at her wedding to Danson, and they have have continued their close friendship ever since.
So, Ted Danson does know about Hillary Clinton and spoke very highly of her character, ability and skills to become president of the United States. Speaking from his unique perspective, Danson shared many details and understandings of Hillary and was in a special position to help get Clinton’s message to the people of Fort Wayne.
On Friday April 18th at about 12:50 p.m. , Chelsea Clinton held a Campus Q&A Event in Fort Wayne at the Indiana University-Purdue University in the "Stomping Grounds"on the Lower Level of Walb Student Union before a crowd of about 200 people and five television cameras and a few good reporters including Benjamin Lanka of the Journal Gazette.
Chelsea did an outstanding job as a segregate for her mother, Hillary Clinton. She was cool, confident, concerned and most importantly, aware of her mother's history and views on issues and she shared them in such a way that the crowd was able to better understand Hillary Clinton.
She said that she had come to listen and answer questions - and that is what she did. She started out speaking to the interests of college students. higher ecucation affordability Her mom increased Pell Grants that are now available in summer to better help students.
One impressive statement was that Hillary Clinton knows dollar for dollar how she will pay for everyting. That would be an impressive difference from our current president.
. . . *For more Chelsea coverage, go to our Hillary Clinton page
HILLARY CLINTON WILL BE IN FORT WAYNE ON FRIDAY NOTE CHANGE: Hillary Clinton will be back in Fort Wayne on Friday, April 25th.
Details on the time and location are still to be determined. Please visit here and
www.hillaryclinton.com regularly to learn details when they are announced.
Yard Signs are at Obama HQ
Get there soon to get your own sign before they are all gone.
Harvard Law Professor Spoke for Obama at the IPFW Science Building
Charles Ogletree is introduced by Max Montesino of IPFW to the almost 30 guests who came to hear him speak for Barack Obama. Ogletree, the Harvard Law School Jesse Climenko Professor of Law and Vice Dean for the Clinical Programs, a prominent legal theorist who has made an international reputation by taking a hard look at complex issues of law. He spoke to Fort Wayne residents and later to the Third District Democrats on Saturday, April 12th
Ogletree has known Barack Obama for twenty years, having had both Barack and his wife as students at Harvard and he has remained a close friend ever since. Sometimes as a teacher you have students who are special and he knows that Obama was such a person. He talked about many of the issues that informed voters already know, but added that Obama's exceptionally good instincts, assessment and personal skills make him and ideal candidate for president.
The IPFW meeting was in the Science Building and was a Town Hall forum. Ogletree, ranked as one of the top 100 lawyers in the United States, is unconditionally supporting this candidacy because of his extensive knowledge and respect of Barack Obama.
It is the duty of the attorney general and his staff to protect Hoosiers' rights as consumers. That includes residents' right to enjoy a peaceful evening—free from interruptions by unwanted telemarketers. To that end, the Telephone Privacy Division maintains, updates, and enforces Indiana's telephone privacy list. The attorney general's office also defends the list against attacks by groups that attempt to challenge it.
All Indiana residents can register their home phone numbers on the list that forbids most telemarketers from calling. The service is free and easy to use. Although many states have do-not-call lists, Indiana's is one of the most restrictive and effective.
Endless war on the installment plan
This video makes it clear: No matter what happens in Iraq, the Bush Administration and John McCain always have the same answer: 6 more months. They're at it again this week, asking for six more months. But six months won't change anything—except the body count and the price tag.
What Do The Polls Say?
April 4 numbers show Hillary Clinton at 49% and Barack Obama at 46% in Indiana.
Background polling shows Hillary strong among older voters and white voters, while Obama is even stronger among black voters and young voters.
Which candidate has run the most positive campaign? Obama 31% Clinton 25%
Which candidate has run the most negative campaign? Obama 21% Clinton 44%
The Indiana poll was conducted by Research 2000 from Monday to Wednesday. Its a sample of 400 likely Democratic voters with a margin of error of 5%.
For Governor
The contest to see who will be the Democratic nominee for the state’s highest office is still too close to call, according to a WSBT-South Bend Tribune-WISH-WANE poll. The poll, conducted from March 31 to April 2, asked 400 likely Democratic primary voters which candidate they’d choose to lead the state. With a 5 percent margin for error, Jill Long Thompson led Jim Schellinger 42-41 percent, with 17 percent were undecided. If you want to predict the outcome, look to presidential candidates, said Del Ali, of the Rockville, Md.-based Research 2000, which conducted this poll. Presidential elections drive up voter turnout, which means more people will vote for governor in Indiana than if the race were held in an off year. And Sen. Barack Obama’s candidacy is expected to increase the percentage of black voters who cast ballots this year. He holds 81 percent of the Tribune poll sample, to Clinton’s 16 percent. And the Tribune poll showed 12 percent of the sample were blacks, who make up only 8.9 percent of Indiana’s population. Long Thompson, meanwhile, has a 10-point lead with black voters — 44 percent in the Tribune poll, to Schellinger’s 34 percent, with 22 percent undecided. So if Obama attracts black voters on election day in the large numbers expected, Long Thompson could win Indiana’s primary, Ali said. But Long Thompson also has a 15-point lead with women over Schellinger — 48 percent to 33 percent (with 19 percent undecided). So, “the better maybe Hillary does among women, maybe she thanks Hillary,” he said. Those numbers point to the “diversity of support that Jill and her campaign are receiving,” said Jeff Harris, communications director for the Long Thompson campaign. That said, Schellinger’s popularity is on the rise, Ali said. A poll he did in September for WISH-TV in Indianapolis had Long Thompson ahead by 30 points. “Obviously, he’s caught some fire,” Ali said. Schellinger’s surge in popularity comes over months, after TV commercials have begun airing and after extensive tours of the state. His best demographic is men, who favor him 51 percent to 35 percent, with 14 percent still undecided. Schellinger communications director Jennifer Wagner said the recent poll results are “exciting.” “People are getting to know Jim Schellinger as he travels the state,” she said. “And the more they get to know about him, the more they like him.” And what about white voters? A dead heat: 42 percent to each candidate, with 16 percent undecided.
