ALERT: If you like Dennis Kucinich even a little bit, READ THIS NOW

[WilliamPitt]

I was contacted yesterday by Kucinich's campaign manager and asked to help. Because I am the Managing Editor of a non-profit news site, I cannot do this through truthout. I am hopeful, therefore, that any and all Kucinich supporters, and anyone else who thinks having Dennis in the mix is a good idea, will take this and run with it.

The following is a bit from an email I received from Kucinich's Volunteer Coordinator:

====

I have been volunteering for Dennis K since I heard him stand up at a benefit for a small peace group in Northern California and tell it like it was. He sang, he prayed, he rocked the Hall. This was a sympathetic but tough audience, having heard politicians blow smoke a million times. People were on their feet, banging chairs, shouting and applauding.

The man has something -- incredible.

Clearly, September fundraising critical for Kucinich. Without significant fundraising dollars, the media will continue to ignore him and everything he represents. For his agenda to get media traction, the campaign needs a breakout quarter.

There are two strategies for the campaign to pursue to accomplish this:

--How to Change the World for $20 bucks
--Peace Day House Parties

My advice for a progressive like Dennis who has no intention of dancing to the mythical middle of American politics is this: challenge progressives to take out their wallets and put their money where their hearts are. In April, I wrote a little article called, "How to Save The World for $20 Bucks." The thesis is simple: small contributions for Dennis, multiplied by networks of like minded people, could change the course of history.

If 100 people contribute $20, and each one gets 3 other people to contribute $20, and so on, by the time the message is passed around 15 times, 429 million people have received the message. If a fraction of them hand over the dough, peace is in business

Are there two million progressive people in this country who share the views you expressed so eloquently in "I Believe"? Are there two million people who want their country back, who are terrified that we are descending into tyranny? If there are - and I believe there are many, many more than that - then we need to challenge them to sacrifice $20 for Dennis in September. And change the course of our history.

====

So here's what. Dennis Kucinich belongs in this fight. All the candidates belong in this fight, but I think it is clear that Dennis' message is one most of us would like to see put farther out there in the media/political mix. To do this, the campaign needs to have a great funding drive for this quarter.

If you are a Kucinich supporter, now is the time. Take the link below and fan it out as far and wide as you can. Organize the house parties (they are up to 750 of these parties now nationwide). This is the push.

If you are a supporter of another candidate, or if you are undecided, and are like me in thinking that ANY help to ANY progressive candidate helps us all, then do whatever you can with this. We have endured a lot of internecine warfare on this page of late, and I see this as a great chance to douse those flames a bit and join hands and charge this battlefield in one unified kick-ass line.

A bit more from the Volunteer Coordinator email:

====

To change the world for $20 bucks, we need an extremely large and motivated base to receive this message, make a contribution, and pass it on. The $20 challenge was moderately successful for Dennis the first time, even though it went out over the Internet in a totally random way, passed on by people who wanted to help. But with
a disciplined campaign, broadcast by friends with a significant network of like minded readers, I think the money that will be raised will shock everyone. Could you help us out here?

To make a contribution to Dennis' campaign, people can click on this link:

https://www.kucinich.us/contribute.php

====

As for the House Parties, a bit more:

====

2. International Day of Peace House Parties

A group of extremely motivated and bright volunteers in California put together a plan to hold 1000 house parties in California and raise $1,000,000. The "1000 house parties Campaign" has now become part of a larger campaign to celebrate the International Day of Peace on September 21st with Peace Day house parties. Five days after Dennis' letter went out, urging people to do that, almost 800 people have signed up to hold peace day parties. People have pledged to open their homes to strangers, are holding Peace Day Art Contests, picnics, Micro parties, peace vigils, rock n' roll parties with DJ's. The fervor of the response has been astounding.

To learn about the International Day of Peace House Party Campaign, people can click here:

http://kucinich.us/houseparty.htm

800 people signing on in 5 days shows how hungry and desperate people are for this. A candidate with a different way of seeing everything, with guts, who speaks with passion, who has the vision and also sees the path, now that is cool.

We need volunteers. We need to grow the campaign. People can volunteer for the campaign at:

http://kucinich.us/volunteeraction.htm.

====

So there it is. If any of this has any meaning at all for you, take this to the hoop. Do it now.

One last note: This is not an official endorsement of Kucinich from either myself or truthout. I've been a clear advocate for Kerry on this board for a variety of reasons, but that is not an official endorsement, either. I can't officially endorse anyone. I am a Kerry guy in DU land, period.

I am putting this up here because at the end of the day I support all these candidates. Every single one of them. The rise of one, or of all, is nothing but a good thing in the current context. The Kucinich campaign reached out to me for help, and I am happy to give it to them. If another candidate did the same, I would do the same. We are all in this fight together.

Get to work.

P.S. One nice note. As I was on the phone today with the Kucinich receptionist/phone-call-fielder, she said abruptly, "Hold the line a moment." I held the line...and Dennis Kucinich gets on the phone. We had a real nice chat, and he is all kinds of fired up. It is a hell of a thing, in this day and age, to call a campaign and have the candidate just hop on the phone. This is a different, and quite refreshing, kind of crew.

Help them out. You will be helping yourself.

Thanks. Please keep this kicked a while. Take the data and email it to your own network. Sling it, baby.

[blm]

1. KICK for a Dept. of Peace.

SING OUT, DENNIS!

[WilliamPitt]

2. Kick

[rbnyc]

3. Thanks so much for posting this!

I'm passing it along right now!

[roughsatori]

4. Great idea, thanks and kick NT

[JanMichael]

5. I'm not committed to any candidate but I sure as hell like Dennis.

I'll contribute, just like I'll contribute to the others that I see as candidates that I can appreciate.

