SCCDCC
Bulletins

July 29, 2010

Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin


In This Issue

  • Democratic Party Summer Picnic
  • August 17 Special State Senate Election - Help John Laird
  • Help the Democratic Party Support Local and Statewide Candidates
  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events or suggest your own at our online Calendar.

    Watch Democratic Television
    SCCDP produces Democratic Television, a monthly public access program. All episodes are available to view online.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.


    Communications Team

    David Cohen, Director of Communications
    Jacquie Heffner


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    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    Democratic Party Summer Picnic

    Come join us for a day of fun, at the Santa Clara County Democratic Party Annual All Clubs Picnic.

    Come enjoy a B-B-Q with old and new friends. Meet with your local politicians as well as politicians that are currently running for office. We are also expecting a representative from Jerry Brown's campaign office to make an appearance. Best of all, it's free!

    Saturday, 31 July, 2010
    11:00 AM - 01:30 PM

    Rainbow Park
    5801 Rainbow Dr.
    San Jose, CA 95129


    August 17 Special State Senate Election - Help John Laird

    The August 17th special election in the 15th Senate District will affect all Californians for many years to come.

    If John Laird is elected, Democrats will be just one seat away from the critical 2/3 seat majority in the State Senate. When Assemblymember Anna Caballero is elected to the State Senate on November 2nd, Democrats will have the ability needed to repair the state's finances and produce a budget that protects our Democratic values.

    John is a longtime local progressive leader with an impressive legislative record in protecting our Democratic values. He was one of the most effective legislators in Sacramento during his 6 years in the Assembly. Now John is asking the entire Democratic community for help. Here's what you and your fellow Democrats can do:

    • Virtual Phone Banking
      Make GOTV phone calls from the comfort of your home or office.
      Have your Democratic Club host a GOTV phone bank party!
      Sign up at http://www.lairdforsenate.com/involved.html
    • Donate to John Laird's Campaign http://www.lairdforsenate.com/donate.html
    • Walk Precincts and/or Phone Bank
      Phone Banking Monday - Thursday 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm (Food Provided)
      Precinct Walking on Saturday and Sunday 10:00am to 3:00 pm
      South Bay Labor Council 2102 Almaden Road, San Jose

    John is fighting hard against some very wealthy special interests who are trying to prevent Democrats from securing a 2/3 legislative majority. Please join all Democrats in electing John Laird to the State Senate! For more information on how you can help, contact Noelani at (408) 715-7023 or noelani@lairdforsenate.com.


    Help the Democratic Party Support Local and Statewide Candidates

    The Santa Clara County Democratic Party is the primary body for promoting progressive candidates in the County and for ensuring good voter turnout that will elect Jerry Brown as Governor and reelect Barbara Boxer to the US Senate. But we can't do it without adequate financial resources. Please consider making a contribution to your local party. You can make a one-time contribution or become a sustaining member by pledging a monthly contribution for one year.


    Humor Break

    The oil spill is apparently Obama's fault, but the Government better keep their hands off:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/blameoilspill.htm

    The tea party Libertarians want no Government intervention:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/libertarianlifeguards.htm

    Does the GOP really care about our children?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/thinkofchildren.htm

    Republicans blamed Clinton for 8 years, but resent being reminded of who caused the recession:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/whiningcrybaby.htm

    At least they are honest about what they stand for:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/honestapproach.htm

    /table>

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    May 26, 2010

    Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin

    In This Issue

  • June 8 Primary Election - Democratic Party Recommendations
  • Local Ballot Measures
  • Statewide Propositions
  • Special Senate Election in June
  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events or suggest your own at our online Calendar.

    Watch Democratic Television
    SCCDP produces Democratic Television, a monthly public access program. All episodes are available to view online.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.


    Communications Team

    David Cohen, Director of Communications
    Jacquie Heffner


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here.


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    June 8 Primary Election - Democratic Party Recommendations

    California's primary election is less than two weeks away. If you have a Vote by Mail ballot, please be sure to complete it soon. Otherwise, you can find your polling location at smartvoter.org. There are key Santa Clara County and City of San Jose nonpartisan races on the ballot. The local Democratic Party has endorsed candidates for some of these seats.

    While the Santa Clara County Democratic Party currently does not take official positions on judicial races, we are happy to provide links to the web sites of candidates who are registered Democrats so that voters can discover what they have to say about their experience and qualification for office, learn of their judicial philosophy, and see who has endorsed them.


    Local Ballot Measures

    Many of our local communities have school and city ballot measures up for vote. Given California's difficult fiscal situation, many of these funding measures are crucial to the well-being of our local schools and cities. The Santa Clara County Democratic Party recommends voting yes on the following:

    • Measure A, Mountain View-Los Altos School Improvement Measure. YES
    • Measure B, Milpitas Unified School District education and local control measure. YES
    • Measure C, Oak Grove School Disrict Gann Appropriations limit increase. YES
    • Measure E, Los Gatos Union School District bond measure. YES
    • Measure G, Campbell Union School District bond measure. YES
    • Measure H, Mount Pleasant School District parcel tax. YES
    • Measure I, Alum Rock School District parcel tax. YES
    • Measure J, City of Santa Clara Football Stadium. YES
    • Measure K, City of San Jose Cardroom Measure. YES
    • Measure L, North County Library Authority tax continuation. YES

    Statewide Propositions

    There are 5 statewide initiatives on the ballot. The California Democratic Party has made the following recommendations on these initiatives.

    • Proposition 13: Earthquake Safey Measure, YES
    • Proposition 14: "Top two" primary, reduces voter choice, NO
    • Proposition 15: California Fair Elections Act, YES
    • Proposition 16: PG&E Power Grab, NO
    • Proposition 17: Insurance Rate Hike Initiative, NO

    Special Senate Election in June

    Due to the appoinment of Abel Maldonado as Lieutenant Governor, there will be a special election on June 22 to fill his Senate seat. The wide-ranging district goes from Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo in the south, through Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties, and into western Santa Clara County. In Santa Clara County, the district includes Saratoga, Los Gatos, Morgan Hill and the Almaden area of San Jose. This election is extremely important because California is in crisis and this seat would bring Democrats closer to being able to control the agenda in the State Senate.

    Former Assemblyman John Laird is one of the smartest and most effective legislators California has ever had. It is extremely important to help him win the election on June 22. Please consider contributing to or volunteering for his campaign. The Santa Clara County campaign headquarters is at 6489 Camden Ave in San Jose. Or visit his website to learn how to get involved.


    Humor Break

    Do we really need LESS government intervention?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/handsoffy.htm

    Now the coastal states are asking for MORE government help.
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/insertinggovernment.htm

    The party of Drill Baby Drill mourns the oil spill, but for what reason?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/wastedoil.htm

    In California, candidates for Governor are trying to outdo each other on the right wing.
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/panderers.htm

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    March 11, 2010

    In This Issue

  •  
  • Join Our Call to Action
  •  
  • Democratic Dinner - Save the Date, May 7, 2010
  •  
  • Final Countdown to Health Care Reform
  •  
  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events or suggest your own at our online Calendar.

    Watch Democratic Television
    SCCDP produces Democratic Television, a monthly public access program. All episodes are available to view online.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page


    Communications Team

    David Cohen, Director of Communications
    Jacquie Heffner


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

       
    Join Our Call to Action

    The Santa Clara County Democratic Party kicks off the very important 2010 election season with a Call to Action on Saturday, March 27. Join us to learn Why We Must Win in California in 2010 and How We Will Win. Congressional and State Democratic Leaders will be there to address active Democrats. The program begins at 10:15.

    Come by at 9:30 for free breakfast with fellow Democrats. This is your chance to meet and mingle with Democratic elected officials and other party leaders.

    Location: IBEW Hall, 2125 Canoas Garden Avenue, San Jose.

    For more information, contact Diane Rolfe at clubs@sccdp.org or 650-326-6328.


    Democratic Dinner - May 7, 2010

    Every year, the biggest event for Democrats in Santa Clara County is the Democratic Dinner. This year our dinner will be on Friday, May 7, at the Fairmont Hotel in San Jose. Join over 500 fellow Democrats in celebration of our past success and in preparation for the hard work ahead in the crucial 2010 elections. This year, California must elect a Democratic Governor and reelect Barbara Boxer to the US Senate.

    For more information, please visit our website, and stay tuned for an announcement of this year's keynote speaker. You can reserve your space by buying tickets now.


    Final Countdown to Health Care Reform

    President Obama and Congressional leaders are working toward a final vote on historic and much needed health care reform. A vote might be just one week away. As a result, the forces of the status quo, led by insurance companies, are gearing up for one final attempt to block reform in order to protect their huge profits.

    It is important that we continue to make sure the facts on health care reform are spread throughout our communities. This will help Congress understand that we support them in their efforts to make health care more accessible and affordable. Get the facts on health care reform and download flyers to share with your friends, coworkers, and neighbors. There is information there about the President's Plan and also details about the Costs of Inaction.


    Humor Break

    Republicans are all for using reconciliation in the Senate when it suits them:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/horribleweapon.htm

    The big Washington snow storm helped Republicans achieve their agenda:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/snowparalysis.htm

    Despite overwhelming evidence, many still don't believe in climate change:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/allahoax.htm

    Obama invited Republicans to discuss health care:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/stateyourcase.htm

    The GOP believes they are best suited to fix the country that they spent the previous 8 years destroying:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/gopmess.htm

    And once they are back in charge, what would they do?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/socialisttalk.htm

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    January 12, 2010

    In This Issue

  • On the Verge of Historic Health Care Reform
  • Protecting Senator Edward Kennedy's Legacy
  • Democratic Dinner - Save the Date, May 7, 2010
  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events or suggest your own at our online Calendar.

    Watch Democratic Television
    SCCDP produces Democratic Television, a monthly public access program. All episodes are available to view online.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.


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    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    On the Verge of Historic Health Care Reform

    Congress is working to put the final touches on a plan that will improve health care coverage for millions of Americans. This bill transforms our system and will give Americans increased access, affordability and availability to health care. As many of you know, every year Americans are paying more and getting less from insurance companies. The current bill in Congress, while not perfect, brings our nation closer to a better system for all Americans.

    Senator Barbara Boxer said: "There are so many good things in this bill, even though I surely wanted it to be better. But, at the end of the day, this is still a very good bill -- and the most significant reform of America's broken health care system since Medicare was enacted in 1965."

    Among other things, the bill would:

    • Extend health insurance coverage to 31 million more Americans, including 14 million lower-income, working people through Medicaid
    • Prohibit insurance company discrimination based on gender or pre-existing condition -- and make sure you can't lose your insurance when you get sick
    • End the upward, unsustainable increases in insurance premiums
    • Increase funding for community health centers in 10,000 communities across the country, enhancing primary care for more than 25 million people who have traditionally been uninsured or underinsured
    • Close the prescription drug "doughnut hole" for seniors
    • Require insurance companies to spend at least 85% of their income on patient care, not executive pay or profits
    • Cut the federal deficit by $132 billion, according to the Congressional Budget Office

    This legislation is about health care in the lives of real people. Millions of Americans who are currently uninsured will gain access to affordable coverage. Parents will have the security and stability of knowing their insurance can't be revoked at a moment's notice. And the skyrocketing costs plaguing our small businesses will be brought under control.

    With tens of thousands of Americans dying every year due to lack of insurance, and millions more ending up in bankruptcy when they get sick, we cannot afford to wait. It is for these people that we must take advantage of this opportunity to pass healthcare reform now. As soon as health insurance reform becomes law, there are dozens of protections and benefits that will take effect this year.


    Protecting Senator Edward Kennedy's Legacy

    Senator Kennedy spent his career fighting for meaningful health care reform. He passed away just as we were on the verge of finally making a difference in the lives of millions of Americans who do not have health insurance. In just one week, on January 19, there will be a special election to fill the vacancy and replace Kennedy. Martha Coakley is vying to become the first woman to represent Massachusetts in the US Senate.

    Keeping this seat blue is critical. Coakley is the 60th vote needed to pass health care and the rest of President Obama's agenda. Without her vote, health care won't happen.

    Republicans know this and know that if they prevent Coakley's election, they will be able to block all of Obama's agenda, since they are united in voting NO on any progressive policy. That's why they have outspent Coakley so far. As a result, the polls are showing the race in a dead heat.


    Democratic Dinner - Save the Date, May 7, 2010

    Every year, the biggest event for Democrats in Santa Clara County is the Democratic Dinner. This year our dinner will be on Friday, May 7, at the Fairmont Hotel in San Jose. Join over 500 fellow Democrats in celebration of our past success and in preparation for the hard work ahead in the crucial 2010 elections. This year, California must elect a Democratic Governor and reelect Barbara Boxer to the US Senate.

    For more information, please visit our website, and stay tuned for an announcement of this year's keynote speaker. You can reserve your space by buying tickets now.


    Humor Break

    Republican Senators believe they have a mandate for NO:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/stopyou.htm

    Is global warming the latest hoax?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/warminghoax.htm

    Dick Cheney is like a broken record:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/cheneyringtone.htm

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    December 15, 2009

    In This Issue

  •  
  • Holiday Season 2009
  •  
  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events or suggest your own at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

       
    Holiday Season 2009

    This year has been exciting and eventful, starting with the inauguration of President Barack Obama and coming to a close with the promise of real Health Care reform. As Democrats, we have much for which to be grateful. The Santa Clara County Democratic Party is especially grateful to all of you for your activism, which has resulted in many good Democrats being elected to public office in our county, state and across the nation.

    While many times during the year we ask you to help the party by donating and volunteering, at this time we ask that you consider lending a hand to those who are in need this holiday season. This year, local charities are finding themselves short of what they need and are facing higher demand than in past years.

    • Second Harvest Food Bank is in need of food to help those who are going hungry. They are taking donations of food at several locations, the largest of which is at 750 Curtner Ave, San Jose. Visit their website to find out all the ways you can donate.
    • Toys for Tots is desperately short of new toys to give to people without any other means to share Christmas with their children. Donations can be made to the Marine Toys for Tots program at 2390 Zanker Road, San Jose. Toys can also be brought to the Democratic Party office, 2102 Almaden Rd, #114, San Jose. You can also donate cash online.

    Thank you for all you do, and we wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy and healthy Holiday Season and a pleasant 2010.


    Humor Break

    Republicans want only to see Obama fail, even if it means America fails:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/anotherfailure.htm

    Obama fails if health care reform doesn't pass, but apparently also fails if it does:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/anotherfailure2.htm

    Meanwhile, here's the Republican plan for health care reform:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/gopplan.htm

    Did scientists make up global warming? The ice caps don't believe so.
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/stopmelting.htm

    Do you think the global warming deniers would have trusted the scientists who discovered that the earth is round?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/stillround.htm

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    September 29, 2009

    September 29, 2009

    It has been a long time since our last communication, and we apologize for that. As you know, there is no lack of political activity at the national, state, and local level. Your local Democratic Party has been active in all of these areas, whether it is pushing our representatives to support a public option for health care, advocating for a responsible state budget, or registering voters and promoting Democratic ideals locally.

    Local Democrats have been watching the health care debate in Washington very closely. We have supported Congressmembers Anna Eshoo and Mike Honda at their Town Hall Meetings. The Santa Clara County Democratic Party has passed a resolution affirming our support for a strong public option in health care reform.

    In addition, we continue to keep an eye on Republicans and call attention to their positions on the key issues. One common theme is that the Party of No does not care about the plight of average working Americans. Check out our blog to see the Republican plan for California and the callousness of Congressional Republicans' opposition to health care reform.

    We have released a new online
    calendar
    that is more user friendly. There are always a lot of events happening across the county, so check back frequently. You can suggest your own event by clicking on Submit Event.


    November 3, 2009 General Election

    The cities of Cupertino, Sunnyvale, and Palo Alto are holding municipal and school board elections on November 3. The Democratic Party, after a rigorous interview process, recommends voting for the following candidates. These candidates best exemplify the ideals and principles of the Democratic Party. More information on these candidates can be found at SmartVoter.

    • Cupertino City Council: Barry Chang, Marty Miller
    • Palo Alto City Council: Dan Dykwel, Karen Holman, Corey Levens, Gail Price
    • Sunnyvale City Council Seat 1: Tony Spitaleri
    • Sunnyvale City Council Seat 2: Chris Moylan
    • Sunnyvale City Council Seat 3: Jim Griffith
    • Cupertino School Board: Gary McCue

    Learn to Win 2010 Democratic Campaign Training

    Join the Democratic Party and meet new activists in a two-day grassroots training program offered by the California Democratic Party. We are laying the foundation to build on our success in 2010, with an all-important Governor election and other key races. At these trainings, you will learn field skills, online strategy, campaign messaging, and much more. The next training in the Bay Area is coming up on October 17 and 18 in Concord. For more information, or to register, visit www.cadem.org/trainings.


    Silicon Valley Democratic Club Brunch with Congressman Mike Honda

    Please join the Silicon Valley Democratic Club's brunch with Congressman Honda, who will provide his perspective on upcoming crucial health care legislation proposed on Capitol Hill. This is President Obama's highest priority legislative initiative, so the event should be very instructive for those interested in the topic.

    When: Saturday, October 10, 2009
    Time: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
    Where: 2102 Almaden Rd. San Jose, 95125, Hall A

    This event is free for members of the Silicon Valley Democratic Club. Membership is only $20. Space is limited and RSVP is required by Thursday October 8. Call 408-445-9500 for more information or to RSVP.


    Humor Break

    Indoctrinating our Children:
    sccdp.org/humor/obamaschool.htm

    Another audience that needs the message of Obama's school speech:
    sccdp.org/humor/doyourwork.htm

    What Republicans mean by bipartisanship:
    sccdp.org/humor/bipartisan.htm

    Public option in health care?
    sccdp.org/humor/hipgaveout.htm

    What motivates the fervent anti-Obama protestors?
    sccdp.org/humor/aboutracism.htm

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    February 26, 2009

    Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin



    In This Issue

  •  
  • Annual Democratic Party Dinner Featuring San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom
  •  
  • Volunteer at the California Democratic Party Convention
  •  
  • Help Defeat Recall of Democrat Madison Nguyen
  •  
  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

       
    Annual Democratic Party Dinner Featuring San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom

    Our annual Democratic Party Dinner will be held on Friday, April 17, at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown San Jose. Join nearly 1000 other local Democrats, including elected officials, candidates, and grassroots volunteers. We are very fortunate that San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom will be our keynote speaker. Tickets are only $125 each.

    The Democratic Dinner is our biggest fundraising event of the year. The money raised at the dinner will support our campaign operations for the important 2010 California Gubernatorial election. The festivities start at 5:30 with a no-host reception, where you can mingle with legislators, council members, and party leaders. The formal dinner starts at 7:00. We look forward to seeing you on April 17.


    Volunteer at the California Democratic Party Convention

    The California Democratic Party has always relied on the involvement of grassroots activists and volunteers to make our Democratic Party what it is. Without your energy, time and dedication we would not have achieved the many Democratic victories up and down California as well as the historic election of President Barack Obama.

    We must keep the energy going! Our State Convention depends on the overwhelming turnout of our dedicated volunteers and we need your help again at our 2009 State Convention April 24-26 in Sacramento. We will need more than 800 volunteers to facilitate a productive and enjoyable convention for the approximately 3,500 delegates, guests and press in attendance. Volunteers are needed in several areas – some assignments will require sitting while others may involve standing or acting as a runner.

    This year, our volunteers will help make the 2009 Convention a successful tribute to the 13 years of leadership and service of Senator Art Torres, outgoing Chairman of the California Democratic Party. Many statewide constitutional officers and legislative leaders will attend to help make this an exciting and memorable event. There will be opportunities for volunteers to attend General Session and to hear some of our great speakers after their shift!

    If you are interested in volunteering, please complete the volunteer form by March 20, 2009 for best availability. If you have any questions, please contact Christopher Guerrero, Volunteer Director at (916) 442-5707 or email volunteer09@cadem.org. In order to volunteer at the State Convention you must sign-up in advance. There will be a mandatory meeting for all volunteers on Thursday, April 23, 2009 at the Convention Center in Sacramento.


    Help Defeat Recall of Democrat Madison Nguyen

    The Santa Clara County Democratic Party has expressed its support for San Jose Councilwoman Madison Nguyen. She is a strong advocate for progressive values and has served District 7 with honor and integrity. She has well represented the core values of social justice, service to others, and open and accountable government. Many of our affiliate clubs, including the Silicon Valley Latino Democratic Forum and DAWN are officially opposing the recall.

    Voters will be going to the polls in just 5 days. Volunteers are needed to walk precincts, call voters, and get information out about the ill-advised nature of this recall. Help Madison Nguyen defeat the recall by volunteering this weekend.


    Humor Break

    Refreshing change in Washington with Obama as President:
    sccdp.org/humor/doingitwrong.htm

    The Republicans are asking for bipartisantship, but not displaying any of their own:
    sccdp.org/humor/bipartisanship.htm

    And the Republicans claim to know how to make the country grow, despite evidence to the contrary:
    sccdp.org/humor/countrygrow.htm

    They only seem to know one word:
    sccdp.org/humor/anyotherwords.htm

    The public seems to expect miracles. Obama's only been president for 5 weeks.
    sccdp.org/humor/fixedyet.htm

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    December 17, 2008

    Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin



    In This Issue

  • Introduction

  • California Democratic Party Assembly District Delegate Elections
  • Support Councilwoman Madison Nguyen's Fight Against Recall
  • Save the Date - Annual Democratic Dinner
  • Central Committee Swearing In
  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here.