Fort Wayne's Hillary Clinton Office Grand Opening with National Chairman Terry McAuliffe Opened on Monday, March 31, 2008 at 2006 Fairfield Ave
What an event. Mike Bynum, Allen County Democratic Chairman, Mayor Henry, an unnamed Fort Wayne councilman, Terry McAuliffe, the National Chairman of Hillary Clinton's campaign and 90 others were there to celebrate the opening of this large space now available to Hillary's helpers.
Terry McAuliffe has known and worked with Bill and Hillary Clinton for 25 years. Now he is working to help get Hillary elected as President of the United States.
Jennifer Wagner, the communications director at the Indiana Democratic Party took a similar position with the Schellinger campaign. She will replace Robert Kellar who had held the position for a short time. Her popular blog “Taking Down Words” will be taken over by several guest authors. She is still looking for someone to fill the gap at her other blog, “Accidental Mayor.”
Obama Ft. Wayne Office Grand Opening Saturday, March 29 at 10:00 AM
On Saturday there were hundreds of people ready to help register voters for the next 12 days! The office is open almost all of the time and voters are encouraged to stop by and get involved.
OFFICE LOCATION:
124 Columbia Street
On the Landing, just next to Flashbacks
Parking is available on the street and in the City County Building Parking garage.
Democrat presidential candidate Hillary Clinton was in Fort Wayne Friday afternoon for a Roundtable with Hoosiers on the Economy at Sara's Family Restaurant, 5792 Coventry Lane. The event Begins at 5:45 p.m..
The event was open to the public, but space was limited as she talked about economic issues and her platform to maken it better.
It was, in fact, a roundtable talk with citizens...and it best allowed Hillary to have a true, honest discussion, listening to the concerns of real Hoosiers and allowing her to best express her plans for America, especially for middle class Americans who have been hurt the worst by the Bush economy.
Hillary Clinton started her campaign by saying, "Let the conversation begin!" And she's staying true to that by traveling the state in order to discuss real solutions for real Americans.
Hoosiers for Hillary is making history, right here in the Fort!
Hey--It is ALWAYS good to be a Democrat, and this year it is especially EXCITING to be an INDIANA DEMOCRAT!!!!
Jill Long Thompson at the Democratic Luncheon Club
and TV Ad
Jill Long Thompson spoke at the Democratic Luncheon Club Wednesday, March 26 at the American Legion Post 82, Harris Road at Goshen in Fort Wayne. The always personable and friendly candidate shared her memory of when the personal income in Indiana was higher than that of the national average. Today it is much lower and she wants to help get this state back on a track that will help regain that positive economic stability instead of Indiana being third in the nation in mortgage defaults.
One reason that our state is failing to keep up is that one third of our youth are not finishing high school and this is unacceptable. She is deeply concerned that No Child Left Behind has left too many children behind. Schools need flexibility and Indiana needs to invest in effective vocational education programs so that more students will graduate ready for the work place.
The health care policy does not help children or many others and she would reinstate collective bargaining with state employees so that they can collective work together. With health insurance costs so high, she would require pooling within job categories to help bring costs down which would help businesses and their employees..
She is disappointed that our good jobs have been replaced by less good jobs and our governor is obsessed with privatization of our state's assets. The toll road deal, compared with those struck by other states has turned out to be a very bad long term deal for Indiana that will cause millions of dollars to leave our state.
Jill Long Thompson knows that environmental concerns are important and do not necessarily hurt economic development - in fact they can help.
She has had the experience of not only serving in Congress, but as an Under Secretary of Agriculture responsible for a ten billion dollar budget and seven thousand of employees. By focusing on issues she is capable and competent to move our state in the right direction. Her educational background goes way beyond both Jim Schellinger and Mitch Daniels.
Michael Montagano took part in Dyngus Day
Michael Montagano took part in Dyngus Day (a.k.a. Easter Monday) in northern Indiana and received some news coverage on the South Bend media market. Click on this link to see the video that was seen by voters in Elkhart, Kosciusko and Lagrange Counties.
Traditionally Dyngus Day celebrates Polish heritage and politics, locals have always gathered to hear their leaders (and leaders-to-be) speak and cheer them on. Mike spoke in front of hundreds and got one of the biggest laughs of the day when he said that although he was not Polish himself, his best decision was to marriy into a great Polish family. Bethany took the opportunity to raise her hands with pride and the crowd cheered.
Mike said "I feel like this is a unique opportunity for a new generation of leadership—a choice between the past and future, and this is our time. It's unacceptable to wait ten twenty or thirty more years to solve the problems that have the potential to crush our nation.”
Montagano is an attorney with some experience in government. He worked for former Congressman Tim Roemer and former Lt. Governor Joe Kernan and will run against Republican incumbent Mark Souder in Indiana’s third Congressional district. - - Go to the Mike Montagano For Congress web site
Jim Schellinger Speaks to Third Congressional District Democrats
On Saturday, March 22, Jim Schellinger met with the Third Congressional District Breakfast Club at Brevin's Downtown Eatery on S Main St in Churubusco. His first remarks were that the people in Indiana need better leadership because the failed leadership in our government is holding us back. One way to start is by valuing people and listening to them - a change from the arrogant leadership that has polarized our state.