:kick:

[WilliamPitt]

7. If you know anyone who might also respond

send this along to them, with thanks. :)

[DemBones DemBones]

27. Thanks, JanMichael! That will help get Dennis Kucinich's message

out and is much appreciated by me, a Kucinich supporter since before he entered the race.

:loveya:

[JohnKleeb]

30. you guys should had told me about draft kucinich

btw I am so happy he is in the race. No one represents me better on the issues, being like me (non politcal stuff). Thanks JM, I am glad you like him.

[burythehatchet]

6. I love what Dennis has to say

but he is own worst enemy. Talking like a 12 year old schoolgirl is simply not going to get it....hellloooo

[WilliamPitt]

10. Your input is noted

[AnAmerican]

82. Your input is noted....

And given the due is deserves. :eyes:

[XEON]

8. DK has my vote!

I was there when He fought the battle of Cleveland. He was fearless.

[JohnKleeb]

25. cool youre the second Clevelander I have met who was there here

[Sancho Panza]

9. I'll kick this

And offer my own effort to promote peace:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=111&topic_id=6219

:-)

[salin]

45. Thanks Sancho Panza

and welcome to DU :hi:

and kick for Kucinich

[Sancho Panza]

48. thanks!

:hi: salin. Thanks for the welcome!

[ElsewheresDaughter]

11. Kucinich has nothing but GOOD MoJo...positive energy abides in him

thanks for the info Will :toast: sent him my $200

[ScotTissue]

80. MOJO?

Hahahahaha.

[phishhead]

12. Kick.

Kick for the DK crew.

[Tinoire]

147. Thanks Phishhead / You're on my A list! :) n/t

[JohnKleeb]

148. whats your A list

I take it to be positive
Read my PM? I am going to DC to see Kucinich on Thursday. Woohoo! I would love to meet him.

[leftbend]

13. Thanks, will forward

Thanks for posting this, I will forward to as many as possible.
We have the opportunity to be the United States of Peace with Dennis!

[underpants]

14. Let's see give Kucinich $20 or flush it down the toilet?

Tough choice.

[ElsewheresDaughter]

17. rasberries for you underpants

damn! my emotionicon aren't working

[underpants]

22. Pththtttttt back at ya

:P

:pals:

[no name no slogan]

26. Um, thanks for bringing this discussion to an "adult" level (n/t)

[rbnyc]

29. Just a bit of fun, I think...

...and between friends. I realize a need to increase the maturity level in GD at times, but I don't think that means that any and all childish expressions are inappropriate. Sometimes they can be a concise way to get your feelings across. It depends on context on people's relationships. I don't think this was a big deal.

[rbnyc]

18. I don't understand.

If $20 helps Dennis to get his message out, then it's a bargain whether he wins or loses. Dennis broadens the debate and elevates issues that frontrunners would ignore. That's worth an investment regardless of anyone's forecast of Dennis's chances.

[underpants]

21. Point taken

but I would rather give my money to someone who has a chance of winning not only the Presidency but the Democratic nomination.

Sorry that's just how I feel.

[rbnyc]

24. Your choice, and not an unreasonable one.

But, I think there is a certain danger in trying to predict electability. Look what that kind of thinking has done to the film industry. Nothing can get funding unless success can be predicted, and the result poorer quality movies and the strangulation of independent artists.

[JohnKleeb]

28. yea

I understand that but in reality this man has more government experience than Shrub himself, lol I know thats not saying much but he first got in to politics as a politican or candiate whatever at 21. Thats pretty cool. Youre right rbnyc.

[rbnyc]

31. Truly.

Why is it that the qualities that make up a good public servant and the qualities that make up an electable one aren't the same is hard for me to understand.

[JohnKleeb]

35. yep

He's such a stand up guy too. I also love how he spoke at an anti Iraq war rally. We were willing to take time out to protest that illegal and unjust war and so was Dennis.

[Rhiannon12866]

177. That's right John, he was known as the ``boy mayor''

and, from all accounts, he did a pretty fine job. Bill Clinton had really nice things to say about him at the Harkin Steak Fry. Remember that? Poor John left with a tummy ache!:-(

Another KICK for Dennis!:kick:

[DemBones DemBones]

38. Dennis is presenting truly progressive ideas, deserving of support

by anyone who is even slightly left of center. Anyone who considers himself/herself a progressive or liberal or liberal-moderate / moderate-liberal ought to pony up $20 to help get Dennis's words out.

The American people need to hear a man who speaks for peace,

ending the war in Iraq immediately by bringing in UN troops to replace ours, turning reconstruction over to the Iraqis (end contracts for Halliburton & Bechtel,

single-payer universal health care (Medicare for Everyone),

ending NAFTA & WTO to bring jobs back to the US,

repealing the PATRIOT Act,

strengthening Social Security & rolling back the retirement age to 65,

safeguarding our environment and our food supply (including labeling foods containing GMOs),

free public education from pre-K through college,

dismantling agribusiness monopolies, saving family farms, revitalizing rural communities

[JohnKleeb]

39. and I was told we were out of touch lol

You forgot about what really got me liking him, Repeal Taft-Hartley, I was like whoa "I was talking about this and this guy wants to too" so I was amazed. Theres a lot to like about him too if you are a person who likes issues but you wanna like your guy well Dennis is a damn likable guy too.

[mike_c]

15. kicking for Kucinich....

:kick:

[MuseRider]

16. Already done and THANKS Will

He is infective. I believe in this guy, endorse him and hope he gets the nod but will be behind anyone who does. Just like Sharpton his views need to be out there even if you don't support him. Thank you.