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    SCCDP Bulletin - Holidays 2008

    At the beginning of 2008, there was lots of uncertainty. There were still 8 candidates for the Democratic nomination for President and we still had another year of Bush's presidency ahead of us. Now that the year is coming to a close, things have gotten worse across America, but there is an optimism that President-elect Obama can chart a new course and lead a national recovery.

    Locally, Democrats continue our electoral success, with victories up and down the ticket. From two new San Jose City Councilmembers to a gain of three seats in the California Assembly, voters have entrusted Democrats to lead in this time of crisis. We appreciate the tremendous support of all our volunteers. Without your time and financial contributions, we could not have been as successful as we were.

    We all look forward to January 20, when Barack Obama is inaugurated as the 44th President of the United States. There will be a large local inauguration party. Information will be sent out when details are available. Also, check our calendar for more on upcoming events. In the meantime, we want to pass along important news. We wish everyone the best in the New Year.


    California Democratic Party Assembly District Delegate Elections

    The California Democratic Party is run by delegates from all over the state. Those delegates include 12 people elected from each Assembly District. The Assembly District delegates (6 men and 6 women) are elected at AD caucuses that will be held during the weekend of January 10 and 11. Any registered Democrat is eligible to be a candidate. In order to run, you must fill out an application by noon on December 31. Complete information on the process and the online application are available on the California Democratic Party website. Seven Assembly Districts are located in Santa Clara County and details on the caucus meetings for each of these can be found here.


    Support Councilwoman Madison Nguyen's Fight Against Recall

    The Santa Clara County Democratic Party expressed its support for San Jose Councilwoman Madison Nguyen at the Dec. 4 Central Committee meeting. Madison Nguyen is a strong advocate for progressive values and has served District 7 with honor and integrity. She has well represented the core values of social justice, service to others, and open and accountable government shared by President-elect Barack Obama, the Santa Clara County Democratic Party, and our many affiliated clubs and associations. We support elected leaders who favor common sense over ideology and bring a sense of intelligence and dignity to the political sphere.

    A recall election is being held on March 3. Help Madison Nguyen defeat the recall by volunteering or contributing to her campaign. Updates on the campaign will be posted at sccdp.org and our blog.


    Save the Date - Annual Democratic Dinner

    The Democratic Party Dinner is the biggest event of the year for the Santa Clara County Democratic Party. Mark your calendar for April 17. The 2009 dinner will be a grand celebration of all that we have accomplished and an opportunity to recharge for the battles ahead. The dinner will be held at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown San Jose. Tickets remain $125 each. Ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities will be available in January.


    Central Committee Swearing In

    The Santa Clara County Democratic Central Commitee is made up of 6 delegates from each of the 7 Assembly Districts in the County. These delegates were elected in the June 2008 primary election for a two year term that begins in January 2009. Come see the swearing in of the new Central Committee on Thursday, January 8, at 7:00 pm at the County Building, 70 W Hedding St. The complete agenda of the January 8 meeting will be available online.


    Humor Break

    During the holiday season, who is really serving as President?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/thisthanksgiving.htm

    In reality, there is an excruciating wait before Obama can take over:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/january20.htm

    In the meantime, Bush is trying to cement a legacy without taking blame for anything.
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/chosecollision.htm

    Everybody is hurting this Christmas season:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/grinchhurting.htm

    The car companies need help, but their technology had been a bit behind:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/barbie.htm

    At least Bush won't be getting a severance package:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/askforbonus.htm

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    September 25, 2008

    Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin



    In This Issue

  •  
  • Democrats in Action
  •  
  • Democrats in Local Elections
  •  
  • Local and State Ballot Measures
  •  
  • Join the Conversation at Our Blog
  •  
  • Help Rose Herrera Get Elected to San Jose City Council

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

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    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

       
    SCCDP Bulletin - September 25, 2008

    Santa Clara County Democrats in Action

    Looking for something to do this weekend? Or do you need to work off all that anger at the Bush/McCain/Palin horrors? We have plenty of activities that will not only keep you busy, but allow you to help make sure Obama and our local Democrats are elected in November.

    How About a Party to Start the Weekend?

    Join us for a Debate Watch Party at our headquarters, 43 E. Gish Road, Second Floor, San Jose, CA (right off of North First Street). Party starts at 5 pm, more information can be found here.

    Central San Jose out of your way? Do you live in the northern part of the County? We have a Debate Watch Party just for you, hosted by the Dean Club. This event will start at 5 pm and is a potluck. Please bring a dish and/or a beverage to share. More information is available on our calendar.

    After recovering from the debate, spend some time this weekend precinct walking for Democrats:

    Democratic Party Precinct Walk
    09/27/2008 09:00 am
    09/28/2008 11:00 am
    2102 Almaden Road, Central San Jose

    We will be raching out to voters by precinct walking every Saturday and Sunday between now and election day. Call 408-266-3790 for information.

    Or you can help us register voters and hand out literature on Sunday, September 28th at the San Jose Mariachi Festival in downtown San Jose. The table will be set up from 9 am to 7 pm. Contact Judy at 408-453-2135 for more information or to volunteer.

    Can't help us over the weekend? We will be making phone calls out of our two phone bank locations Sunday to Thursday every week. The phone calls start at 3:00 on Sundays and 5:30 on weekdays. The phone banks are located at 2102 Almaden Road and 43 E. Gish Road in San Jose.

    Our headquarters, located on the second floor at 43 E. Gish Road, is open every day from 10 am to 8 pm. Just stop on by when you have time to help out.

    You can also visit our calendar to find upcoming and ongoing events and volunteer opportunities.


    Democrats in Local Elections

    Most of the attention is on the Presidential election this year, but there are other important races on the November 4 ballot. The Santa Clara County Democratic Party has endorsed candidates in many of the city council and school board races. For example, in an important contest, Rose Herrera is a strong Democrat running against a reactionary Republican in San Jose District 8 (see below). Other competitive contests include those for Mountain View and Santa Clara City Councils. For a complete list of the candidates endorsed by the Democratic Party, visit our endorsements page. Check back in early October, as many of the school board races will be endorsed at the October 2 meeting of the Democratic Central Committee.


    Local and State Ballot Measures

    Your ballot will be full of a variety of local and state ballot measures. Are you unsure how to vote? The Democratic Party has taken official positions on many of the measures and initiatives. All of our recommendations are available on our website. If you have any questions about any local candidates or measures, email us at info@sccdp.org and we will do our best to find an answer for you.


    Join the Conversation at our Blog

    Are you having a hard time keeping up with all the political news? Fear no more - just make sure to visit our blog, where we are posting many new stories and videos each day. You will find both local and national news stories on the blog. Check our blog daily so you can remain informed and entertained by the day's breaking political events. And feel free to leave a comment on a story that interests you.

    Want to know how Sarah Palin did in her interview with Katie Couric? Did you know George Will, conservative, wrote an opinion piece against John McCain? Want to see the latest Obama-Biden campaign commercial? Were you aware that McCain lied to David Letterman yesterday? See all this and more on our blog.


    Help Rose Herrera Get Elected to San Jose City Council

    Rose Herrera's run-off campaign for San Jose City Council will have an official kickoff on Sunday, September 28, starting at 1:30pm and lasting until about 3pm. It will take place in front of Java Junction and Secret Oasis Day Spa (they are next to each other) at 4075 Evergreen Village Square (Aborn and Ruby Road).

    Rose's campaign is also sponsoring a food drive at Evergreen Village Square this week, ending at the kickoff. Several stores have barrels, including Java Junction, Secret Oasis Day Spa, Bank of America, Quizno's Subs, and Silvercreek Fitness and Physical Therapy. Or just bring your donations to the kickoff on Sunday.

    Dust off those walking shoes and show your support for Rose Herrera. Share a light breakfast from 10:00-11:00am followed by a neighborhood walk. Volunteers typically walk for only 2-3 hours, and sunscreen is provided! This is a wonderful opportunity to get out in the great weather and get the word out on an amazing neighborhood candidate. Or join us in calling voters. Come on down to 3051 Marston Way or call 408-274-6007 for information.

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    August 26, 2008

    Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin



    In This Issue

  • Introduction

  • Obama-Biden: The Winning Ticket
  • Having Trouble Keeping up with Republican Scandals and Gaffes?
  • California Budget Battle
  • Help Support the Local Party

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here.


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    SCCDP Bulletin - DNC Convention Edition

    Democratic Party delegates from across the nation are now in Denver, Colorado, for the 2008 Democratic National Convention to officially nominate Senator Barack Obama as the Democratic presidential nominee and Joe Biden for Vice President.

    Please tune in to your favorite network to watch the broadcast of this historic Convention. Gavel to gavel coverage is available on C-SPAN, but you can also catch many of the highlights on other channels. The Convention opens at 2:00 PM Pacific and continues until approximately 7:00 PM each day. For the complete schedule of events or to watch online in HD, see the official Democratic National Convention website.

    Also, please check our calendar to find local Convention watching parties for each night.


    Obama-Biden: The Winning Ticket

    Late Friday eventing we learned that Senator Joe Biden will be Barack Obama's running mate. Biden, long known for his foreign policy expertise, is a man who is not afraid to speak his mind, a man who has fought for working Americans all his life, and a man who has faced and overcome personal tragedies of horrific proportions. Learn more about Senator Joe Biden by clicking here.

    Obama and Biden will further our Democratic ideals, and bring a much-needed change to Washington. Americans are concerned about the economy, we are struggling to afford health care, and we worry about our jobs, our savings, and our mortgages. Obama and Biden understand these issues, and they have the plan to once again bring prosperity to all Americans.


    Having Trouble Keeping up with Republican Scandals and Gaffes?

    Every day Republican scandals and gaffes fill the airwaves. For instance, last week we learned that John McCain couldn't remember how many homes he owned, nor did he remember what type of car he drove. And Friday we learned that Cheney is tied to the Senator Stevens scandal. We also learned that Congressman Jerry McNerney's Republican challenger has a brewing scandal as well. And you might have missed this gem - Dick Morris is claiming that we never invaded Iraq. Instead, according to Morris, the Iraqi government invited us into Iraq.

    Where do you go to find out more about these stories? The SCCDP Blog! Each day we post the stories that are gaining traction in the news, from local to national, all gathered together for you to read and forward to your friends and family. Bookmark our blog to make sure you are informed.


    California Budget Battle

    As of the writing of this newsletter our state still does not have a budget for the current fiscal year. This impasse is largely due to a fundamental flaw in our state Constitution that requires a two-thirds majority to pass a budget. This requirement has allowed Republicans to refuse compromise on any budget proposals. Instead they are obstructionists who are seeking to push their minority political agenda on the majority of Californians.

    Our Democratic legislatures have come up with numerous plans that will cut spending as well as add revenue to our state. Even our Republican Governor has come to realize that our budget problems cannot be solved through cuts alone. Sadly, the Republicans who serve their party and not the citizens of this state are refusing to come to the table and work through this very difficult issue.

    Your families' well-being is directly tied to our state budget. Your children will pay more for college, you will pay more for services, and sadly there will be fewer services for those in our state who are struggling to feed their children and keep a roof over their head.

    If you want to see our state move forward and resolve this issue, let your voice be heard! Write a Letter to the Editor using the tool you can find on our website, and ask those around you to do the same.


    Help Support the Local Party

    The Santa Clara County Democratic Party coordinates all local campaign activities for candidates from Obama down to local school boards, plus works to get information out about the statewide initiatives. Our voter registration program ensures that we maintain our strong Democratic voter advantage. Our precinct captain operation gets information out to households in our neighborhoods. Our website and blog keep folks informed with the latest information on endorsed candidates and upcoming events. Help the party continue to provide these services:

    Very shortly, we will be opening our main San Jose campaign headquarters. From this office, thousands of volunteers will help coordinate the local campaign for Obama and the Democratic ticket. Become a sustaining member by pledging a monthly contribution. Even $10 per month between now and the election will help us make the difference on election day.

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    August 01, 2008

    Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin



    In This Issue

  • Introduction

  • Volunteer Opportunities
  • Help Support the Local Party
  • Help Re-elect Jerry McNerney
  • Join the South County Democratic Club
  • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here.


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    SCCDP Bulletin - July 31, 2008

    Are you too busy to keep up with the political issues of the day? Don't fret, just come on over to our new and improved blog! Each day you will find a number of stories, videos and links to the most important and "hot" political stories of the day. Make sure to bookmark our blog so you can easily find out what is happening in the world of politics, nationally, statewide and locally.

    For instance, the Obama campaign has just released an ad that is perhaps one of the best ads this cycle. It hits back at McCain while at the same time promoting the positives of Obama. The ad was released yesterday, and we have it up on our blog.

    If you have a breaking story, or one that you think deserves to be on our blog, send us an email with the link and we will do our best to post that as well. Besides national political news, we will continue to inform you on statewide issues, including initiatives. Plus we will have plenty of information on local candidates and measures as we get closer to the election.

    This election is one of the most important we will see in our lifetimes. Make sure you know what is going on so you can inform your friends and family.


    Volunteer Opportunities

    Help us register Democrats at our booth at the San Jose Jazz Festival. This is one of the most popular San Jose street fairs of the summer. We will be there Sat & Sun, Aug 9-10 from 12-8pm. To sign up, contact Adrienne at 408-219-4896, or email to volunteer@sccdp.org. View the festival map. Walk-ins are welcome! Look for us in the Circle of Palms area of arts and crafts vendors, near the Fairmont Hotel (outside the festival gates).


    Help Support the Local Party

    The Santa Clara County Democratic Party coordinates all local campaign activities for candidates from Obama down to local school boards, plus works to get information out about the statewide initiatives. Our voter registration program ensures that we maintain our strong Democratic voter advantage. Our precinct captain operation gets information out to households in our neighborhoods. Our website and blog keep folks informed with the latest information on endorsed candidates and upcoming events. Help the party continue to provide these services:

    Very shortly, we will be opening our main San Jose campaign headquarters. From this office, thousands of volunteers will help coordinate the local campaign for Obama and the Democratic ticket. Become a sustaining member by pledging a monthly contribution. Even $10 per month between now and the election will help us make the difference on election day.


    Help Re-elect Jerry McNerney

    Congressman Jerry McNerney needs your help if we are going to keep the seat he won in 2006. Here are two events that you can attend to make sure we keep McNerney in Congress:

    • McNerney Meet-up of South County will be August 12, 2008 at 7:00 PM at Erik's Deli Café, 309 Vineyard Town Center, Morgan Hill. Contact Swanee at 408-782-1017.
    • Fundraiser August 30, 2008 11:30 AM 405 Atherton Way Morgan Hill. Call Swanee 408-782-1017. Volunteer positions are available.

    Join the South County Democratic Club

    The South County Democratic Club is an active group focusing on Democratic activism in Morgan Hill and Gilroy. The club will hold their next meeting on Saturday August 23, 2008 10:00 AM at the home of Susan McKuhen. For more information, call 408-847-6866.


    Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

    Fact or Fiction? John McCain's new attack ad has yet another lie.

    Fact or Fiction? John McCain is just like you and me, a man of the people, who wears $500 dollar shoes.

    Fact or Fiction? A seven square mile piece of ice that just broke off in Canada, proving once again, that there is no global warming.

    Fact or Fiction? John McCain won't raise your taxes, except when he raises your taxes.


    Humor Break

    Bush thinks he has reached the climate change summit:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/G8summit.htm

    Proposition 8 proponents claim that gay marriage threatens heterosexual marriages:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/cantcompete.htm

    McCain, who considers himself a foreign affairs expert, thinks Iraq borders Pakistan:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/foreignexpert.htm

    McCain and Bush want to keep feeding our oil dependencey:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/keepdrilling.htm

    If Phil Gramm, McCain's economic advisor, were a doctor:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/philgramm.htm

    McCain renegs on his pledge to listen to the wishes of Iraq's President:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/whoaskedyou.htm

    Finally, McCain admitted that he doesn't use computers or the internet:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/usingcomputer.htm

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    June 20, 2008



    In This Issue

  • Introduction

  • John McCain is Completely Out of Touch
  • Volunteer Opportunities
  • Fight the Smears
  • SCCDP Fights for Right of Veterans to Register to Vote
  • Central Committee Members Elected for 2009-2010 Term
  • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here.


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    SCCDP Bulletin - June 20, 2008

    We have had an excellent month since our last communication. In the June 3 primary, the Democratic Party's endorsed candidates did extremely well in Santa Clara County. Congratulations to Paul Fong for securing the Democratic nomination in Assembly District 22. We look forward to having Fong represent our values in Sacramento. In elections for the County Board of Supervisors, our endorsed candidates all made the runoffs both contested seats, and Democrat Liz Kniss won reelection. Democrats led the way in all 5 San Jose City Council races. In addition, two Democrats, Lane Liroff and Diane Ritchie, made the runoff for Superior Court Judge.

    Also this month, Democrats are coalescing around our nominee for President, Barack Obama. Most recent polling shows Obama leading McCain in all of the key swing states, including Ohio, Michigan, Florida, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and even places like Virginia that have not voted for Democrats for President in decades. The local campaign will be gearing up over the next month. Keep visiting our website for updates and ways you can help.


    John McCain is Completely Out of Touch

    John McCain is out of touch with American values. Take, for instance, off-shore oil exploration. Three weeks ago McCain said he was against any policy that would force California or Florida to drill off their coast. On Monday, however, McCain reversed his policy on off-shore drilling. It is clear that McCain is just like Bush - in the pockets of the oil industry.

    McCain has no understanding of what resources we already have in place, or how little it would effect the price of gas if California and Florida were to drill off their shores. According to a recent report released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), access to the Pacific, Atlantic, and eastern Gulf regions would not have a significant impact on domestic crude oil and natural gas production or prices before 2030. And the impact of the projected 7% (!) increase in lower-48 oil production that might result in 2030 thanks to opening the OCS on average wellhead prices is expected to be insignificant.

    We cannot afford a third Bush term, and as our example shows, McCain is no different then Bush on the issues that will affect each and every one of us. Get involved, spread the word, and help our nation recover from what has been the worst presidency in the history of our nation. Our blog will continue to highlight issues on which McCain is out of touch with the American people and is in effect just a clone of Bush. Recent entries discuss McCain's views on Iraq and Social Security. Check out our blog also for coverage of local and state politics.


    Volunteer Opportunities

    Summer is a busy time for registering voters at festivals and other activities throughout the County. During the next few months, here are some of the places where we need volunteers to staff the Democratic Party table, provide information to voters, and register new voters.

    San Jose and Campbell - contact volunteer@sccdp.org to help

      June 18: Campbell New Citizen Ceremonies
      July 2-4: San Jose America Festival
      July 24: Campbell New Citizen Ceremonies
      Aug 8-10: San Jose Jazz Festival
      Aug 21: Campbell New Citizen Ceremonies
      Aug 30-Sep 1: San Jose Tapestry Arts Festival
      Sep 25: Campbell New Citizen Ceremonies

    North County - contact volunteernorth@sccdp.org to help

      July 4, 2008: Palo Alto's Famous Chili Cook-Off, Mitchell Park
      July 12 & 13: Los Altos Art and Wine
      July 12 & 13: Palo Alto Clay and Glass Festival
      August 3: Vintage Vehicles & Family Festival, Palo Alto, Palo Alto High School
      August 23 & August 24: Palo Alto Art and Wine Festival
      September 21: "To Life! A Jewish Cultural Street Fair"
      October 6 & 7: Los Altos Fall Festival

    The Santa Clara County Democratic Party has a headquarters in San Jose, where volunteers are needed to answer phones, organize materials, and coordinate activities. Any amount of time that you can volunteer will be greatly appreciated. Contact James Kim at vice-chair@sccdp.org for additional information or to volunteer. Or call the office at 408-445-9500.The headquarters is located at 2102 Almaden Road. Ste. 114 in San Jose.


    Fight the Smears

    Barack Obama is running a great campaign to be the next President of the United States. However, we do know that the Republican Party will stop at nothing in trying to hold on to power. In the spirit of the Swift Boat attacks of 2004, they will smear Obama at every possible step. In order to answer the smears, Obama's campaign has created FightTheSmears.com. When you hear attacks on Obama, you can help by visiting this page and spreading the word. We won't allow the Republicans to smear another good Democrat without fighting back.


    SCCDP Fights for Right of Veterans to Register to Vote

    Steve Preminger, chair of the Santa Clara County Democratic Party, is the plaintiff in a lawsuit against the Department of Veterans Affairs in an attempt to allow access to VA Hospitals for the purpose of helping our Veterans register to vote and participate in the electoral process. The lawsuit stems from an experience in 2004 when Preminger was denied permission to register voters at the VA Hospital in Menlo Park. This case is making national news and is another example of how the Democratic Party is fighting to protect voter rights, and ultimately our democracy. Read more about the case in the New York Times.