Three areas of high concern that the people care about are the full funding of education for our students, state taxes that really messed up by Governor Daniel's plan and all Hoosiers must have affordable health insurance. We need jobs program to give Hoosier's jobs that will be here when we quit outsourcing jobs. He supports Employee Free Choice where employees have a right to organize.
Schellinger has made 177 trips to date around every county in Indiana where he sees too many people divided and polarized by our current governor. He feels it is time for a change. We must move from politics of exclusion to building partnerships for success in Indiana.
When answering questions he stressed "smart growth and preserving natural resources and was critical of animal farming on steroids and factory farming, animal cruelty and massive animal waste pollution. He stressed that agriculture must be cleaned up.
Schellinger believes the people of indiana should be able to vote on which time system they want to live with.
Public transportation is hurt because Indiana tax cuts shift costs to cities and counties. This will increase sales and income taxes as Indiana lags behind the nation in mass transport. Indianapolis is in the 99th place for public transportation out of 100 cities in the United States.
Jim Schellinger feels sorry for Mitch Daniels because he does not share our values. We need leadership that understands those values. Click here to see Jim Schellinger's TV ads
FIVE YEARS IN IRAQ: WE NEED A NEW DIRECTION Michael Montagano
Goshen, IN – Yesterday marked the fifth anniversary of the American invasion of Iraq. In the full five years since then, our country and our district have seen hard losses that contradict any belief that this would be a short and easy war.
“For far too long, our representation in Washington has decided on its own what is best for our district, continuing to vote for this invasion in Iraq and refusing to consider a new direction,” stated U.S. Congressional candidate Mike Montagano. “The war has already cost the taxpayers of Indiana’s Third District alone an estimated $925 million that could have been spent on real priorities at home. How can that amount of money be justified when Washington claims we cannot afford $2.1 million a year to keep the Fort Wayne VA hospital’s in-patient services running?”
Montagano continued, “Meanwhile, we face an economic crisis that threatens the way of life of many Hoosier families. We need leaders who will invest in our priorities at home and take responsibility for their decisions. I will do what our current representation refuses to do and support a responsible redeployment of our troops that focuses on the real threats abroad and rebuilds our military. I will be an effective fighter for our district’s priorities.”
Since the start of the war in Iraq, 3,979 brave men and women in uniform have been killed. (Department of Defense, 3/18/2008)
The deployment [to Iraq] of 3,400 of the combat team members [the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team] is the largest deployment of Indiana National Guard soldiers since World War II, state officials have said. (The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, 3/19/2008)
In late December 2002, the White House OMB estimated that the cost of the war would be in the “range of $50 billion to $60 billion,” saying that earlier estimates of $100 billion to $200 billion were too high. (New York Times, 12/31/2002)
Now the total cost of the war is estimated to top $3 trillion dollars. (Washington Post, 3/9/2008)
Admiral William Fallon (USN), Commander, U.S. Central Command stated:
“…I will certainly tell you that I think that our troops are in need of a change in the deployment cycle. We've had too many, from my experience, of several of our key segments of the troop population -- senior NCOs, mid to junior officers -- on multiple rotations. I look at my commanders, and some of them have logged more months in Iraq in the last decade than they have at home by a significant amount.” [Testimony before the House Armed Services Committee, 3/5/08]
Jill Long Thompson to Speak at the Allen County Democratic Party Luncheon Club
Jill Long Thompson will be at the Wednesday, March 26 luncheon meeting to speak to Democrats on her gubernatorial campaign. Because of other responsibilities, she will begin speaking at 11:45. We suggest you be there well before 11:30am to order at American Legion Post 82, Harris Road at Goshen. Linda Bentz will also be speaking about Hillary Clinton -- her experience and her plans for our future. Don't miss this one.
=== = = = = == = = == == == == == = = =
Jill Long Thompson will have statewide television ads on the air “soon.”
When asked to comment on the ads of Schellinger, she first said that she doesn’t comment on ads by others and then said, “I’m reminded of the Seinfeld episode, Its all about nothing". - -Jim Shella
Bill Clinton Spoke at the Grand Wayne Convention Center
On Tuesday night former President Bill Clinton was joined in Fort Wayne by Judy O'Bannon, former Indiana First Lady and Joe Kernan, former governor of Indiana who all spoke on behalf of Senator Hillary Clinton. The line began forming at the Grand Wayne Center before noon for the “Solutions for America” rally in support of his wife, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton. Two thousand were ithere for Clinton’s nearly one-hour speech. .
We were impressed with some of the ideas expressed concerning health care and the inability and inefficacy of the health insurance industry. But her plan falls short, as does Obama's plan, of single provider health care. The full report is on our Hillary page
The Big Democratic Primary is coming to Indiana
It's been 40 years since Indiana has helped decide a nominee for president of the United States, but this political season, the state has a definite role to play.
Candidates know well the influence Indiana has when it holds its primary May 6th. This weekend, Democratic hopeful Barack Obama will bring his campaign to Indianapolis to gain a foothold in a primary that suddenly matters. Indiana has 72 delegates up for grabs for the Democratic candidates and Indiana could help the choose the presidential nominee for the first time in decades.
While Obama currently leads the delegate count, Hillary Clinton's wins in Texas and Ohio have given her campaign a boost.
Kip Tew is Obama's Indiana coordinator and Joe Hogsett, former Indiana secretary of state, is Clinton's Indiana coordinator
With a slim delegate margin separating Obama and Clinton, Indiana, historically unimportant in presidential primaries, will now help decide who become the next Democratic nominee. Be sure you are registered to vote, study the candidates, make your best choice and vote on May 6.