[WilliamPitt]

19. Kick

[rbnyc]

20. keepin' it on top. (nt)

:kick:

[JohnKleeb]

23. Will this is great

Go Kucinich. I wrote a little writting that I may show later, you all know Socrates quote "The only good is knowledge and the only bad ignorance" well I had it like DK was the good with his knowledge of why IWR and the patriot act were wrong and the adminstartion ignorant. It is good but it wont compare to Maggie(leftpeoplefinishfirst's) excellent writting. Also I finally contributed to the campaign, I just found out last night, I was talking to my mom and I asked her if we could do that and she was like oh we already did. 50$, 25 from me but in my parents name and 25 from them.

[DemBones DemBones]

32. How nice that your parents did that, John! Is it illegal to contribute

if you're under voting age?

[JohnKleeb]

33. I know it is

thats why, I have always wanted to. BTW my dad has a Kucinich bumper sticker and I have Kucinich buttons on my backpack. No one has asked yet or maybe they dont say nothing and they check out www.kucinich.us
I was so happy. Seriously this man is not only great on the issues, his story is a great one, and if you cant admire him for that I dont know, and also he comes back, he is with apologies to Bill Clinton the biggest comeback kid of them all.

[twilight]

34. every person makes a difference!

Also, check out his online store at http://www.officialkucinichstore.us/

Lots of great UNION made stuff for sale there along with really nice MADE IN THE USA t-shirts. All are considered campaign contributions as well! :D



GO DK!!!!!

:dem:

:kick:

[JohnKleeb]

36. twlight I am planning to buy some stuff

Also I think to quote DK once again this is the moment. He is truly a special candiate and a very great man.

[Karmadillo]

37. Kick for single payer health care. Contribution on the way.

Thanks for posting, Will.

[KoKo]

40. Okay, I'm in! We need to try to keep him in..........

Thanks....nice post.....

[cosmicdot]

44. another Kick for single payer health care - Amen!

Midge Miller: Kucinich's record shows he's an antidote to Bush

By Midge Miller
September 6, 2003

Many people measure candidates by their campaign war chests, their oratory or their political allies. In the long run, there are three important things we as voters need to know about a candidate. Are their policies right for the country? Do they have the integrity to really pursue those policies, if elected? Are their policies consistent with what they have been doing?

After watching and reading about the Democratic candidates for president, I find that Congressman Dennis Kucinich has the best grasp of the situation we are facing as a nation. For almost every issue I care about, Kucinich has a well-thought-out policy that is consistent with the courageous work he has been doing for years as co-chairman of the Progressive Caucus in Congress.

http://www.madison.com/toolbox/index.php?action=printme&ref=captimes&storyURL=/captimes/opinion/column/guest/56216.php

[Bushknew]

41. Whoo hoo

Will do it. ;)

[cosmicdot]

42. “Oh say does that Star Spangled Banner yet wave ...

o’er the land of the free, and the home of the brave?”

“Courage, America! Courage, America! Courage, America!”




"That night, several activists and I went to hear Kucinich give a more formal address at a public theater. Before he came out, the crowd was addressed by a Hispanic man named Fernando Suarez del Solar. Mr. Suarez carried in every aspect of his bearing - in his eyes and his face and his very being – the most profound sorrow. His son, Jesus, was one of the first men killed in this second Iraq war. Mr. Suarez spoke to the crowd in passionate Spanish, which was translated by a woman to the side of the stage.

"Suarez denounced the war, denounced Bush, and asked that everyone present reinvest themselves in the effort to get American troops out of Iraq. He described how troops fighting in Iraq are being denied standard overtime pay, despite the fact that they have been deployed well beyond normal time parameters. He announced that he would be going from high school to high school on a tour to tell the children not to believe the lies told by military recruiters, lies that caused his son to enlist and die in an unnecessary war. When he was finished, he closed his eyes and kissed a pair of dog tags he was wearing around his neck. The tags had been worn by his son on the last day of his life.

~snip~

"Then came Dennis. He reached the podium on the crest of a great ovation, and stood silently until the crowd hushed. And he waited. And he waited. And in that silence he began to sing, softly, “Oh say does that Star Spangled Banner yet wave o’er the land of the free, and the home of the brave?”

"Kucinich then slammed the podium and roared, “Courage, America! Courage, America! Courage, America!” before spending the next 20 minutes denouncing the Bush administration, the war, and the direction this nation is moving in some of the most eloquent language I have yet heard. There is not a single Presidential candidate in the field willing to say when Kucinich said on that stage in San Diego, for good or ill. The crowd reacted as if they were coming out of the desert to find a pool of ice-water waiting for them. They drank it up and called for more."

http://www.truthout.org/docs_03/080703A.shtml

[JohnKleeb]

43. great

typical Dennis, a terrific speech. I liked also how he said at Imagine America that the message that the adminstration sends is one of fear.

[Desertrose]

46. every time I hear him say that...

COURAGE AMERICA!
I get goosebumps.

One helluva speech!!!!

:kick: for DK!!!

Peace
DR

[WilliamPitt]

47. Who wrote that shyte?

:)

[Vadem]

49. Oh, Will! I loved this piece of yours as much, or maybe more,

than all the others. I felt as though I were riding those planes right beside you, the hassle, the exhaustion, the excitement of new faces and new places of travel. The bit on Dennis brought me to tears.

I have sent money to Dennis (and Dean)in the past, and will send more money today to Dennis. He speaks to me! But I, like a lot of others, really wonder if he has a chance for the nomination. I would pray that it is so.

