Democracy for Arizona

Meet Howard Dean…

2010-03-05T21:45:00.008-07:00

You are invited to join the Maricopa County Democratic Party for a Post Dean/Rove Debate Reception with our special guest Howard Dean. Howard Dean, former DNC Chair and founder of Democracy for America, takes on former Bush advisor, Karl Rove, at ASU’s Gammage Auditorium on March 6th at 5 PM. Contact ASU for debate ticket information.

After the debate, join the Maricopa County Democratic Party for a private dinner reception with our special guest, Howard Dean.

When: March 6th from 7 to 9 P.M.

Where: The Barnes House at 1104 S. Ash, Tempe

Cost: $25 for individuals * $40 for Couples* $100 for 6 Tickets

Tickets must be purchased in advance. Click here for tickets.

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What the MA election means--Tell Democratic Leaders...

2010-01-21T08:56:00.006-07:00

You've probably heard that Republican Scott Brown won election to the Senate seat that used to belong to Ted Kennedy. That hurts. He is also making robo calls here in AZ for John McCain - we got one. We have also heard from Jim Dean of DFA and True Majority:

But conservatives are already saying the lesson of the election is that voters don't want health care reform, so elected leaders should abandon their progressive principles and stop trying to solve our big problems.

That's nonsense. Ted Kennedy was such a loud and strong advocate for health care and other issues that they called him the "liberal lion," and voters elected him again and again.

Our leaders have a choice: Dig in and fight harder to accomplish something now that the going is tough; Or pull back in the hopes that they can cut their losses. That's the debate is going on in caucus rooms and closed offices in Washington right this minute.

So I just sent a message to Democratic leaders telling them "we need liberal lions, not moderate lambs." Can you do the same thing? This website makes it really easy:

http://act.truemajorityaction.org/t/112/p/7002/targeted?campaign_KEY=1676
and/or

http://www.democracyforamerica.com/activities/274

CALL ON DEMOCRATS TO PASS HEALTHCARE WITH 51 VOTES AND INCLUDE A PUBLIC OPTION

Toby Stahl, DFA-MC Chair

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"Loose Change 9/11: An American Coup" - At Crossroads 6, Nov. 23rd, 7 PM

2009-11-21T16:41:00.004-07:00

"LOOSE CHANGE 9/11: AN AMERICAN COUP"

Where: Crossroads 6 Grand Cinemas, 4811 E. Grant Road, Tucson
When: Monday, November 23rd, 7:00 PM. --
Admission: $3.00

The events on 9/11/2001 have been and continue to be used to justify US military intervention and 'preventive' wars around the world. If you are disgusted by the waste of lives and resources at a time when this country and the world face so many urgent problems, come see this film.

There is now a very large body of evidence the 'official' version of events on that day is, to see the least, flawed. If you care about your future and what your government is doing around the world in your name, come see this film. And then DEMAND answers to the questions it raises.

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Fatally Flawed Encore Presentation

2009-11-12T12:58:00.004-07:00

Voices of Opposition on the Big Screen!

Presenting Fatally Flawed.

It's 2009. Do you know where your vote is?

Arizona Daily Star headline, Wednesday 11/11/09: 109 votes found after election's "final tally"

FATALLY FLAWED

When: Monday, November 16, at 7 pm

Where: Crossroads 6 Grand Cinemas, 4811 E. Grant Road, Tucson, AZ

Admission: $3/person at the door

"Fatally Flawed" is a true detective story about the RTA vote, the two billion dollar bond transportation measure passed under suspicious circumstances in Pima County in 2006. This shocking film documents the long-standing fight to re-examine the ballots, which has involved the Democratic and Libertarian Parties as well as high-level state and county officials. Everyone needs to understand the questions raised about election integrity in Pima County.

Diversity Awards Celebration

2009-10-03T19:54:00.001-07:00

Annual Diversity Awards Celebration

The Maricopa County Democratic Party presents the 2009 Diversity Awards Celebration honoring five leaders who have advanced Democratic ideals throughout our diverse community.

The 2009 Diversity Awards Celebration will feature a multicultural lineup of entertainment, including the 2009 World Champion Hoop Dancer, Brian Hammill. Master of Ceremonies: Gerald Richard

Presenters: Arizona Corporation Commissioner Sandra Kennedy, former MCDP Chair Mark Manoil, candidate for Arizona Secretary of State Sam Wercinski, and more.

Sunday, October 4, 2009
3:30 PM Reception
4:00 PM Performances and awards

Kerr Cultural Center, 6110 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale

Come celebrate diversity with us. Get tickets now.

Event Sponsorship Opportunities Also Available
Event sponsors will be honored with their name featured before a crowd of active Democrats. Show your support for the work of the local Democratic Party by taking advantage of this unique sponsorship opportunity. For more information call 480-206-8358.

Entertainment Sponsorship Package ($500): 6 tickets to event, full page ad in printed program, full splash screen shown during event, listed on website announcement, listed in email announcements, and announced during event as a sponsor.

Gold Sponsorship Package ($250): 4 tickets to event, full page ad in printed program, and splash screen (partial) shown during event.

Silver Sponsorship Package ($150): 2 tickets to event, half page ad in printed program, and featured on screen during event.

Show your support - Reserve your sponsorship package today.

Event Host Committee
Sandra Kennedy, Arizona Corporation Commissioner
Senator Leah Landrum Taylor
Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox
Tempe Councilman Corey Woods
Ann Wallack, MCDP Chair
Jackie Thomas, MCDP Affirmative Action Committee Chair
Sherri Connell, Tempe School Board
Angie Crouse, Chair of Arizona Women in Blue
Donna Gratehouse, MCDP Second Vice Chair
Dan Mallar, former MCDP Treasurer
Catherine Miller, MCDP Treasurer

March for Health Care, Sundy Sept. 13 2009

2009-09-12T13:52:00.000-07:00

Reminder: March 4 Health Care - Sunday, Sept. 13

The President's exceptional health care speech was met with both praise and criticism. The Republican's can call him names, but they can't stop us from standing up (and marching) for what is right. Let's show our support for his Health Care reform and the Public Option. Meet on the north side of Jefferson Street near US Airways Arena starting at 11am on Sunday, September 13th. Bring your signs. We will march through Copper Square past Chase Field. Speakers will include Kyrsten Sinema. You must speak up now! Thanks to the Governor and the Republican Legislature there are 10,000 more Arizona families without health care. WE CAN'T WAIT FOR REFORM!

Jim Hightower is Coming to Tucson

2009-08-01T17:40:00.004-07:00

Jim Hightower, Live in Tucson once again!

America's #1 Populist Jim Hightower!

"If ignorance is bliss, George W. must be ecstatic." -Jim Hightower

Sunday, August 30, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Temple of Music and Art,
330 S. Scott, Tucson, AZ

National radio commentator, writer, public speaker, and author of the book, Swim Against The Current: Even A Dead Fish Can Go With The Flow, Jim Hightower has spent three decades battling the powers that be on behalf of the powers that ought to be - consumers, working families, environmentalists, small businesses and just plain folks.

A book signing will follow (Jim's books will be available for purchase). The event's special invited guests include 2009 Democratic Tucson City Council Candidates: Karin Uhlich, Richard Fimbres and Nina Trasoff.

Tickets are $25 before August 24th; $35 after. Purchase Tickets here. Questions? Please call 520-326-3716 or e-mail pimadem@pimadems.org. Proceeds benefit the sponsor, Pima County Democratic Party.

Swim Against the Current: Even a Dead Fish Can Go With the Flow

Jim is a syndicated columnist, national radio commentator, publisher of the "Hightower Lowdown" newsletter, and the New York Times bestselling author of Thieves in High Places. Haven't heard Jim? Click here for a treat.

Jim Hightower has picked up some useful advice over the years, from "never eat at a café featuring 'bargain kebobs'" to "never hit a man with glasses; hit him with something much heavier." As he's rambled through America, however, he's also come up with more serious words of wisdom to share, namely: question authority, trust your values, stand up for your beliefs and swim against the current!

Jim's book introduces people in business, politics, health care, religion and other areas who are doing just that and making a difference. This uplifting book offers inspiration and information to help readers tap into their potential and navigate a different, more satisfying course of their own.

You won't want to miss Jim's wit and wisdom-especially when you can help local Democrats at the same time. See you there!

Contributions or gifts to the Pima County Democratic Party are not tax deductible. Paid for by the Pima County Democratic Party, www.pimadems.org. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

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What's Next?

2009-07-31T09:12:00.003-07:00

What's next for Arizona Democrats?

