* Check out the local Obama page to learn what is going on and how you can help. Obama Buttons

You can download the following speeches from the Democratic Convention in WMA format.
Mark Warner Speech . . . Hillary Clinton Speech . . . Barack Obama Speech

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Jobless Rate Soars to 6.1 Percent, 84,000 Jobs Lost

You might have a job, but job seekers are having problems finding work. The US lost 84,000 jobs in August alone. The labor market is as weak or weaker than at the worst points of the last recession.

The unemployment rate jumped to 6.1 percent in August, the highest level since September of 2003. The establishment survey showed the economy losing another 84,000 jobs in August. With downward revisions to data for the prior two months, the economy has lost an average of 81,000 jobs over the last three months. READ MORE

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Biden Can Throw A Punch

I suspect some Democrats were starting to get at least a little worried about Joe Biden's praise for John McCain. The two have been friends for decades, and Biden has a tendency to tell crowds just how much he likes the Republican nominee.

ABC News noted, for example, that Biden appeared at an event in Langhorne, Pa., and talked about how close he and his wife are with McCain. "John McCain is my friend, I admire John McCain," Biden said. "I know of no man or woman I have ever met that has more personal courage than John McCain. We have been friends for over 33 years. We have traveled together. When John was Navy liaison he staffed me for three or four years everywhere I traveled in the world."

We get it, Joe. You like the guy on a personal level.

So, is Biden willing to confront his buddy aggressively, as the campaign begins the homestretch? Jed Lewison posted this clip, which should erase at least some of the doubts about whether Biden is willing to throw a few punches at his friend.

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Palin Could spell Disaster For GOP - - Watch the reasons here.

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Saturday's a big day for Mike Montagano - he's heading into Souder's hometown to walk in the Grabill Parade. We need a big showing to show Souder that Mike is a real competitor. We're asking for all the help we can get! Its important for him to make a big appearance with as many supporters and walkers as possible.

The Grabill Parade is Saturday September 6th at 10am. We're planning on meeting at 9:15am on State Street and North Main Street in Grabill to start getting ready. We have a few shirts for walkers and plenty of buttons and signs - we'll be giving out balloons and candy to everyone watching.

Be there if you can. Please feel free to call Saturday morning if you have any questions about the parade (914) 841-8589.

-- Jennifer Rogers - Campaign Organizer, Montagano for Congress

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Mitch Daniels talks about discipline in school. “It is to say if it’s necessary to remove a child, expel a child, stop a fight, you can do it and know that the law and your state government will stand with you.” Well Mitch, Indiana already provides that teachers may take necessary measures to ensure student compliance by providing that school personnel stand in the relation of parents - in parentis loci - to the students. Sorry Guv, the state already stands with the teachers. It is time our state stepped forward with a plan that will help students.

Jill Long Thompson has a better plan that will make a positive difference. One more reason to vote for Thompson-Oxley. Go Here to learn more.

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The Republican Convention

John McCain was well supported by his fellow Republicans and gave a great acceptance speech. This will be a close fight and Democrats will have to work very, very hard to influence the undecided voters with the truth about real and necessary change that will make the most positive direction for our country. Because new voters will help make the difference - keep asking and registering people.

If you want to hear the phone call where Governor Palin's represented talked to the state police about her ex brother-in-law we have it. It is long, but you can decide.

The Alaska Legislature voted a few months ago to investigate allegations that Palin dismissed the state's public safety commissioner after the official resisted pressure to fire a state trooper involved in a contentious divorce from Palin's sister. Palin initially denied that she or anyone in her administration had ever pressured Monegan to fire the trooper, but this summer acknowledged more than a half a dozen contacts over the matter, including one phone call from a Palin administration official to a state police lieutenant.

The phone call as an mp3 document - just right for your Ipod.

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Wednesday at the Republican Convention:
- where they have taken over the words "change" and "hope."