[Vadem]

93. Yep, I contributed to Dennis today!

I have contributed in the past, as well, and sure hope he makes the nomination so I can vote for him.

[Cheswick2.0]

54. no matter who you are supporting please donate

this person needs to stay in the race.

[JohnKleeb]

55. Thats really kind Ches

Thank you.

[blondeatlast]

62. They all do, otherwise the issues get buried beneath personality.

I'll do my part.

[goobergunch]

50. I'm a Dean supporter, but I'd be willing to donate to Kucinich...

but there's BCRA blocking me again.

:grr:

[JohnKleeb]

51. are your folks democrats?

Mine gave some money some of it mine and some if it theirs.

[KoKo]

52. Kick! come on.....those who can do the 20 bucks, please, Keep Him In!

Another kick........we who were against Iraq Invasion...even if we support someone else ........owe something to Kucinich for appearing at the first rally's agains the Invasion........

If you can afford it......please do it.......it's keeping another voice for us Dems....and he really needs this money......just to stay in.

[JohnKleeb]

53. I and my parents gave some money lately

Thank you KoKo though.

[seventhson]

56. Hommage to Mr. Pitt

For all my vitriol, this post convinces me that you seem to be a damn decent guy.

Not thast you would accept such a compliment from me...

But this is a good and noble thing you did here...

for what its worth coming from me.

Go Dennis. Go Howard. Go Dems!!!

[Desertrose]

58. See....Dennis brings us all together...

even Will Pitt & seventhson posting nice in the same thread!!!

A miracle, don't ya think???
...and we can thank DK...

:evilgrin:


Peace ya'll
DR

[JohnKleeb]

59. Isnt that nice

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)
10 smiles
and
:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
2 thumbs up
thats great real neat that you noticed this DR.

[WilliamPitt]

I'll take 'em where I can get 'em

Thanks.

:yourock:

:grouphug:

[Rhiannon12866]

182. Thanks for your admission, seventhson!

I admire your courage, since I have read some of your exchanges with Will Pitt. It seems that Dennis can even engender peace on DU!:D

[cosmicdot]

57. International Day of Peace on September 21st

:kick:
:dem: "... all we are saying ... is give Peace a Chance ..."

[Crewleader]

60. A Big Kick For Dennis!

And Willie Nelson...my kind of Democrats! :dem:

[Desertrose]

61. Hi Crew!!!!! thanks!!

:hi:

How you feeling these days???

:).....I owe you an email, sister!!!

Hope you are doing good- sure nice to see you posting!!

:loveya: & peace

(((hugs)))
DR

[Crewleader]

71. Hi Desertrose & rbnyc

Good to see you both too! :hi:

To catch up will be nice...I'm better since my blood tests results showed the problem and now have the exact amount of thyriod hormones I need to live as normal of a life as possible, even in todays' world with this regime and how they handle our government!

When Dennis speaks he lifts our spirits, he talks to us and knows the struggle of life for the many of us, he came from humble beginnings and his heart is full of compassion for those who are hurting in everyway.

Another Good Democratic Kick For Dennis! :dem:

[rbnyc]

63. Hi Crew!

It's great to see you. :hi:

[Jose Diablo]

64. I like Kucinich

For what it is worth. I am not the greatest politically, but I admire someone that fights for what they believe, even if it costs them dearly, just like DK did in Cleveland. And in the end, it was shown that his stand on the issue of not selling the city owned power company was the right thing. That takes guts.

Of all the Democratic hopefulls, I think Kucinick stands out far above the others, just on his gutsiness.

With Kucinich, what you see is what you get. I like what I see.

Is he electable? Sure he is IMHO. Something about a long-shot underdog touches Americans. But I don't think he really is a long-shot or an underdog. Kucinich can do it. So can Clark. Put them together and the neo-cons are history.

Will corporations love him? About like the black plague. LOL

uh..sp

[Jose Diablo]

72. Backed with $ who I believe is the best shot -n/t

[SammyWinstonJack]

65. Done

And happy to have been able to contribute, if only in a small way.

[Mairead]

66. bump

[Astarho]

67. kick

[Isome]

68. A big, meaningful kick for Dennis!

I won't be giving the peace party, but I've managed to hit up everyone of my immediate family and three of my closest friends for contributions! They didn't want me to get ugly, so they quickly complied. *ha ha*

[Must_B_Free]

69. $50 sent!

Time to Buck UP for real values!

Go Dennis!

[never cry wolf]

70. Ok, I'm in...

I have never contributed to a candidate prior to the primaries before in my life and I am still undecided, but Dennis' message is more anti-bush than anyone else's and if I can assist getting that message heard by more people it helps all the candidates.

I feel the primaries may be about as close as we get to a parlimentary system. One voice can change the tune of the rest, just look at what Dean did when he jumped in bashing bush, something no one else had much of a nerve to do at the time, except Dennis. It is now de rigeur for all except Joe.

Rereading Will's wonderful piece linked above helped but seeing seventhson's post convinced me. We ARE all in this together and the betterment of one is the betterment of all.

Thanks Will!

[0rganism]

73. Jon Stewart called him "the ringbearer" on TDS

I prefer to think it wasn't just because DK has that "hobbitness" about him, but because JS recognizes he's taken on the burden of honest liberalism and fearlessly carried it headlong into the middle of political Mordor.

[AnAmerican]

104. Thanks for the post

"Political Mordor" If that does not decribe the BFEE I do not know what does.