Come hear the new Executive Director of the Arizona Democratic Party, Luis Heredia. Luis will speak at the DFA-MC meeting on August 5th at El Penasco Restaurant, 19 E Broadway, Tempe 85282 at 6:30pm. Also speaking will be Penny Kotterman one of the two Democrats vying for Superintendent of Public Instruction vs Republican John Huppenthal. RSVP info@dfamc.com

What's next for Education in Arizona?

As of this writing, the Arizona House has passed a disastrous budget. Fortunately, the Senate can't get the votes to pass this bill that will give tax breaks to the rich and steal the education of our kids.

What's next for Healthcare?

Blue Dog democrats are holding out against a public option in healthcare reform. Could it be that they are getting money from the healthcare and insurance industries, nearly $40,000,000? Harry Mitchell got over $240,000** and Gabby Giffords over $527,000**. Call them everyday and tell them you want a minimum of a STRONG PUBLIC OPTION.

http://www.opensecrets.org/news/2009/06/blue-dog-bark-backed-by-insure.html

What's next for DFA-MC?

Over 90 people received the DFA Campaign Academy, learning everything from creating a field plan to creating an ASK list to ASKing, to dealing with the media. We are going to work to replace the Republicans in the Arizona Legislature, we are going to work for healthcare reform and let's work to defeat the healthcare proposition that will be on the ballot in 2010 that will change our State Constitution to prevent a choice in healthcare.

We will continue our push for healthcare reform and fight the healthcare proposition proposed by the Arizona State Legislature:

HCR 2014 would amend the Arizona Constitution by barring any rules or regulations that force Arizonans to participate in a health-care system. The proposed amendment would also ensure that individuals have the right to pay for private health insurance.[2]

The Arizona Health Insurance Reform Amendment is similar to a November 2008 proposition that narrowly failed, Proposition 101. However, the new version has some changes that take into account the main criticism levied against the 2008 measure. The new version ensures that patients covered under the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System will not be negatively impacted if the amendment passes. In 2008, AHCCCS officials argued that Proposition 101 would increase costs by preventing the agency from requiring patients to seek services from within its network of providers.[2]

Do you want to help with healthcare? Join DFA-MC at our next meeting on August 5th at El Penasco Restaurant, 19 E Broadway, Tempe 85282.

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AZ Mega Forum on Health Care Reform: Tues. 6/30/09, 7 pm

2009-06-28T05:09:00.000-07:00

The Time Is Now!

The window of opportunity is closing on real health care reform. You know our health care system is broken! Nearly 50 Million uninsured and millions more underinsured. 98,000 die from medial errors. 20,000 die for lack of care. You know the forces that have taken us here. Speak up; join us at Arizona’s Mega Forum on Health Care Reform. Send a
clear message to Washington D.C. that Arizonans support a viable public health plan option…comprehensive, affordable, high quality, and open to all…that helps bring economic viability for Arizona’s small businesses.

Let's remind our elected officials that we want health care reform that works, we VOTE, and we will not be ignored. There is significant suffering for millions of Americans under our current health care system. Let’s change that.

Tell Your Story

Doctors, nurses, patients! Do you have a health insurance horror story to tell? Send your story to info@afrhc.net with your contact information. Your story may be selected for reading at the Mega Forum on Health Care Reform.

· Rep, John Conyers, Michign 14th District, live remote feed

· Donna Smith, California Nurses Association

· Kyrsten Sinema, White House Health Reform Task Force member

· Luis Heredia , Executive Director, AZ Democratic Party

· Margaret Flowers, M.D., Physicians for a National Health
Program

With a message from Luis Heredia, Executive Director of the Arizona State Democratic Party and presentations by Dr. Jonathan Weisbuch, Peter Cerchiara, and others

Event Sponsors:

*Arizonans for Responsible Healthcare

*AZ Coalition for a State & National Health Plan

*AZ Democratic Progressive Caucus

*CA Nurses Association /National Nurses Organizing Committee

*DFA Maricopa County

*DFA Tucson

*Foothills Democrats

*Physicians for a National Health Program

*Progressive Democrats of America – East Valley and Phoenix

Register Today!

Go to http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/meeting/gpcwhq

For more information, contact Pete at 480-614-1316 or info@afrhc.net
or Julius and Grace at 520-777-7190

Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Time: 7 – 10 p.m.
Where: The Wyndham Phoenix Hotel
50 E. Adams Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004

www.wyndhamphx.com

DFA Tucson Health Care Reform Meeting

2009-05-25T16:21:00.003-07:00

Do you support real health care finance reform in America?

Then join us at our next meeting.

When: Wednesday, May 27, at 7 pm

Where: Conference Room, Ward 6 Office, 3201 E. 1st

(one block SE of Country Club and Speedway)

Screening of Bill Moyers Journal "A Medical Dilemma" followed by group planning of local citizen actions in support of single payer HR 676 and SB 703 leading up to August votes in Congress.

This meeting is open to all who are willing to work to enact true universal health care as national law this year. Seating is limited. Please be prompt.

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DEMOCRACY FOR AMERICA TRAINING JULY 25TH-26TH, 2009

2009-05-20T23:12:00.005-07:00

Type:	DFA Training
Event Date:	Jul 25, 2009
Event Time:	9:00 AM MST
Venue Name:	University of Advancing Technologies
Address:	2625 W Baseline Rd
City:	Tempe
State:	AZ
Zip Code:	85283

Agenda:

Ten reasons to attend the DFA Campaign Academy training in Phoenix this July 25th-26th:

1. Learn how to plan and run a winning grassroots campaign
2. Meet and hear from local progressive candidates
3. Learn from trainers with decades of experience
4. Mingle with other local progressive activists at social events
5. Get a copy of our 180 page Grassroots Campaign Training Manual
6. Set goals and make plans to pass progressive legislation
7. Re-connect with old friends from the campaign
8. Help elect progressive mayors, city council members and other municipal
offices in 2009
9. Learn to organize your neighborhood or precinct
10. Look for a new job or volunteer opportunity

Click here to see the skills you'll learn at a DFA Campaign Training!

All we ask is a small contribution of $60 to DFA to help us cover our costs. Don't worry if you can't afford it, you can always find someone to sponsor you through our training scholarship fund and we offer reduced tuition rates to those in need.

Space is limited so reserve your seat today!

For more info on our trainers, curriculum, and history visit our training homepage at: www.democracyforamerica.com/training.

If you have questions you can email us at training(at)democracyforamerica.com or call our DFA Training hotline at: 802-651-3200 x191.

Hotel Information
For those coming from out of town we have arranged a discounted rate of $79 for studio’s or $99 for one bedroom’s. Call the number below and be sure to ask for the 'Democracy for America' group rate to get the discount.

Legacy Golf Resort
6808 S. 32nd Street
Phoenix, AZ 85042
602-305-6303

DFA-Tucson April 2009 Meeting

2009-04-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

Wednesday , April 8, 7-9pm

DFATucson Monthly Meeting, (2nd Wed. of every month)
City of Tucson Ward 6 Office (Community Room), 3202 E 1st St.

(One block south of Speedway on Country Club, turn east onto 1st St to address)

Click on Location Map

Congressional Scorecard - Spring Edition

Join us for a roundtable discussion on the performance of Congress during the first ninety days of its 110th session. You are invited to bring information to share on particular bills that are now pending in Congress to share with others, so that we might work together to promote progressive legislation, in addition to ones DFA-Tucson is promoting.

(Did you know that Cong Ron Paul and Barney Frank have introduced legislation to legalize production of industrial hemp this week? Last week, others introduced a fair elections bill. We need to have a scorecard to know how the game is being played...)

We will be concentrating on Congressional action to make elections inclusive and verifiable, to regulate banking, to promote single-payer health-financing, and to investigate Bush crimes. We will consider what are the best options available for grassroots groups to influence this Congress.

Finally, we will do some planning for the National Protest on Bank Bailouts to be held in Tucson this Saturday.
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DFA-Tucson March 2009 Meeting

2009-03-10T07:02:00.000-07:00

Wednesday , March 11, 7-9pm

DFATucson Monthly Meeting, (2nd Wed. of every month)
City of Tucson Ward 6 Office (Community Room), 3202 E 1st St.

(One block south of Speedway on Country Club, turn east onto 1st St to address)

Click on Location Map

Offer your ideas and become active in DFA Tucson. Everyone is invited to become a member or to renew their membership. Elections will be held for the available spots on the Steering Committee. We'll have a discussion of the activities completed and activities planned for this year.

A draft agenda for Wed. evening is as follows:

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1. Review of past year:

*Video taped interview with Gen. Adams, Dick Eaton, Rick G and Mike Bryan as moderator; Iran attack. 3/08.

*Bob Bowman, presentation on everything. 9/08.

*The economy with a Dec meeting resulting in a focus group for fiscal/monetary study and reform.