And don't forget there are some other state as well as local Democrats running in offices as well. The Democratic candidate we chose for the governor spot is very important. Check them out too, because this could be the year to ditch Mitch.
Because this question was asked of a search engine - we will help " how can i change my party affiliation in allen co, IN " When you go to vote in the primary election (on May 6) you will be asked to declare your party choice.
At that time just tell them in which party primary in want to vote.
You will be given a slip of paper with the name of the party you declared printed on it.
Give the paper to the voting judge who will set the machine for your party's ballot.
Any other questions, call Democratic Head Quarters at 478-8239.
What I Need To Know To Vote
You can get a photo ID at a drivers license branch. They are open on the Monday before election day and early on election day.
Hines to deliver "State of the 6th District" address
Fort Wayne City Councilman Glynn Hines, D-6th, will give his annual State of the 6th District address Saturday morning, March 15. The speech, “Change that we can see,” will be at 10 a.m. at the Regional Public Safety Academy at Southtown Centre.
The free event will be attended by Mayor Tom Henry; Rep. Win Moses, D-Fort Wayne; Rep. Phil GiaQuinta, D-Fort Wayne; Wayne Township Trustee Rick Stevenson; and Allen County Councilwoman Maye Johnson, D-1st.
From Sunday's JG
When New York Governor Eliot Spitzer resigned, after being linked to a prostitution ring,
there became one less super deligate for Hillary Clinton. Just thought you would like to know.
Just some thoughts:
March 19 is the 5th anniversary of the tragic invasion and occupation of Iraq. The war is now creating two tragedies: Nearly 4,000 American soldiers have been killed and many thousands more injured - along with hundreds of thousands of Iraqis. And our economy is sinking, but the resources we need to turn it around are being squandered in Iraq. Vast sums of money are being borrowed from foreign countries and it will all need to be paid back - with interest. The Republican tendency to borrow and spend is no way to run a country or a war.
BRATTLEBORO, Vt. (AP) — Voters in this southern Vermont town were deciding Tuesday whether to approve a measure calling for the indictment of President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney on charges of violating the Constitution. Read More
The Democrat Party has two candidates running for Allen County Treasurer. You can learn more about each one by clicking on their pictures or names.
The Treasurer deals with collecting property taxes, dealing with tax sales and even deals with your drain assessments and other issues.
The Treasurer's office is to serve you, the taxpayer, by developing more efficient ways for you to retrieve information, make payments and answer your questions.
More than one in 100 adults in the United States is in jail or prison - the highest rate in the world. It is an all-time high that is costing state governments nearly $50 billion a year and the federal government $5 billion more. Something is wrong here in the greatest country in the world. Read More
Did you know that John McCain was NOT born in the United States of America? Could he legally be president ? Yea, probably. check it out.
Barack Obama was born on August 4, 1961 in Honolulu, Hawaii. That state was
admitted to the Union as the 50th state on August 21, 1959, so Barack was born in the U.S.
Hillary Diane Rodham (now Clinton) was born at Edgewater Hospital in Chicago, Illinois.
In 1818, Illinois became the 21st U.S. state so Hillary has no problem either.
The Allen County Democrat Luncheon Club has new officers.
The club meets on the fourth Wednesday each month at 11:30am at The American Legion Post 82, Harris Road at Goshen,There is a $5.00 annual membership fee and attendees pay the very reasonable cost of their own lunch orders. Speakers range from the mayor, Chairman of the Allen County Democrats, candidates and others of interest.
The new officers are Larry Kruse, president - Jack Spindler, vice president - Jane Borge-Elinsen, treasurer - Rachel McNett, secretary - Randy Schmidt, sgt-at-arms.
"Now that he is the Republican frontrunner, it looks like John McCain has changed his position on torture. He's now in favor of waterboarding, but only in very limited cases -- like if you're editor of the New York Times." --Jay Leno
Robed Obama picture taken when Barack Obama meet Kenyan elders in 2006 ignites row
US Democratic front-runners Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have traded accusations over a photo of Mr Obama circulating on the internet.
The picture shows Mr Obama wearing traditional African dress during a visit to Kenya in 2006. The Obama camp said it was circulated by Mrs Clinton's staff as a smear. Mrs Clinton's team denied the accusation. See the photo and read more here.
Fighting Over Forests
Will a Bush Administration effort open hundreds of thousands of acres of public land to private development?
Signed by President Bill Clinton in 2001, the Roadless Area Conservation Rule protects nearly 60 million acres of the country's national forest lands from most road building, mining and logging. Over the last seven years, the Bush administration has tried to amend or repeal the landmark regulation to give states more flexibility. NOW travels to southeast Idaho to investigate how a proposed change in the rule threatens to open thousands of acres of pristine public lands to private development. In the report, NOW speaks to representatives from the ranching, environmental, and mining communities, as well an administration official. Who gets to control the fate of Idaho's vast roadless forests? Find out how you can help shape the answer.
If you have seven minutes to spare, click here to see the unusual story of a cat and a crow.
For a shorter version.
The Fort Wayne Philharmonic presented Video Games Live
Fri. Feb. 15 - If you were one of the lucky ones to attend the sold out “Video Games Live” you had a treat. Having gone to the Fort Wayne Philharmonic for many years, this was certainly the most unusual event we have ever attended. Having played classic arcade hits such as Pong, Donkey Kong, Tetris and others we knew the basic stuff, but had little awareness of the modern high tech games.
It was a stunning spectacle of sight and sound, Video Games Live creates a unique experience that is highly innovative and entertaining. There wasn't a flicker of discontent from anyone, avid videogamer or not - other than suggesting they "Get a Mac" when the video malfunctioned.