    Central Committee Members Elected for 2009-2010 Term

    Three districts had contested elections for Central Committee on the June 3 ballot. Thanks to all the candidates who ran for leadership of the party. And congratulations to those who were elected. The election was for the two year term beginning in January 2009. The following Democrats were elected this month.

    21st Assembly District23rd Assembly District24th Assembly District
    Peter Chiu
    Bill James
    Francis LaPoll
    Anne Mack
    Diane Rolfe
    Jim Thurber
    Xavier Campos
    Tom Cochran
    Javier Gonzalez
    David Parker
    Claudia Shope
    Omar Torres
    Jim Brady
    Hope Cahan
    David Cohen
    Jacquie Heffner
    Phyllis Ward
    Ken Yeager


    Fact of Fiction? We Report, You Decide

    Fact or Fiction? Retired Army Maj. General Taguba stated: The current administration has "committed war crimes" and needs to "be held to account."

    Fact or Fiction? "At this week’s House Judiciary Subcommittee on Civil Rights hearing on torture, Lawrence Wilkerson, former chief of staff to Colin Powell, told Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) that over 100 detainees have died in U.S. custody, with up to 27 of these declared homicides."

    Fact or Fiction? Women are running as fast as they can from John McCain, even Republican women.

    Fact or Fiction? "But I'm not for, quote, 'privatizing' Social Security. I never have been, I never will be." – John McCain


    Humor Break

    McCain doesn't want to be seen campaigning with Bush:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/campaigningtogether.htm

    McClellan tells us that the administration was deceptive. Big surprise.
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/trustuslying.htm

    Industry's latest fear is carbon caps:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/killindustry.htm

    This year's graduates have to brave the economy:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/unemploymentcheck.htm

    The Supreme Court says that even Bush must obey the Constitution:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/indefinitelydetained.htm

    Will anyone believe that the GOP is the "Party of Change?"
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/partyofchange08.htm

    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

    May 22, 2008

    Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin



    In This Issue

  • Democrats Taking the Country By Storm in 2008

  • June 3 Primary Official Endorsements
  • Judicial Election

  • Statewide Ballot Measures
  • Volunteer to Help Register Voters
  • 15th Senate District - Write in Dennis Morris
  • Democratic Central Committee - Vote in June
  • Humor Break

    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here.


    Newsletter Contributors

    David Cohen: Editor
    Jacquie Heffner


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    SCCDP Bulletin - May 21, 2008

    Did you know that in just a few short weeks we will be voting? Yep, the June 3rd election is right around the corner, and fast following the June Primary is the November Presidential Election. But in the meantime, make sure you vote on June 3.

    See below for our complete list of June primary recommendations. Also, we again explain why it is so important to vote no on Proposition 98. In San Jose, there are two contested open seats up for election. In District 2, our endorsed candidate Ash Kalra stands head and shoulders above the other candidates, and if Kalra can garner 50 plus 1 on June 3rd, we will save the city thousands of dollars because there will be no need for a runoff election. District 8 has a more crowded field and our endorsed candidate, Craig Mann, is working hard to get into the runoff. There have been some misleading mail pieces from an opponent touting a Democratic endorsement, but Mann is the only candidate in that district with a Democratic Party endorsement. Please take a moment to visit Mann’s website and donate some time or money to propel him into the runoff.

    Thinking ahead to November, please make sure to check our blog as we post updates, breaking news and more. Our nation has been under the GOP cloud long enough, it is time for us to work together to bring sanity, reason, and a Democrat back to the White House.


    Democrats Taking the Country By Storm in 2008


    Republicans are running scared because 2008 is shaping up to be a year of big Democratic victories. Already, we are 3 for 3 in special Congressional elections in districts that were considered safe for Republicans. The latest victory was last week's win in Mississippi, where Democrat Travis Childers now represents the 1st District, a district that George Bush won with more than 60% in 2000 and 2004. Other big wins came in Louisiana's 6th District, which had been in Republican hands for three decades and in Illinois' 14th District, which was previously represented by former House Speaker Dennis Hastert for more than 20 years. If we won in those supposedly red districts, imagine how we will do in more competitive districts in November, and of course in the race for the White House.

    And it's not just in House races where things look good this year. We are poised to pick up anywhere from 3 to 9 Senate seats. For example, the latest poll in North Carolina shows Democrat Kay Hagan with a 48-47 lead over Senator Elizabeth Dole. In New Hampshire, Jeanne Shaheen leads Senator John Sinunu by 10 points in the latest poll, and in Virginia, Mark Warner leads by 18 points over his Republican opponent. And Mark and Tom Udall are poised to add Colorado and New Mexico to the Democratic side of the aisle. Even in Texas, voters are fed up with Republican rule, with Democrat Rick Noriega polling within 4 points of Senator John Cornyn.

    The lesson is that no states are off limits to Democrats in 2008. Americans have caught on and are ready for true leadership and solutions to our country's problems.




    June 3 Primary Official Endorsements


    There was an error in the headings in last week's endorsement email. Here again are the Democratic Party's official endorsements for the June primary.







    Non-Partisan Races


    Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors


    District 2: Richard Hobbs and George Shirakawa (dual endorsement)


    District 3: Dave Cortese and Otto Lee (dual endorsement)


    District 5: Liz Kniss


    San Jose City Council


    District 2: Ash Kalra


    District 4: Kansen Chu


    District 6: Pierluigi Oliverio


    District 8: Craig Mann


    District 10: Nancy Pyle




    Partisan Races


    (endorsements by the California Democratic Party)


    US Congress


    11th District: Jerry McNerney


    14th District: Anna Eshoo


    15th District: Mike Honda


    16th District: Zoe Lofgren


    California State Senate


    11th District: Joe Simitian


    13th District: Elaine Alquist


    California State Assembly


    20th District: Alberto Torrico


    21st District: Ira Ruskin


    22nd District: Paul Fong


    23rd District: Joe Coto


    24th District: Jim Beall


    27th District: No Endorsement


    28th District: Anna Caballero




    Judicial Election


    An election for Santa Clara County Superior Court is on the ballot in the June primary. We have received many questions about whom the Democratic Party recommends. We do not take official positions in Judicial races, but we can tell you that the following four candidates are Democrats. Please consider these four candidates and choose one when voting on June 3.







    Statewide Ballot Measures


    NO on Proposition 98: Don't be fooled. Prop 98 would have a devastating impact on communities and on the environment. Sponsored by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayer’s Association, as well as by apartment and mobile park homeowner groups, Prop 98 wants voters to believe the measure is only about changing eminent domain rules, but it is really about benefiting large landowners and developers! Prop 98 would dismantle communities’ ability to enforce their own decisions about growth and development. Hidden in its fine print is language that would make unconstitutional ALL laws or regulation that limit property values of individuals or companies. It would prohibit laws protecting the environment, threaten public water projects, and abolish rent control and other renter protections. Because of Prop 98’s anti-renter provisions, large landowners would reap enormous financial benefits on the backs of the elderly and fixed-income renters. It would also negate the current efforts by grassroots environmental groups to preserve the environmental integrity of privately held open-space areas.


    YES on Proposition 99. The Homeowners Protection Act, on the other hand, would reform eminent domain practices to protect homeowners and small businesses by prohibiting state and local governments from using eminent domain to transfer an owner-occupied home to a private developer. The League of California Homeowners, Leagues of California Cities and the California League of Conservation Voters have sponsored Prop 99, and if Prop 99 gets more votes than Prop 98, it will prevent the hidden provisions of Prop 98 from taking effect.


    For more information both of these propositions, visit eminentdomainreform.com.






    Volunteer to Help Register Voters


    The Santa Clara County Democratic Party will be at fairs and festivals all summer long, registering voters and promoting our candidates for the November election. In addition, each month we greet new citizens at the swearing-in ceremony in Campbell and help them register to vote as soon as they are eligible. Here are some of the big events at which we need volunteers between now and September. Please contact volunteer@sccdp.org to volunteer for any one of these events.

  • June 7: San Jose Tamale Festival
  • June 14-15: San Jose Pride Festival
  • June 18: Campbell New Citizen Ceremonies
  • July 2-4: San Jose America Festival
  • July 24: Campbell New Citizen Ceremonies
  • Aug 8-10: San Jose Jazz Festival
  • Aug 21: Campbell New Citizen Ceremonies
  • Aug 30-Sep 1: San Jose Tapestry Arts Festival
  • Sep 25: Campbell New Citizen Ceremonies






    15th Senate District - Write in Dennis Morris


    The California State Senate is two votes short of a 2/3 Democratic majority, a number that would allow it to protect important state services from Republican cuts. The only district covering any of Santa Clara County that is represented by a Republican is the 15th Senate District. That district includes Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Morgan Hill, San Martin, Saratoga, and a small portion of San Jose. If you live in that district, you will notice that no Democrat stepped forward in time to make the ballot as a challenger to the incumbent. Fortunately, there is now an option to vote for a Democrat in SD 15. Dennis Morris, an attorney who served as counsel for the County of Merced Superior Court, has declared himself a write-in candidate. He needs to reach 4,000 votes from the entire district to be put on the ballot in November. When voting, please follow the directions to include a write-in candidate and write in the name DENNIS MORRIS.






    Democratic Central Committee - Vote in June

    On your ballot for the June primary is an election for Democratic Central Committee. The Central Committee is the governing body of the Democratic Party in the County. Our members run the financial operation of the party, vote on candidate endorsements, set policy priorities through position papers and resolutions, coordinate volunteer activities, and charter Democratic clubs. Also, all members of the County Central Committee are delegates to the California Democratic Party, which sets the statewide platform and elects party officers. In addition, our representatives to the state Executive Board elect California's DNC members (Superdelegates). Central Committee members are up for election every two years in each of the Assembly Districts in the County. This year, there are contested elections in the 21st, 23rd, and 24th Assembly Districts. For information on the candidates, you can go to smartvoter.org and look up your ballot.

    More information about the Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee is available on our website. There you can read about our monthly meetings and also find out the names and contact information of all the Central Committee members.






    Humor Break


    President Bush sure knows what it means to sacrifice:

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/givingupgolf.htm


    While people go hungry around the world, our government continues to give handouts to agribusiness:

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/runningoutofgas.htm


    Stimulus checks have been arriving. Will they make a difference?

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/usestimuluscheck.htm


    Is there too little or too much progress in Iraq?

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/withdrawtroops.htm


    Bush's EPA has finally admitted that Polar Bears are endangered:

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/youredrowning.htm


    But the EPA still won't do anything about it, leaving us with one meaningful deadline:

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/globalwarmingdeadline.htm


    But some voters seem willing to settle for a third Bush term:

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/duhvoters.htm


    McCain doesn't even know where he stands on the issues:

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/mccaindebate.htm


    But will Republicans try to steal another election by putting up barriers to voting?

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/votingproblem.htm



    Paid for by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (sccdp.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

  • January 31, 2008



    Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin


    In this edition:

  • Vote Tuesday

  • Vote Yes on Proposition 93

  • Measure E Good for East Side Students

  • Annual Democratic Dinner Coming in April
  • Call to Action
  • California Democratic Party Convention in San Jose!
  • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide
  • Humor Break


    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here.


    Newsletter Contributors

    David Cohen: Editor
    Jacquie Heffner
    Adrienne Grey


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    January 31, 2008

    We count, we REALLY count this time! In just a few days California will cast votes in the presidential primary, and for the first time in memory, our votes will actually help determine who our Democratic nominee will be. Yesterday John Edwards dropped out of the running, which leaves us with two very qualified and great candidates, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. No matter whom you support, please remember to vote this Tuesday, February 5th.

    For those of you who would like to see the candidates in person, Hillary Clinton will be in San Jose on Friday, at the San Jose Convention Center. The event is free and the doors open at 4 pm As of our publication date, we do not have any information on Bay Area appearances by Barack Obama. There will be a rally with Senator Kerry and Congresswoman Lofgren on Saturday at 1 pm at the Mexican Heritage Plaza in San Jose. You can check our website, sccdp.org, for updates on any rallies for either candidate.

    See you at the polls.



    Polls will be open from 7 am to 8 pm on Tuesday, February 5. To find your polling place and get more information about everything on your local ballot, check out SmartVoter.org. For a list of local Democratic Party endorsements, check out our Endorsements page.


    Vote Yes on Proposition 93

    Excerpts from Assemblyman Jim Beall's letter supporting Proposition 93:

    After 27 years in elected office and having recently completed my first year in the State Legislature, I firmly believe Proposition 93 is necessary to provide stability to our legislative system and improve its ability to address California's many and complex challenges.

    In my fourteen years on the San Jose City Council and twelve years on the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, I was able to work with my colleagues to create long range plans for our community. My neighbors always had time to work with me and other local elected officials to design solutions that solved our community's concerns. Unfortunately, I have found that the current system of term limits does not allow for this style of governing in the State Legislature.

    So many of our State's challenges require time, commitment, and persistence to overcome. Over a third of the Legislature's legislators leave office every two years and many seek a higher office the moment they are elected. This past year alone we saw two legislators run for other elected offices moments after being sworn in to serve in the Assembly.

    Although Proposition 93 reduces the overall amount of time legislators may serve, from fourteen years to twelve years, it will provide more stability. The ability to serve 12 years in one House creates the opportunity for long term planning, the capacity to persevere against powerful special interests, and time to gain knowledge and experience that will translate into well constructed solutions.

    termlimitsreform.com


    Measure E Good for East Side Students

    Measure E will fund much needed improvements in the East Side Union High School District and as the Mercury News noted in their endorsement, "renovated and well-equipped schools will improve the learning environment for the district's students. It's hard to put a dollar value on that benefit, but it's large. Vote yes on Measure E." The Santa Clara County Democratic Party also encourages a YES vote on Measure E. You can get more information on what Measure E will do for the district by visiting MeasureE.info.


    Annual Democratic Dinner Coming in April

    The Democratic Party Dinner is the biggest event of the year for the Santa Clara County Democratic Party. It is also the biggest fundraising event of the year. The money raised at the dinner will support our campaign operations for the important 2008 election. Join up to 1000 other local Democrats at the Fairmont Hotel on April 18:

    sccdp.org/dem_dinner.php

    Tickets for the dinner are $125 each. Also available are table sponsorships. There will be a large format program in which you can further support the party by placing ads. Information on all of these opportunities are available online. Buy your tickets and purchase advertising now!

    sccdp.org/dem_dinner.php


    Call to Action

    Are you ready to elect Democrats this year? To kick things off, the Santa Clara County Democratic Party will rally volunteers at our first Call to Action of 2008. We'll inspire you to get involved in the 2008 campaign and review opportunities for you to volunteer. In addition, we will discuss the upcoming California Democratic Party Convention in San Jose. The Call to Action kickoff will be held in early March. Keep your eyes on our website for more information.


    California Democratic Party Convention in San Jose!

    This year's annual CDP convention will be right here in our own backyard. Santa Clara County will play host to thousands of Democrats from across the state at the San Jose Convention Center during the weekend of March 28-30. There will be opportunities to volunteer as well as attend the convention as an observer. So reserve the last weekend in March to see the party in action. We will provide more details soon, so make sure to check both the California Democratic Party website, CADem.org, and our SCCDP website, SCCDP.org.


    Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

    Fact or Fiction? Afghanistan, a failed state?

    Fact or Fiction? State of the Union - Bush said: "Over the past 7 years, we have increased funding for veterans by more than 95 percent. As we increase funding, we must also reform our veterans system to meet the needs of a new war and a new generation."

    Fact or Fiction? The Iraq conflict has killed a million Iraqis.

    Fact or Fiction? "We have our issues with McCain, but none more important than presidential temperament. Is he fit for the highest office in the land?"


    Humor Break

    With Oscar season upon us, it's time to see the political nominees:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/2008politicaloscars.htm

    Everything during Bush's tenure has gone wrong:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/kitchensink.htm

    In the meantime, Bush is seeking some kind of legacy:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/onaschedule.htm

    But while claiming to desire peace and Democracy in the Middle East, Bush continues to court the regime in Saudi Arabia:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/peaceinmiddleeast.htm

    How's the State of the Union?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/winningwaron.htm

    The recession is going to be a monkey on the back of Republicans this year:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/recessionrunningmate.htm



    Copyright 2008, Santa Clara County Democratic Party, All rights reserved.


    January 10, 2008



    In this edition:

  •  
  • Volunteer to Welcome New US Citizens

  •  
  • Vote Yes on Proposition 93

  •  
  • California's Budget Crisis

    Support the Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    Call to Action
    California Democratic Party Convention in San Jose!
  •  
  • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide
  •  
  • Humor Break


    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


    Newsletter Contributors

    David Cohen: Editor
    Jacquie Heffner
    Adrienne Grey


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

     
    January 10, 2008

    2008 is shaping up to be a year of surprises (though it won't be a surprise when a Democrat wins the White House). One very welcome surprise is that California, for the first time in over 30 years, matters in our party's nomination process. We still have several wonderful candidates to choose from. Absentee ballots have already been sent out. The question now is, what will the voters do? Hang onto your hat because this year is unlike any other!

    So what is in store for us this year? Here is an early look at the calendar. Items in bold are local events. Get ready for what is going to be an exciting and very busy year for local Democrats:

    • January: Absentee Ballots go out, CA Primary voting begins
    • February 5: CA Presidential Primary
    • March 8: Santa Clara County Democratic Party Call to Action
    • March 28 to 30: California Democratic Party Convention, San Jose
    • April 18: Annual Santa Clara County Democratic Party Dinner
    • June 3: California State Primary
    • August 25 to 28: National Democratic Convention, Denver
    • November 4, Presidential Election

    Volunteer to Welcome New US Citizens

    Help deliver a welcome from the Democratic Party to brand new Americans. It's a great place to show off your foreign language skills. Naturalization ceremonies take place in Campbell on Wednesday, January 23 (and once every month), starting at 10:30am, 1:15pm & 3:30pm, each lasting about an hour.

    We will be there to provide information to new citizens about the Democratic Party and why we are the party that sticks up for average Americans. This is really a festive and inspiring day. The first 2 sessions are the busiest, with the 800 seat Heritage Theater in the Campbell Community Center packed with both new citizens and their families. A total of over 1200 new citizens are processed in a single day. Registration supplies and local party literature are provided. Please call 408-219-4896 or e-mail volunteer@sccdp.org to sign up or for more information.


    Vote Yes on Proposition 93

    Proposition 93, the Term Limits and Legislative Reform Act reforms California's 17-year-old term limits law by reducing from 14 to 12 the number of years a legislator can serve and allows all 12 years to be served in either the State Senate or State Assembly.

    The reality of the current situation is that legislators spend a considerable amount of effort worrying about their next political move rather than the reason they were sent there: to legislate well for the people of California. For example, with only six years to serve in the Assembly, many members of the Assembly look to run for the first available Senate seat. After serving just two years in the Assembly, many start to run for a Senate seat and put their time and energy there. This is no way to run the government of the 8th largest economy of the world.

    In this current session, 25 of the 48 Assembly Democrats were brand new. This has been a challenge at the time of a major budget shortfall, implementation of the climate change law, and comprehensive health care reform.

    Proposition 93 strikes a reasonable balance between the need for new people and fresh ideas, and the need for experienced legislators with the knowledge and expertise to deal with the complex problems facing California. With a 2008 budget shortfall approaching $14 billion, we’ve come to a place where the easy fixes have been exhausted. Navigating this latest budget crisis is going to require political fortitude and a sense of innovation. With approximately a third of the legislature set to be termed out later this year, those are qualities that may be hard to find.

    The California Democratic Party urges voters to support Proposition 93, which is also supported by other organizations you trust: California Labor Federation, California Professional Firefighters, Congress of California Seniors, Equality California, Greenlining Institute, Older Women's League, Sierra Club, California Teachers Association, California League of Conservation Voters, and Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund.

    Please join us in creating a more efficient and effective State Legislature. Learn more about Proposition 93 at www.TermLimitsReform.com.


    California's Budget Crisis

    Assembly Democrats, led by Speaker of the Assembly Fabian Núñez, responded to the Governor's State of the State address by acknowledging the major challenges facing the state and calling on the Governor, Legislative Republicans and all Californians to have a "real conversation" about the need to address California’s multi-billion dollar deficit with more than just another round of program cuts.

    In the official Democratic response to the Governor’s address, which was broadcast statewide on television and radio, Speaker Núñez said "For too long the discussion has been dominated by those who only want to cut the services Californians depend on. As a result, we’ve been forced to cut and borrow our way out of deficit after deficit."

    Today, the Governor released his draconian budget proposal, including 10% cuts to education funding, closing 48 State Parks, releasing over 20,000 prisoners, and reducing services and aid to the poor and low-income blind, elderly and disabled. Democrats in the legislature will stand up for vulnerable Californians.

    See Speaker Núñez' remarks on the Governor's State of the State speech at the Democratic Caucus website. At that site, you will also see videotaped responses to the speech by our local Assembly members.


    Support the Santa Clara County Democratic Party

    Your Santa Clara County Democratic Party needs your support! The people who make up your Santa Clara County Democratic Party -- all volunteers -- work hard, and operate our key programs.

    One key to winning elections is to keep the advantage we have in party registration. Registering Democrats is an ongoing job. Our county Democratic Party maintains a presence at all major street fairs (over 20) in the county, plus key farmer's markets and special events. The county Democratic Party must pay for booths, equipment, and supplies.