*Ellen Brown sponsorship and presentation, 1/09

*Election integrity support and participation. Past and current: Monday Voices/DFA meeting, 3/9/09.

* Presentations on Nuclear Power, regular DFA meeting and World Harmony, summer, 08.

* Pre-election World Harmony programs: Consequences of 9/11; McCain vs. Obama analysis.

* Tour of Solon, Inc. solar panel production plant, 2/09.

* The Iraq War and Impeachment went to the back burner with the national elections and the economy meltdown.

2. Treasury Report - Alex

New laddered proposed dues structure - Dick

Bring your checkbook for this coming year's dues.

3. Elections for 2009. S.C. members serve 2 year terms, unlimited in number. Officers serve 2 year terms, maximum of 2 consecutive terms by By-Laws.

In March 2009 the following were elected:

Dick Kaiser, Co-Chair, until 3/10, eligible for a second term

Rick Graap, " " , until 3/10, end of second/final term

Jody Gibbs, term ends 3/10

Mike Bryan, term ends 3/10

Joining the S.C. subsequent to March were:

Stuart Thomas, wishes to continue

Jell Latas, wishes to continue

Current terms up, eligible to continue on the S.C.

Alex Waddell, Treasurer, looking for a replacement for this office

Steven Lesh, Liason ad hoc among other activities for us

Omid Mahdavi, Secretary, has been submerged with work the past year

Anyone knowing of another individual with interest to be on the S.C., please contact them and advise them of our meeting. The By-Laws allow for 5 to 9 members; all our meetings are open to anyone else who wishes to come and participate, but the elected members are expected to participate and contribute with regularity.

4. Issue Activities

a. Economy and monetary reform: continue actively or leave primary effort to the new group?

b. Middle East and other wars of empire; what next?

c. Election Integrity: likely continue to be supportive with the established E.I. Committees.

d. Impeachment: conversion to Prosecution. The S.C. has considered this to be a top priority. Dick can update.

e. Campaign Finance Reform AKA "Follow the Money" Another top priority; can we have an impact?

There are other issues of great importance but likely we will be supportive of other groups actively working on them: Single Payer Health Coverage; Nuclear Power and Disarmament; Global Warming/Clean Energy and others.

Then there is a strong sense that we need real progressive candidates; Jeff and Dick both have thoughts and ideas about how to proceed and strategies for success.

We will push for continued and expanded coordination with like-minded groups and activities, such as Voices, World Harmony, Az. Progressive Caucus, Project Vote Smart, and the regional Democratic Party (and other parties as appropriate),. This listing not being all-inclusive.

DFA-Tucson February 2009 Meeting

2009-02-08T07:56:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, February 11th, 7-9 pm

DFATucson Monthly Meeting, (2nd Wed. of every month)
City of Tucson Ward 6 Office (Community Room), 3202 E 1st St.

(One block south of Speedway on Country Club, turn east onto 1st St to address)
Click on Location Map
$5 admissoin (see below for details)

**UPDATED**

On Wednesday, February 11, Democracy For America-Tucson will hold the third event in its current three-part series on Monetary Reform - a critical part of the Progressive agenda. Included will be a follow-up on the recent DFATucson sponsored presentation by Ellen Brown and her book Web of Debt. Given the recent and pending taxpayer funded bailouts of financial institutions, we the Citizens need to be vigilant on how these funds are spend and on whether the root causes of our current predicament are addressed.

A Conversation with Stephen Zarlenga will feature a live (via phone) presentation by the highly-respected executive director of the American Monetary Institute. Zarlenga will comment on the current banking crisis and make the case for a particular set of remedies that are intended to create a banking system based on human needs and social justice. Zarlenga is working closely with Congressman Dennis Kucinich on the American Monetary Act.

Audience participation will be encouraged.

Printed materials will be available, as well as the DVD of Ellen Brown's Jan 17 presentation in Tucson.

Space is limited for this event due to technical limitations. If you plan on attending, please notify Dick Kaiser at dikyzr@yahoo.com at your earliest convenience.

Five dollars to attend.
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Web Of Debt Author Ellen Brown in Tucson

2009-01-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

Job in Jeopardy? Savings, Home Equity – Gone?

Still think economics, money and banking are boring; don’t concern you? What IS money anyway - or what should it be?

Join Democracy for America- Tucson for a special event. Civil litigation attorney and author Ellen Brown, JD will be in Tucson to discuss her latest timely book: The Web of Debt. Ms. Brown will explain high-finance, the roots of the current economic mess and what can be done to secure a stable, prosperous future for ourselves and our children. A panel of local experts will add to the discussion.

America's Web of Debt:
When: January 17th, 2009, 1 PM
Where: St. Mark's Presbyterian Church, 3809 E. 3rd St., Tucson
(South of Speedway, West of Alvernon)
Cost: $5

American Free Press:

"This may well be one of the most important books you will ever read. Ms. Brown has taken two subjects considered boring – history and monetary policy – and turned them into a book as thrilling as any Tom Clancy novel, except that this book is true. . . . If you are looking to have an understanding of the monetary mess we are in, this is an excellent historical overview with some truly elegant and ingenious ideas about correcting the problems we presently face. As you read this book you may find yourself feeling like "Neo" in The Matrix, newly awakened from the slumber of ignorance and deceit. Best of all, she offers viable solutions to the problems that have plagued our planet for millennia."

– – John Tiffany, American Free Press, April 21, 2008

www.webofdebt.com

For more information, please contact DFA-Tucson at dfatucson@gmail.com

Want to join the debate? You can do so on the Web of Debt blog.

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DFA-MC Meeting, January 7, 2009

2008-12-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

DFA-MC Monthly Meeting
January 7, 2008
Wednesday 6:30pm
El Penasco Restaurant
19 E Broadway Rd, Tempe, AZ 85282

Agenda:

The legislative session is going to be in full force very soon. Carol Corsica will present a PowerPoint of AZ Legislature basics. We will be discussing possible legislation regarding Election Integrity. Let’s review the changes we were looking for and what we might be concerned about that could be introduced by the SOS, etc.

We meet together the first Wednesday of each month. Bring a friend and enjoy an evening of politics, activist information, planning and friendly conversation. Click here to RSVP.

Sunlight for Elections

2008-12-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the Libertarian Party sued Maricopa County Elections because they didn’t follow procedures concerning the hand-count audit? Although the judge agreed that the basic complaints were legitimate, he said they didn’t rise to a need for a second hand-count audit. What other procedures aren’t followed in our elections?

Come to the DFA-MC meeting on December 3rd at El Penasco Restaurant, 19 E. Broadway, Tempe (corner of Broadway and Mill) at 6:30pm where members of the Election Integrity Coalition will present some of the things they have learned and what we can do to correct problems. Come and tell the group what problems occurred at your polling place. Plan for the Brewer administration now that Janet is leaving.

What We Do

2008-11-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday we celebrated the work of the past year and began focusing on the next year. Your support means you are a part of making the work of DFA-MC possible; work such as:

* hosting the recent Election Integrity Forum in Phoenix,
* coordinating election observer training with the Democratic party,
* co-hosting the activist suite at the Wyndham for the election night party,
* co-hosting a screening of “Uncounted” at Harkins Camelview,
* hosting training sessions for candidates and PCs,
* give substance to our endorsement of fiscally responsible and socially progressive candidates,
* sponsorship of local talk radio,
* sponsorship of GI Phone Home,
* monthly public outreach meetings,
* holding elected officials accountable,
* recruiting and mentoring Democratic Precinct Committeepersons,
* and efforts to continue the winning strategy of competing in every race in every election - the 50 state strategy.

There is much to do in the coming year and your help makes all the difference.

IDENTIFICATION AT THE POLLS

2008-10-22T08:39:00.000-07:00

Preferred I.D. – One Required (Photo I.D. with name & address):

* Valid Arizona driver’s license; OR
* Valid Arizona non-operating ID; OR
* Tribal enrollment card or other form of Tribal identification; OR
* Valid United States federal, state or local government issued I.D.

Alternative I.D. – Two Required (Non-photo I.D. with name & address):
* Utility bill dated within 90 days of election (electric, gas, water, solid waste, sewer, telephone, mobile phone or cable bill)
* Bank or Credit Union statement dated within 90 days of the election
* Valid Arizona vehicle registration
* Vehicle insurance card
* Indian census card
* Tribal enrollment card or other form of Tribal identification
* Property tax statement of the voter’s residence
* Valid United States federal, state or local government issued I.D.
* Voter registration card or Recorder’s certificate
* Your browser may not support display of this image.Any “Official Election Material” bearing the voter’s name and address (official post card with I.D. requirements and polling site or voter I.D. card)

VOTE DEMOCRATIC!