Are you as tired as I am of the Republican talk about how Democrats will raise "our" taxes? Apparently they don't want them people to remember what Obama said he would do to lower the taxes of almost ALL Americans. Give us a break. Oh well, I will go back and watch the convention and try to listen without - oh my, some old soldier just brought me a desk. Freedom is not free. Thanks Huck. I will keep America First.

Now it is time for Sarah Palin - (who put the L in pain?) that is how I remember her name.

Palin presented an outstanding but mean spirited speech for the Republicans. The fact that it was full of untruths (especially about taxation under the Democrats) and snide remarks comparing her career to that of Barack Obama. Great speech delivery with a mountain of flawed understandings about the Democrats and their policies and vague untruths about what Republicans would do - because the can't. Her attack dog speech did not let us see enough of her positive side.

Hear Sarah Palin's speech at the Republican National Convention
September 3, 2008

Want the other side of John McCain: Read About John McCain

REMINDER ==== The ONLY way to win an election is to get more votes than the other guy. ====

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With the changes in the Republican Convention, CSpan showed the protest demonstrations on Monday night. After that had been recorded, hundreds were arrested. You can see interesting news and videos at The UpTake. We suggest you look around the page for what interests you.

 

The Late Late Show - Alaska Governor, Sarah Palin grants citizenship to Craig Ferguson

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Jill Long Thompson will be attending the annual union Labor Day Picnic at Headwaters Park
between about 12:45 and 1:45 so if you're there at that time be sure to say "hello."

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If you missed Evan Bayh on Comedy Central, you can watch him now.

A different election is soon to happen

We must all pay attention to what is said, evaluate the words carefully and VOTE for the candidate who will make the changes that will make this country better for all of us who live here. Our local candidates can do it - so vote for them. We say that because we know them and are aware of their dedication.

We have hosted eight Obama supporters in our home and we have learned from these diverse, educated, talented and military experienced people that Barack Obama is the very best person with the potential to lead this country toward a positive, understanding and secure future. We have met with Barack Obama's college professor who has followed his career and supports him. We have met Barack Obama, his wife and we are confident that he is the best choice to lead this country in a direction that will make the most positive difference for all of us. We have met his economic advisors and we are convinced that he is the very best choice to guide our country in the future.

Make a difference - talk to people - LISTEN - and let them know they are not alone.

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As Hurricane Gustav, a highly dangerous Category 4 storm, is lashing Cuba with torrential rain after leaving a trail of destruction across the Caribbean. the Republican Convention considers redirecting events and emphasis as the storm moves toward the U.S. Could the convention will become a fund raiser for disaster victims? They are talking about it.

In the mean time, what about the Republican choice for V.P? We will have more when ready.

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If you missed the convention - you missed the beginning
of a great movement for change in the United States of America.

There is no need for me to share more. You can see it all yourself right now or later on the DNC web site.
I will share more later. How often do we have so many people who care so much for positive change?

New Hope - not for the few - but for the many.

Go to the web site of the Democratic National Convention in Denver (Aug. 25-28)
. . . . Convention Schedule . . . . Frequently Asked Questions . . . . Convention 101 . . . .

I am watching the convention on my computer in HD quality - it is awesome. Go to the DNC web page to see how to get it on your computer without the network comments. It is just like you were there. . . AWESOME ! ! Another best choice is C-Span coverage.

We (R&R) figure you are watching the convention and can make up your own minds on what is happening so we will be watching it, but not reporting much.

Michelle Obama was great - she spoke the words we could not speak - "The world as it is just won't do."

Stop doubting and start dreaming. Elect Barack Obama the president of the United States of America.

Stop fearing and start believing in the hop of what can happen. . . . Each one of us has something to contribute to the future.. Watch as Michelle Obama prepares for her speech. Michelle recorded a behind-the-scenes video on the first day of the convention to give you an exclusive look at all the exciting preparations that are under way. Folks from across the country will get to know Barack and his family a little better. Monday she gave a speech at the convention that shared a few stories about the Barack she knows - - the husband, the father, and the man who shares her dreams for their girls, for this country, and for our future. . . .