    Later this year, SCCDP will open at least three campaign headquarters, with all that entails (phones, computers, copiers, fax machines, supplies, some staff). We expect at least 2000 new volunteers; four years ago, over 3000 volunteers signed up, and many of these will be back. We'll give them an organized, efficient campaign that will win not just the top of the ticket, but all our city and county races as well.

    Besides these two primary activities, the party has an ongoing walk-your-own-precinct program. We maintain a database of registered voters, and provide volunteers with excellent materials to distribute.

    We are in the process of raising funds for these party activities, plus to support at least one paid staff member to help coordinate the crucial 2008 campaign. To help, go to

    http://sccdp.org/donate.php

    SUSTAINING MEMBERSHIP
    If it's more convenient, you can donate a small amount every month. This method of contributing is especially valuable because it enables us to plan our financing better. Become a Sustaining Member of the Santa Clara County Democratic Party at

    http://sccdp.org/donate.php


    Call to Action

    Are you ready to elect Democrats this year? To kick things off, the Santa Clara County Democratic Party will rally volunteers at our first Call to Action of 2008. We'll inspire you to get involved in the 2008 campaign and review opportunities for you to volunteer. In addition, we will discuss the upcoming California Democratic Party Convention in San Jose. The Call to Action kickoff will be held in early March. Keep your eyes on our website for more information.


    California Democratic Party Convention in San Jose!

    This year's annual CDP convention will be right here in our own backyard. Santa Clara County will play host to thousands of Democrats from across the state at the San Jose Convention Center during the weekend of March 28-30. There will be opportunities to volunteer as well as attend the convention as an observer. So reserve the last weekend in March to see the party in action. We will provide more details soon, so make sure to check both the California Democratic Party website, CADem.org, and our SCCDP website, SCCDP.org.


    Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

    Fact or Fiction? Sean Hannity was chased by conservatives after FAUX News shut Ron Paul out of the FNC debate.

    Fact or Fiction? Thanks to George Bush, for the first time in 100 years the "average UK person will this year have a greater income than their US counterpart."

    Fact or Fiction? "Blogger helps (Washington Post reporter) Broder gain admittance to restricted press area."

    Fact or Fiction? "Justice Antonin Scalia said states have been careful to adopt procedures that do not seek to inflict pain and should not be barred from carrying out executions even if prison officials sometimes make mistakes in administering drugs. 'There is no painless requirement' in the Constitution, Scalia said. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito also indicated their support for the states' procedures.”


    Humor Break

    Happy New Year! Only one year left of Bush:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/furtherado.htm

    The Republicans claim to be opposed to wasting tax dollars:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/wastingtaxdollars.htm

    As the mortgage crisis spins out of control, not much relief is offered by the administration:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/mortgagereliefplan.htm

    Bush continues to scoff at doing anything about climate change:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/climatechangeworkinggroup.htm

    Meanwhile, what caused that fire at the Old Executive Office Building?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/smallfire.htm

    Presidential Primaries
    Mitt Romney gave a speech to try to explain his religious beliefs:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/donthaveany.htm

    Mike Huckabee is the "values" candidate:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/downhome.htm

    While Romney and Huckabee are trying to out-religion each other, what about Rudy?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/theobvious.htm

    We'll take Obama's experience any day:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/experiencedenough.htm



    Copyright 2008, Santa Clara County Democratic Party, All rights reserved.

     

    October 11, 2007




    In this edition:

  •  
  • NOVEMBER 2007 ELECTION ENDORSEMENTS

  •  
  • Republican Dirty Trick Thwarted; Vigilance Must Continue

  •  
  • Brunch with Charlie Brown, Candidate for Congress

  •  
  • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide
  •  
  • Humor Break


    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


    Newsletter Contributors

    David Cohen: Editor
    Jacquie Heffner
    Adrienne Grey


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

     
    October 11, 2007

    It is bad enough that George Bush and the Republican Party do not care for America's children, as evidenced by his veto of the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Now they have stooped to disgraceful behavior in attacking a child and his family for speaking about his experiences in receiving healthcare through SCHIP. Not only are the trying to discredit the family, they are issuing threats. This vile behavior is a smoke screen to cover up the real issue - whether or not we will provide health care to low and middle income children whose families cannot afford health insurance.

    Even though 70 percent of Americans support expanding SCHIPS, Republicans in the House will not help to override the veto. Even though they are a minority in our country and in Congress, the Republican Party continues to block meaningful progress on issues of importance to the American people. That is why it is crucial that we work to elect a larger majority in both the House and the Senate in 2008. We will not rest until Democrats constitute a veto-proof majority in both houses.

    Democrats are poised to pick up several seats in the Senate, especially after the retirement of Republican Senators from Colorado, Nebraska, and New Mexico. You can learn more about the great Democrats running for these and other key seats from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. In addition, Democrats have great candidates running against vulnerable Republicans in the House. See below for information about one possible pickup in Northern California.

    In order to stop the war in Iraq, pass comprehensive health care, provide true energy independence, support stem cell research, and fight global warming, it is crucial that Democrats build on last year's impressive gains. Our nation has suffered long enough under Republican mismanagement. Get involved today: sign up to support a Democratic Presidential Candidate, volunteer to register voters, or contribute to your local Democratic Party.


    NOVEMBER 2007 ELECTION ENDORSEMENTS

    On November 6, there will be local elections in Santa Clara County, from Gilroy to Palo Alto. The Democratic Party, after a rigorous endorsement process, recommends votes for the following candidates. More information on your local races is available at SmartVoter.

    • Cupertino City Council: Gilbert Wong
       
    • Los Altos City Council: Randall Hill
       
    • Palo Alto City Council (3 seats): Pat Burt, Dan Dykwel, Sid Espinoza, Yiawey Yeh
       
    • Palo Alto Unified School District: Claude Ezran, Wynn Hausser, Barbara Klausner, Camille Townsend
       
    • Gilroy City Council: Cat Tucker
       
    • Sunnyvale City Council:
      Seat 4: Dean Chu
      Seat 5: Otto Lee
      Seat 6: Ron Swegles
      Seat 7: Melinda Hamilton
       

    Republican Dirty Trick Thwarted; Vigilance Must Continue

    In the last newsletter, we described the cynical attempt by the Republican Party to change the rules to steal the 2008 election. Their goal was to allocate about 20 of California's electoral votes to the Republican candidate by changing the system of allocating electoral votes. Of course, they only wanted to do so in Democratic-leaning California. Since that time, the effort seems to have collapsed, thanks to vocal opposition of Californians up and down the state. Of course, Republicans won't give up easily, and some are currently trying to revive the effort. Please keep watching for signature-gatherers as we continue to be vigilant in stopping this dirty Republican trick.


    Brunch with Charlie Brown, Candidate for Congress

    In 2006, Charlie Brown came within 3 points of defeating John Doolittle in California's 4th Congressional district, near Sacramento, a district with an 18-point advantage in Republican registration. John Doolittle is embroiled in ethical investigations, leaving him even more vulnerable in 2008. Come meet Charlie Brown at a brunch in Palo Alto on October 21. Charlie Brown is the perfect candidate for CD 4. After retiring from a distinguished 26-year Air Force career, Charlie continued to serve his community. Be part of his campaign and enjoy brunch. Contribution levels for this event start at $100 ($40 for students or low income contributors). For more information, visit http://tinyurl.com/24TLVN.


    Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

    Fact or Fiction? Al Leibl writes a letter to the Mercury News stating that we should thank Blackwater for a "job well done."

    Fact or Fiction? The right-wing is attacking the "Frost family, who dared to suggest publicly that the State Children's Health Insurance Program deserved to be expanded to help more low-income children."

    Fact or Fiction? While President Bush is claiming that the US economy is full of "'good news for people here in our country'... a growing number of people say the economy is the nation's top problem, with the less educated among the most worried."

    Fact or Fiction? Republican candidates for president insist "that the only way to ensure economic growth is by cutting all the taxes ever created -- and when you're finished with that, cutting them some more."


    Humor Break

    Bush slams the door on America's children:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/kidshealthcare.htm

    Something is seriously wrong with Republican priorities:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/childrensacrifice.htm

    Where is the GOP big tent?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/sohostile.htm

    Giuliani claims that his position on gun control changed after 9/11:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/straightshooter.htm

    America is suffering from a slow drip of indignities:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/slowdrip.htm

    Whose world leaders are out of touch?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/iran-usa.htm



    Copyright 2007, Santa Clara County Democratic Party, All rights reserved.

     


    September 24, 2007








    In this edition:

  •  
  • Help Stop the Republican Party from Stealing the 2008 Presidential Election

  •  
  • Democratic Dinner Once Again Draws Huge Crowd

  •  
  • California Democratic Party State Convention

  •  
  • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide
  •  
  • Humor Break


    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


    Newsletter Contributors

    David Cohen: Editor
    Jacquie Heffner


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org




     

    September 24, 2007

    Introduction


    The GOP just can't stand the thought that once again California will vote Democratic in the upcoming 2008 presidential election. So how do the Republicans deal with this fact? They craft an initiative that would split our state's electoral votes by Congressional district, which would give a GOP candidate at least 20 additional votes. This scheme is meant to hijack California’s ballot boxes, cheat the electoral process and steal the White House, again. Please consider a contribution to the local Democratic Party so we can spread the word and protect California’s voice in choosing the next president. See below for more information and ways to help prevent it.


    As the 2008 election season comes closer, major candidates will be coming through the area to meet voters and raise money. Coming up in October will be local events for Congressional candidates in two key California districts. Jerry McNerney will be running for re-election after knocking off Republican Richard Pombo. In Sacramento, Charlie Brown is a strong contender to oust corrupt Republican John Doolittle. Check our calendar for information about these and other events.




    Help Stop the Republican Party from Stealing the 2008 Presidential Election

    The Republican Party and out-of-state interests from Texas are behind a proposed new initiative entitled The Presidential Reform Act. It should really be called the "Steal the Election from the Democrats" inititiave. As Bob Herbert so eloquently stated: "The folks who gave us the Willie Horton ads, the Swift boat campaign, the purges of black voters in Florida and endless other dirty electoral tricks are at it again."


    This inititiave would change the way California counts its electoral votes and would nearly guarantee that Republicans would again take the White House. Instead of awarding all 55 of California's electoral votes to the Presidential candidate who wins the statewide popular vote, this Republican scheme would carve up California's vote and give one electoral vote for every Congressional district they win. Because of the way districts are drawn, there are at least 20 safe Republican districts.


    The Republicans have begun signature gathering for an initiative to go on the June ballot that would change the rules and steal some of California's electoral votes. More than 14 newspapers around the state, including conservative publications like the Orange County Register, are urging voters not to sign the initiative. The California Democratic Party asks that you inform yourself about this potential power grab and then join the battle to discourage voters from signing. They have started "fraudbusters" to defeat this GOP plot. Please go to the party website and find out what you can do to help.





    Democratic Dinner Once Again Draws Huge Crowd


    The Santa Clara County Democratic Party would like to thank all who attended our annual Dinner at the Downtown San Jose Fairmont. Our dinner was attended by over 500 activists and elected officials, all of whom had a great time (and enjoyed an excellent dinner). The program included wonderful speaches from State Controller John Chiang, Congressman and DNC Vice-Chair Mike Honda, and State Party Chair Art Torres. Their inspirational words motivated everyone in attendance to gear up for the 2008 election. Many thanks go to the volunteers who helped make our dinner happen, and especially to Hope Cahan who chaired the dinner committee.




    California Democratic Party State Convention

    San Jose will be the host for our next California Democratic Party (CDP) Convention, March 28 - March 30, 2008. If you have never had the chance to attend a state convention this is your opportunity to see our state party in action. There will be all kinds of volunteer opportunities available. Keep checking the CDP website for information on volunteering.




    Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

    Fact or Fiction? Iraq is now so safe that Americans have been told not to leave the Green Zone.


    Fact or Fiction? Rep. Peter King (R-NY): "There are 'Too Many Mosques in This Country,' We Should 'Infiltrate' Islam."


    Fact or Fiction? "A recent Government Accountability Report found that the United Stats has been unable to keep track of the arms it has sold" to Iraq.


    Fact or Fiction? President Bush addressed the nation on September 13, claiming that the situation in Iraq is improving. Last week gunmen blew up Iraq's north export pipeline.




    Humor Break


    Gonzalez is gone, but is there anything left of Justice?

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/allfinished.htm


    Senator Larry Craig exposes the hypocrisy in the GOP:

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/familyvaluesforever.htm


    Even Greenspan is telling the truth of the Bush administration:

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/greenspantired.htm


    Bush wants Democracy in Iraq, but here...?

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/cantstopme.htm


    It looks like the new Attorney General nominee is actually qualified:

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/strongnominee.htm


    And finally, don't things seem a bit too familiar?

    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/1994.htm








    Copyright 2007, Santa Clara County Democratic Party, All rights reserved.





     





    August 01, 2007

    August 1, 2007
  •  
  • Introduction

  •  
  • Democratic Dinner September 8

  •  
  • Santa Clara County Fair

  •  
  • South County Club Annual FUNdraiser
  •  
  • Zoe Lofgren's Annual Summer Barbeque
  •  
  • Presidential Candidates

  •  
  • Humor Break


    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online. Sustaining (monthly) memberships are available.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


    Newsletter Contributors

    David Cohen: Editor
    Jacquie Heffner


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

     

    Introduction

    In the face of Republican obstructionism, Democrats in Congress have accomplished more in the past six months than the Republican Congress accomplished over the previous 6 years. Democrats passed the 9/11 Commission recommendations, energy legislation, and tough ethics reform. The minimum wage has been raised and fiscal responsibility through pay-as-you-go has been restored. In order to fully accomplish our goals, we need more Democrats in Congress and a Democratic President who will support us. Things are looking good across the country, but lots of work needs to be done to ensure success in the 2008 elections.

    We are facing the election of our lives next year. It is not too early for you to get involved. We need people to volunteer to register voters at local events, to become precinct captains, and to contribute financially to our party's success. There are numerous other ways to get involved. The major kickoff event will be our Annual Democratic Dinner, to be held on September 8. See below for details and we hope you can join us.


    Democratic Dinner September 8

    The big event of the year for Democrats in Santa Clara County is our Democratic Dinner. The dinner is also our primary fundraising event for the year, helping fund campaign offices and voter registration activities for the incredibly important upcoming election cycle.

    You are invited to rally with the Santa Clara County Democratic Party in preparation for the 2008 race for the White House. Join us at the San Jose Fairmont Hotel Imperial Ballroom on Saturday, September 8. A general no-host reception starts at 5:30 and the dinner and program start at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $125 per person or $1250 for a reserved table for 10. For more information on the dinner and program advertising opportunities, visit our website. Tickets are available for purchase online, at sccdp.org/dem_dinner.php. Please buy your tickets before August 31 or a $10 late fee will apply.


    Santa Clara County Fair

    The Santa Clara County Fair is back for 5 days, starting today, August 1. The fair runs from 10 am to 10 pm each day at the Fairgrounds, 344 Tully Road, San Jose.

    The Fair is one of the Democratic Party's key opportunities to reach out to the public. Our booth will be in the Pavilion and we need lots of volunteers to help register voters, pass out literature, and provide information to fair visitors. Volunteers can sign up for 2-hour shifts and all shifts are still available. To sign up for a shift, please contact our volunteer coordinator, Adrienne Grey, at adrienne@sccdp.org or 408-219-4896.

    Also let Adrienne know if you are interested in volunteering for the Party at the Tapestry Arts Festival in San Jose over Labor Day weekend.


    South County Club Annual FUNdraiser

    The FUNdraiser and BBQ Picnic will be held on August 19th at the San Martin Country Park. The Theme of the FUNdraiser this year is “GREEN” Awareness of the Environment. We will have a children’s play area with games and toys, environmental exhibits and speakers. The menu this year is: Truthiness Tri Tip, Salad Days Salads, Good Breath Garlic Bread, Hubris Humus, Beltway Beans, Politically Correct Portabella’s Demo Dogs. We are asking members to bring a “pot-luck” dessert with a great Democratic name. There will be a prize for the best named dessert. We will have raffle prizes and a silent auction. Please contact the Club News at clubnews@garlic.com to let us know that you will be donating a raffle/auction prize or a dessert.


    Zoe Lofgren's Annual Summer Barbeque

    Zoe Lofgren's annual summer barbeque always has great food and drink. The barbeque will be held at History Park, 1650 Senter Road, San Jose, on Sunday August 5, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Food will be prepared by the firefighters of Santa Clara County. Tickets are $40, with kids under 13 free. To RSVP call 408-278-1023 or email 2007bbq@lofgrenforcongress.com. Barbeque guests should use the Phelan Street entrance to History Park. Parking is available in the new lot located at the end of Phelan Street. The City of San Jose charges $6 for parking in this lot. On-site parking is available for handicapped guests.


    Presidential Candidates

    As the 2008 election campaign heats up, various Democratic candidates will be visiting the Bay Area. In the next few weeks, for example, John Edwards, Bill Richardson, Hillary Clinton, and Barack Obama will be swinging through. We will try to highlight many of these events on our SCCDP Calendar, so keep checking to find events featuring your favorite candidate. In addition, find links to all of the Democratic candidate websites by visiting our Presidential Candidate webpage.


    Humor Break

    Whose strategy is being followed in Iraq?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/fightemhere.htm

    It's hard to interpret the will of the voters on Iraq:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/getoutnow.htm

    Bush says he will veto an expansion of Children's Health Care because of a "slippery slope":
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/kidcareveto.htm

    Has Scooter Libby suffered enough?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/lockinglibby.htm

    You can tell when Alberto Gonzalez is lying:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/notlying-lying.htm

    Dick Cheney had his defibrillator replaced:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/stillfibbing.htm

    Mark Fiore nails the hypocrisy of the anti-immigration crowd:
    http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/gate/archive/2007/06/06/fioreamnesty.DTL

    Rupert Murdoch is trying to buy the Wall Street Journal:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/WSJeditorialpage.htm


    Since the Presidential campaign is off and running, we highlight some of the candidates here.

    Even Presidential Candidates can become downtrodden:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/makeendsmeet.htm

    Mitt Romney is still trying to stake out positions on the issues:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/somethingyoulike.htm

    And if that is not enough, Bloomberg may run as an Independent:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/flipfloppers.htm



    Copyright 2007, Santa Clara County Democratic Party, All rights reserved.

     

    May 29, 2007

    In this edition:

  •  
  • Introduction

  •  
  • Help Democratic Candidate Kansen Chu

  •  
  • Contribute to SCCDP

  •  
  • DAWN Potluck Brunch
  •  
  • June Century Club Luncheon
  •  
  • Presidential Candidates

  •  
  • Humor Break


    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.  Donate securely online.   

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


    Newsletter Contributors

    David Cohen: Editor
    Jacquie Heffner


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

     
    May 29, 2007

    Introduction

    We have one week left to help our candidate, Kansen Chu, win his race for San Jose City Council District 4. The Special Election will be held next Tuesday, June 5. Just last week the San Jose Mercury News once again endorsed Chu for this race and again reminded voters that Hon Lien was unqualified to serve on San Jose’s City Council.

    There is a clear difference between the candidates. Besides the fact that Kansen Chu is a Democrat and his opponent is a Republican, Kansen if far more versed in local politics and the issues of San Jose. You can judge for yourself by viewing clips of two forums held a couple of weeks ago. If you prefer, watch the entire River Oaks Forum. After watching these clips, you'll feel compelled to help in the final week to make sure Chu is elected. Information on ways to volunteer for the campaign are listed below.

    To read more about the District 4 race, visit the SCCDP Blog.


    Help Democratic Candidate Kansen Chu

    Please set aside some time this week to volunteer to call voters in District 4 and make sure you free up even a few hours to walk a precinct this last, critical, weekend before the election on June 5th. Our endorsed candidate, Kansen Chu, needs your help.

  • Wed 5/30 - Phone banking, 5-9 pm
  • Thurs 5/31 - Phone banking, 5-9 pm
  • Sat 6/2 - Precinct walk, 11 am - 4 pm, Phone banking, 2-7 pm
  • Sun 6/3 - Precinct walk, 11 am - 2 pm, BBQ at 2 pm, Phone banking, 4-7 pm
  • Mon 6/4 - GOTV Phone banking, 10 am - 9 pm
  • Tues 6/5 - Election Day phone banking, 10 am - 8 pm, Victory Party, 8:01 pm

    For more information on any of these volunteer activities, please contact Ashley at Kansen's campaign, 408-348-2220 or kansen@kansenchu.com. All of these activities will be out of

    Kansen Chu's HQ
    1982-A Zanker Road , San Jose
    (corner of Brokaw and Zanker Rd)


    Contribute to SCCDP

    Last week, you received a plea from the Santa Clara County Democratic Party asking you to contribute to help support our efforts to keep Santa Clara County Democratic controlled. Thanks to those of you who have become Sustaining members. By doing so, you provide us a steady stream of revenue for the next 12 months, important months as we build the infrastructure to elect a Democratic President in 2008. Please consider making a contribution by visiting our Contribution webpage.