Source:
http://www.azsos.gov/election/Prop_200/poll_identification.htm

CHECK YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION, NOW!

2008-09-18T22:35:00.001-07:00

Registration for the general election in Arizona closes at midnight on October 6, 2008 so check your registration before then. You can do it through http://www.servicearizona.com/ If your registration is good then get a friend to register via Service Arizona and then be sure you both vote! You can vote at early voting locations, by mail-in ballot or on November 4. Be sure to have proper ID if you go to the polls.

Acceptable forms of identification with photograph, name, and address of the elector. The address must match the registration roles

* Valid Arizona driver license
* Valid Arizona nonoperating identification license
* Tribal enrollment card or other form of tribal identification
* Valid United States federal, state, or local government issued identification

An identification is “valid” unless it can be determined on its face that it has expired.

Acceptable forms of identification without a photograph that bear the name and address of the elector (two required)

* Utility bill of the elector that is dated within ninety days of the date of the election. A utility bill may be for electric, gas, water, solid waste, sewer, telephone, cellular phone, or cable television
* Bank or credit union statement that is dated within ninety days of the date of the election
* Valid Arizona Vehicle Registration
* Indian census card
* Property tax statement of the elector’s residence
* Tribal enrollment card or other form of tribal identification
* Recorder’s Certificate
* Valid United States federal, state, or local government issued identification, including a voter registration card issued by the county recorder

An identification is “valid” unless it can be determined on its face that it has expired.

NOTE: If you use a PO box on your ID be sure it is listed on your registration - they will both show in the Signature register so your ID will match.

From the Maricopa DFA Chair - August & September Events

2008-08-08T18:37:00.001-07:00

Celebrate with Democracy for America-Maricopa County as we listen to our Democratic candidate accept his nomination.

Prepare for “Change We Can Believe In” at El Penasco Restaurant, 19 E. Broadway, Tempe on August 28th at 6:30pm. The speech is expected at about 7pm. Please RSVP to info@dfamc.org so we can give El Penasco an idea of how many to expect.

Our next regular meeting will be September 3rd at My Mother’s Restaurant, 4130 N 19th Ave, Phoenix. Mark Manoil, Maricopa County chairman will talk about his time at the Convention. We will also discuss what we can do in the last month to “Turn Arizona Blue”.

If you are interested in booing and jeering McCain, with friends as he accepts his party’s nomination, again join us at El Penasco on September 4th.

Special DFA-MC Meeting - Wednesday, July 30, 2008

2008-07-28T18:43:00.001-07:00

LOCATION: My Mother’s Restaurant, 4130 North 19th Avenue (19th Ave, North of Indian School)

What is your agenda for the Democratic Party?

Our candidate, Barack Obama has asked us for our opinions. Join DFA-MC at a special meeting on July 30th at 7:15pm at My Mother’s Restaurant, 4130 North 19th Avenue (19th Ave, North of Indian School) for good food and a discussion of what we want the Democratic platform to be.
The Democratic Party websites lists the agenda as:

Ø Honest Government & Open Government
Ø Real Security
Ø Energy Independence
Ø Economic Prosperity and Educational Excellence
Ø A Healthcare System that Works for Everyone
Ø Secure Retirement
Ø Environment
Ø Civil Rights & Justice
Ø Election Reform
Ø Border Security & Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Do you agree with this agenda? What are your priorities? Let’s talk about it.

The regular meeting will be August 6 at El Peñasco Restaurant in Tempe. More information to follow.

DFA-MC July 9th Meeting: El Penasco (new location)

2008-06-26T18:53:00.000-07:00

July 9, 2008 Wednesday 6:30pm

El Penasco Restaurant

19 E Broadway Rd. Tempe, AZ 85282

Speakers:

Ed Hermes, County Supervisor Candidate

Joel Sinclaire, County Supervisor Candidate

Karen Price, LD9 Senate Candidate

We meet together the first Wednesday (except Jan. and July when we meet 2nd Wed.) of each month. Bring a friend and enjoy an evening of politics, activist information, planning and friendly conversation .

Click here to RSVP.

Tucson Citizens Speak out for Impeachment- Video

2008-05-20T20:01:00.000-07:00

Democracy for America-Tucson (DFA-Tucson) has produced a compelling 10 minute video capturing many of the arguments made by Tucson citizens on why it is important for our Congressional Representatives to conduct impeachment investigations now.

You can view this important video clip on the internet at the following web addresses. Simply click on any address below:

Google video: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=171669599000633145&hl=en

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwO6K1AEGe0

After Downing Street: http://afterdowningstreet.org/giffords

On February 20th, 2008, DFA-Tucson sponsored a public meeting with guest Maura Policelli, the Chief of Staff to Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. The two hour meeting was marked with potent statements by the audience on the issues of impeachment and the illegal occupation of Iraq. Ms. Policelli tried to put a good face on Rep. Giffords' positions, but it became apparent that political calculations are keeping Rep. Giffords from upholding her Constitutional duty by supporting an impeachment investigation, which millions of Americans have requested. To his credit, Rep. Grijalva has supported such an investigation and has consistently voted against supplemental funding for the continued occupation of Iraq.

DFA-Tucson and the ad hoc group Get Giffords On Board to Impeach are asking all activists throughout District 8 in Southern Arizona to:

1. Watch the video
2. Share it with others who feel Congress must reassert its authority now
3. Call Rep. Giffords office and tell her you have seen the video. Add your personal thoughts, including the need for her to "sign the Wexler letter" calling for investigations into torture, habeas corpus, wiretapping, signing statements and illegal war.

The numbers are:

(520) 881-3588 (Tucson Office)

1(877) 331-1223 (Free Capitol Operator, ask to be directed to Rep. Giffords)

1(202) 225-2542 (Direct line to DC Office)

Please make every effort to call this week, however, it'll never be too late to add your voice to the growing local citizenry demanding impeachment hearings. We invite you to join DFA-Tucson in commitment to this and future efforts on behalf of democracy, human rights, peace and justice.

For more democracy,
The DFA-Tucson Steering Committee

PS - A 60-minute video version of the February 20th event is also available below at:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4446158016370390395&hl=en

Jim Hightower Live in Tucson!

2008-04-24T16:49:00.008-07:00

America's #1 Populist Jim Hightower!

"If ignorance is bliss, George W. must be ecstatic." -Jim Hightower

Thursday, May 8, 7:00 p.m.
Temple of Music and Art,
330 S. Scott, Tucson, AZ

Jim will discuss and sign his latest book:

Swim Against the Current: Even a Dead Fish Can Go With the Flow

Buy your tickets by calling 326-3716 or click here to download and mail in form with payment

Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Proceeds benefit the Pima County Democratic Party

Jim is a syndicated columnist, national radio commentator, publisher of the "Hightower Lowdown" newsletter, and the New York Times bestselling author of Thieves in High Places. Haven't heard Jim? Click here for a treat.

Jim Hightower has picked up some useful advice over the years, from "never eat at a café featuring 'bargain kebobs'" to "never hit a man with glasses; hit him with something much heavier." As he's rambled through America, however, he's also come up with more serious words of wisdom to share, namely: question authority, trust your values, stand up for your beliefs and swim against the current!

Jim's new book introduces people in business, politics, health care, religion and other areas who are doing just that and making a difference. This uplifting book offers inspiration and information to help readers tap into their potential and navigate a different, more satisfying course of their own.

You won't want to miss Jim's wit and wisdom-especially when you can help local Democrats at the same time. See you there!

Contributions or gifts to the Pima County Democratic Party are not tax deductible. Paid for by the Pima County Democratic Party, www.pimadems.org. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

Sunset Due For Predatory Lendors

2008-03-08T07:44:00.000-07:00

Sunset Due For Predatory Lendors

Andrea Dalessandro, Candidate for LD 30 House, has written an excellent opinion piece on the Stop Payday Loans initiative:

In 2000, many legislators were hoodwinked into allowing payday loans in Arizona. The law is set to expire, or “sunset,” in 2010 but Senate Bill 1239 seeks to postpone the ban until 2012. The leadership of the Legislature is attempting to delay solving the problem.

Payday loans are legalized loan sharking with fees that equal interest of 400 percent to 500 percent a year. My ethical, moral and economic values tell me that payday loans are not a reasonable credit option. If you are not sure about that, do a Google search for the word “usury.”

…Payday loans are predatory lending at its worst and take advantage of working people with limited resources. Seniors and the disabled are emerging as the new targeted customers, according to a Feb. 12 article in The Wall Street Journal.

For more information please visit the Stop Payday Predators Web site at http://www.stoppaydaypredators.com.