[ShimokitaJer]

110. One would hope that's the reason. Unfortunately...

that comment came just after Jon referred to him as "that guy who looks like a gnome." It was rather disappointing, since I think TDS usually does a better job of talking about actual issues. Of course, you can't really accuse them of a bias against a specific candidate, since they also called Dean "no neck," Graham "Grandpa wattle," etc. At the same time, you can't pretend it was an endorsement of Kucinich by fitting him into the LOR mythos either.

The piece was about the lack of name recognition for the candidates among the general public. Unfortunately, it was poorly done.

[0rganism]

119. Of course, Jon did have that face-to-face interview with DK

I don't know if it was the most unfettered national airtime Mr. Kucinich has had during the campaign, but it's the longest I've seen him able to talk at a stretch on TV without cutting to a commercial. The subtext may include more of an endorsement than you inferred.

[angka]

74. despite a technical objection

to people ascending directly from the house to the presidency, i have to say that i really really like this guy. i would love to see him make a move. i say this despite my avowed deannybopper self-identification. i would regard the election of either as a massive victory for progressives.

where's my mastercard?

[lostnfound]

75. truthout and kucinich are 2 of the coolest ...

the coolest things I've found this year, and I really mean that.

didn't know WP was the real thing here on DU. Just heard him/you on Pacifica at lunch today and thought: I need to get his book too. The radio program today was a very clear presentation of his/your ideas. :yourock:

As far as Kucinich..the more I learned the more I respected. Disgusted with the wasteland of US policy :cry:, and more aware than ever that corporations had stolen our entire democracy :grr:, Kucinich is good for what ails us. I wanted a candidate with conscience who hadn't been bought. I even liked that he hadn't been marching in lockstep with the "party line" on the life/choice issue -- I'd prefer more tolerance and understanding, more nuance, to the status quo of hyper-polarized debate. So I decided to make my first contribution ever to a political campaign, and I asked myself: how much would it be worth to me to have a man like that as President?

After 3 years of Bush?? :think: How about a second mortgage on my house?? So I compromised and sent DK $200. While getting him elected would be great, getting his message out was what really mattered. Pushing the dialog in this country leftward MATTERS.

I guess if WP is asking to follow up with $20, I need to start planning a peace party. Thanks.

[JohnKleeb]

77. welcome to DU lost

Today which is my first anniversity here at DU as well seems to have been a great day for Dennis and us Kucitizens.

[never cry wolf]

76. Kick.........n/t

[bbmykel]

78. I'll pledge $20

I'm still a Dean supporter, but I'd love Dennis to have a strong showing. The media will follow the money and it would be very cool if they had to start paying attention to DK.

Mike

[Karmadillo]

79. Kick

n/t

[frank frankly]

81. late evening kick

kick

[AnAmerican]

83. A kick for Dennis

Thanks for posting this William

[molly]

84. I do not - not even a little bit - I lived in Cleveland when he

was boy-mayor. The rest of you can have your Dennis-fantasy - I'll excuse myself.

[AnAmerican]

85. Sorry to see you go.

And sorrier still that you cannot see the value in what DK says.

I too was in Cleveland back then, still am. I was glad to have him as mayor, state senator, and Congressman. I will be thrilled when he takes the oath as President.

[DemBones DemBones]

92. Thanks for saying this! There are a couple of evil DUers

who didn't like Dennis back in the day and it's always nice to hear from the ones who did.

My dad grew up in Cleveland, many years ago, but I've never been there. I need to go through old family photos, see if I can find ones of his boyhood home that he took on a visit in the eighties.

[LWolf]

189. I have a colleague who says the same.

She didn't even know Dennis was running. We were having a political conversation about * and NCLB...and how it is affecting us on the job. She brought up evicting NCLB, I mentioned Dennis, and her jaw dropped. She grew up in Ohio and remembered him positively. She was thrilled. She raced home that night, and she and her husband delved into his site. She came back pumped to work for Dennis here in CA.

[WilliamPitt]

86. Thanks for kicking the thread, tho

:)

[diamondsoul]

95. And thanks for diffusing my disgust when I saw that.

I was set to be angry until I saw she'd helped in spite of herself. :evilgrin:

If you don't mind, I'd like to send your whole post to my group. Quite a few of them are fans of yours, so extra incentive to pass it on, PLUS extra clout for the newly appointed regional coordinator! *LOL*

[WilliamPitt]

97. Go to town

[buddhamama]

114. bye

knowing you don't like DK strengthens my support for him.

[hippywife]

87. Thanx, Will!!

You've a big heart! :)

[AnAmerican]

88. Kicking to keep this one on the first page

:kick:

[hedgetrimmer]

89. the boy wonder... the boy of the car... the boy of the peeps...

the boy is kicking it... smacking it down pitt style... busting up another twenty dollar kick from my soul...

[quaker bill]

90. Kick

I like Dennis, will send a few bucks. We need him in the mix

[friendofbenn]

91. got my contribution ready

unfortunately i'm not a u.s citizen and therefore unable to contribute. :shrug:

[diamondsoul]

94. Hmmm...

Anyone know if Foreigners are allowed to buy campaign merchandise? I know they can't contribute, but surely they can purchase goods from a campaign?

[Mairead]

101. I'd be truly amazed if they couldn't

I mean, they're receiving goods in return. That's Amurcun, that is.

[AnAmerican]

106. Purchasing merchandise from the website....

Is considered a political donation. FEC rules do not allow for foreign doantions.

[AnAmerican]

107. duplicate post

My bad

[juajen]

96. Thanks Will

Kucinich is really a good man. I will be sending him some green stuff this week.

:kick:

[Desertrose]

98. Late nite bedtime kick....

:kick:
This is for you Dennis....
:loveya:

and for you Will...
:loveya:
and for everyone else who is supporting Dennis!!