    DAWN Potluck Bruch

    Please join Democratic Activists for Women Now (DAWN) for a Potluck Brunch on Sunday, June 3, at 11 am. We will be at SEIU Local 521, 2302 Zanker Rd., San Jose. Our featured speaker will be Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren, representative of District 16 since 1994. At presstime we have invitations in to the longest serving member of the local delegation-Hon. Anna Eshoo (CD 14) as well as our newest member-Hon Jerry McNerney (CD11) and hope they will be able to join Hon. Zoe for an open, honest, and lively discussion followed by Q&A. This is a free event, but please bring something good to add to our potluck. Contact Carol Garvey (408 275-6981) if you have any further questions.


    June Century Club Luncheon

    The Century Club on June 8 will feature Rod Diridon, Executive Director of the Mineta Transportation Institute, as our speaker. Rod is past president and current Board member of the California High-Speed Rail Authority, the organization charged with planning, designing, constructing and operating a state of the art high speed rail system in our state. There is probably no one in the state who knows more about transportation than Rod. He has chaired over one hundred international, national, state and local programs related to transportation and the environment. He will talk about "High Speed Rail - on a Roll" and can, in addition, talk candidly and knowledgably about other transportation issues. Known as a dynamic speaker, this should be a most interesting and important program. Lunch as usual begins at noon in the Governor's Room at the San Jose Holiday Inn, 1740 N First St. Be sure to make a reservation before Thursday noon. RSVP to Anne Mack at 650-493-7798 or amack@sccdp.org. The price remains $20.


    Presidential Candidates

    As the 2008 election campaign heats up, various Democratic candidates will be visiting the Bay Area. In the next few weeks, for example, John Edwards, Bill Richardson, Hillary Clinton, and Barack Obama will be swinging through. We will try to highlight many of these events on our SCCDP Calendar, so keep checking to find events featuring your favorite candidate. In addition, find links to all of the Democratic candidate websites by visiting our Presidential Candidate webpage.


    Humor Break

    The most important timetable:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/artificialtimetables.htm

    Bush's Supreme Court weighs in on abortion:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/robedfigures.htm

    The truth behind "Mission Accomplished" is revealed:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/showingsomewear.htm

    What's next for Paul Wolfowitz?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/wolfwhynot.htm

    At least Alberto Gonzalez is consistent:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/idontrecall.htm

    Jerry Falwell, RIP:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/falwellmistake.htm

    What's the connection between taxes and public services?
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/theconnection.htm


    Since the Presidential campaign is off and running, we highlight some of the candidates here.

    Not all the Republican candidates are fully evolved:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/believeinevolution.htm

    Mitt Romney doesn't know where he stands:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/bornagain.htm

    None of the GOP candidates want to be associated with their current President:
    http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/candidatesprom.htm



    Copyright 2007, Santa Clara County Democratic Party, All rights reserved.

  • April 09, 2007

    Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin

    In this edition:

  • Introduction

  • San Jose City Council District 4: Help our Democratic Candidate Kansen Chu

  • Mark Your Calendar: Annual SCCDP Dinner

  • Democratic Leadership Shining Light on GOP Scandals
  • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

  • Humor Break


    Quick Links

    Calendar of Events
    See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

    Donate to SCCDP
    Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online.

    Join a Democratic Club
    Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.

    Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
    Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


    Unsubscribe

    You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here.


    Newsletter Contributors

    David Cohen: Editor
    Jacquie Heffner


    Santa Clara County Democratic Party
    San Jose, CA
    (408) 445-9500
    sccdp.org

    April 9, 2007

    Introduction

    Americans overwhelmingly choose to be Democrats rather then Republicans! According to a major study done by the Pew Research Center for the People and Press, "today, half of the public (50%) either identifies as a Democrat or says they lean to the Democratic Party, compared with 35% who align with the GOP." And further into the report we learn that "the Republican Party appears to be paying a steep price for growing dissatisfaction with conditions in the country."

    Is there any wonder why Americans last November chose to entrust Democrats with running Congress? Americans have seen the light and rejected the ways of the Republican Party, and as Democrats we are more then happy to welcome them to our party.

    Who is switching parties? "Retired Penn State staff assistant Carol A. Spangler, of State College, a registered Republican for more than four decades, switched to the Democratic Party two months ago because 'I just don't want to be known as a Republican right now.'" This is but one person of thousands who no longer care to be associated with the Republican Party and prefer Democrats to clean up the messes that exist as a result of Republican stewardship for the past 6 years.

    This is good news, but we still have a job in front of us: winning back the White House in 2008. Learn more about the wonderful Democratic candidates here. In order to take back the White House we will need your help. Volunteer today to register voters, become a precinct captain, do what ever you can to ensure victory in 2008. See you on the campaign trail. You can contact our Director of Voter Registration, Carolyn Curtis, at ccurtis@sccdp.org.


    San Jose City Council District 4: Help our Democratic Candidate Kansen Chu

    Congratulations to Kansen Chu, who finished first in the San Jose City Council District 4 election in March. Chu will face Republican Hon Lien in the June runoff. Chu is not only supported by the Democratic Party, but the Mercury News praised "his experience and his approach to some complex issues" and called him "the best choice for Berryessa, Alviso and North San Jose." Please help Kansen win this seat by donating your time and energy to his campaign.

    • Every Monday-Thursday 6-9pm
      Phone banking at the headquarters and in Cupertino. A light dinner is provided along with a training. No experience required.
    • Every Saturday & Sunday 11AM
      We are precinct walking on the weekends. A light breakfast is provided along with a training. No experience required.
    • Every Sunday 4-8pm
      Phone banking at the headquarters.

    For more information on any of these volunteer activities or to sign up, please contact Cary at Kansen's campaign, 408-348-2220 or kansen@kansenchu.com.

    Kansen Chu's HQ
    1982-A Zanker Road , San Jose
    (corner of Brokaw and Zanker Rd)


      Mark Your Calendar: Annual SCCDP Dinner

      Our new date for the annual Democratic Party dinner will be September 8, 2007 at the San Jose Fairmont Hotel. Join with us as we celebrate our victories this year and look to taking back the White House in 2008. Keep checking our website for more information.


      Democratic Leadership Shining Light on GOP Scandals

      What a difference an election makes. Now that Democrats control Congress, the Republicans can't get away with as many things as they used to. Here's a rundown of the some of the scandals in the news these days. So many scandals, so little room to write them all down.

      • Scandal at the Attorney Generals Office
        "The people chosen as chief federal prosecutors on a temporary or permanent basis since early 2005 include 10 senior aides to Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales, according to an analysis of government records. Several came from the White House or other government agencies. Some lacked experience as prosecutors or had no connection to the districts in which they were sent to work, the records and biographical information show."
      • Using RNC Email Accounts to evade Congressional oversight
      • Scandal at the GSA
      • GOP Governor of Nevada Scandal
        "A defense company that got a federal contract with help from then-Republican Rep. Jim Gibbons, now governor of Nevada, hired Gibbons' wife to do consulting work, according to a published report Friday."

      Sadly we just don’t have enough room to print all of the current scandals plaguing the GOP, but we will make sure to keep you updated on the corrupt and ethically challenged GOP.

      As we are fond of saying, don’t get mad get active! Hook up with local democrats by way of clubs, come to a Central Committee meeting, sign up to be a precinct captain, help to register voters, whatever and however you decide to get involved remember that you and your energy will help to take our country back in 2008.


      Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

      Fact or Fiction? "On Monday morning's 'Bill Bennett's Morning in America' radio show, Senator John McCain (R-AZ) claimed that the U.S. 'is beginning to succeed in Iraq and said that 'there are neighborhoods in Baghdad where you and I could walk through…today.'"

      Fact or Fiction? "When CNN's Wolf Blitzer asked McCain why Americans still aren't able to safely leave the Green Zone in Iraq, the Senator replied that Blitzer was giving three-month-old talking points: 'General Petraeus goes out there almost every day in an unarmed humvee. I think you oughta catch up. You are giving the old line of three months ago. I understand it. We certainly don't get it through the filter of some of the media.'"

      Fact or Fiction? "Faced with overwhelming evidence that he was wrong, McCain denied he'd ever said it: 'Well, I'm not saying they could go without protection. The President goes around America with protection. So, certainly I didn't say that."

      Fact or Fiction? "The crack of shots fired by unseen snipers echoed on Monday through Baghdad's wholesale Shorja market, a day after U.S. Senator John McCain held up his visit there as one sign of improving security in Baghdad."


      Humor Break

      Escalating the war to save the Titanic:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/addmorepassengers.htm

      Who really supports the troops?
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/daddyhome.htm

      The Supreme Court has ordered the EPA to protect our environment:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/epaglobalwarming.htm

      What equipment is truly needed in Iraq?
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/iraqexit.htm

      Bush has "offered" to have his aids answer questions:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/pantomime.htm

      Who serves at the pleasure of the president?
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/pleasurehorsemen.htm

      Bush is ignoring the will of the voting public:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/whoaskedyou.htm


      Since the Presidential campaign is off and running, we highlight some of the candidates here.

      Rudy Giuliani will focus on one day in 2001.
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/giulianihq.htm

      John McCain is no longer offering Straight Talk:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/bsexpress.htm

      Will the real Mitt Romney please stand up?
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/polygamy.htm

      Meanwhile, John Edwards has a real plan for health care:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/rootcanal.htm

      If Al Gore runs, we can expect "balanced coverage" from Fox:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/shortnudeman.htm



      Copyright 2007, Santa Clara County Democratic Party, All rights reserved.

      January 19, 2007

       

      In this edition:

    • Introduction

    • San Jose City Council Elections

    • State of the Union -
      Watch with Your Friends

    • Democratic Central Committee

    • Fact or Fiction? We
      Report, You Decide

    • Humor Break


      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.  Donate securely online.   

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


      Unsubscribe

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      Newsletter Contributors

      David Cohen: Editor
      Jacquie Heffner


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

       

       


      Introduction

      2007 is giving Democrats a reason to celebrate, and celebrate we will! You are invited to join us at the annual Santa Clara County Democratic Party Dinner on Saturday, May 5th at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown San Jose. Mark the date now and get ready for a night of great food, friendship and politics. Invitations and more information will be forthcoming - keep checking our website for updates, and your inbox for an invitation. See you in May!

      Speaking of celebrations, what a difference a year makes! Instead of the endless stories of a corrupt Congress, we are now treated to daily news reports on the accomplishments of the new majority as they deliver on their promises. Democrats have followed through on their pledge to act on minimum wage, student loans, ethics, stem cell research, drug prices, and the 9/11 Commission recommendations. Importantly, these bills have passed with bipartisan support as Republicans recognize the public support for the Democratic agenda.

      As Democrats continue to pass bills that benefit working families in our nation, the GOP is already targeting Democratic Congressmembers, and at the top of their list is our Jerry McNerney. Click here to see the hit piece sent out in Jerry’s district just a few weeks ago. This should remind us all that we must work hard to retain our majority and keep Jerry in Congress for decades to come.

      Finally, the SCCDP extends a huge thank you to all of our volunteers and supporters. Your hard work and dedication helped our party take back Congress and set a new direction for our nation. Because of you, the people are once again in control. As DNC Chair Howard Dean says - "You have the power."


      San Jose City Council Elections

      Due to the election of Chuck Reed as Mayor of San Jose and Ken Yeager as a County Supervisor, there are openings on the San Jose City Council in Districts 4 and 6. A special election will be held March 6 in both of these districts. Volunteers will be walking precincts, calling voters, and distributing lawn signs for our endorsed candidates.

      In District 6, the election in November narrowed the field down to two finalists. The Santa Clara County Democratic Party has endorsed Pierluigi Oliverio and will be working to help him win election. If you are willing to help Pierluigi, please call his campaign office at 408-266-5310.

      In District 4, there are 8 candidates, and the Democratic Party has endorsed Kansen Chu. Kansen’s campaign headquarters, at 1982-A Zanker Road (at Brokaw) will have an official opening today (Fri, Jan 19) at 5:30 pm. Please consider stopping by if you have time.  Otherwise, call 408-729-6219 to find out how you can help.


      State of the Union - Watch with your Friends

      President Bush will be giving his 2007 State of the Union address on Tuesday, January 23, at 6:00 pm.  We recommend gathering with friends and neighbors to watch, socialize, and discuss. After the President speaks, the Democratic response will be given to up and coming star Senator Jim Webb from Virginia. You won’t want to miss that part. So plan a gathering and let us know if you are having one.


      Democratic Central Committee

      Members of the Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee are elected by the voters every two years. The new term, covering 2007-2008, began in January with a swearing-in administered by Senator Elaine Corbett. The Central Committee conducts the business of the party in Santa Clara County – passing resolutions, endorsing candidates, running campaign offices, and registering voters. In addition, members of the County Central Committee are delegates to the State Democratic Party Convention, which will be held in April in San Diego. Learn more about the Central Committee at our website. We have made it easy for you to contact your elected representatives on the Central Committee using email. Please feel free to contact us with your ideas, issues, and concerns.


      Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

      Fact or Fiction? Bill O'Reilly is claiming that a young man who was kidnapped liked being kidnapped because he never tried to escape.

      Fact or Fiction? Alberto Gonzales, US Attorney General, is claiming that the Constitution does not guarantee the right of Habeas Corpus to individuals.

      Fact or Fiction? White House Press Secretary Tony Snow claims that things were going well in Iraq last year.

      Fact or Fiction? John McCain is "tanking" in early Presidential polling, proving that support of the escalation of American troops in Iraq is a sure winner for Presidential candidates.


      Humor Break

      We all enjoyed receiving Barbara Bush's annual holiday letter:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/annualholidayletter.htm

      Bush spent two months coming up with this plan?
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/moregasoline.htm

      Here's the reality that Bush does not see:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/gameover.htm

      Bush thinks his is the better plan:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/betterplan.htm

      Congress isn't reacting favorably:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/NO00000.htm

      Democrats controlling Congress won't treat the Republican minority like they were treated:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/doneuntoyou.htm

      Congress has finally acted on minimum wage, in juxtaposition with recent news of corporate CEO largesse:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/lastbonus.htm

      President Bush has become the King of OppositeLand:
      http://www.markfiore.com/animation/land.html


       

       

       

      Copyright 2007, Santa Clara County Democratic Party, All rights reserved.

       

      December 28, 2006

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin
      Assembly District Election Meetings

      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming
      events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County. Donate securely online.

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information. Visit our clubs page.

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


      Unsubscribe

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      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

      The California Democratic Party is governed by the Democratic State Central Committee (DSCC). Membership in DSCC is a two-year position starting in odd years. The new DSCC will meet for the first time at the April 27-29, 2007 Convention in San Diego. Approximately one-third of the DSCC delegates are elected in Assembly District (AD) Election meetings, held in January. Each AD elects 12 delegates, 6 women and 6 men. All of the meetings are held during the weekend of January 13-14, 2007.

      To run to be a delegate, you must complete the delegate form at cadem.org/ADdelegate. The form must be submitted by January 2, 2007. In order to participate in the election meetings, you must have been a registered Democrat in the Assembly District by the close of registration prior to the November 2006 election and continue to be registered in that AD. Anyone who turned 18 or became citizens after the close of registration can register on-site as Democrats and participate. A $5 registration fee will be collected from all voting participants to help defray meeting costs. The registration fee will be waived for those participants who claim economic hardship.

      The locations, times, and dates for all seven of the Assembly District meetings that cover Santa Clara County are listed below. For information on other locations, visit cadem.org/adem. We encourage all registered Democrats to attend the AD meetings to run for a delegate position or to vote for your delegates. The choice of delegates will help determine the future directions of the California Democratic Party.

      • 20th AD: Sat, Jan 13, 11:00 am, Golden Peacock Restaurant, 3681 Peralta Ave, Fremont.
      • 21st AD: Sat, Jan 13, 10:00 am, Hillview Community Center, 97 Hillview Ave, Los Altos.
      • 22nd AD: Sun, Jan 14, 2:00 pm, Mountain View City Hall Council Chambers, 500 Castro Street, 2nd floor, Mountain View.
      • 23rd AD: Sun, Jan 14, 2:00 pm, Alfred Alquist Building, Auditorium, 100 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose.
      • 24th AD: Sun, Jan 14, 2:00 pm, Campbell Community Center, 1 W. Campbell Ave, Campbell.
      • 27th AD: Sun, Jan 14, 3:00 pm, Union Hall of Electrical Workers Local 234, 10300 Merritt Street, Castroville.
      • 28th AD: Sun, Jan 14, 1:00 pm, Teamsters Hall, 931 E Market St, Salinas.

      To find out in which Assembly District you live, visit our Find Your Reps webpage.

      Copyright 2006, Santa Clara County Democratic Party, All rights reserved.

      December 14, 2006

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin
      Happy Holiday 2006 Edition

      In this edition:

    • Introduction

    • Assembly District Delegate Election Caucuses

    • This Week on the SCCDP Weblog

    • Democratic Clubs Holiday Party
    • Peninsula Democratic Coalition Annual Holiday Party
    • Democratic Central Committee Reorganization
    • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

    • Humor Break


      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.Donate securely online.

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page. 

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


      Unsubscribe

      You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here.


      Newsletter Contributors

      David Cohen: Editor
      Adrienne Grey
      Jacquie Heffner


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

      Introduction

      Christmas came early for Democrats and our nation this year. On November 7, 2006, Democrats won back a majority in both the House and Senate. In electing a Democratic majority, we will also, for the first time in our history, see a woman lead Congress - Nancy Pelosi, our new Speaker of the House. Pelosi and the Democratic Party have ambitious plans, and in the first 100 hours Democrats will "restore civility, integrity, and fiscal responsibility to the House of Representatives."

      • "We will start by cleaning up Congress, breaking the link between lobbyists and legislation and commit to pay-as-you-go, no new deficit spending.
      • We will make our nation safer and we will begin by implementing the recommendations of the independent, bipartisan 9/11 Commission.
      • We will make our economy fairer, and we will begin by raising the minimum wage. We will not pass a pay raise for Congress until there is an increase in the minimum wage.
      • We will make health care more affordable for all Americans, and we will begin by fixing the Medicare prescription drug program, putting seniors first by negotiating lower drug prices. We will also promote stem cell research to offer real hope to the millions of American families who suffer from devastating diseases.
      • We will broaden college opportunity, and we will begin by cutting interest rates for student loans in half.
      • We will energize America by achieving energy independence, and we will begin by rolling back the multi-billion dollar subsidies for Big Oil.
      • We will guarantee a dignified retirement, and we will begin by fighting any attempt to privatize Social Security."

      So as we head into the New Year, let's cheer on our Democrats and hope that they not only succeed in their first 100 hours, but that they continue to move our nation forward for the next 100 years.


      Assembly District Delegate Election Caucuses

      Every two years, delegates to the California Democratic Party are elected at district caucuses. Twelve delegates (6 men, 6 women) are elected from each Assembly District. In addition, one person is elected to serve as a representative to the state party's executive board. This year, the caucuses are being held on January 13 and 14. In order to run to be a delegate, one must have been a registered Democrat for the 2006 election (or turn 18 between Nov 7 and the caucus). There will be an application to fill out in order to run. In addition, all Democrats are encouraged to attend their local caucus in order to cast a vote in the delegate election. Some caucuses may charge a few dollars to cover costs for the venue and/or refreshments. More information will follow. Please check sccdp.org for updates. Below is a list of the caucuses scheduled for Assembly Districts in Santa Clara County. As of press time, the 20th Assembly District has not worked out the time and place for their caucus. If you do not know in which AD you reside, you can find out here.

      • 21st AD: Sat, Jan 13, 10:00 am, Hillview Community Center.
      • 22nd AD: Sun, Jan 14, 2:00 pm, Mountain View City Hall Council Chambers, 2nd floor.
      • 23rd AD: Sun, Jan 14, 2:00 pm, Alfred Alquist Building, 100 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose.
      • 24th AD: Sun, Jan 14, 2:00 pm, Campbell Community Center, 1 W. Campbell Ave.
      • 27th AD: Sun, Jan 14, 3:00 pm, Union Hall of Electrical Workers Local 234, 10300 Merritt Street, Castroville.
      • 28th AD: Sun, Jan 14, 1:00 pm, Teamsters Hall, 931 E Market St, Salinas.


      This Week on the SCCDP Weblog

      Check out the Santa Clara County Democratic Party Weblog to keep up on politics local, statewide, and national. We have two bloggers, Elisa and Jacquie, who keep us informed and engaged. This week, Elisa summarizes the latest Washington Post discussion about President Bush: is he the Worst President Ever? And Jacquie tells us what the right wing is doing in Santa Clara County. Also, catch up on some of the post-election commentary, including RIP GOP Majority. We welcome your comments on these or any of our posts.


      Democratic Clubs Holiday Party

      Let's Party & Celebrate our Victories the Democratic Way! Join Dean Democratic Club, Democratic Activist Women Now (DAWN), Moorpark Democratic Club, Silicon Valley APA Democratic Club, Silicon Valley LGBT Democratic Club, and Silicon Valley Young Democrats, for our 3rd Annual Joint Democratic Clubs Holiday Party. At the home of Tom Cochran & Parris Correa, 196 S. 15th Street, San Jose. Eat! Drink! Be Merry! For more information, contact Buu Thai at (408) 772-2825.