Tickled Tuesday: This Will Tank The Ratings

2008-02-26T19:47:00.001-07:00

Oops…

Diebold Accidentally Leaks Results Of 2008 Election Early

Important Upcoming Events to start 2008!

2008-01-06T17:57:00.001-07:00

Monday , Jan. 7th, 4-6pm
Gathering at the SW Corner of Pima & Swan
(Adjacent to CD 8 Congressional Office)

The ad hoc group of non-aligned pro-constitution, anti-monarchy advocates will continue demonstrating outside of Congresswoman Giffords' office this Monday from 4pm to 6pm.
Make a sign that speaks your message to Gabby, or just show up, since we've got plenty of pointed, but polite signs to display. ("Honk to Impeach" and "Support H Res 799 - Call Gabby at 881-3588" are two pretty good ones.) If you wish, you may drop in to her office before 5pm and ask a staffer to take a personal message. It will be filled out for you, as you dictate it. Stay for an hour or just awhile. It's good for the soul....

Monday , Jan. 7th
Last Day to Register to Vote on Feb. 5th
In the Arizona Presidential primaries held on Tuesday Feb. 5th, only if you are registered as a Democrat or a Republican can you vote for a Democratic or a Republican Presidential primary candidate. Please visit www.servicearizona.com to register or change your registration if necessary.

Tuesday , Jan. 8th, 9am
Pima County Board of Supervisors Mtg
130 W. Congress, 1st floor
Your presence will tell the county Board of Supervisors that the security of our elections cannot wait. We want honest, verifiable, transparent elections now before the 2008 primary and general elections. Despite 3 trials and a judgement ruling against them, the Board might be considering an appeal to block the judges decision. that they must release the databases for inspection. If you can not attend then please call or send the Board an email to have them comply with the judgement and release the databases:
Ann Day, District 1(520) 740-2738 , Ann.Day@pima.gov
Ramón Valadez, District 2(520) 740-8126, http://www.pima.gov/bos/dist2/cc.html
Sharon Bronson, District 3(520) 740-8051, district3@pima.gov
Ray Carroll, District 4(520) 740-8094, district4@pima.gov
Richard Elías, Chairman, District 5(520) 740-8126, district5@pima.gov

Wednesday , Jan. 9th, 7-9pm
DFATucson Monthly Meeting (Impeachment Follow-up)
City of Tucson Ward 6 Office, 3202 E 1st St.
(One block south of Speedway on Country Club, turn east onto 1st St to address) Open to all.
Join the discussion and help planning the follow-up impeachment activities. We expect to have a representative from Gabrielle Giffords office attend, give an update, and answer a few questions.
Map Link

Upcoming DFA-Tucson Events

2007-10-17T08:04:00.000-07:00

Mark Your Calendar:

Public Forum: UA experts discuss Iraq, Iran, and the US (Problems & Perspectives)
Monday, October 22, 2007
7:00pm-9:00pm
Social Sciences Bldg Rm 100, The University of Arizona, (Map Link)
Sponsored by the Center for Middle Eastern Studies (621-5450)
http://www.cmes.arizona.edu/calendar/view_entry.php?id=426&date=20071022

All Out for Peace, Nationwide Marches & Rallies to Bring the Troops Home Now!
Saturday, October 27, 2007
10:30am gather at the UA, inside main gate - Park Ave & University Blvd.
11:00am march to De Anza Park (Speedway & Stone)
For more info call Joe @ 624-4789 or write stelnik@webtv.net

DFATucson Community Forum on Impeachment
Saturday, December 1st, 2007
10:00am-1:00pm
Northwest Neighborhood Center, 2160 N. 6th Ave., Tucson
Why? 400 days of Bush left. A lot of time for a whole lot more damage to our country.
Event details will be send out as they become more concrete.

9/11 Hero in Tucson this Wednesday

2007-08-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

9/11 HERO

WILLIAM RODRIGUEZ

Speaking in Tucson

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

7:00 p.m.

St. Mark’s Church

3809 E. 3rd Street (south of Speedway & west of Alvernon)

$5 suggested donation

The “Last Man Out” of the North Tower at the World Trade Center recounts his chilling and provocative story and his lingering questions.

For nearly twenty years, the Puerto Rican-born, New Jersey resident was a custodian in charge of three stairwells in the North Tower. In possession of the master key that opened all the stairwell doors at each floor in the 110 story building, William Rodriguez personally saved the lives of 15 people that day and aided NYC firefighters in saving hundreds of others. Having told his chilling account to thousands of people across the globe, he comes to Tucson to share his stories of heroic and selfless first-responders, his personal witness to explosions in the sub-basements before the plane hit the north tower and during the rescue efforts, and tales of strange noises coming from the vacant and restricted 34th floor. Honored five times by President Bush, William Rodriguez has helped draft and implement legislation on behalf of family members of victims, demanding the creation of the 9/11 Commission, during which his testimony was kept private and mysteriously excluded from its final report. William Rodriguez has electrified audiences in Europe, Asia, and South America, and his uncompromising candor and heroism promises to make this a night you will never forget.

Join fellow Tucsonans in giving him a true Hero’s welcome.

Business: Celebrate Independents Week!

2007-07-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

This week is Independents Week. What is that, you ask?

It is a celebration of the business community in AZ of which over 90% are small, locally-owned businesses. Get in on the act and show your support by shopping from locally owned businesses from July 2-July 8th!

From Arizona Chain Reaction and Local First AZ:

Independents Week sparks fireworks

Fireworks are crackling across the Valley - and it's not even the Fourth of July yet. Independents Week launched with a BANG on Monday, July 2 with the new www.localfirstaz.com website, our awesome GOLDEN TICKET promotion, a massive radio and TV campaign, and a slew of SHOP LOCAL pledges from the likes of Councilman Tom Simplot, former Governor Rose Mofford and State Senator Ken Cheuvront.

You can see the full list of pledgers here - plus their Top 10 (or Top 16) lists of favorite Arizona businesses. PLEASE GIVE A SHOUT OUT TO OUR WEB DESIGNER BRIAN FLATGARD FOR HIS HARD WORK ON LAUNCHING THE NEW WEBSITE!!!

Our fifth annual Independents Week advertising and awareness campaign launched in full force on Monday on AZ*TV (TV 13, Cable 27) and KJZZ-NPR 91.5-FM and KBAQ-Classical 89.5-FM.

A record-setting 35 members are participating in the campaign, generating more than 60 member-oriented Local First TV spots and over 430 member radio spots. In addition, 60 Local First public service announcements are running throughout the week on AZ*TV and another 200 Local First spots are running on public radio!

It is NOT too late to get involved in Independents Week - several members have sent email newsletters to their customers encouraging them to TAKE THE PLEDGE TO SHOP 100% LOCALLY from July 2-8 and download the awesome Golden Ticket for once-in-a-lifetime values at a variety of Local First member-businesses. Here's some handy text that you can copy and paste into an email newsletter of your own:

Dear Friends,

I support the locally owned, Independent businesses that make Arizona a unique and wonderful place to live. To show my commitment, I have taken the Local First Arizona pledge to SHOP 100% LOCALLY during Independents Week, July 2-8. The folks at Local First Arizona have made it easy by providing a GOLDEN TICKET for 20% off at participating businesses - and they've even got a selection of favorite local businesses from Arizona leaders. Please join me in taking the pledge by visiting www.localfirstaz.com this week!

HAPPY INDEPENDENTS WEEK,
(YOUR NAME HERE)

DFA-Tucson on Access Tucson

2007-06-09T14:07:00.000-07:00

If you didn't get a chance to attend DFA-Tucson's forum (Iraq Carnage, Iran Catastrophe?) or you would like a recap of this informative forum, now you have the opportunity to watch it on Access Tucson. The event will be broadcasted on

Comcast Channel 73 and Cox Channel 98

according to the schedule below. You can also watch a simultaneous on-line (video stream) at:

http://access.tucson.org/whatsontv/watch_online/

Wed. 6/6 at 2pm
Sun. 6/10 at 12am (Sat. midnight)
Wed. 6/13 at 2pm
Sun. 6/17 at 12am (Sat. midnight)
Wed. 6/20 at 2pm
Sun. 6/24 at 12am (Sat. midnight)
Wed. 6/27 at 2pm

Message from Rep. Raul Grijalva on War Funding

2007-05-24T15:09:00.000-07:00

I will oppose the Iraq supplemental to be voted on in the House this week. I continue to appreciate the difficult task that leadership faced in creating this legislation and the inclusion of a number of provisions in this bill that are desperately needed and that I wholeheartedly support. These include the minimum wage increase, continued recovery for the people and communities of the Gulf Cost region, and health care needs of our veterans and our children.