For those unfamiliar with the gaming world, a lack of knowledge mattered not as the abundant sensory stimulators provided enough unbridled energy.
The powerful sound of the Pops orchestra, the fantastic choris, an impressive syncopated light show and the passion of the music being performed left even the most skeptical audience member clamoring for more.
As for the serious game aficionados, they were having the time of their lives. As for us, so did we.
New Message from the Department of Peace - AKA: Robert Rouse on YouTube
&
Five years ago in a country far, far away ...IRAQ WARS! - A Robert Rouse animation featuring that "lovable" villain Darth Cheney on YouTube
SJR-7 is DOA (again) - - Fri Feb 15, 2008
In case there was any doubt, the Bill Ruthhart reports that Rep. Scott Pelath has officially pulled the plug on the hateful and legally ambiguous SJR-7:
A constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriages appears dead for this legislative session.
The amendment passed the Senate and was assigned to the House Rules committee, but its chairman, Scott Pelath, said he does not intend to give the bill a hearing. Pelath, D-Michigan City, said his committee voted against passing the amendment last year and didn't see any need to take up the issue again.
If Pelath's committee does not hear the measure, the effort to amend the constitution would have to start anew.
This will make Eric Miller and other bigots even more angry. sourse / Hopefully, if true, this will end Indiana's moving toward discrimination based on misunderstanding, wrong Biblical reading and ignorance of our fellow human beings.
Jon Elrod caught on tape working on campaign during House meeting
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Indiana Democrats caught Republican State Representative Elrod on tape doing work for his congressional campaign during a meeting of the Indiana house on Tuesday and said his actions amount to an ethical violation. A Republican staffer who helped Elrod will be disciplined according to Minority Leader Brian Bosma.
Elrod is a candidate in the March 11th special election called to replace the late Julia Carson.
From Indianapolis WISH TV - Apparently Elrod was not happy with the Democrats' tactics. See more
The U.S. spends twice as much as other industrialized nations on health care, yet it ranks only 39 among nations in terms of health outcomes and we have 46 million without health coverage and millions more with inadequate coverage.
This is because private insurance bureaucracy and paperwork consume 31 percent of every health care dollar. Streamlining payment though a single nonprofit payer would save more than $350 billion per year nationally, enough to provide comprehensive, high-quality coverage for all Americans.
Public conversation on the healthcare crisis in America will take place at the Allen County Public Library downtown on Sunday, Feb. 24 from 2 - 4 PM.
Hoosiers for a Commonsense Heath Plan will have a representative - Jonathan Walker, MD will lead the discussion on " Our System of Healthcare- Exploring the Morality and the Costs." Also speaking on "Compassion is Not an Option- Healthcare in America" will be Rev. Dr. Jay Abernathy of the Unitarian-Universalist Congregation of Fort Wayne. All viewpoints are welcome to be heard and encouraged to attend. With no dialogue on the issue, we will not be able to move forward. Please plan to come and bring others!
This pretty much speaks for itself. From Shella's Blog:
When conservative lobbyist Eric Miller held a rally at the Statehouse last week calling for an end to property taxes, he got under the skin of at least one lawmaker. Rep. Dave Crooks (D-Washington) used the occasion to launch a new feature on his weekly radio show. He calls it “Worst Hoosier” and Miller is the first to be so named. Crooks said on the air, “If you people listening out there are sending this guy money, you oughta be ashamed.” Crooks called Miller “the most misleading and dishonest person I’ve ever met in the Statehouse.” He went on to call Miller’s property tax proposal as a “dream plan.” On the one hand, Crooks is not alone in his opinions. On the other, would he say those things if he didn’t own the radio station and was not seeking re-election?
------
On another issue, there is also just something wrong with an over-the-hill divorced man with no kids saying he is trying to "defend marriage." Maybe he's just trying to make sure he will never marry again??? If he had had kids and one or more were gay, then maybe he would have a different understand about the issue below this one. - Our Dems
SJR-7: Let's at Least be Honest About the Proposed Marriage Discrimination Amendment
Sheila Suess Kennedy knocks another one out of the park with her column addressing the Indiana Senate's inability to leave the same-sex marriage amendment (SJR-7) alone in the midst of a short, cramped legislative session that should be focused squarely on the big issues facing Indiana taxpayers and voters.
And the so-called danger posed by same-sex relationships, folks, is not a pressing issue.
Basically, proponents say gays shouldn't be allowed to marry because some religions teach that homosexuality is immoral. (Of course, all religions teach that rape and murder are immoral, but Indiana allows rapists and murderers to marry. Go figure.)
They say marriage and sex are for procreation (although we allow sterile folks to marry).
Most of all, they insist that recognizing gay unions will undermine families and the institution of marriage. (Similar claims were made about i
nterracial marriage, and about allowing women to own property and vote.)
Let's at least be honest. This isn't an effort to protect families; it is an effort to privilege some families at the expense of others. SJR 7 is not about religion or morality; it is about whose religion, whose morality.
This also is not about our senators responding to some groundswell of public opinion. This is an issue rapidly losing its salience with most voters, who are understandably more concerned about taxes, crime, access to health care and other bread-and-butter and quality-of-life issues. To the extent the Senate is responding to public pressure, it is pressure coming from a small but highly vocal constituency.
The shelf-life of this non-issue has always been maintained by the ability of Eric Miller to mobilize his socially-reactionary base on a whim, and if anything this should draw attention to the need for an organization that could provide this level of infrastructure and advocacy on our side of the issues. Whether a group such as that would be sustainable is certainly up for debate, but there can be no denying the fact that it would be really beneficial to have a more coherent way to combat this third-party wankery with something of our own creation.