      Peninsula Democratic Coalition Annual Holiday Party

      The Annual Holiday Party has been a local Democratic Club tradition for over 30 years and is one of the highlights of the year. There is much to celebrate this year, particularly the new Democratic majorities in the House and Senate. The party will be held at the home of Jim and Emy Thurber at 694 Benvenue (off El Monte) in Los Altos. The date is Saturday, December 16, 7-10pm. You can call the Thurbers at (650)949-1009 for more information. Please bring finger food, hors d'oeuvres, or a dessert to share. A $5 contribution will be requested at the door to help the PDC cover the cost of other refreshments served. (In honor of California's place as the premier Blue State, and in consideration of the Thurbers' light-colored carpet, no red beverages or red foods. No red wine, no beet juice, no tomato or cranberry juice. And no strawberry shortcake! Red clothing is fine.) Another holiday tradition is col! lection of non-perishable food and monetary contributions for the Los Altos-Mountain View Community Service. Bring canned or packaged food, and/or a check made out to CSA. The need for their service is greater than ever!


      Democratic Central Committee Reorganization

      The members of the Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee are elected by the voters every two years. The new term, covering 2007-2008, begins in January. Members of the Central Committee will be sworn in on Thursday, January 4, at the regularly scheduled Central Committee meeting. The public is invited to attend. The meeting is held in the cafeteria in the basement of the County Building, 70 W Hedding St, San Jose. After the members are sworn in, new officers will be elected and vacancies on the committee will be filled. For more information on the Central Committee, visit our website. Remember, the Central Committee represents you, so feel free to contact your elected members with issues relating to the Democratic Party.


      Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

      Fact or Fiction? Rumsfeld claims that he was fired as a result of the election, Bush claims Rumsfeld would have been removed no matter what the outcome of the election.

      Fact or Fiction? "Arctic sea-ice retreat is likely to accelerate so rapidly that the Arctic Ocean will be nearly ice-free in summer by 2040."

      Fact or Fiction? A general in the pentagon has stated that his priority is "[1] faith in God, then [2] my family and then [3] country."

      Fact or Fiction? You can find out if you have been naughty or nice online.


      Humor Break

      Now that Rumsfeld is gone, there is a new pilot at the Pentagon:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/wonderfulflight.htm

      Electronic voting machines continue to have "glitches":
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/glitches.htm

      Bush continues his string of unqualified appointments:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/bushappointments.htm

      The lame duck Congress left lots of unfinished business in Washington:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/deadbeatdads.htm

      Bush is skeptical of the Iraq Study Group report:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/studygroupreport.htm

      Seriously, there are a few parts of the report that Bush can heartily endorse:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/heartilyendorsed.htm

      Ever wonder how the GW Bush Presidential Library will turn out?
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/bushlibrary.htm


      November 02, 2006

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin
      November 2, 2006

       

       

       

       

      In this edition:

    • Introduction

    •  
    • Santa Clara County Democratic Party Candidate Endorsements

    •  
    • Don't Be Fooled by Fake Slate Mailers
    •  
    • Vote on Election Day
    • This Week on the SCCDP Weblog

    •  
    • California Propositions
    •  
    • Help Put Jerry McNerney Closing Over the Hump
    •  
    • Get Out the Vote
    •  
    • Rally with Phil Angelides Against Proposition 85
    •  
    • Protect Our Hillsides - Vote Yes on Measure A
    •  
    • Post Election Analysis at Century Club
    •  
    • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

    •  
    • Humor Break


      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.  href="http://sccdp.org/donate.php">Donate securely online.   

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page. 

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


      Unsubscribe

      You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here. 


      Newsletter Contributors

      David Cohen: Editor
      Adrienne Grey
      Jacquie Heffner


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

       

       

      Introduction

      What will we tell our children on November 8th? Will we be able to say that we worked hard on this election and because of our efforts Democrats regained power in Congress? Will we be able to tell our children that this administration will finally be held accountable for their lies, for their absolute failure of leadership? From now until November 7th you can shape history by taking a few hours to help Democrats get out the vote.

      And while there are huge stakes nationally, our local candidates need your help as well. Cindy Chavez, candidate for Mayor of San Jose, has been knocking on doors, talking with voters and needs your help in her campaign. Chavez has been attacked ruthlessly, and yet she has risen above the fray as she continues to offer San Jose the ideas and energy that will put our city on the map. And today, President Bill Clinton endorsed Cindy Chavez and recorded a radio ad that will air this weekend.

      We all know what is at stake, and to create change there is no greater influence then your time and energy. Please take a moment to set aside a few hours this weekend and help one of our endorsed candidates climb to victory on November 7th. Key candidates include Clark Williams, running for San Jose City Council, Karyn Sinunu, our candidate for District Attorney, and Jerry McNerney, who will bring his expertise in alternative energy to Congress. And when your children ask you about this historic election you will be able to tell them you were involved in putting our nation back on track.


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Candidate Endorsements

      The Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee interviews Democrats running for office in non-partisan races across Santa Clara County. Some school board races were added to our endorsement list at our October meeting. While these races are officially non-partisan, it is still important to elect progressive candidates to legislative bodies. Here is the complete list of endorsed candidates. More information, including links to the candidate websites, can be found at our endorsements page. And download our handy Voter Guide to print and share with family and friends.

      City Councils and Mayors

      • Evan Low and Margie Mitchell for Campbell City Council
      • Breene Kerr for Los Altos Hills City CouncilZli>Diane McNutt and Joe Pirzynski for Los Gatos Town Council
      • Henry Manayan for Milpitas Mayor
      • Bill Ferguson and Carmen Montano for Milpitas City Council
      • Steve Tate for Morgan Hill Mayor
      • Alex Kennett and Greg Sellers for Morgan Hill City Council
      • Margaret Abe-Koga and Jac Siegel and Ronit Bryant for Mountain View City Council
      • Cindy Chavez for San Jose Mayor
      • Clark Williams for San Jose City Council District 6Patricia Mahan for Santa Clara Mayor
      • Dominic Caserta for Santa Clara City Council Seat 2
      • Joe Kornder for Santa Clara City Council Seat 5
      • Kathleen King and James Sorden and Jill Hunter for Saratoga City Council
      <>School Boards

      • Kim Mesa for Alum Rock School Board
      • David Cohen and Kansen Chu for Berryessa School Board
      • Royce Lorraine Peterson for Campbell Union High School Board
      • Frank Biehl, J. Manuel Herrera, and George Shirakawa Jr. for East Side Union High School Board
      • Barbara Nunes and Bill Wilson for Fremont Union High School BoardJavier Aguirre and Francisco Dominguez for Gilroy Unified School Board
      • Steven Kahl for Los Gatos-Saratoga Join High School Board
      • Bart Fisher for Morgan Hill School Board
      • Noelani Sallings for Santa Clara Unified School Board
      • Charlie Ahern for Santa Clara County Board of Education Seat #2
      • Esau Herrera for Santa Clara County Board of Education Seat #7
      • David Montagna and Jack Lucas for West Valley/Mission Community College District

      Other

      • Karyn Sinunu for District Attorney
      • Rosemary Kamei for Water Board District 1

      Don't be Fooled by Fake Slate Mailers

      There are a number of slate mailers that arrive in your mailboxes in the waning days of the campaign. Some even claim to list the choices for Democrats. But look closely. The candidates and measure proponents PAY to be listed on these slates. They are meant to fool you into voting for candidates that may or may not be supported by the party. Some are even Republicans. Look at the fine print to see who sponsored the slates you receive. To see who the Democratic Party really supports, look at the list above and visit our endorsements page. And you can print out an official Voter Guide.


      Vote on Election Day

      For those of you who have not voted early, please take the time on Tuesday to make it to the polls. If you need to be reminded where your polling place is located, click here. When you use the form, enter your street name, but not the suffix (Place, Drive, Court, etc).


      This Week on the SCCDP Weblog

      The Santa Clara County Democratic Party blog presents an opposing view point on Proposition 83, which has been endorsed by the Democratic Party, but is opposed by many progressives. One of our readers allowed us to publish her anlaysis, and the post has generated comment. In addition, the blog highlights a great video that shows how ludicrous it is that Bush claims to never have been about "stay the course" in Iraq. We also publish a great letter written by one of our readers debunking the idea of Bush and Schwarzenegger as "strong protectors." Please visit our blog and join the conversation. Note that due to spam issues, our comment form has been disabled, but you can still make comments by sending emails to either of our bloggers.


      California Propositions

      In addition to all the statewide, countywide, and city elections, there are many proposition on the ballot. Some of these are important policy enhancments, while some are dangerously misguided. Here is a summary of the propositions:

      • Propositions 1A through 1E are a set of infrastructure bonds that will help prepare California for the future. These bonds support transportation and security (1A,1B), housing and emergency shelter (1C), education facilities (1D), and flood prevention (1E). The California Democratic Party recommends voting YES on 1A-1E. www.plan4ourfuture.org
         
      • Proposition 83. Sex Offenders. Sexually Violent Predators. Punishment, Residence Restrictions and Monitoring. The California Democratic Party recommends voting YES. www.83yes.com
      • Proposition 84 is an additional bond that covers important infrastructure that was not covered by the legislative package (1A-1E). This one provides resources to improve water quality, safety and supply and also protects natural resources and improves our parks. The California Democratic Party recommends voting YES www.yeson84.com
         
      • Proposition 85 is a rehash of the dangerous enfringement on reproductive rights that was defeated in 2005. Not willing to take no for an answer, the proponents of this initiative are still trying to codify parental notification. This initiative would endanger the lives of teenagers and deserves to be defeated again. Vote NO. www.noon85.com
      • Proposition 86 would levy a tax on cigarettes to provide funding for hospitals, emergency services, and tobacco education. This will reduce teen smoking in California and improve health infrastructure in the state. The California Democratic Party recommends voting YES on Prop 86. www.yesprop86.com
      • Proposition 87. Don't be fooled by the advertising, which is entirely funded by big oil companies. Proposition 87 will reduce our dependence on foreign oil and fund investment in alternative energy in California. The California Democratic Party urges a YES vote. www.yesoncleanenergy.com
         
      • Proposition 88 would institute a state-wide parcel tax to fund education. While increasing education funding is important, this approach will add less than 1% to the total statewide funding and would make it harder for local school districts to raise funds through parcel taxes of their own. The California Democratic Party recommends voting NO on Proposition 88. www.noprop88.com
         
      • Proposition 89. California politics is too heavily influenced by special interests. Candidates must spend a disproportionate amount of their time raising money rather than communicating with voters. Clean Money is a proven approach used successfully in Arizona and Maine. The Santa Clara County Democratic Party urges you to vote YES on Proposition 89. www.cleanmoneyelections.org
         
      • Proposition 90 is one of the most dangerous initiatives to be proposed. It would hamstring California from being able to protect the environment and set reasonable zoning requirements for our communities. A similar measure was implemented in Oregon and has cost that state billions of dollars. Vote NO on Proposition 90. www.noprop90.com
         

      Help Put Jerry McNerney Over the Hump

      Jerry McNerney is California's best chance to pick up a seat on our way to a Democratic majority in the House of Representatives. Surprising most pundits, the latest poll now shows McNerney up by 2 points over the Republican incumbent. A strong get-out-the-vote operation will carry us to the finish line on electoin day. Last Saturday, members of the Santa Clara County Democratic Club joined almost 250 members of the Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund and the Sierra Club at a door-knocking event for Jerry McNerney in and around Pleasanton. They had fun and even talked with some Republicans who are voting for our Democratic candidate!

      You and your family and friends are invited to participate in the last door-knocking activity for Jerry McNerney before the election on Saturday November 4. This time, walkers will be joined by Hollywood stars Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner at the Tri-Valley Event in Civic Park, 100 Main Street, Pleasanton, CA 94566. PLEASE help Democrats take back Congress by supporting the McNerney team. It is a Saturday well spent.

      There will be a free bus leaving San Jose at 9 a.m. Training and lunch will be provided. Contact SCCDC co-membership chair Mary Barmettler for details by emailing her at wtbarmett@aol.com.


      Get Out The Vote

      We have contacted thousands of voters over the past few months. Now let's make sure that they get to the polls! We will be doing heavy GOTV activity at our four major campaign office locations:

      SAN JOSE

      Saturday, Nov 4th:
      • PRECINCT WALKING - 9:00am at 2102 Almaden Rd., San Jose
      • PHONE BANKING - 3:00pm at 1180 Blossom Hill Rd., San Jose

      Sunday, Nov 5th:
      • PRECINCT WALKING - 11:00am at 2102 Almaden Rd., San Jose
      • PHONE BANKING - 3:00pm at 1180 Blossom Hill Rd., San Jose

      Monday, Nov 6th:
      • DOOR-HANGING - 10:00am at 2102 Almaden Rd, San Jose
      • PHONE BANKING - 3:00pm at 1180 Blossom Hill Rd., San Jose

      Tuesday, Nov 7th Election Day:
      • POLL CHECKING - 10:00am-8:00pm at 2102 Almaden Rd., San Jose
      • PHONE BANKING - 12 noon - 8:00pm at 1180 Blossom Hill Rd., San Jose
      • VICTORY PARTY - 8:01 PM at 2102 ALMADEN RD., SAN JOSE

      Questions??? Call us at (408)445-9500.

      MOUNTAIN VIEW
      2290 El Camino Real

      Saturday Nov 4th:
      • 9:00am we are having a GALA SENDOFF RALLY at headquarters. Refreshments will be served. We’ll have Joe Simitian, Karyn Sinunu, our Mountain View city council candidates, plus probably Anna Eshoo, to inspire us. Then we’ll go out & put up reminder DOORHANGERS in targeted precincts.

      Sunday Nov 5th and Monday Nov 6th:
      • We’re continuing with the DOORHANGERS Sunday & Monday: gather Sunday November 5 at 1:00pm, and Monday November 6 at 10:00am, at headquarters.

      Tuesday, Nov 7 Election Day:
      • We’re POLL CHECKING, with trainings starting at 2:00pm, please call 650-965-3117 to sign up.
      • ELECTION NIGHT PARTY - If you’ve helped in this election in any capacity, please join us after the polls close.

      Our phone number is 650-965-3117.

      MORGAN HILL
      237 West Main Street

      Saturday, Nov 4th:
      • 10:00am-8:00pm precinct walking and phone banking

      Sunday, Nov 5th:
      • 12:00 noon-8:00pm precinct walking and phone banking

      Monday, Nov 6th:
      • 10:00am- 8:00pm precinct walking and phone banking

      Tuesday ELECTION DAY, Nov 7th:
      • 8:00am- 8:00pm GOTV poll watching, phone banking, rides to the polls.
      • Post Election Celebration: Rosy's at the Beach, Downtown Morgan Hill, 8:01 PM till?  No host bar and buffet.

      Phone: (408) 779-9260. To RSVP, click on "Volunteer sign up" at www.jerrymcnernery.org/gotv.


      Rally with Phil Angelides Against Proposition 85

      Join the next Governor of California, Phil Angelides, with Special Guest Controller Steve Westly at a rally to Protect Our Children. A parental notification proposition was defeated in 2005, but once again we are forced to fight against anti-choice forces who will endanger teenagers. Defeat Proposition 85! Friday, November 3, 2006, 1:00-2:15pm. Stanford University Women's Center, First Floor, Old Fire Truck House, 433 Santa Teresa Street, Palo Alto. Please RSVP with Mónica Henestroza at 916-448-3045 or rsvp@angelides.com.


      Protect Our Hillsides - Vote Yes on Measure A

      Measure A -- the Santa Clara County Land Conservation Initiative -- will help protect our hillsides, watersheds, wildlife habitats and working farms from being lost forever to large-scale development.  It will preserve a healthy balance between urban areas and the quiet beauty of our rural environments.  Under Measure A, only voters could eliminate or reduce basic safeguards against too much growth.

      Measure A is endorsed by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party and every major environmental organization, as well as the San Jose Mercury News, the League of Women Voters, the Council of Churches, the County Medical Association, and the Silicon Valley Leadership Group (representing more than 200 businesses).

      Please visit YesOnMeasureA.net to learn more about this important initiative, and please encourage everyone you know to vote Yes on Measure A.


      Post Election Analysis at Century Club

      The next Century Club luncheon will be Friday, November 10. Our speaker will be Terry Christensen, professor of political science at San Jose State University and one of our very favorite political commentators. Terry always employs erudition, charm, and humor as he analyzes what went right and what went wrong on election day - and he surely will have predictions about what to expect in the critical months ahead. Be sure to join us. Lunch begins at noon. We will meet at Governors AB at the San Jose Holiday Inn (formerly the San Jose Hyatt), 1730 N. First Street (close to the 101 exit). This will be a popular luncheon so be sure to make a reservation before Thursday noon. Please RSVP to the Thurbers at 650-948-8259 or thurber@sccdp.org. The price remains $20 and you can pay at the door by cash or check.


      Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

      Fact or Fiction? Chuck Reed "sent one of his aides to a semester of religious study and paid for it with city funds."

      Fact or Fiction? "Inspectors general at two agencies have begun an investigation into whether the Bush administration has suppressed government scientists' research on global warming."

      Fact or Fiction? "An internal State Department review has found that U.S. officials screened the public statements and writings of private citizens for criticism of the Bush administration before deciding whether to select them for foreign speaking projects."

      Fact or Fiction? The Bush administration has apparently decided to "wait until after the election to issue a report on hunger in the United States."


      Humor Break

      Republicans are trying to find the right message:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/joenegron.htm

      But trailing badly in the polls, Bush is getting desperate:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/democratenemycombatant.htm

      And the GOP is counting on turning out their "base":
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/onlyoneguy.htm

      Their last gasp is to turn to gay marriage again:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/waronlove.htm

      Hopefully, someday we'll find a cure for what ails Rush Limbaugh:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/voteforthecure.htm

      Proposition 90 boosters are trying to turn us back to the Wild West:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/wildwestreturns.htm

      And finally, Mark Fiore highlights some TV ads you didn't see this election cycle:
      http://www.markfiore.com/animation/advertising.html


       

       

      October 19, 2006

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin
      October 19, 2006

       

       

       

       

      In this edition:

    •  
    • Introduction

    •  
    • Santa Clara County Democratic Party Candidate Endorsements

      Voter Registration Deadline
    •  
    • This Week on the SCCDP Weblog

    •  
    • California Propositions
    •  
    • Volunteer at Campbell's Oktoberfest
    •  
    • Democrats Poised to Take Back the House on November 7

    •  
    • Jerry McNerney Closing in on Richard Pombo
    •  
    • Charlie Brown for Congress
    •  
    • Celebrate Assemblywoman Lieber's Appointment as Speaker pro Tempore
    •  
    • Debra Bowen's "Voter Bill of Rights"
    •  
    • Visit Our Campaign Headquarters
    •  
    • Angelides and Bowen Double Celebration

    •  
    • Humor Break


      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.  Donate securely online.   

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


      Unsubscribe

      You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


      Newsletter Contributors

      David Cohen: Editor
      Adrienne Grey
      Jacquie Heffner


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

       

       

      Introduction

      Election day 2006 is shaping up to be a good day for Democrats nationally. It is looking increasingly likely that we are going to take back the House of Representatives, thus allowing Democrats to promote a positive agenda for America, including increasing the minimum wage, helping moderate prescription drug costs, improving student loan programs, funding stem cell research, and implementing the recommendations of the Sept. 11 commission so that our country is more secure. At the end of the summer, there were about 30 Congressoinal seats in play, but now there are at least 50 seats that are competitive. Three seats in California have been added to the list of competitive seats, including District 11, which includes part of Santa Clara County. See below for ways to help Jerry McNerney's campaign give Pombo the boot. It is also very possible that Democrats could regain control of the Senate. Most polls show a pickup of 4 seats plus 4 other tossups, with races in Virginia, Missouri, and Tennessee beginning to turn in our favor. To learn about the key races, visit the DSCC website.

      Of course, we have important elections in California too. We need to make sure that our state remains in Democratic hands, especially important offices like Governor, Secretary of State, Insurance Commissioner, and Lieutenant Governor. Below is infomation on Debra Bowen's campaign for Secretary of State and details on the large list of propositions coming before voters.

      Finally, there are key races for mayor, city council, and school board all over the county. All of our recommendations are listed below. There will be precinct walks for these candidates out of our campaign headquarters every weekend between now and the election.

      Be sure to check our Calendar for all the upcoming events and ways to help our endorsed candidates in the final three weeks before the election.


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Candidate Endorsements

      The Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee interviews Democrats running for office in non-partisan races across Santa Clara County. Some school board races were added to our endorsement list at our October meeting. While these races are officially non-partisan, it is still important to elect progressive candidates to legislative bodies. Here is the complete list of endorsed candidates. More information, including links to the candidate websites, can be found at our endorsements page. And download our handy Voter Guide to print and share with family and friends.