I have opposed funding this war from the beginning, and I have no interest in funding it now. The previous supplemental, The Iraq Accountability Act, though flawed and at odds with many of my beliefs, represented a chance for hope. It had represented a first, all be it tentative, step in the difficult process of finally bringing this devastating war to an ultimate end through accountability standards that were tied to a withdrawal plan to bring our troops home.

But I cannot in good conscience support this new version of an Iraq war funding bill. This bill removes important elements that hold the administration accountable for its decisions in this quagmire; no more unwaivable benchmarks, no more required certification of the Iraq government’s efforts to resolve long-standing political conflicts linked to a timeframe for transition allowing our troops to begin a long overdue schedule of redeployment home. These revisions have effectively reduced this supplemental to a paper tiger that will give the administration an unfettered extension to this ill conceived occupation, and an implied sanction by this Congress of the war, at least through the end of this fiscal year.

I cannot tell those individuals and the families of those individuals who have died or been injured in Iraq that I supported their continued participation in an unaccountable war without end.

Presidential Hopeful Sen. John Edwards in Tucson

2007-04-30T15:56:00.000-07:00

Community Meeting:

Thursday, May 3, 2007

4:30 pm
Plumbers and Pipefitters Hall
2475 Water St.
Off Tuscon Blvd. And Grant Road
Please let us know if you plan to attend by clicking here.

For more information, call 520-572-9699

Fundraiser:

May 3, 2007; 7:00 pm
John and Nicci Hinderaker home
3210 E Via Palos Verdes
: RSVP & Tickets: Contact Clague Van Slyke, III at 520-325-8660 or cvs3@dakotacom.net, or call Amanda Scott at (505) 224-8089 with the John Edwards for President Campaign.

Free Movie Series - Update

2007-03-29T18:23:00.000-07:00

War & Corporations A Free Film Series

Third and Fourth Mondays, February - May, 2007 6:30pm

Democratic Party Office 4639 E. 1^st Street (1/2 block west of Swan) Accessible

Please do not call the office for more information.

Tentative Schedule:

Monday, April 30 Poison Dust

Monday, May 21 Instant-Mix Imperial Democracy

Monday, May 28 Imperial Grand Strategy: The Conquest of Iraq and the Assault on Democracy (Part 1)

Screenings and Discussions Free ~ Donations Accepted
---------------------------------------------------------------------

The schedule is subject to change. 520-888-8010 / joycetsmith1 at aol.com

Corporations v Democracy is an issue of WILPF (Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom)

Cosponsored by the Democracy Organizing Group and the Pima County Democratic Party

Free Movie Series- Check out the Schedule

2007-02-13T23:43:00.000-07:00

War & Corporations A Free Film Series

Third and Fourth Mondays, February - May, 2007 6:30pm

Democratic Party Office 4639 E. 1^st Street (1/2 block west of Swan) Accessible

Please do not call the office for more information.

Monday, February 19 Iraq For Sale
Monday February 26 Orwell Rolls In His Grave

Tentative Schedule:

Monday, March 19 Arsenal of Hypocrisy:The Space Program and the Military Industrial Complex

Monday, March 26 Why We Fight

Monday, April 23 Poison Dust

Monday, April 30 Deadly Deception
Monday, May 21 Instant-Mix Imperial Democracy

Monday, May 28 Imperial Grand Strategy: The Conquest of Iraq and the Assault on Democracy (Part 1)

Screenings and Discussions Free ~ Donations Accepted
---------------------------------------------------------------------

The schedule is subject to change. 520-888-8010 / joycetsmith1 at aol.com

Corporations v Democracy is an issue of WILPF (Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom)

Cosponsored by the Democracy Organizing Group and the Pima County Democratic Party

DFA-TUCSON MEETING & EVENTS

2007-01-10T08:12:00.000-07:00

DFA Steering Committee Meeting

2nd Meeting of 2007

The Steering Committee of DFATucson will have it's second meeting of 2007:

Date: ____ Wednesday, February 7
Time: ____ 6:00 pm
Location: _Tucson Ward VI Council West Conference Room
(3202 E 1st St., Tucson, AZ)

Meetings are open to all DFA members and the public.

______________________________________________

TELL CONGRESS NO MORE TROOPS FOR IRAQ

DFATucson Says NO to MORE Troops

Take action and tell Congress: " NO MORE TROOPS FOR IRAQ "

Participate in Tucson Events on Thursday 1/11:

--> Click here to Find an Event

Petition your Congressional Representatives at the following websites:

--> Faithful America: Mandate for Peace

--> America Says No: True Majority

Petition Pelosi for Paper Ballots

2006-12-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

Make Paper Ballots Mandatory

Speaker Pelosi,

Across America, votes are increasingly being cast electronically with no paper record. Congress has the power to require that all elections take place using paper ballots.

I ask you to restore Americans' faith in democracy and make paper ballots mandatory in the first 100 hours of the Democratic Majority.

Please Click here to Sign Petition

IRAQ: What Next?

2006-11-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

DFA Tucson
PRESENTS

IRAQ: What Next?

Wednesday December 6^th, 2006 at 7:00pm

Northwest Neighborhood Center

2160 N 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ

(One block south of Grant Rd on 6^th Ave. Next to Mansfield Park)

Click here for Map

A Panel Discussion followed by Questions and Answers.

This Event is Free and open to all. Please invite others to attend.

Why did the Bush administration invade?

Dr. Richard Eaton

Professor, Dept. of History, The University of Arizona. He has had a long term interest in the Middle East, South Asia, and geopolitics and the global policies of the U.S. He has lived in the Middle East and India and has traveled extensively.

What is the real situation in Iraq?

Dr. Leila Hudson

Assistant Professor, Dept. of Near Eastern Studies, The University of Arizona. She is fluent in Arabic and monitors U.S. and Arab Media. She has lived and worked in Syria periodically since the 1980s and is familiar with the perspective of the people in the region.

How can this conflict be resolved?

Ambassador David Dunford

Former U.S. Ambassador to Oman from 1992 to 1995. Former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia from 1988 to 1992. He served on the Coalition Provisional Authority in Baghdad as Senior Ministerial Laision to Iraq's Ministry of Foreign Affairs between April and June of 2003.

Forum Moderator

Dr. Charles Smith

Professor, Dept of Near Eastern Studies, The University of Arizona Specialist in modern Middle East history. The sixth edition of his book "Palestine and the Arab-Israeli Conflict" will appear in December.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Democracy for America, DFA-Tucson
PO Box 16436
Tucson, AZ 85732
dfatucson@gmail.com

Meet our new LD26 House Rep- Pima County

2006-11-14T09:49:00.000-07:00

Lena Saradnik

lsaradnik@msn.com
299-3375

Meet our LD26 Senator

2006-11-14T09:30:00.000-07:00

Charlene Pesquiera

520-401-8481

Democratic Gains - New Pick Ups & Majorities

2006-11-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

This election was a strong one for Democrats. Governor Napolitano received a mandate from Republicans, Democrats and all voters across the state by winning

Raul Grijlava in CD7 won his re-election campaign, as did Terry Goddard for Attorney General.

Two of the more exciting races were Harry Mitchell in CD5 and Gabby Giffords in CD8, both of whom won their districts to represent us in the House of Representatives.

Our state races saw pick ups in LD26 in our Senate race with Charlene Pesquiera and in our House race with Lena Saradnik.

Congratulations to every one who had the courage to run for office and represent the people of Arizona.

John Edwards in Tucson for Minimum Wage Rally

2006-07-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

Join Representative Raul Grijalva, Senator Edwards and other political leaders at a rally in support of the minimum wage. Parking is limited, and it's standing room only, so please come prepared.

Date: Monday, July 10 th

Time: 12 noon

Place: IBEW Hall, 750 S Tucson Blvd. (between 22nd St. and Broadway)

Howard Dean Brings Down the House

2006-06-30T09:36:00.000-07:00

Howard Dean Greets People After the Event

Governor Howard Dean, Chair of the Democratic National Committee, spoke to a packed house at the Temple of Music and Art on June 29th. Dean was greated with a standing ovation, and received one again when he got up to speak.

He predicted Democratic victories in Arizona and nationwide this November, and discussed ways Democrats can help win important races.

Dean stressed the importance of dedicated, hard working volunteers.

Governor Dean in Tucson This Month

2006-06-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

You are invited to a Grand Slam Evening with

Governor Howard Dean!

Democrats are hitting it out of the park this year!

Join us at the Temple of Music and Art ~ 330 S. Scott Avenue

Thursday ~ June 29, 2006

5:15 pm - Reception in the Courtyard

6:00 pm- Howard Dean in the Temple Theater will speak about the Democratic Party's bold vision for real change in America!