We have most of this on audio. Interested? Let me know and we will send it to you. Or you can check it out on the DNC web site. . .

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We will share this just for fun :
Even if you know he's a fake, it's a little shocking to see Gerardo Puisseaux close-up.

The Cuban immigrant to Miami is a dead ringer for Barack Obama, from the broad smile to the close-cropped hair. He was a construction worker in Miami until about six weeks ago, when he hooked up with online Spanish-language news channel America TeVe (www.americateve.com). Since then, he's been going where Obama goes and causing a stir in each location.

"We make something like a reality show," he said Monday evening, his thick accent proving he's not a soundalike. "We walk in the street with the people." He draws attention everywhere he goes.

"Sometimes I get tired because everybody stopping me, a lot of questions, sometimes political questions," he says. "I am not Obama."

About a year ago, Puisseaux realized the resemblance and responds, "A fan? Obama? I love him."

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I just must add that the Democratic National Convention Internet presentations are AWESOME ! !
That is how we are watching it.

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The CSpan Political page - lots to see and hear. (check out the map.)

- - FRIENDS DON'T LET FRIENDS VOTE FOR MCSAME (did I get that right?)

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Great web site for election information to check out from the League of Women Voters: Vote114.org

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Equality IS an American Value!

Take Action Against Hate Crimes

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The Human Right Campaign on the Federal Hate Crimes Bill

These videos were presented to help bring us together

This web guy likes girls and it was not a choice, it was just who I am. Those who like differently than me are just who they are.
Let it go and allow everyone to live together in some sort of harmony. There are more important issues to deal with in this country.
The gay and lesbian friends of both of us have not hurt our marriage one bit and their friendships have made our lives better.

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The similarities between John Edwards' infidelity and John McCain's make us wonder. After denouncing John Edwards as unworthy of public office for having cheated on his ill wife, none of the conservatives have come up with a decent explanation of why McCain's divorce was any less despicable.

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Former Governor Joe Kernan & Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry
Endorse Mike Montagano for U.S. Congress

Fort Wayne, IN – This Friday, August 15, 2008, two political heavyweights in northeast Indiana joined forces to endorse the Third District’s Democratic nominee for U.S. Congress, Mike Montagano. Former Indiana Governor Joe Kernan came to Fort Wayne to officially endorse Mike Montagano and was joined by Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry.

“As a former Governor, I understand how important it is for Indiana to have strong representation in Washington,” stated Governor Kernan. “Mike understands our needs and will be that much needed Hoosier voice in Congress.”

Mayor Henry was also on hand to endorse Montagano, saying that, “Mike represents a new perspective and a new generation of leadership. He understands the importance of economic development and job creation in cities such as Fort Wayne and across northeastern Indiana. Mike is the kind of dynamic and visionary young man who will go to Congress and get our country moving again.”

“It has been my privilege to serve great Hoosier leaders like Governor Kernan and Congressman Tim Roemer,” Montagano said. “I am honored that Governor Kernan and Mayor Henry have joined me tonight to endorse my campaign. It is a powerful statement that they are confident in my ability to bring true Hoosier values to Washington and deliver needed change for families in Northeast Indiana.”

The pair of endorsements further illustrate the strong momentum behind the Montagano campaign. Montagano outraised incumbent Mark Souder in the last reporting period – one of only twenty-two candidates in the country to outraise an incumbent opponent. Montagano also reported more cash on hand than Souder, one of only nine candidates to have more money in the bank than an incumbent opponent. And, most recently, Montagano went up last week with a heavy TV blitz, that continues through this week and beyond. Souder, by contrast, has yet to start airing any TV or radio ads.