      City Councils and Mayors

      • Evan Low and Margie Mitchell for Campbell City Council
      • Breene Kerr for Los Altos Hills City Council
      • Diane McNutt and Joe Pirzynski for Los Gatos Town Council
      • Henry Manayan for Milpitas Mayor
      • Bill Ferguson and Carmen Montano for Milpitas City Council
      • Steve Tate for Morgan Hill Mayor
      • Alex Kennett and Greg Sellers for Morgan Hill City Council
      • Margaret Abe-Koga and Jac Siegel and Ronit Bryant for Mountain View City Council
      • Cindy Chavez for San Jose Mayor
      • Clark Williams for San Jose City Council District 6
      • Patricia Mahan for Santa Clara Mayor
      • Dominic Caserta for Santa Clara City Council Seat 2
      • Joe Kornder for Santa Clara City Council Seat 5
      • Kathleen King and James Sorden and Jill Hunter for Saratoga City Council

      School Boards

      • Kim Mesa for Alum Rock School Board
      • David Cohen and Kansen Chu for Berryessa School Board
      • Royce Lorraine Peterson for Campbell Union High School Board
      • Frank Biehl, J. Manuel Herrera, and George Shirakawa Jr. for East Side Union High School Board
      • Barbara Nunes and Bill Wilson for Fremont Union High School Board
      • Javier Aguirre and Francisco Dominguez for Gilroy Unified School Board
      • Steven Kahl for Los Gatos-Saratoga Join High School Board
      • Bart Fisher for Morgan Hill School Board
      • Charlie Ahern for Santa Clara County Board of Education Seat #2
      • Esau Herrera for Santa Clara County Board of Education Seat #7
      • David Montagna and Jack Lucas for West Valley/Mission Community College District

      Other

      • Karyn Sinunu for District Attorney
      • Rosemary Kamei for Water Board District 1


      Voter Registration Deadline

      If you have moved since the last election, you are required to re-register to vote. If you know anybody who is newly eligible to vote or has moved, let them know that the deadline to register in order to vote this November is Monday, October 23. You can pick up a voter registration form at your local post office. Or you can register online by going to sccdp.org/register.php.


      This Week on the SCCDP Weblog

      The Santa Clara County Democratic Party blog continues to highlight the key stories out of Washington and Sacramento. Recently, we have been covering the Foley scandal that proves that Republicans are more interested in protecting their electoral prospects than in protecting teenagers from abuse. Of course, the Republican spin-meisters are trying to lay blame everywhere but on themselves, so we point you toward a resource that debunks their deception. Meanwhile, the latest anti-terrorism bill that strips more civil rights might be the low point of the Bush presidency. Please visit our blog and feel free to comment on any of these topics. Note that due to spam issues, our comment form has been disabled, but you can still make comments by sending emails to either of our bloggers.


      California Propositions

      In addition to all the statewide, countywide, and city elections, there are many proposition on the ballot. Some of these are important policy enhancments, while some are dangerously misguided. Here is a summary of the propositions:

      • Propositions 1A through 1E are a set of infrastructure bonds that will help prepare California for the future. These bonds support transportation and security (1A,1B), housing and emergency shelter (1C), education facilities (1D), and flood prevention (1E). The California Democratic Party recommends voting YES on 1A-1E. www.plan4ourfuture.org
         
      • Proposition 83. Sex Offenders. Sexually Violent Predators. Punishment, Residence Restrictions and Monitoring. The California Democratic Party recommends voting YES. www.83yes.com
         
      • Proposition 84 is an additional bond that covers important infrastructure that was not covered by the legislative package (1A-1E). This one provides resources to improve water quality, safety and supply and also protects natural resources and improves our parks. The California Democratic Party recommends voting YES www.yeson84.com
         
      • Proposition 85 is a rehash of the dangerous enfringement on reproductive rights that was defeated in 2005. Not willing to take no for an answer, the proponents of this initiative are still trying to codify parental notification. This initiative would endanger the lives of teenagers and deserves to be defeated again. Vote NO. www.noon85.com
         
      • Proposition 86 would levy a tax on cigarettes to provide funding for hospitals, emergency services, and tobacco education. This will reduce teen smoking in California and improve health infrastructure in the state. The California Democratic Party recommends voting YES on Prop 86. www.yesprop86.com
         
      • Proposition 87. Don't be fooled by the advertising, which is entirely funded by big oil companies. Proposition 87 will reduce our dependence on foreign oil and fund investment in alternative energy in California. The California Democratic Party urges a YES vote. www.yesoncleanenergy.com
         
      • Proposition 88 would institute a state-wide parcel tax to fund education. While increasing education funding is important, this approach will add less than 1% to the total statewide funding and would make it harder for local school districts to raise funds through parcel taxes of their own. The California Democratic Party recommends voting NO on Proposition 88. www.noprop88.com
         
      • Proposition 89. California politics is too heavily influenced by special interests. Candidates must spend a disproportionate amount of their time raising money rather than communicating with voters. Clean Money is a proven approach used successfully in Arizona and Maine. The Santa Clara County Democratic Party urges you to vote YES on Proposition 89. www.cleanmoneyelections.org
         
      • Proposition 90 is one of the most dangerous initiatives to be proposed. It would hamstring California from being able to protect the environment and set reasonable zoning requirements for our communities. A similar measure was implemented in Oregon and has cost that state billions of dollars. Vote NO on Proposition 90. www.noprop90.com
         

      Volunteer at Campbell's Oktoberfest

      We’re down to the wire -- the registration deadline is this coming Monday.  Our last big chance to register voters and distribute voter guides is Oktoberfest in downtown Campbell. 

      Campbell’s 9th Annual Oktoberfest
      Saturday & Sunday, October 21 (10:00 am - 6:00 pm), October 22 (10:00 am - 5:00 pm).
      Campbell Avenue at First Street in Campbell

      Campbell Oktoberfest festival draws over 40,000 people, so come early and stay all day as you visit over 100 arts and crafts booths.  Vendor offerings include traditional creations such as jewelry, photography, paintings and wood crafts. Spaten Beer representatives will be pouring an official Oktoberfest beer dating back to 1810 and the days of King Ludwig. German foods, including many types of Bratwurst, plus German potato salad and sauerkraut and red cabbage will delight the taste buds.  We’ll have STOP Arnold Fans, buttons, and lots of election literature to share, including our handy Voter Guide.

      Shifts each day are 10-noon, noon-2, 2-4 and 4-6.  To sign up, please e-mail volunteer@sccdp.org or call (408)219-4896 with preferred day and shift.


      Democrats Poised to Take Back the House on November 7

      National polls show Democratic candidates across the country in great shape to win on November 7. The field of play has been expanded beyond anybody's expectations and there are now dozens of candidates who have a chance to be elected to Congress. In a few of these races, Democrats are so far out ahead that Republicans have given up. But every other race will be fought down to the wire. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is involved all over the country and will direct resources into the key races during these final two weeks. To see how the DCCC is running media in Congressional districts everywhere and to see their ads that promote Democrats and hold Republicans accountable, visit their multimedia center. To learn more about what is happening in every state, visit their 2006 Races web page. Consider supporting these efforts.


      Jerry McNerney Closing in on Richard Pombo

      The closest Congressional election battle in California is taking place right here in the Bay Area. Republican Richard Pombo represents a district that includes Morgan Hill and spans to Stockton. Pombo is chair of the House Committee of Natural Resources, but has made it his mission to undermine all environmental rules and expand oil drilling to the Alaska Wildlife Refuge and coast of California. Jerry McNerney is running an excellent campaign and polls show the race is in a statistical dead heat. If you want to get involved in a key campaign race, visit McNerney's campaign website to learn how to get involved. Or stop by our Morgan Hill Democratic headquarters at 237 West Main Street in Morgan Hill to volunteer. Or you can make phone calls to voters in the 11th Congressional District from the comfort of your own home.


      Charlie Brown for Congress

      One of the key Congressional races is in California's 4th District, near Sacramento. The district is currently represented by GOP representative John Doolittle, who is being targeted by a federal corrpution investigation. As voters are more fed up with the lack of ethics of the majority party, Republicans like Cunningham are increasingly vulnerable. Join Congressman Mike Honda and Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren and Democratic leaders from Santa Clara County at a meet and greet with Democratic candidate Lt. Col. Charlie Brown, on Wednesday, October 25, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm, at the IBEW Hall, 2102 Almaden Rd., San Jose. To RSVP, please contact Sindy at dem@iplg.com or 408-286-8933.


      Celebrate Assemblywoman Lieber's Appointment as Speaker pro Tempore

      Please come celebrate the appointment of Assemblywoman Sally Lieber as the Speaker pro Tempore of the California State Assembly. In her new leadership role, Sally will serve as the third woman Speaker pro Tempore sworn in since 1849. You are invited to celebrate with Sally at two special events on Monday, October 23--

      VIP and SPONSORS' RECEPTION
      6:00 – 7:00 P.M.
      City Hall Rotunda, Mountain View

      CEREMONY, PROGRAM and RECEPTION - Free event
      7:30 P.M. (Doors open at 7:00)
      Center for the Performing Arts, Mountain View

      To RSVP for either or both events, or for more information, please call 408-748-1964, fax 408-748-9397 or e-mail rsvp@sallylieber.org.


      Debra Bowen's "Voter Bill of Rights"

      Senator Debra Bowen is in a tight election battle to become the next Secretary of State of California. In light of the many problems we've seen in elections across America in recent years -- from Florida, to Ohio, to Maryland, and even here in California -- it's clear that we must do much more to restore confidence in our voting system. Debra Bowen is by far the most knowledgable candidate on voting issues and will make sure that California has a fair, accurate, and inclusive election process. To see for yourself, watch the debate between the two candidates.

      She has written a "Voter Bill of Rights" - 10 simple but powerful principles that will guide her every day as California's next Secretary of State. The bill of rights includes 10 key principles:

      1. The Right to Register to Vote
      2. The Right to Vote 
      3. The Right to Vote in a Tamper-Proof Election 
      4. The Right to Vote on Paper 
      5. The Right to Have Your Vote Counted Accurately 
      6. The Right to Have Election Results Properly Audited 
      7. The Right to an Open, Transparent, Public Process 
      8. The Right to Elections Officials who Operate Free of Partisan Influence 
      9. The Right to Know that Elected Officials are Free from the Influence of Campaign Contributions from Voting Machine Vendors 
      10. The Right to Find Out How Money is being Raised and Spent in the Political Process

      Join Debra Bowen and Sign On to her Voter Bill of Rights. And make sure to let everyone know how important it is to elect Debra Bowen as Secretary of State.


      Visit Our Campaign Headquarters

      There is now lots of activity at our four campaign offices. Please stop in to visit, volunteer, and pick up buttons and literature. For more information on any of these headquarters, contact our volunteer coordinator, Adrienne, at (408)445-9500, or volunteer@sccdp.org.

      • San Jose Democratic Headquarters: 1180 Blossom Hill Road, Suite 2. Organizer, Brian Darrow, (408)460-4325, brian@atwork.org.
      • North County Democratic Headquarters: 2290 El Camino Real #8, Mountain View. Organizers, Lyn Hum, Rita Friedman, Lynne Isaacs, Carolyn Curtis, (650)965-3117.
      • South County Democratic Headquarters: 237 West Main Street, Morgan Hill. Organizers, Swanee Edwards, (408)782-1017; Charmaine Jabr, (408)779-7906, jabr@sccdp.org.
      • San Jose Headquarters at the Labor Council (working on Cindy Chavez for Mayor Campaign): 2102 Almaden Road, Room 107, San Jose. Organizer, Michael Elliot, (408)445-9500, michael@atwork.org.


      Angelides and Bowen Double Celebration

      You are cordially invited to attend an Angelides + Bowen Celebration! Double Down for Democrats.

      Party for Angelides
      3:00 to 5:00 pm
      Call-in with Phil at 4:00 pm

      Party for Bowen
      Candidate for Secretary of State
      5:00 to 7:00 pm
      Call-in with Debra at 5:30 pm

      Hosted by Stephanie Grossman & Auros Harman. Saturday, October 21. RSVP for either or both parties, 650-321-1171, lilysgrammy@earthlink.net. 1121 Harriet Street, Palo Alto. Enjoy food, wine, and politics! Join the double header and win prizes. Stay late to see the Dorothy Fadiman movie, "Stealing America: Vote by Vote." Suggested donation for each party:  $100 / $75 / $35.


      Humor Break

      As the Republican party implodes, Mark Fiore introduces GOP 2.0:
      http://www.markfiore.com/animation/messaging.html

      Be careful, you might encounter a Congressman:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/predatorycreep.htm

      Meanwhile, North Korea shows that they are the real threat to international security:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/foundwmd.htm

      And things continue to get worse in Iraq:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/fightthemhere.htm

      Bush thinks we'll be safer by eliminating civil liberties:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/genevasuggestions.htm

      As election day nears, Republicans are getting desperate, hoping to scare us again:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/gonnagetyou.htm

      Fortunately, it looks like the electorate is ready for a change:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/wewouldnt.htm


       

       

       

       

       

      September 26, 2006

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin
      September 26, 2006

       

       

       

       

      In this edition:

    •  
    • Introduction

    •  
    • Santa Clara County Democratic Party Endorses in Local Races

    •  
    • This Week on the SCCDP Weblog

    •  
    • Volunteer at Local Festivals
    •  
    • Full Calendar of Events

    •  
    • Visit Our Campaign Headquarters
    •  
    • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide

    •  
    • Humor Break


      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.  Donate securely online.   

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


      Unsubscribe

      You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


      Newsletter Contributors

      David Cohen: Editor
      Adrienne Grey
      Jacquie Heffner
      Elisa Camahort


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

       

       

      Introduction

      The GOP in California is utterly unable to tell the truth, no matter what the issue. We know that Ahnold wouldn't know the truth if it hit him in the head, and now we can add GOP Senate candidate Richard Mountjoy to the "GOP Liars Hall of Fame." It seems that Mountjoy lied about his military service, and, as the LA Times is reporting: "Republican U.S. Senate candidate Richard Mountjoy has claimed in his campaign biography that he served aboard the battleship Missouri during the Korean War, but his military record shows no assignment on the famous vessel, The Times has found."

      Sometimes, however, we are treated to truth from the CA GOP, and that truth should be a wake up call to the voters of this state.  For instance, the GOP CA Chairman Duf Sunheim is saying that Ahnold may well revisit "pension reform and teacher tenure" if he is reelected. Didn't we just have a special election (at a cost of millions to our state) where the voters rejected Ahnold's attacks on our teachers, nurses, firefighters and police?

      If you are tired of the GOP and their lies, take some action. You can volunteer on any number of campaigns, both local and statewide, and by clicking here you will find many opportunities to get involved. We are quickly approaching election day, and with your help the CA GOP will learn that the voters of CA don't want to elect liars or people who have no respect the working people of this state.


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Endorses in Local Races

      The Santa Clara County Democratic Party’s Central Committee has made the following endorsements in non-partisan races in the November general election in Santa Clara County.

      • David Cohen and Kansen Chu for Berryessa School Board
      • Charlie Ahern for Santa Clara County Board of Education Seat #2
      • Esau Herrera for Santa Clara County Board of Education Seat #7
      • David Montagna and Jack Lucas for West Valley/Mission Community College District
      • Evan Low and Margie Mitchell for Campbell City Council
      • Breene Kerr for Los Altos Hills City Council
      • Diane McNutt and Joe Pirzynski for Los Gatos Town Council
      • Henry Manayan for Milpitas Mayor
      • Bill Ferguson and Carmen Montano for Milpitas City Council
      • Steve Tate for Morgan Hill Mayor
      • Alex Kennett and Greg Sellers for Morgan Hill City Council
      • Margaret Abe-Koga and Jac Siegel and Ronit Bryant for Mountain View City Council
      • Clark Williams for San Jose City Council District 6
      • Patricia Mahan for Santa Clara Mayor
      • Dominic Caserta for Santa Clara City Council Seat 2
      • Joe Kornder for Santa Clara City Council Seat 5
      • Kathleen King and James Sorden and Jill Hunter for Saratoga City Council

      In addition, the Santa Clara County Democratic Party endorsed the following candidates in April.

      • Cindy Chavez for San Jose Mayor
      • Karyn Sinunu for District Attorney
      • Rosemary Kamei for Water Board District 1


      This Week on the SCCDP Weblog

      We now have two great bloggers keeping your apprised of all things political, from the local scene to the goings-on in Sacramento and Washington. If you somehow missed the big local news about a federal judge's ruling on San Jose's campaign funding limits, visit our blog for the complete story. And if you are in the mood for a movie, we provide information on the new movie "Iraq for Sale."  Of course we all continue to wonder how anyone could remain a Republican; we summarize the beliefs that must be held by those who cling to the GOP.  And did you catch President Clinton on the attack on Fox News Sunday? For up to date stories and opinions make sure to visit our blog on a daily basis.


      Volunteer at Local Festivals

      Cupertino's 8th Annual MOON FESTIVAL
      Help us register voters at Cupertino's 8th Annual MOON FESTIVAL on Saturday and Sunday, Septebmer 30-October 1. Sign up for 2-hour shifts: 10-noon, noon-2, 2-4, 4-6, each day. You can sign up by contacting Adrienne Grey at 408-219-4896 or volunteer@sccdp.org. Or you can sign using the interactive online calendar. LOCATION: Memorial Park (Stevens Creek Blvd), Cupertino. FREE Parking is available at De Anza College. The festival will have approximately 100 booths offering delicious foods, information, children games, arts and crafts, moon cake sampling, and free entertainment. For more information, visit the Moon Festival Website.

      Prusch Farm Park Harvest Fair & Exposition
      Help us register voters at the 13th Annual Prusch Farm Park Harvest Fair & Exposition on Saturday, October 7, at Emma Prusch Farm Park, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The park is located at 647 South King Road in San Jose, near the intersection of Highways 280/680 and 101. Admission and parking are free. Sign up for 2-hour shifts from 9-11, 11-1, 1-3, 3-5, by contacting Adrienne Grey at 408-219-4896 or volunteer@sccdp.org. The Fair will celebrate our community’s rich diversity and a bountiful harvest. This is a day of education as well with all day entertainment including: Pumpkin patch and sales, Corn Maze, Cooking demonstrations, Tours of the Park's numerous orchards & gardens, FREE hay wagon rides, garden displays, FREE fresh pressed apple juice, children’s activities, farm animals to pet and see, Many environmental & conservation displays. All day entertainment will include San Jose Youth mariachi band, Andrew Hill ROTC & Vietnamese Club dancers, Lee Mathson Middle School Advanced Band, along with other local youth entertainers. Many new unique food vendors are also invited. A full day of family fun! The event is hosted by the Prusch Farm Park Foundation and supported by the City of San Jose. Proceeds from Pumpkin sales benefit the many diverse programs at the Park.


      Full Calendar of Events

      As the election gets closer, there are too many events to summarize here. Be sure to visit our calendar regularly to find out about fundraisers, campaign events, workshops, and meetings that are coming up. And if you know of an event that we haven't listed, suggest it using our automated form.


      Visit Our Campaign Headquarters

      There is now lots of activity at our four campaign offices. Please stop in to visit, volunteer, and pick up buttons and literature. For more information on any of these headquarters, contact our volunteer coordinator, Adrienne, at (408)445-9500, or volunteer@sccdp.org.

      • San Jose Democratic Headquarters: 1180 Blossom Hill Road, Suite 2. Organizer, Brian Darrow, (408)460-4325, brian@atwork.org.
      • North County Democratic Headquarters: 2290 El Camino Real #8, Mountain View. Organizers, Lyn Hum, Rita Friedman, Lynne Isaacs, Carolyn Curtis, (650)965-3117.
      • South County Democratic Headquarters: 237 West Main Street, Morgan Hill. Organizers, Swanee Edwards, (408)782-1017; Charmaine Jabr, (408)779-7906, jabr@sccdp.org.
      • San Jose Headquarters at the Labor Council (working on Cindy Chavez for Mayor Campaign): 2102 Almaden Road, Room 107, San Jose. Organizer, Michael Elliot, (408)445-9500, michael@atwork.org.


      Fact or Fiction? We report, you decide.

      Fact or Fiction? Torture in Iraq is now worse then it was under Saddam.

      Fact or Fiction? The Bush Administration and the Pentagon have issued orders for a major "strike group" of ships, including the nuclear aircraft carrier Eisenhower as well as a cruiser, destroyer, frigate, submarine escort and supply ship, to head for the Persian Gulf, just off Iran's western coast.

      Fact or Fiction? A national black Republican group is running a radio advertisement accusing Democrats of starting the Ku Klux Klan and saying the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was a Republican.

      Fact or Fiction? Maryland GOP Senate Candidate Michael Steele is now using signs that say "Steele Democrat."


      Humor Break

      The right-wing will stop at nothing to blame 9/11 on Clinton:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/clintonosama.htm

      Is Bush defending or sacrificing our "way of life":
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/fairtrial.htm

      The administration wants to make torture an accepted interrogation technique:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/talktoyourhead.htm

      Even the rebuilding of Iraq was left to inexperienced political cronies:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/rebuildiraq.htm

      Another election is coming, so it is time be SCARED once again:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/scarythreat.htm

      And Republicans are going to spend 90% of their campaign money on negative attack ads:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/negativestrategy.htm

      But they can't get away from the reality of what is going to happen in November:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/objectsinmirror.htm


       

       

       

       

       

      September 12, 2006

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      September 12, 2006

          
      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.  Donate securely online.   