In addition, there will be a Special Drawing for one lucky person who will win a baseball bat signed by Howard Dean!

Tickets $20.00 each (What a bargain) ~ Limited seating. Reserve and purchase your tickets in advance by calling 520.326-3716. Tickets may be charged to your credit card over the phone. Spread the news!

Sponsored by the Pima County Democratic Party.

DemocracyFest 2006

2006-05-19T16:45:00.000-07:00

DemocracyFest Update

Party, activism, celebrities, friends, bloggers - - what more could you want!

New speakers and panelists for the 3rd Annual DemocracyFest are being confirmed almost daily now. Here's the most updated list (in alphabetical order, and there are more to come!)

Sen. Debra Bowen, Candidate for CA Secretary of State, Debra is currently a State Senator, Chair of the Senate Elections Committee, and an avid government watchdog.

Candace Bowie, Think Precinct Program, Colorado for Democracy.

Prof. Marjorie Cohn, Thos. Jefferson Law School, President-elect of the National Lawyers Guild, co-chair of the Guild's international committee.

Gov. Howard Dean, Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chair, founder of Democracy for America (DFA), 2004 Presidential candidate, former Governor of Vermont.

Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America (DFA).

Jim Derych, Author of "Confessions of a Former Dittohead".

Brad Friedman, actor, writer, radio host and creator of The Brad Blog.

Barbara Graves, Grassroots Champions Precinct Captains Program, Regional Director/CA Democratic Party.

Rep. Bob Filner, U.S. Congressman, 51st C.D., Freedom Rider, college professor, progressive leader.

Donna Frye, San Diego City Councilwoman, former Mayoral candidate.

Robert Greenwald, producer, director and political activist. Greenwald is the director/producer of Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price and "Outfoxed: Rupert Murdoch's War on Journalism".

Paul Hackett, Iraq War Veteran and 2005 Democratic Congressional candidate in southeastern Ohio, where he came within 4% of winning in the 74%-Republican district.

Bill Harman, retired pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) with a lifelong commitment to issues of social and global justice.

Rick Jacobs, Chairman of Brave New Films and the Courage Campaign, California campaign chair for Howard Dean's Presidential Campaign.

Wahu Kaara, executive director of the Kenya Debt Relief Network where she leads campaigns for debt cancellation and economic justice.

Debayani Kar, Communications and Advocacy Coordinator at Jubilee USA Network. Debi is responsible for the communications strategy for the organization, and has appeared on numerous radio shows and print publications discussing debt and development.

Matt Kerbel, Editor of "Get This Party Started: How Progressives Can Fight Back and Win" - A discussion of top line Washington Insiders and Political Activists.

Dr. William Lesher, pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) residing in Berkeley, CA. He served as president of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) for twenty years.

Narges Niedzwiecki, Organizer of Day 1's " XYZ Vote" panel on the enfranchisement and disenfranchisement of young voters (18-40).

Lori Salda na, born and raised in San Diego, 76th State Assembly member Lori Saldana is the embodiment of a successful grassroots campaigner. One of the original Dean Dozen candidates.

Ed Schwartz, Institute for the Study of Civic Values, former Philadelphia City Councilman.

David Sirota, Campaign strategist and author, Hostile Takeover: How Big Money & Corruption Conquered Our Government “ and How We Take It Back.

Kristin Sundell, Outreach and Congregations Coordinator for the Jubilee USA Network, the U.S. arm of a global movement to cancel the debt of impoverished countries without harmful economic conditions.

David Swanson, Washington Director of Democrats.com and of ImpeachPAC.org, co-founder of the AfterDowningStreet.org / CensureBush.org coalition, creator of MeetWithCindy.org and KatrinaMarch.org, and a board member of Progressive Democrats of America.

Colonel Ann Wright, resigned from the U.S. Foreign Service, while serving as Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Mongolia, due to her disagreement with the Bush administration.

Check this page regularly for new speakers and panelists.

Vote "NO!"

2006-05-14T00:23:00.000-07:00

According to Jim Click and the RTA cronies who are looking to cover their own behinds, everyone who opposes the RTA initiative is a C.A.V.E person. A Citizen Against Virtually Everything.

Last week, the group trying to push Proposition 1 and 2 down our throats sent out up to 6 mailers accusing us of being C.A.V.E. people. Boy, if those corporations can afford a million dollars to fund RTA, you would think they could afford to pay their share of corporate taxes. No, we taxpayers have to do that.

Michael Bryan on Blog for America wrote an excellent piece:

"The funding for the hit mailer is from Click, the Tucson Association of Realtors, the New Car Dealers Association, and the Realtors Issues Mobilization Committee. I'm sure they really do have the public interest, and not their own narrow economic interests at heart. Oh, that's right. This is Tucson. The narrow self-interest of car dealers and dirt traders IS the public interest here. Almost forgot.

The mailer is not only offensive, it is also full of deceptive inaccuracies (known among real people as 'lies') about the Plan, and about its detractors."

Please voters, wake up. This is BAD for Tucson and is just another huge corporate welfare package for developers.

Americans United for Democracy, Integrity, & Transparency

2006-03-09T16:25:00.000-07:00

A.U.D.I.T.AZ is a local group of Arizona activists who are trying to ensure election integrity. They list their mission below:

"We are a nonpartisan organization whose mission is to restore public ownership and oversight of elections, work to ensure the fundamental right of every American citizen to vote, and to have each vote counted as intended in a secure, transparent, impartial, and independently audited election process."

Recently, they put up a website which has a great deal of information including links to easily contact your legislators across the state as well as the Board of Supervisors within Pima County. Check out their website here, and learn more about election issues if you want your vote to count. They have several action items around two current bills (one in the House and one in the Senate) as well as action items around the issue of election integrity in general. John Brakey seems to be the main point of contact to find out more: 520-578-5678

Announcement: Green Party is looking for Coordinator

2006-03-04T10:45:00.000-07:00

ANMC Seeking Coordinator for National Meeting in
Tucson

Job Description for Green Party Meeting Coordinator:

The Green Party of the United States is seeking a Meeting Coordinator to
organize the Annual National Meeting to take place in Tucson, Arizona
July 27-30, 2006.

The expected start date is approximately six weeks before the meeting,
approx. June 19th, 2006.

This is a position that would require a minimum of 175 hours with part
time hours the first three or so weeks and the last couple of weeks
becoming full time as needed. Logging of hours and activities will be
expected. Pay schedule to be negotiated. Probably would be $500 to
start, $500 in two weeks, $500 in four weeks, and $500 after follow-up
is done.

The Coordinator will receive compensation of $2000.00 for the six week
period. There is a possible additional $500 allotted for an assistant to
the Coordinator, to be approved by the ANMC.

The Coordinator will be the main contact person for venue personnel and
vendors. The Coordinator will give weekly and daily (as time progresses)
status reports to the ANMC and the Operations Director.

Qualifications: Previous Green Party involvement and meeting planning
experience essential. Participation in past national Green meetings
preferred.

Ability to provide:
An up to-date knowledge of local information - public transportation
including schedules and maps, a list of restaurants and emergency info.

Printing and distributing delegate packets.

Food and accommodations during the meeting will be provided by the GPUS.
The ANMC along with the Tucson Greens will work diligently to find
reasonably priced or free housing leading up and following the meeting.
Other previously authorized expenses will be reimbursed pending approval
of the ANMC Co-chairs, Operations Director or the GPUS Treasurer.

It is essential that the Coordinator have a cell phone for this job. If
the Coordinator does not currently have a cell phone, we will make
arrangements to provide a temporary one.

The Coordinator will be responsible, in collaboration with the ANMC,
Arizona Greens and the Operations Director of GPUS for coordinating the
logistics of the meeting including:

-Following up on the contracts, insurance and other logistical needs.
-Registration set up and record keeping.
-Supplies- distribution, inventory etc.
-Arranging Audio Visual Set-up with venues, committees and other
presenters as needed.
-Checking meeting room set-ups, being the main contact for all workshop
presenters and venues to make sure all needs are being met.
-AV, chair/table set up etc.
-Printing and distributing packets and other materials to attendees
(maps, schedules, restaurant lists, emergency info)
-Volunteer Coordination before and during the event.

Ideally coordinator will create local volunteer pool to delegate tasks
such as quick runs to make copies, carpooling etc. Other volunteers from
GPUS will also need tasks delegated as they arrive. This skill is
essential to the smooth flow of work the week of the meeting.

Please send cover letter and resume to the Annual National Meeting
Committee c/o emily@gp.org no later than March 30th, 2006.

The ANMC does not discriminate. All are considered based upon experience
and willingness to do their best for a smooth Annual National Meeting. natlcomaffairs@green.gpus.org

Democrats Trasoff, Uhlich win!