Do you part and write your legislator about this foolishness and bigotry and stop it. The amendment does nothing to protect any one's marriage - it only hurts people.
Republican (former Libertarian) Scott Wise To Run For Congress in the 3rd District
Scott Wise of Columbia City has filed for Indiana’s 3rd U.S. House seat. Apparently he is running now as a Republican against Mark Souder in the May primary. Scott will run a populist campaign to restore the ideals that made America great. Scott believes our government no longer acts in the interest of the people, and is moving us toward a North American government without consent.
Mr. Scott is 40, married, and the 2nd shift team leader at a factory in Columbia City. He served on the Whitley County Council from 2003 to 2006 and tried to run for this seat in 2006, but had his candidacy disallowed by the Secretary of State’s office. There is still a question as to whether or not he can legally run for this office. Read this to find out more.
Scott is a lifelong resident of the 3rd district, and has identified with the Republican Party most of his life. Scott wants to reform the party and the government to preserve the American way of life as he envisions it. Extreme partisanship, border security, individual liberty, and an overreaching Federal government are things he hopes to fix if he goes to Washington.
Could this be why Mike Sylvester left the Libertarian Party and it's blog as well? Of course it is. Mike and Scott are now both Republicans and Sylvester is the campagn manager - again. Look out Mark Souder.
A distasteful comment about Chelsea Clinton by an MSNBC anchor suggesting the Clinton campaign had "pimped out" 27-year old Chelsea by having her place phone calls to celebrities and Democratic Party "super delegates" on her mother's behalf.
David Shuster, who later apologized on the air for his comment, has been temporarily suspended from appearing on all NBC news broadcasts except to offer his apology. The incident could, however, prevent Hillary Clinton from appearing on the network for a debate with Obama on February 26.
Weeks ago, "Hardball" host Chris Matthews apologized to the former first lady after suggesting her political career had been made possible by her husband's philandering. This is not freedom of the press. It is a degradation of what used to be higher news standards and of the viewers as well. It was an unnecessary, inappropriate, and cruel comment.
Religion/politics : Exit Polling and Faith-Related Questions.
In all of the major primaries and caucuses, the National Election Pool, including representatives of several major news outlets, conducts exit polls of voters. The problem this year, though, is that the NEP asks questions about religion of Republicans, but not Democrats.
If you want to know what percentage of voters in the Republican caucuses and primaries described themselves as born-again or evangelical Christians — and whom they voted for — exit polls will tell you. If you want to know what percentage of voters in the Democratic caucuses and primaries consider themselves born-again or evangelical Christians, well, sorry. No one knows. No one knows because the exit polls did not ask.
In five states, voters in Republican contests were asked their religious affiliation, and in four states they were asked how frequently they attended religious services. Voters in Democratic contests were asked those questions in only three states.
In four states, voters for Republican candidates were asked how much it mattered that a candidate shared their religious beliefs. Nowhere was that question put to voters for Democratic candidates.
In every state voters in Republican caucuses and primaries were asked if they were born-again or evangelical Christians. Voters in Democratic caucuses and primaries were never asked.
People at Faith in Public Life, an interfaith group interested in broadening the religious agenda beyond issues favored by conservative Christians, have been researching this, and it’s beginning to generate attention. The group has been hounding NEP officials, arguing that exit polls have ignored “the bipartisan courtship of evangelical voters” and “perpetuated the misperception that all evangelical Christians are Republicans.”
Even Howard Dean and the DNC picked up on the cause. “This bias in polling questions,” Dean said in a letter to the National Election Pool consortium, “has in turn shaped news coverage, making it appear that one party has a monopoly on religion in this race.”
Most of the Republicans we know are Christian - and so are most of my Democrat friends. We even have friends in both parties who do not believe in a religion. Why do some Republicans think that they belong to God's party? Why do some Democrats feel the same way about their party? How would Jesus vote? Most people think he would vote as they vote because everyone thinks their belief is the right belief.
The Yes We Can - Barack Obama Music Video
Ezra Klein, who isn’t an Obama supporter, said, “Without positing any electoral impact or too closely analyzing its politics, this music video, transforming Obama’s already lyrical speeches into actual music, sung and played by actual musicians, is beautiful and affecting.” Obama’s best speeches have been compared to poetry, but it never occurred to me they might literally be considered lyrical. At 4 1/2 minutes it might seem long for some, but if you like Obama, you might like this. If you like music you might also just like it.
In his State of the Union, the President asked Congress for $300 million for poor kids in the inner city. As there are, officially, 15 million children in America living in poverty, how much is that per child? Correct! $20.
Here’s your second question. The President also demanded that Congress extend his tax cuts. The cost: $4.3 trillion over ten years. The big recipients are millionaires. And the number of millionaires happens, not coincidentally, to equal the number of poor kids, roughly 15 million of them. OK class: what is the cost of the tax cut per millionaire? That’s right, $287,000 apiece.
Mr. Bush said, “In neighborhoods across our country, there are boys and girls with dreams. And a decent education is their only hope of achieving them.” So how much educational dreaming will $20 buy?
Michael Montagano Declares His Candidacy for U.S. Congress in Indiana’s 3rd District
Monday, January 28. . Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry introduced Michael Montagano to declare his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in the third district. A large crowd was at the historic Embassy Theatre in Fort Wayne, Monday morning calling for new leadership, a united district, and representation that will listen to the concerns of northeast Hoosiers.
Montagano stressed he is an opportunity to unite us rather than divide us. It is time to put differences aside and take action together to make a positive difference. As someone whose family has lived in this area for four generations, working in railroading, farming, restaurants and education, this young lawyer wants to pull it all together and make work for positive change. He feels we have become paralyze by not working together. There are no such things as Republican problems or Democrat problems, just Hoosier problems. With that in mind, government can do what needs to be done to make things better for everyone.