This is just so awesome...as my Apache elder says...
"My heart is happy"

Peace
DR

[DemBones DemBones]

99. Early morning wake-up kick! I sent Dennis $25 -- have you sent

him your contribution? Have you asked others to contribute? Please do it today!

[hippywife]

103. Making it $57 today

for Dennis' 57th b-day coming up. Since spouses can also give up to the limit according to campaign finance rules, it will be actually $114. :)

[LWolf]

128. I'm sending more this weekend.

We need to see the numbers skyrocket this month. I'm attending an event next weekend and the weekend after; Dennis will be there. I'm offering to make the donation for attendance for every person who will go with me.

[joanski01]

100. I just made a donation.

And here's a kick.

[JohnKleeb]

102. kick

:kick:

[CWebster]

105. in good conscience, I can not

Lieberman's attacks on fellow candidates are debilitating the entire purpose of challenging Bush and weakens the entire opposition in the eyes of the Country. Had there been any consideration for a Lieberman candidacy it has long vanished with his bitter whining. Kucinich, and his ongoing finger-pointing and shrill accusations are juvenile and only serve to tear down rather than build unity. If that is the way he intends to operate as president we will build no new bridges of cooperation. he is too negative.

[lostnfound]

109. Persona vs character

Well, honesty is good even if we dk supporters don't like what we hear. While I'm a strong supporter, I admit his persona isn't exactly presidential..maybe that's a good thing; if he had Dean- or Clinton- charisma, but still espoused the views he does and still voted his conscience, I think he'd be seen as a major threat by the 'powers-that-be'..and I'm not sure they'd allow him to survive.

When he comes across as shrill I think it might be a bit of psychological compensation for being unsuited for the sound-byte world yet knowing that he needs to seem forceful.

Ring-bearer was a great analogy...where character is what matters. When he was on the Jon Stewart Daily show, he was very relaxed, honest, and definitely not shrill or negative.

Come the election I'll vote my head but in the meantime I want to do everything I can to help Dennis get his message out.

[CWebster]

112. The tone of your response is appreciated

as I would like to be more supportive of the message. I saw Tweety grill Kucinich and now, perhaps, he feels defensive to the point of being driven to attack to prevent being thrust into that position again. Unfortunately however,it serves to marginalize himself.

[B Calm]

108. I just made a contribution

I been holding out, and looking at all the candidates.. Dennis has impressed me more than all the others. He's not wishy washy on his stance against the war in Iraq.. He speaks for the working class, and myself being a hard working blue collar worker, this means a lot. I'll do my best to get three more people to contribute to Dennis..

[LWolf]

111. Done. Thanks, Will.

I'm busy with my (relatively) local group for Dennis in Sept.

Right now is the time; if we want to get the message out to a wide audience, we have to fund it now.

[Mairead]

113. bump

[Desertrose]

115. another gentle push upwards

:kick:

Go Dennis!!!!

[joanski01]

116. Another push

to the front page.

[donsu]

117. contributed my little bit in July, getting ready to do it again

nt

[dmr]

118. Up until the recent debate, I was non-committal

to any of the candidates, but I just sent in a twenty-five dollar contribution to Dennis, because quite frankly, this is a man I can respect and support.

Thanks Will for this thread, it kicked me into action.

[chiburb]

120. kick. n/t

.

[geniph]

121. Writing my check now

Thanks for posting this, Will.

[JohnKleeb]

122. kick

:kick:

[JohnKleeb]

123. kick

[KoKo]

124. Kick for Kucinich!

:kick:

[xJlM]

125. $80

Out of my meager unemployment check, no less. I have to believe, and that means I have to act. I just need to get back to work...

[JohnKleeb]

127. youre kind

That was very generous of you. Thanks to all who have donated.

[MuseRider]

126. Another KICK

for honesty and PEACE.

[Crewleader]

129. A WeekEnd Kick For Dennis!

:dem:

[buddhamama]

135. it's great to see you,Crew

thanks for the kicks :loveya:

Kick for DK!

[Crewleader]

138. Good to see you and nice supporting the same candidate!

This man is for all working families across America, and I believe he will make the difference we all need in Washington for the first time in a long time, be really for the people so each of us doesn't lose hope that it can be a better life without so much struggling under the regime we have now.

I believe in Dennis Kucinich who speaks up and says it like it is with other candidates voting for Iraq while he and Sen. Bob Graham voted no, they went with their gut feelings and that's what it takes to be a President. He stands up among them all speaking with compassion and heart for the American people as no other, for jobs, health care and peace! Give back prosperity to the people like it's never really been done before, that's my gut feeling about him!

I will vote for Dennis in the primary, he is very good friends with Al Gore and they did alot together on environment, I feel only positive with their friendship they would work together to improve what as been done to our water, air and land.

Improve workers' rights to organize and form a union,to never touch overtime and to raise the minimum wage! And bring the jobs back to America! Have these corporations pay their fair share in taxes not run and set up off shore accounts not to be touched, and we the taxpayers have the heavy load to carry those that morally should!

You all know me as supporting Al Gore and still do if anything ever changed he knows he has my support if drafted but I feel his involvement in our future somewhere in our government will happen.

So I'm doing the most positive thing we all can do support your candidate you believe in and after the primary vote is over and the majority of us has picked the man or woman we then come together and support that candidate all the way and take back our white house for the people so prosperity once again fills our lives with jobs, good health care and education. Most of all the opportunites to make a difference carrying the same support we did throughout this election so that the republicans never take it back from the people again!!!