The endorsement came last Friday at Memorial Stadium before the Fort Wayne Wizards hosted the former Governor’s South Bend Silver Hawks. Prior to the game, Mayor Henry and Montagano threw out the first pitches to Governor Kernan, a former catcher for the University of Notre Dame baseball team, in front of a full-house of about 6,600 fans.

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Why Am I A Democrat in 2008?

 

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Governor Mitch Daniels is quoted to the effect that the state lottery was created for the purpose of funding education and, he says, it should return to its intended purpose. That was the case in Illinois but not Indiana.

The Hoosier Lottery proceeds originally went to one-time capital expenses (fire stations, bridges, schools) administered through the now-defunct Build Indiana Fund. In the legislative debate on the lottery bill there was discussion about how lotteries are too unpredictable to devote the profits to education and so the money was used for other purposes.

Directing lottery money to education now is an idea worth debating, but the record should show it was a loser in the first lottery debate.

- - WISHTV - Jim Shella

 

Jill Long Thompson reveals Health Care plan

* * We have the Jill Long Thompson Video from the Indiana Democratic Convention.
It is a best way to lean about the woman who must be our next governor. Share it with friends who have not decided on our next governor. Go There

VP THOUGHTS: For those of you who want to know about Evan Bayh and Barack Obama there is a web site you chould check out. It is called obamabayh.com Click Here

Stats Don't Lie: Indiana Lost 16,500 Jobs In July - Jennifer Wagner

The Guv has been traipsing across Indiana these past two weeks talking about expansions and making other economic development announcements. Perhaps he knew this news was coming today (emphasis added):

Between June 2008 and July 2008 nonfarm payroll employment increased in 14 states and the District of Columbia, and decreased in 36 states. The largest employment increases were recorded in Texas (+17,700), Ken- tucky (+11,300), Kansas (+8,800), the District of Columbia (+6,700), and Tennessee (+5,700). The District of Columbia posted the largest over-the-month percentage increase in employment (+1.0 percent), fol- lowed by South Dakota (+0.9 percent), Kansas and Kentucky (+0.6 percent each), and North Dakota (+0.3 percent). The largest employment decreases occurred in Florida (-21,400), Georgia (-18,900), Indiana (-16,500), California (-14,900), and Arizona (-14,100). Alaska experienced the largest over-the-month percentage decline in employment (-0.7 percent), followed by Indiana (-0.6 percent), and Arizona, Georgia, Hawaii, and Utah (-0.5 percent each).

Yeah, our economy's really heading in the right direction.

For those of you playing along at home, here are a few additional fun facts:

• Between July 2007 and July 2008, Indiana's unemployment rate jumped from 4.4% to 6.3%, an increase of 1.9%

• According to figures released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis, Indiana was 44th in the nation last year in terms of GDP growth. [BEA, 2007 GDP Report]

• Between February 2005 and July 2008, Mitch Daniels has created only 20,500 jobs for the state of Indiana.

• Under the leadership of Gov. Joe Kernan - between September, 2003 and January, 2005 - Indiana gained 52,500 jobs.

 

Unfit for Publication

One of the most vile smear peddlers of the 2004 election has found a new target.

Jerome Corsi just published a new book full of rehashed distortions and the same old lies about Barack Obama, and the right-wing noise machine is in full gear promoting it.

In 2004, Corsi helped launch the Swift Boat smear campaign with a book of distortions and lies he wrote about John Kerry.

It’s up to you to spread the truth, so here it is. Obama posted some of the facts about Corsi and his desperate fabrications in this 40 page PDF book. A LITTLE RESEARCH DISPROVES EVEN CORSI’S MOST BASIC CLAIMS

Download the book in PDF - it is well worth the read . . .

 

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Mike Montagano TV Ad

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Birth Control is NOT Abortion

Can you imagine living in a place where birth control is considered an "abortion" and health insurers won't cover it? Where even rape victims are denied emergency contraception?