Mike has been to every county, every city and many towns in the Third District listening to voters. I have seen him at five events in Allen County in the past months and know he does get around and he does listen. This was the second time I have heard him formally speak and he said all the right things to let you know that the direction he is heading is positive, caring and his goals can be accomplished for the good of all.
Click Here to learn more about Mike - click below and hear his declaration of candidacy.
Mike Montagano at the Allen County Democrat Luncheon Club
On Wednesday, January 23 Mike Montagano shared his vision for the Third Congressional District of Indiana. For Hoosiers in north eastern Indiana, Mike offers understandable and positive ideas for changing the direction our country has been heading. As a conservative leaning listener, he believes we can unite on common thoughts and should not be divided by our differences and fears.
It would seem to be beneficial to have someone in congress who wants out of the "Borrow and Spend" philosophy that Republican leadership has used to smother the future financial resources of Americans. By using wise economic strategy, avoiding foolish government programs and without raising taxes, Mike believes we can use the money we have to truly make life better for everyone.
As a public service - Montagano is pronounced phonetically: Mon-tag-a-no. All short “A’s”, nothing fancy, just like it reads.
The Marriage Discrimination Amendment (SJR-7) is Back! Senate Joint Resolution 7 (SJR-7) has been filed and is once again eligible for consideration by the Indiana General Assembly. This piece of legislation is Indiana's infamous Marriage Discrimination Amendmen ¯ that would take away the rights of thousands of unmarried couples throughout the state of Indiana.
Indiana Equality and its coalition partners led the successful effort to defeat SJR-7 last year, but this potentially harmful bill returns for yet another showdown in the legislature in 2008.
SJR-7 has been assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee who will take up the bill during the month of January.
There was a meeting on Sunday, January 20 at 10:00 at the Unitarian Universalist Church (and or) Meeting House at 5310 Old Mill Road in Fort Wayne about this issue with members and a local attorney who explained the proposal, as well as an opportunity to write legislators. It was helpful.
And: At the February 9th - ACDP Breakfast Club 8:30am at the Allen County Democratic Party Headquarters, 1920 Bluffton Road. Coffee and Doughnuts with Democrats. Non-perishable food collected for local food bank. The speaker will be Linda Bienz on Indiana's proposed Marriage Discrimination Constitutional Ammendment (SJR-7).
If you do nothing else, write to your state senator today. Only people who talk to or write to them can make a difference. Do it today, because by Thursday it will be too late. More info is under the list of names. Click Here For Talking Points .
Please contact the members of the Senate Judiciary Committee (below) by phone or e-mail and urge them to "not give SJR-7 a hearing, and to concentrate on the more pressing matters of the people before them in 2008."
Senator Richard Bray, Committee Chair s37@in.gov (317)232-9400
Senator Ron Alting s22@in.gov (317) 232-9400
Senator Jim Arnold s8@in.gov (317) 232-9400
Senator John Broden s10@in.gov (317) 232-9400
Senator Jeff Drozda s21@in.gov (317) 232-9400
Senator David Ford s19@in.gov (317) 232-9400
Senator Tim Lanane, Ranking Minority Member s25@in.gov (317)232-9400
Senator Teresa Lubbers s30@in.gov (317) 232-9400
Senator Sam Smith, Jr. s2@in.gov (317) 232-9400
Senator Brent Steele s44@in.gov (317) 232-9400
Senator Joe Zakas, Ranking Member s11@in.gov (317)232-9400
Join us for the Third-Annual Indiana Equality Rally and Lobby Day Training Indiana Equality has organized its annual rally to highlight issues that affect LGBT Hoosiers on Monday, February 18th, 2008 from 1:00pm - 2:30pm at the Indiana Statehouse. Join your fellow citizens as we proclaim with one voice that Equality IS a Hoosier Value. Details on the lobby day training will be forthcoming.
Let your voice be heard at the Indiana Statehouse.
SJR-7 is back again for another attack on Hoosiers rights. It is more important than ever to help educate your legislators on its hidden dangers. While increasing numbers of representatives are becoming aware of growing problems with the marriage discrimination amendment¯ passed by other states, we need your help to let them know how they can make the best decision for Indiana!
Our elected officials need to hear from each of you about the need to pass a comprehensive bias crimes bill and press to make changes to the state's Civil Rights Law to cover LGBT in employment, housing and public accommodations.
Go to www.indianaequality.org for more information on this year's big event as it unfolds.
What is happening in Fort Wayne?
It would seem that the Republicans are ganging up to defeat the interests of those who may not see things the same way that they do. The Republican members of the Fort Wayne City Council may have violated Indiana's Open Door Law.
#1 A caucus took place prior to the this week's city council meeting. The GOP admits that they made decisions during their caucus. That is a clear violation of the law.
#2 During last year's budget hearings. It has been reported that all the Republican members of City Council met at Don Schmidt's home to discuss the proposed budget. This would be a legal caucus....except they were joined by Council Legislative Affairs Administrator Molly McCray and one of the City Council attorneys. These folks are paid with taxpayer dollars and should not be considered part of a political caucus.
Since a majority of the council was at this meeting, and since it may not be qualified as a caucus, and since they discussed the city budget, it is unclear to some if the budget Fort Wayne has is legal or not.
Do not people of integrety who represent all citizens do things in the open? . . . source
See the fireworks at the first Fort Wayne Council meeting here.