:dem:

[freeforall]

130. Will Dennis take campaign contributions from

Canadians??? Hell, it's probably illegal, but we Canucks really support the Dems in getting rid of *. Honestly! What an embarrassing neighbour!

Please, please, vote * out in 2004! You have our total support and sympathy - even though we can't send you money.

[MrPrax]

131. Right on

If Dennis can't get respect from the Media and the 'real' democrats who KNOW what America needs in a democratic candidate...

At least the People can get Dennis some respect, clout and dignity

[leftbend]

132. Keep it going

Contribution #3 on the way to DK. I hope we can keep this message alive until everyone has a chance to read it. Great comments from everyone. As one that has experienced war firsthand I am a huge supporter of the Dept. of Peace. I think people will be amazed at the support Dennis will receive if only people can hear his ideas.

[Desertrose]

133. a sweet dreams kick to the top....

:kick:
for you Dennis....


Dare to Dream....Kucinich for President!


Peace
DR

[rhite5]

134. Thanks, Will ! My contribution for this quarter is on its way.

Dennis speaks for me on EVERY issue.

He was the first candidate to speak out against the Invasion of Iraq, even before we invaded. That was a good two months before Dean took up that message.

He is the only candidate to demand a cut in the Department of Defense budget.

His health plan is the only one that eliminates the corporate health insurance companies and the HMOs. It is universal and follows the Medicare model where administrative costs are only a fraction of what those costs are in the corporate insurance plans. (as a percentage of the premium costs). No multimillion dollar executive salaries and bonuses, for one thing.

He would repeal the PATRIOT Act, not just review it for possible adjustments like other candidates are saying.

And he will tackle the WTO and NAFTA and bring those jobs back home. What other candidates are saying that? Not many.

One of my special interests is public ownership and control of utilities, especially electric power, and that has been a DK issue from way back. (Every Californian should be advocating for that after the Enron-created crisis).

And, as far as I know, Dennis Kucinich is the only candidate who has actually talked about the "Black Box Voting " issue.

WE NEED TO KEEP KUCINICH IN THIS RACE AND KEEP ALL OF HIS MESSAGES OUT THERE

Whether you plan to vote for him or not, we all need to help keep his message alive. So please give $20 or more if you can. The media is doing its best to marginalize and dismiss him. The media does not want these issues discussed.

btw - Dennis does not come across as angry when you actually see and hear him in person. I found him inspiring and uplifting in contrast to the (rightful) anger of Dean. I left a large Kucinich event in Eugene OR in July with a genuinely HOPEFUL feeling for the future of our world.

[Mairead]

136. bump

[rhite5]

137. Time to repeat the link for Kucinich credit card contributions

To make a contribution to Dennis' campaign, people can click on this link:

https://www.kucinich.us/contribute.php

[Crewleader]

139. Have a good weekend Dennis Kucinich Supporters'

William Rivers Pitt be careful traveling and thank you for a positive thread, we need more here in GD.

We need each other friends, let's treat each other with the respect that we need to work together for our goal with our candidates we support and then move forward together with the one to beat Bush!

Thank you to the ones supporting Dennis, it's a pleasure to know each and everyone of you in our goal to see him win and to those who support their candidate may the best man or woman win friends! :hi:

:dem:

[Karmadillo]

140. Kick

n/t

[diamondsoul]

141. The response here has been amazing and

extremely touching, so I sent this message in its entirety out to my volunteer group with the suggestion they pass it on to other Democrats and anyone who is just fed up with the status quo.

Here's hoping for a better life for all of us.:toast:

My sincere thanks to everyone also here at DU who was willing to help keep Kucinich's message out there in spite of supporting another candidate. You all really give me a lot of hope, regardless of whether Kucinich gets the nomination. You are truly great people, and I'm glad I came here to meet you.

[JohnKleeb]

142. kick

:kick:
This may just be the beginning of a turning point. Dennis will keep up the good fight I know he will. He fights for whats right. We gotta give him a chance and I would say our respect. He spoke out against the war very early on. He voted against the patriot act. He's been fighting the fight in congress against Bush since Bush was selected. He is this party's heart and soul.

[diamondsoul]

143. Kick once again

Blast it, y'all KNOW you love this guy, I know most of us do, even if you doubt he can do what we'd like.

It's all good just think about him and his message please.

[JohnKleeb]

144. diamond I think this post

was our turning point. Lots of people donated even though hes not their candiate. Well looks like fall will bring good, and we will keep on pressing in the winter. Spring will be beautiful. I can just see it, President Kucinich.

[diamondsoul]

145. John, you will not believe this-

I made the mistake of going to the campaign store...ooooh, really bad idea for me!*LOL* I left writing out a check for $102 and change! Yeesh, nobody can say I don't support our man! Mind you this was on top of spending $100 yesterday at the office supply shop so I can help out folks locally who don't have a printer!

I figure with all the money I keep tossing at him, he just has to win. :D Let me clarify, I don't mind a bit, if it gets him the bid. He's IT, I think, and by G-d, I'll fight for that.

OH, and I forgot this order and print purchase was in addition to ordering 10 Peace Party kits for 20 people each! YEEEHAH! Go Dennis!

[JohnKleeb]

146. I have said he is one of my biggest heroes

He really is inspriational. Let this week be our momentum push :toast: and heres to victory :toast:.

[Tinoire]

149. Awww Will- You did it again!

I dan't believe the responses to this thread.

And a huge thank you to supporters of other candidates who are pitching in and/or kicked this thread.

It just redeemed my faith in DU... Cool and Peace

[DemBones DemBones]

162. Did you see Dennis speaking at the Steak Fry? He was great!

The other candidates all gave good speeches as well. And Bill Clinton was super plus good!