It seems unbelievable, but the Bush Administration is quietly trying to redefine "abortion" to include birth control. The Houston Chronicle says this could wipe out dozens of state laws that protect women's reproductive freedom and protect rape victims. Access to basic health care for millions of women would be jeopardized. And it's being pushed as a "rule change"—meaning, it doesn't need congressional approval.

Here's what some others are saying about this proposal:
The draft regulation would define birth control as abortion...it could deny access to critical family planning for women across the country.—Letter signed by Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and 26 other senators.

The draft rule could void laws in 27 states that require insurance companies to provide birth control coverage for women requesting it [and] laws in 14 states requiring that rape victims receive counseling and access to emergency, day-after contraceptives.—Houston Chronicle editorial

The administration needs to stop playing word games with women's health and state clearly they will reject any regulations that will undermine women's access to basic health care.—Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

[It's] a spectacular act of complicity with the religious right... - RH Reality Check, Information and Analysis for Reproductive Health
The birth control pill, the IUD, and emergency contraception might all become unavailable—illegal—as a result.—Brigid Riley, executive director of a Minnesota teen pregnancy prevention organization

Send a loud message to Secretary Leavitt that birth control is NOT abortion. click here or write a letter.

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John McCain and the Republican National Committee are trying to convince you that you've been swept up and tricked into wanting change.

They want you to believe that everything is just fine -- that we need to stay the course and elect someone who's voted with George Bush 95% of the time.

To sell this ridiculous idea, McCain and the RNC are using huge checks from Washington lobbyists and special interest PACs to run negative ads attacking Barack Obama and the millions of volunteers and donors who have joined this campaign for change.

While supporters like you are out knocking on doors, registering new voters, and organizing in your local communities, our opponents are not even trying to match your efforts. Instead, they're spending millions to spread the smear that Barack is just a "celebrity" and that our grassroots movement is just a bunch of mindless fans.

So who is John McCain really attacking? - - - - He is attacking you, me, us and our friends at work, at church and everywhere.

 

Barack Obama has no substance? He is only a celebrity? He is just a good speaker?

If you could see first hand how he runs a campaign, his experience in Chicago politics and what he has done for the people he cares about, his strong economic and other supporters, you would know that he can run a country because he has a vision and the skills and the good judgment to make that vision happen. If you recall how the Bush administration, the one with so much experience, has messed up this country, you can easily determine that some experience is bad experience. The need for change can be best brought by Barack Obama and this is the time for hope in America.

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Mitch Daniels - Don't Believe the Hype!

 

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Do you know how much Republican tax breaks and subsidies to Big Oil are costing our community?

Oil companies are slated to get billions of dollars in taxpayer handouts in the next few years. This is a gigantic missed opportunity—we could instead invest in wind, solar, energy efficiency and other clean energy projects that will boost local economies and help reduce our dependence on oil.

A brand new report coming out this week will show the cost to Indiana of Republicans' Big Oil giveaways—and we've got to get the word out. There will be rallies for clean energy on Tuesday, August 19th. At each rally you will see local data and make sure voters know exactly how much the GOP's Big Oil handouts will cost them, and what it would mean for Indiana if we put that money into clean energy instead.

For years, John McCain and the Republicans have funneled billions of our tax dollars to oil companies via tax breaks and subsidies—often at the expense of clean energy projects and green job development. John McCain's new tax plan includes almost $4 billion in tax cuts for Big Oil. This commitment to oil company profits over clean energy progress hurts us at the pump, and it's hurting our local economies.

There is a better way: invest the billions earmarked for Big Oil subsides in a clean energy future instead. That won't happen if John McCain and other Republicans are in power.

We think these new state-by-state dollar figures will surprise people. At the Rallies for Clean Energy, we'll use this data to show people just how much McCain and the Republicans will cost us.

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VIDEO: IN Labor Leaders Spread the Word on Jill Long Thompson!

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

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