2005-11-09T22:48:00.000-07:00

Tucson Councilwoman-elect Karin Uhlich acknowledges supporters at the Democratic victory party. She defeated Kathleen Dunbar 62 to 38 percent.

Democrats are back in charge at City Hall with Nina Trasoff and Karin Uhlich winning huge victories over incumbents Fred Ronstadt and Kathleen Dunbar.

Trasoff and Uhlich's core message was special interests hurting citizens.

"They each cited the controversial $14-a-month garbage fee as proof their opponents did not care about regular citizens, and they each cited the slow implementation of commercial impact fees as evidence Republicans were beholden to special interests"

according to the Arizona Daily Star.

Trasoff, a former television news anchorwoman, earned 65 percent of the vote while Ronstadt of Ward 6 got 35 percent.

Uhlich, the executive director of a nonprofit agency, garnered 62 percent of the vote against Dunbar of Ward 3 with 38 percent.

Paul Eckerstrom, Democratic County Chair, attributed the win to "The corruption, the cronyism, that jacked up our turnout," he said. "And it's not just locally, it's national."

Independent Bruce Gerowitz, a hot-dog vendor, said the results are a testament to the power of independent voters. "The day of the independent is here," he said. "We're going to start seeing independents running for office and winning."

Local Activist Nearly Hit

2005-08-30T13:40:00.005-07:00

Crossposted from Blog for America, August 2005

Drunk, Distracted or Deliberate?

Have we become such a dysfunctional society that our glorification of violence takes precedence over acts of integrity, morality, and justice?

Honoring our soldiers is not a partisan issue. It is a moral one. For all who have friends, family or loved ones serving, none can argue that our troops deserve to be honored for their sacrifices, be kept safe at all costs, and not lied to about why we are sending them into harm's way. This was the motivation behind the vigils throughout the nation last Wednesday night: several hundred gathering in Tucson alone.

Over 600 people showed up at the various locations in Tucson. On hand were our own Raging Grannies... who you recall from The Today Show and Blog for America ...were cited by police for entering a recruitment center. Charges have since been dropped.

At the Wal-Mart location, 95 concerned citizens congregated on the corner of the intersection when just 25 were expected. The vigil was beautiful with a warm breeze under a midnight blue sky. The attendees were a variety of folks: Libertarians, Democrats, Independents, Republicans, Greens and non-partisan patriots.

Throughout the evening the majority response to our vigil was positive... with drivers honking in support of our troops. Mixed in were occasional intermittent fanatical yells of 'killing equates to freedom'. It appears one driver took that message a little too seriously.

As I was standing on the sidewalk taking photos, I heard a vehicle rev up their engine as it swerved by me. I felt a swat of my hair and heard some screaming and gasping from the crowd. As I turned my head, I realized a van had rounded the corner, driven up on the sidewalk, and missed hitting me by no more than an inch. The first question I asked, "Was it an accident or deliberate?" The initial reaction from the crowd was that it was intentional.

Shaken, I asked myself, "what exactly was I doing that justified someone wanting to harm me?" I called the police to report what just occurred. After getting transferred, the first question asked of me was, "Well, do you want us to do a report or just try to locate the van". "Both!" I responded. With a good description of the van, a valid license number, and the company name across the van... it shouldn't have been too difficult to locate it. Were they reluctant to do anything because it was a vigil for our troops? So, I was asked again if I wanted to have a report filed. "Yes, I would like an officer to come here" I responded. In all, I would be asked eight times if I wanted to file a report.

We were on one of the busiest intersections in Tucson, with police cars driving back and forth, but not stopping. After waiting close to twenty minutes for someone to respond to my call, I finally flagged down an officer I saw across the street and another officer in the Wal-Mart parking lot. Neither had gotten the radio dispatch yet. As I relayed my story, I took the officers to the corner to show them the tread marks. It was pretty frightening seeing how close the van actually came to plowing over me.

Unfortunately, two women attending were so concerned that the driver might get fired from their job over this incident, they assured the officer it 'must have been an accident'. No one else seemed to think so... nor did the women when it first happened. Empathy for someone losing their job is great, I thought, but this is a driver who should not be on the road. The women hypothesized maybe the driver was on their cell phone, or was distracted, or drunk. Well, I personally wanted to believe that it was an accident too... since the alternative was a pretty horrific thought.

However, upon reviewing the long black tread marks, which left a distinctive blueprint of what occurred, it was difficult to believe this was accidental. First of all, the vehicle rounded a corner at a speed fast enough and close enough to the curb that the rubber from the tire left a 24-foot plus deep black streak along the side of the curb. I have hit many a curb in my day and you don't keep driving for over 24-feet when you know you are ripping the side of your tire. Second, there was no indication the driver attempted to correct the vehicle once contact was made with the curb. An instant reaction would be to quickly try to correct your vehicle in the opposite direction. Not only did this driver not attempt to correct, but they actually turned their wheels toward me so that the vehicle drove up the sidewalk and left tire marks on it... within one inch of where I was standing. If it was an accident, why would the driver not pull into the parking lot to make sure everyone was okay?

The officers did not take photos of the tread marks or tire marks when it upped the curb within an inch of me. Nor did they measure them (I did). They did not even take down witness testimony and several offered it. The officers said they could not do anything because 'no crime was committed'. No crime? Life endangerment? Attempted assault? At the very least a misdemeanor... reckless driving?

I guess the tax-paying citizens' lives at the vigil were not valuable enough for this to be considered a crime. The police mantra that night was that trying to run someone down isn't a crime in Tucson. Unless, of course, you are an unarmed 14-year old boy joyriding on a bulldozer and coming too close to the police. Then you get shot and critically wounded for it.

I was cited years ago for reckless driving when I pulled out of a parking lot and took a turn too quickly. I never came close to a human, but this was considered 'reckless driving'. Surely, a driver ripping tread on a corner and topping a sidewalk within an inch of me qualified as reckless driving. They had physical evidence and 95 witnesses (including two reporters from the MSM). I told the officers none of us knows the motivation of the driver, but someone needs to find him/her and question them. I would think the huge chunk of taxes I pay each year could get this law abiding citizen a minimal amount of responsiveness. The general attitude of the department seems to be one of apathy.

That brings us full circle. Is that why we are really in Iraq? Are we, as American citizens, so desensitized to violence in our own communities that we are indifferent to the violence inflicted on our soldiers or Iraqi civilians? Are we so apathetic that we trust in our 'leadership' regardless of the contrary evidence of the real reasons we are at war? Or are Americans convinced that their actions will not make a difference because they see it on a daily basis in their own communities?

As I was leaving, the last officer called my name and gave me an update. They located the van. The hood was still warm but the driver was gone. They decided not to search for the driver. "Okay, so you can contact the company that owns the van and ask them who had their vehicle between 7:30 and 8 pm tonight, right?" I asked. He told me it would probably be turned over to the traffic division and he really did not think anything would be done. He said again no crime was committed since I wasn't hurt. Then he asked, "Do you still want me to file a report?"

—Cheryl "Shaken and Stirred" Citizen Activist

Arizona is making progress...

2004-04-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

Several local groups in Arizona have formed as citizen activist groups. Here is a partial list from groups that originated with Democracy for America into local activist groups and their corresponding websites and meeting links:

Maricopa County:
AZ-Vote
AZ-Vote Blog
Phoenix Meetup

Pima County:
DFA Tucson
Blog for Arizona
Tucson Meetup North
Tucson Meetup Central

Cochise County:
Sierra Vista Meetup

Coconino County:
Flagstaff DFA
Flagstaff Meetup

Welcome to Democracy for Arizona

2004-04-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

Founded in March 2004, Democracy for Arizona is a progressive, non-partisan organization of empowered grassroots citizen activists who aspire to establish Arizona as a true democratic state. Democracy for Arizona took on the platform of DFA national in supporting fiscally conservative, socially progressive candidates, fighting for honesty and integrity in government, and restoring democracy to the citizens of Arizona.

We began with 30+ members in Tucson, meeting monthly. We now have hundreds of members across the state meeting quarterly, in addition to our monthly meetings in each city group.

Our motto is that that each of us R.E.A.C.H.E.S. out in our communities to ensure we create this populist, democratic state.

Restoring Citizen Rights through active participation in the civic and overall political process.
Efficient and Effective Governing in Arizona through accountability and election reform.
Affecting a Strong Democracy for Arizona through accountability and justice.
Challenging Current Paradigms of political, economical and social consequence.
Honoring Individual Liberties and fighting for the oppressed among us.
Educating Citizens on populist rights and legislative processes.
Supporting Sustainability in creating and maintaining ecocentric environments.