[Rhiannon12866]

Yes, I did. I thought Dennis was in rare form and I liked all the

other candidates, as well. Harkin was a great host and Bill Clinton was brilliant. It was a real ``feel good'' opportunity for all Democrats!:-)

[Rhiannon12866]

163. Yes, I did. I thought Dennis was in rare form and I liked all the

other candidates, as well. Harkin was a great host and Bill Clinton was brilliant. It was a real ``feel good'' opportunity for all Democrats!:-)

[wheresthemind]

150. Amazing post!!!

Our now MN campaign chair got really frustrated with a TV appearance Dennis did and called the campaign. She had Dennis trying to get ahold of her for the next week!

How refreshing indeed!

[JohnKleeb]

151. As Ive been telling people

I think something great will happen with him like people will realize that this guy Kucinich is something else. BTW I am going to see DK in DC on thursday, and maybe I will meet him like you did. DK all the way.

[no name no slogan]

152. Kickin for Kucinich

Don't look now, but we're gonna win this thing...! Have fun in DC on Thursday John. :)

[JohnKleeb]

153. I will have fun

Heres to victory, kielbasa, polka, and bowling heh :kick: and how long must we sing this song, also I saw your observation on kielbasa, bowling, and polka, I am Slavic too only half like DK though, you see DK's mom was Irish and I have Irish blood too, and Kucinich is a Croatian name, and my grandfather on my mom's side well his parents came from nearby Slovenia. South Slavic Irish power lol. Go Dennis I am so glad to support him.

[LWolf]

155. Woo Hoo!

Enjoy yourself in DC, John, and I hope you get to speak to him. If you do, tell him we're pulling and working for him!

[JohnKleeb]

156. I will

I am gonna tell him I am honored to support him and that he appeals to the heart, I am gonna tell him my workers memorial idea, and tell him that my support from him comes from the heart.

[Zhade]

154. Thanks for this inspirational bit.

I'm going to contribute. I'm still undecided on a candidate, but Kucinich has always been in my thoughts.

Thanks, too, for pointing out that we're all here AGAINST BUSH, and not others' candidates (even if some of them give me the willies).

Kick!

[diamondsoul]

164. Thank you Zhade!

I just had to tell you I LOVE your sig! Great design and statement.:)

[Capn Sunshine]

157. Dennis belongs in the race

his progressive presence reminds us of what we could be, in different times.

I look forward to him campaigning for Dean, and I mean that in all sincerity.

[JohnKleeb]

158. kick

:kick:

[JohnKleeb]

159. kick

:kick:

[TroubleMan]

160. bump

nt

[Rhiannon12866]

161. Thank you for posting this, Will!

I think that Dennis has an important message that deserves to be heard. He's one of the good guys and definitely deserves a kick from me!:D

:kick:

[Name removed]

165. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Name removed]

166. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Name removed]

167. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Terwilliger]

168. kick

[Rhiannon12866]

169. Another KICK for Dennis!!!

:D:kick:

[Mairead]

170. YAB

[Rhiannon12866]

174. One more time, for Dennis!

BTW, I like your sig line, Mairead!:-)
:kick:

[Myra]

184. I'll pledge

I donated to Clark yesterday and I'll
do the same for Kuchinich today.
Those are the only two I have enthusiasm
for so I want them both in the mix,
ideally in the white house. In the unlikely
event that the people's choice is allowed
to occupy the white house that it.

:bounce:

[ElsewheresDaughter]

171. KICK KICK KICK

[Desertrose]

172. Monday morning kick

:kick:

[Crewleader]

173. For DUers' during the week!

A Good Democrat Kick For A Good Man!

Go Dennis! :dem:

[LWolf]

175. I'm off to my local dem club's meeting tonight...

primary discussions! I'll be collecting for Dennis.

[Crewleader]

178. Good for Dennis, LWolf And Good for US! Thank You Friend!

:hi:

[LWolf]

181. You're welcome!

The meeting went well. :hi:

[NewYorkerfromMass]

176. O.K. I'm sending Dennis my $20....why? 'cause he f'ing DESERVES it!

I remember Dennis the boy mayor of Cleveland, and I remember much admiring his fight to save his city armed with just his youth, brains, and determination.
As an architect, I can readily appreciate his unique perspective and experience on all matters urban.
As a native of another northern industrial city (Springfield, Mass.), I can empathise completely with the uphill struggle our nation's cities have been facing for 2 generations now, just to remain decent places to live, work, raise families, and dream of a better tomorrow.
So I admire Dennis for much the same reasons I admire John Kerry: He's been "in the fight" for liberal ideals since day 1 of his adult life, he has relentlessly pursued them, and g'damn it he deserves the support.

Thanks Will. Great post. Great thread.

Keep'n the faith AND spreading it....NYfM

[deek]

179. "Together we can change the course of history. "

yesssssssssssssss

[gate of the sun]

180. thanks for posting this......

sent some cash a few days ago at this reminder.

[Rhiannon12866]

183. For those looking for inspiration...

This Is the Moment: An Invitation from Dennis Kucinich

http://www.kucinich.us/video/video256.html

[ElsewheresDaughter]

185. bump to the front

[DerekG]

186. Bump...

He is the RFK of the 21st century.

[WilliamPitt]

187. Kick

[Rhiannon12866]

188. Okay!

One more kick for Dennis and Will Pitt!:D

:kick:

[Mairead]

191. Yes, another for Dennis AND Will

[mitchum]

190. kick

[Rhiannon12866]

192. Yet, again!

:kick: for Dennis and Will!:7

[mhr]

193. Kick

eom