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


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      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

         

      In preparation for the upcoming November election, the Santa Clara County Democratic Party is officially opening three new Campaign Headquarters.  These new headquarters are located in South County (Morgan Hill), North County (Mountain View), and on Blossom Hill Road in South San Jose, and are in addition to the year-round Democratic Party Headquarters at 2102 Almaden Road in San Jose.

      These headquarters will be focused on Democratic victories on November 7.  For example, the South County office will be focused on defeating Richard Pombo and electing Jerry McNerney to Congress as part of the goal of changing leadership in the House of Representatives.  In San Jose, we will be working hard to elect Phil Angelides as Governor, Cindy Chavez as Mayor, and Karyn Sinunu as District Attorney.  The North County office will also be campaigning for Angelides and Sinunu.  In addition, all three offices will be working to elect Great Democrats to City Councils and School Boards across the county, including key races in Morgan Hill, San Jose, Campbell, and Mountain View.

      All three new headquarters are celebrating their Grand Openings this coming Saturday, September 16.  See below for the details on each office and it's grand opening event.  If you would like to volunteer at any of these offices, please contact the person listed for each location below.


      South County Headquarters Grand Opening

      Join South County Democrats as they celebrate the grand opening of the South County Headquarters, this Saturday, Sept. 16, at 1:00 pm.  The South County headquarters will be working with the Jerry McNerney for Congress campaign, as well as the Santa Clara County Democratic Party.  The new headquarters will be at:

      237 West Main Street in Morgan Hill (map).  

      Jerry McNerney will join us during the opening event.  The office will be looking for volunteers to make phone calls, walk precincts, post lawn signs, etc.  In addition, Spanish speaking volunteers will be needed to staff the office, which will be open 7 days a week.  

      For more information or to volunteer, please contact Charmaine Jabr at jabr@sccdp.org or 408-779-7906.    


      North County Headquarters Grand Opening

      The North County Headquarters is located at 

      2290 El Camino Real, #8, Mountain View (map). 

      Join us for a barbecue on Saturday at 1:00 pm.  The barbecue will follow a precinct walk for Mountain View City Council candidate Margaret Abe-Koga.  If you would like to walk with us, please come to the office at 10:00.  Otherwise, stop by in the afternoon to see the office, meet your Democratic leaders, and learn how you can help with the campaign between now and November 7.  If you plan to attend the barbecue, please email thurber@sccdp.org.  


      NEW San Jose Headquarters Grand Opening

      You are cordially invited to the Grand Opening of the NEW Democratic Campaign Headquarters.  Help elect Phil Angelides for Governor, Cindy Chavez for San Jose Mayor, Karyn Sinunu for Santa Clara County District Attorney, and all the Democratic Party endorsed candidates.  Saturday, September 16, 9:00 am.  

      1180 Blossom Hill Rd. Suite B, San Jose (map)

      The headquarters is near the intersection of Almaden Expressway and Blossom Hill Road, next to Kragen's.

        Volunteer!  Phone banking, precinct walking and helping to elect Democrats!  Contact: Tom Cochran (outreach@sccdp.org, 408-772-3475) or James Kim (vice-chair@sccdp.org, 408-238-1645).

         

      September 08, 2006

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      September 8, 2006

          
      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.  Donate securely online.   

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


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      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

        Dear Fellow Democrats:

      I am sure you receive many fundraising appeals to support worthy candidates and Democratic Party organizations. But this is for the local Democratic Party - not for Washington, not for Sacramento, but for the Santa Clara County Democratic Party. We need your help to enable us to comply with the complex campaign finance laws and thus mount an effective campaign in our area this fall.

      Let me explain. Recent changes in campaign finance rules, brought about by the McCain-Feingold bill, require that most of our campaign expenses be paid for by income that relates to the federal finance rules which means no donations from labor or corporations or business in general. Thus, as we are involved in an election which includes candidates for federal office, we generally cannot use funds that come from our traditional supporters: labor unions and candidates for state and local offices.

      We need money now to support campaign headquarters in the north and south county as well as in San Jose - to pay the rent, to install telephones and computers, to buy lawns signs, and to pay for utilities. All of these costs go into running a successful campaign in Santa Clara County. It will cost about $30,000 this year.

      At our headquarters, we help those local candidates endorsed by the party as well as those running for statewide and national offices. Electing Phil Angelides is a major focus. And this year, we have another, additional important task. We must help our neighbors to the east defeat extremist, anti-environmentalist Richard Pombo, and put a Democrat into that Congressional seat.

      This is the first major fundraising drive the Santa Clara County United Democratic Campaign has targeted toward individual donors. So please give what you can ($10, $50, $100, $500, $1,000), whatever your budget can spare to ensure we have an operating headquarters structure this fall. An individual can give up to $5,000. It is easy to donate at our website:

      Our goal is your goal: change the House of Representatives and the Senate to a Democratic majority and end the rule of lawlessness, incompetence, stagnation and mean-spiritedness that so surrounds the Capital today; and allow us to keep a strong, progressive Democratic team in Sacramento. Your contribution will greatly help the Democratic Party here in Santa Clara County and means a great deal to the future of this county, our state and our country.

      Steve Preminger
      Chair, SCCDP

      PS. If you would prefer to contribute by mail, please print the form at the website and mail it with your payment to: United Democratic Campaign, P.O. Box 521, Los Altos, CA 94023.

         

      August 23, 2006

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin


          
      In this edition:
    • Introduction

    • This Week on the SCCDP Blog
    • Arnold Not the Moderate He Claims to Be
    • Help Boycott the COMPAC Barbeque
    • California Democratic Party Takes Positions on Ballot Measures
    • Help Fund our Campaign Activities
    • Democratic Campaign Kickoff
    • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide
    • Humor Break

      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.  Donate securely online.   

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


      Unsubscribe

      You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


      Newsletter Contributors

      David Cohen: Editor
      Jacquie Heffner


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

         Introduction

      It is nearing the end of August, which means kids are back in school (yea!), summer is coming to an end, and the election season is going to heat up faster than it takes to switch your calendar from August to September. There are many opportunities for you to volunteer your time on a number of campaigns, both local and statewide - make sure to give some time to help elect Democrats this fall.

      Speaking of elections, the California GOP is making sure that Ahnold is supported by the far right by hiring "Ben Lopez, a lobbyist for the Rev. Lou Sheldon's Traditional Values Coalition, a group that seeks to outlaw abortion and roll back gay rights." (Update: after outcry over the hiring, Lopez has been "fired" by the California Republican party.) Ahnold continues to "act" like a moderate when in fact he welcomes supporters such as Lopez. You can send Ahnold back to his acting days by helping Phil Angelides become the next Governor of California, and with your help people like Lopez will stay out of our wonderful state.

      In other news, our very own Steve Preminger had an excellent op-ed piece in the Mercury News on Monday. In case you missed it, here is the link. Our County Party chair was reacting to an op-ed by Les Francis published last week. If you have any thoughts on either of these two editorials mosey over to the SCCDP Blog and post a comment.


      This Week on the SCCDP Blog

      After a summer hiatus, the Santa Clara County blog is back, covering issues of importance to Democrats in Santa Clara County, California, and the entire nation. This week, add your comments to a discussion about what Lieberman's loss in the Connecticut primary means. And find out about how terrible Republican congressional candidates simply repeat talking points without any understanding of the issues or of how to keep America safe. Join the conversation at the SCCDP Blog.


      Arnold Not the Moderate He Claims to Be

      The Angelides campaign and California Demoratic Party today released a hard-hitting video attack on Arnold Schwarzenegger, refusing to allow him to run from his close ties to George W. Bush.  It includes footage of Schwarzenegger's powerful endorsement of Bush during the 2004 elections.  See "You" at the California Democratic Party website. Schwarzenegger is not the moderate, no-special-interest governor Californians elected a few years ago.  Don't believe him when he says he is. And spread the word. A vote for Arnold in November is a vote for George Ws Bush and his policies.


      Help Boycott the COMPAC Barbeque

      During the San Jose Mayoral primary, the San Jose/Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce unleashed a grossly unethical, misleading, hypocritical, and illegal smear campaign against Cindy Chavez. We ask that you not attend the COMPAC barbeque on August 24, nor contribute money to the Chamber's political activities. SCCDP Chair Steve Preminger wrote a letter urging Democrats to boycott the barbeque. View it here.

      We can use your help, to stand outside one of the two entrances to the COMPAC barbeque Thursday afternoon.  The event is from 5 to 9 PM.  We especially need you starting at 4:30, and would like folks to stay until 7:00 or 7:30 to help pass our literature to the attendees. The event is at the San Jose history Park, 1650 Senter Road, San Jose. Contact Steve Preminger at chair@sccdp.org if you can make it, and if you can bring a few friends.


      California Democratic Party Takes Positions on Ballot Measures

      The California Democratic Party has taken the following positions on the propositions on the November 7 ballot:

      1A The Rebuild California Plan: Transportation Investment Fund YES
      1B The Rebuild California Plan: Highway Safety, Traffic Reduction, Air Quality, Port Security Bond Act of 2006
      YES
      1C The Rebuild California Plan: Housing and Emergency Shelter Trust Fund Act of 2006
      YES
      1D The Rebuild California Plan: Education Facilities: Kindergarten-University Public Education Facilities Bond Act of 2006
      YES
      1E The Rebuild California Plan: Disaster Preparedness and Flood Prevention Bond Act of 2006
      YES
      For more information on Props 1A through 1E: Rebuilding California - A Plan for Our Future: www.plan4ourfuture.org/

      83 Sex Offenders. Sexually Violent Predators. Punishment, Residence Restrictions and Monitoring. YES
      For more information on Prop 83: Jessica's Law: www.83yes.com

      84 Water Quality, Safety and Supply. Flood Control. Natural Resources Protection. Park Improvements. YES
      For more information on Prop 84: Californians for Clean Water, Parks and Coastal Protection: www.yeson84.com

      85 Waiting Period and Parental Notification Before Termination of Minor's Pregnancy. NO
      For more information on Prop 84: No on 85 for Real Teen Safety: www.noon85.com

      86 Tax on Cigarettes. Tobacco Tax Act of 2006 for hospital, emergency services, tobacco education. YES
      For more information on Prop 86: Stop Big Tobacco / Coalition For A Health California: www.yesprop86.com

      87 Alternative Energy. Research. Production, Incentives. Tax on California Oil. YES
      For more information on Prop 87: Make Big Oil Pay for Cleaner Energy / Californians for Clean Energy: www.yesoncleanenergy.com

      88 Education Funding. Real Property Parcel Tax. NO
      For more information on Prop 88: Californians Against the Statewide Parcel Property Tax: www.noprop88.com

      90 Government Acquisition, Regulation of Private Property. NO
      For more information on Prop 90: Californians Against the Taxpayer Trap: www.noprop90.com


      Help Fund our Campaign Activities

      The Santa Clara County Democratic Party runs all Democratic campaign activities in the county. This includes opening and operating several campaign offices, providing material for precinct walkers, and paying for staff to coordinate volunteers. In the near future, you will be receiving communication outlining our needs and asking for contributions to help us succeed in 2006. Please consider supporting your local party. If you would like to donate to SCCDP, even $20 will support our voter outreach efforts. You can donate online.


      Democratic Campaign Kickoff

      This fall we have the chance to elect two great candidates to office who have a proven track record of fighting for Democratic values. Saturday, we kick off the campaign season with a rally at the Democratic Party Headquarters. Please join the campaign to help elect Cindy Chavez as San Jose Mayor and to take back California by electing Phil Angelides Governor.

      CAMPAIGN KICK-OFF
      SATURDAY, AUGUST 26
      10:00 AM RALLY
      11:00 AM PRECINCT WALKING

      2102 ALMADEN RD, SAN JOSE

      Food will be provided. For more information, please call 408-445-9500 or email volunteer@sccdp.org.


      Fact or Fiction?  We Report, You Decide.

      Fact or Fiction? Conservative MSNBC commentator Joe Scarborough recently did a segment titled, "Is Bush and Idiot?"

      Fact or Fiction: Thomas Friedman has finally figured out that this administration is losing the war in Iraq: "Friends, we are on a losing trajectory in Iraq, and, as the latest London plot underscores, the wider war with radical Islam is only getting wider."

      Fact or Fiction? "[S]ome outside experts who have recently visited the White House said Bush administration officials were beginning to plan for the possibility that Iraq’s democratically elected government might not survive."

      Fact or Fiction? "…on Meet the Press, Sen. John McCain claimed, 'Most Americans — when they are asked 'do you want to set a date for withdraw?' — they say no.' " In an August 2006 poll by CNN, 57 percent of Americans think the US should set a timetable for withdrawal in Iraq.


      Humor Break

      President Bush stands in the way of potential life-altering therapies by vetoing the stem cell research bill:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/wheelchairbound.htm

      Mark Fiore examines the Republicans' claim that global warming is a "hoax":
      http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/gate/archive/2006/08/16/fiorehoax.DTL

      In the meantime, a Federal judge slaps Bush on the wrist for his illegal wiretapping:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/foundingfathers.htm

      Condi calls the mid-east conflit "birth pangs":
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/midwife.htm

      Democrats in Connecticut have repudiated Senator Lieberman's closeness to the President:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/liebermanplatform.htm

      As election season is here, Republicans up for election are trying to distance themselves from Bush:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/incumbent.htm

      And Dick Cheney still won't entertain a rational conversation about Iraq:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/rationaldiscussion.htm

          

      July 20, 2006

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin

      Santa Clara County Democratic Party Bulletin
      July 20, 2006

          

      In this edition:
    • Introduction

    • Second Annual Joint Democratic Clubs Picnic
    • Arnold Fundraising in the Bay Area with President Bush
    • Volunteer Alert
    • Zoe Lofgren Annual Summer Barbecue
    • Get to Know Karyn Sinunu, candidate for District Attorney
    • Help Fund our Campaign Activities
    • New Leaders Council's Institute
    • COMPAC Barbecue Boycott
    • Fact or Fiction? We Report, You Decide
    • Humor Break

      Quick Links

      Calendar of Events
      See all the upcoming events and volunteer at our online Calendar.

      Donate to SCCDP
      Support our efforts to elect Democrats in Santa Clara County.  Donate securely online.   

      Join a Democratic Club
      Learn about the Democratic Clubs in Santa Clara County and sign up for information.  Visit our clubs page

      Write a Letter to a Local Newspaper or Elected Official
      Our letter writing tool makes it easy.


      Unsubscribe

      You received this message because you signed up to receive communication from SCCDP. If you would like to be removed, click here


      Newsletter Contributors

      David Cohen: Editor
      Adrienne Grey
      Jacquie Heffner


      Santa Clara County Democratic Party
      San Jose, CA
      (408) 445-9500
      sccdp.org

        Introduction

      If you think July is hot, just wait until November when Democrats take back Congress. The Republican-led Congress is, at best, an embarrassment to our nation. While working families struggle to make ends meet, while Americans try to figure out how to afford the basic needs of daily living, and as more and more people in our country fall below the poverty line, the GOP Congress focuses on flag burning and gay marriage.

      With your help Democrats will once again become the majority in Congress, and we will show America that our nation can, and will, move forward for all Americans, not just the few who are now in power.

      So, as we are in the middle of summer, don't forget to check out local Democratic events - there are meetings, picnics and of course volunteer opportunities. Keep an eye on the SCCDP Calendar for information on everything that is happening. Join with us as we work together to once again make our nation the shining example of freedom it once was.


      Second Annual Joint Democratic Clubs Picnic

      Calling all Democrats! You are cordially invited to our Second Annual Democratic Clubs Picnic, hosted by Bay Area Iranian American Democrats, Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley, Democatic Activists for Women Now (DAWN), Moorpark Democratic Club, Santa Clara County Democratic Club, Silicon Valley Asian Pacific American Democratic Club, Silicon Valley Latino Democratic Forum, and Silicon Valley LGBT Democratic Club. This event represents the kickoff of the final 100 days before the November election.

      Please join us for a day of fun for the whole family and friends. Saturday, July 29, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm at Rainbow Park, 5801 Rainbow Drive, San Jose. BBQ burgers/hot dogs and refreshments will be served. Free for current members of sponsoring clubs and $10 for non-members. To RSVP, contact Clarence Madrilejos at clarencem99@gmail.com or do so online at democrats.org/democraticreunion.


      Arnold Fundraising in the Bay Area with President Bush

      Arnold tries to separate himself from the Republican establishment in Washington. However, after campaigning for the current President Bush in Ohio in 2004, he is now happily appearing with ex-president Bush Sr. for a $100,000 per couple fundraiser. This is the Governor who campaigned during the recall as someone who wouldn't have to focus on fundraising because of his wealth. The Bush-Arnold fundraiser will be in Hillsborough this afternoon. A protest is being held to tell Bush and Arnold what we think of Republican leadership. Protesters will be meet at the public parking lot on the corner of 5th Ave and San Mateo Drive in downtown San Mateo. Shuttles will be running to and from the protest site. For information, call Christa at 650-572-8848. Even if you can't make this last minute protest, make sure your friends and family know how Arnold is just another Bush Republican.


      Volunteer Alert

      Election season is heating up.  Save the dates to help us register voters at these fun, family events:

      • August 4-6 - Santa Clara County Fair
      • August 19-20 - San Jose Jazz Festival
      • August 19-20 - Milpitas Art & Wine Festival
      • Sept 2-4 - San Jose Tapestry Arts Festival

      Full details and shift schedules will be on our calendar soon.  For more information, contact Adrienne at volunteer@sccdp.org, or call 408-445-9500. 


      Zoe Lofgren Annual Summer Barbecue

      Every year, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren holds a barbecue to celebrate her accomplishments in Congress. This year's Zoe Lofgren Barbecue will be held on Saturday, August 5, at 1:30 pm, at History Park in San Jose. Great food and drink will be available, prepared by the firefighters of Santa Clara County. Individual tickets cost $40. RSVP to vicki@lofgrenforcongress.com.


      Get to Know Karyn Sinunu, candidate for District Attorney

      The Santa Clara County Democratic Party has endorsed Karyn Sinunu for District Attorny. Karyn is the only Democrat running for that position and is a great progressive voice. She was the guest on the most recent taping of Democratic TV. Visit our DTV page to find out how to watch DTV in your community. Or you can watch online using Windows Media Player or Real Player.

      Next week, you can meet Karyn in person at an appreciation reception and fundraiser. The event is co-hosted by Alison Coy, Sabrea Foley, and Teresa O'Neill, at Teresa O'Neill's home in Santa Clara. If you are intereseted in attending on Thursday, July 27, from 5:30 to 7:30, contact Buu Thai at 408-772-2825 or bc_thai@yahoo.com.


      Help Fund our Campaign Activities

      The Santa Clara County Democratic Party runs all Democratic campaign activities in the county. This includes opening and operating several campaign offices, providing material for precinct walkers, and paying for staff to coordinate volunteers. In the near future, you will be receiving communication outlining our needs and asking for contributions to help us succeed in 2006. Please consider supporting your local party. If you would like to donate to SCCDP, even $20 will support our voter outreach efforts. You can donate online.


      New Leaders Council's Institute

      New Leaders Council's Institute is the training ground for a diverse group of advanced and talented young progressive leaders -- aspiring elected officials, government and political staff, journalists, and entrepreneurs.  With the conservative machine up and running for 37 years and with hundreds of millions of annual funding, New Leaders Council (NLC) is taking the first step to build capacity, talent, and leadership skills in progressive leaders.  NLC's Institute is a five-month, seven-session program that integrates leadership training, mentorship, and networking opportunities and, if desired, job placement.  Please visit newleaderscouncil.org to view the application for NLC's class of 2007 today.  The application period ends September 30th.  For questions or additional information, please contact Adam Borelli.


      COMPAC Barbecue Boycott

      Sadly the San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce’s political arm, COMPAC, refuses to apologize for their illegal and unethical campaign activities during the June primary. In August COMPAC holds their annual barbecue that raises fund for their political activities. If you are an elected official, the Santa Clara County Democratic Party is asking that you boycott the COMPAC barbecue.


      Fact or Fiction?  We Report, You Decide.

      Fact or Fiction? President Bush gave the Chancellor of Germany a massage at the G8 summit.

      Fact or Fiction? The US Government considered making Americans who are being evacuated from Lebanon pay for their evacuation.

      Fact or Fiction? Turkey has told the United States that they will "stage a cross border operation into northern Iraq to strike at bases of the terrorist group the PKK."

      Fact or Fiction? "200,000 Americans are being priced out of college education annually. Tuition at four-year colleges alone has climbed 40 percent since 2001."


      Humor Break

      President Bush is celebrating a deficit that is greater than $250 billion, the fourth largest in history:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/defecitcake.htm

      The administration is attacking the media for keeping us informed of their activities. But they don't want us to know:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/loyalamerican.htm

      Homeland Security has very strangely allocated anti-terror funding:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/jasperwyoming.htm

      Now we know what the terrorists' true targets will be:
      http://sccdp.org/humor.php?linkID=humor/stuckeys.htm

      The Supreme Court has reprimanded Bush for not following the law regarding treatment of detai