Cliff Kindy is back in Iraq
Read from the blog of the friend of many of us, Cliff Kindy, who has returned to Iraq for the fourth time in October, 2007 as a member of the Christian Peacemaker Teams. Cliff remains there, working to help the people of Iraq's Kurdish north find ways to peacefully co-exist. It will be worth the time to read the thoughts and actions of this great Indiana citizen working for peace and understanding. Christian Peacemakers try to reduce violence by getting in the way and asking "What would happen if Christians devoted the same discipline and self-sacrifice to nonviolent peacemaking that armies devote to war?" Go to Cliff's Blog - I recommend that you start at the bottom and read upwards.
The following video is not related to Cliff, but it could be.
I am a Muslim - worth the watch.
Grassroots Green It was great ! ! ! Grassroots Green founders, John and Pam Stienbaugh
CELEBRATORY KICKOFF EVENT was held on Wednesday Evening, December 5, 2007 from 6-9pm
at Sweetwater Sound, 5501 US Hwy 30, Fort Wayne, IN
The debut of Grassroots Green, a new, locally based environmental action group, and the annual publication, the Green Living Guide for Northeast Indiana took place today. They have great green fundraiser for non-profits, too. There was music, the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Players' Association - Memorial Park Eighth Grade Jazz Combo - Canterbury High School Strings - Three Rivers Jenbe Ensemble. The event was complete with refreshments, door prizes, and great speakers, including Fort Wayne's mayor elect,Tom Henry and Sweetwater Founder and President Chuck Surack.
It was a great chance to meet Green Living Guide contributors and learn of other local businesses and about plans for the further "greening" of northeast Indiana. Together we can all make a difference.
May 28rd - ACDP Luncheon Club
Great web site to share 
Barack Obama Wins Allen County 
At the Wednesday, April 23rd noon meeting, former Allen County Democratic Chairman, Kevin Knuth announced that he will be a candidate for Allen County Council At-Large. This was a great surprise to those present and while Kevin will not be on the primary ballot, he will be appointed to run for that office by the current Democratic Chairman, Mike Bynum. 
Jim Schellinger, running against Jill Long Thompson to be the Democratic candidate for Indiana governor was the main speaker. He was dynamic, determined and definite in how he wants to help grow Indiana in a positive direction. He believes that Indiana deserves better leadership and the failed directions of our current governor are holding us back and have not been positive. By taking away the right of workers to collective bargaining Mitch Danials has hurt workers and polarized the state - especially in public education. One of the first things Schellinger would do as governor is work to help our schools. He has workable plans that would make college more affordable. 
There were many questions and some concerned the privatization that he would do. Schellinger is opposed, from a business man's perspective to privatization. Why do you sell off revenue generating thing and end up losing money for the state. If something is wrong you fix it - you don't sell it. Government is different than business, but some business practices can work in government. The state of Indiana should not be for sale. 
On Saturday, April 19 at 4:30 Ted Danson showed up to tell why he thinks Hillary Clinton would be a great president. Why Ted Danson? Danson’s wife, grew up in Arkansas, and became friends with the Clintons many years ago. Bill Clinton gave Steenburgen away at her wedding to Danson, and they have have continued their close friendship ever since. 
On Friday April 18th at about 12:50 p.m. , Chelsea Clinton held a Campus Q&A Event in Fort Wayne at the Indiana University-Purdue University in the "Stomping Grounds"on the Lower Level of Walb Student Union before a crowd of about 200 people and five television cameras and a few good reporters including Benjamin Lanka of the Journal Gazette. 
Charles Ogletree is introduced by Max Montesino of IPFW to the almost 30 guests who came to hear him speak for Barack Obama. Ogletree, the Harvard Law School Jesse Climenko Professor of Law and Vice Dean for the Clinical Programs, a prominent legal theorist who has made an international reputation by taking a hard look at complex issues of law. He spoke to Fort Wayne residents and later to the Third District Democrats on Saturday, April 12th
What an event. Mike Bynum, Allen County Democratic Chairman, Mayor Henry, an unnamed Fort Wayne councilman, Terry McAuliffe, the National Chairman of Hillary Clinton's campaign and 90 others were there to celebrate the opening of this large space now available to Hillary's helpers. 
afternoon for a Roundtable with Hoosiers on the Economy at Sara's Family Restaurant, 5792 Coventry Lane. The event Begins at 5:45 p.m..
Jill Long Thompson spoke at the Democratic Luncheon Club Wednesday, March 26 at the American Legion Post 82, Harris Road at Goshen in Fort Wayne. The always personable and friendly candidate shared her memory of when the personal income in Indiana was higher than that of the national average. Today it is much lower and she wants to help get this state back on a track that will help regain that positive economic stability instead of Indiana being third in the nation in mortgage defaults. 
Goshen, IN – Yesterday marked the fifth anniversary of the American invasion of Iraq. In the full five years since then, our country and our district have seen hard losses that contradict any belief that this would be a short and easy war.
The Democrat Party has two candidates running for Allen County Treasurer. You can learn more about each one by clicking on their pictures or names.
Scott Wise of Columbia City has filed for Indiana’s 3rd U.S. House seat. Apparently he is running now as a Republican against Mark Souder in the May primary. Scott will run a populist campaign to restore the ideals that made America great. Scott believes our government no longer acts in the interest of the people, and is moving us toward a North American government without consent.
On Wednesday, January 23 Mike Montagano shared his vision for the Third Congressional District of Indiana. For Hoosiers in north eastern Indiana, Mike offers understandable and positive ideas for changing the direction our country has been heading. As a conservative leaning listener, he believes we can unite on common thoughts and should not be divided by our differences and fears. 
The Marriage Discrimination Amendment (SJR-7) is Back!
